Plan Your Simcha

Plan Your Simcha

We are delighted that you are considering Congregation Shaarey Zedek as a venue for your simcha, celebration, or community event! We have a variety of beautiful and recently-renovated spaces for your consideration, including:

  • Doreen and David Hermelin Social Hall
  • Suzanne and Joseph Orley Social Hall
  • Rabbi Morris Adler and Rabbi Irwin Groner Sanctuary
  • Lee and Gerson Bernstein Chapel
  • Henrietta and Alvin Weisberg Lobby
  • William Saulson Pavilion (outdoors)
  • Eisenberg-Forbes Reception Lounge
  • Youth Lounge
  • Berman Center for Jewish Education – including the Library/Beit Midrash, Tikvah Chapel and Classrooms

We have an in-house, fully kosher caterer. Please provide us with a few details, and we will be in touch to confirm your event:

Curriculum

Our curriculum is written for our school by our Rabbis and Director of Youth and Family Learning. Each grade level has specific goals and learning targets that encompass the following areas:  

Learning and practicing Jewish rituals, holidays, and ethical actions, emphasizing how these observances connect individuals to Jewish tradition and community. 

Fostering a connection to Israel by exploring its geography, history, and significance as the Jewish homeland. 

Centering on learning and understanding Torah stories, characters, and teachings, and applying their lessons to daily life. 

Emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior, acts of kindness (Gemilut Chasadim), and fulfilling obligations like Tzedakah (charity). 

Exploring the meaning and practice of prayer, teaching students how to communicate with God and understand the significance of different prayers. 

Focusing on learning the Hebrew alphabet, vocabulary, and basic reading skills to engage with Jewish texts and prayers. 

Each grade level explores these themes through engaging and age-appropriate lessons. Teachers use a variety of teaching methods and resources, including the Chai Curriculum. 

Staff

We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of professional Jewish educators. Our teachers receive weekly planning time, during which they use our curriculum and learning goals to craft engaging lesson plans. They benefit from regular coaching and feedback from our Director of Youth and Family Learning and participate in ongoing professional development throughout the year. Our educators are passionate about their students and committed to their growth and success.

Family Programs

Throughout the year, we invite families to celebrate with us! Parents, grandparents, and siblings are welcome to join us for special Religious School mornings filled with music, food, and community celebration as we observe holidays such as Sukkot, Tu B’Shevat, and Passover as a school community. Families and students are also encouraged to attend our weekly Shabbat services, where we offer youth activities for children of all ages. Participating in Shabbat helps our students connect their learning and apply it in a congregational setting, fostering a deeper connection to our synagogue community.