CSZ is Migrating to a New Membership System!

After many years on our current membership system, we are upgrading to a new tool called ShulCloud. This online tool will enable us to serve you in many more ways, including by:

• Making program registration easier;
• Making it easier for you to update your records; and to see your payments and donations; and
• Enabling us to customize our correspondence with you to better fit your interests.

What does this mean for you?
Beginning on Shabbat, March 13, 2021, we will no longer be able to process online payments through the old system. Between March 13 and April 9, 2021, if you want to make a dues payment, a tribute or a donation, please either:

  – Call the synagogue office at 248.357.5544.
  – Send a check in the mail to 27375 Bell Road, Southfield, Michigan 48034.

• Between Wednesday, March 17 and Monday, March 22, 2021, all financial member systems will be shut down to migrate the data to the new system. You can still call us with any questions about your account, or or send checks with your payments during this period, and they will be processed after the new system is live on March 22, 2021.

Beginning after Passover (We estimate launching the new system by April 9, 2021), the new system will be available on the web for members to access. You will receive an e-mail invitation to participate at that point.

 

What is not changing?
• You can still call us – we will be open during regular business hours throughout the span of this project.

• We will continue to send you weekly e-mails providing information about our services and programs. If you do not have an e-mail address on file with us, we will continue to send you information via regular mail.

• We will provide you with a series of updates over the next several weeks to help you learn more about ShulCloud and how you will be able to use it.

 

Thank you for being a valued member of the Congregation Shaarey Zedek family!

Robert H. Rich, Ph.D., CAE
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.