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Congregation Shaarey Zedek
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COVID-19 Precautions at CSZ

COVID-19 Precautions at CSZ

CSZ is COVID-19 Safe

COVID-19 has had a major impact on every aspect of life, and congregational life is no exception. At Congregation Shaarey Zedek, we believe that Jewish community thrives best when we come together in person to celebrate, to pray, to console, and to connect. Our COVID-19 protocols are designed to support vibrant, in-person community, and our streaming allows those who can’t physically be here to participate as fully as possible.

Our highest priority is protecting life and health. With the advice of our expert medical advisory committee, we have navigated the tumultuous pandemic period with these principles in mind.

Currently, we are engaging fully in person with the following mandatory rule:

  • It is required that anyone feeling ill or exhibiting any symptoms must not enter the building or attend any CSZ activities in person.

At all CSZ services and programs, we make it possible for anyone who wishes to maintain physical distancing to be able to do so.

We strongly encourage everyone eligible to become fully vaccinated, and to receive a booster (or two) as appropriate. The vaccines are highly-effective, and almost everyone eligible in our CSZ family has already been vaccinated.

As a respectful community, we are committed to accepting those who have different risk perceptions than our own. Everyone should feel comfortable fully engaging at CSZ. In support of this, please consider wearing a colored wristband (available outside of the Sanctuary) to indicate your personal comfort level:

  • Red wristband – please keep a distance of at least six feet. No touching.
  • Yellow wristband – Fist and elbow bumps are okay, but no handshakes, kissing or hugging, please.
  • Green wristband – Hugs and kisses are okay, but keep your mask on at all times.

Many thanks to the physicians on our medical advisory group for their time and guidance.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding our policies, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Robert Rich HERE, or at 248.357.5544.

L’Shalom,

Susan Kozik Klein, Congregation Shaarey Zedek President
Rabbi Aaron Starr
Rabbi Yonatan Dahlen
Hazzan David Propis
Saul Rube
Dr. Robert Rich, Executive Director

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.