How to Use Zoom

What Is Zoom and How Do I Use It?

Zoom is a video conferencing app that allows groups to meet from various locations.

  1. You will need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with speaker or headphones and, to fully participate, a video or web camera. (Most smartphones, tablets, and laptops have these).  You will have the opportunity to check your audio immediately upon joining a meeting. 
  2. If you are using a phone or tablet, you will need an app for the Apple Store or Google Play Store. Look for the “ZOOM Cloud Meetings” app with a video camera icon.
  3. You should download the app in advance.
  4. If you are unsure you will be able to connect, you can use the https://zoom.us/test link whenever you want. This will allow you to practice connecting, as below. 
  5. If you need technical help with connecting, please call 248.357.5544 or e-mail Robert Rich at rrich@shaareyzedek.org.

 

Try to connect 5-10 minutes early. To join the video conference:  

  1. Click the event link.
  2. If you are on a computer, and using Zoom for the first time, you may be instructed to download the Zoom application. Please follow the on-screen instructions to download and install Zoom.
  3. Once you are connected through Zoom, you have an opportunity to test your audio at this point by clicking on “Test Computer Audio.” 
  4. Once you are satisfied that your audio works, click on “Join audio by computer.” 
  5. If you prefer, you can connect by “Phone Call”. Click on the tab to get the connection information. You connect by dialing the number given, then typing in the Meeting ID followed by #, then typing your participant ID followed by #.
  6. Once you are connected, your system may ask you to approve use of the camera and microphone by Zoom. You should do so.
  7. You may also join a meeting without clicking on the invitation link by going to join.zoom.us on any browser and entering the Meeting ID.

Participant controls in the lower left corner of the Zoom screen. Using the icons in the lower left corner of the Zoom screen, you can:  

  1. Mute/Unmute your microphone (far left)
  2. Turn on/off camera (“Start/Stop Video”)
  3. Invite other participants
  4. View Participant list – opens a pop-out screen that includes a “Raise Hand” icon that you may use to raise a virtual hand
  5. Change your screen name that is seen in the participant list and video window
  6. Somewhere on your Zoom screen you will also see a choice to toggle between “speaker” and “gallery” view. “Speaker view” shows the active speaker. “Gallery view” tiles all of the meeting participants.

For certain events, our digital Gabbaim or event administrators may disable some or all of these controls for better security or to enhance the experience.

Additional Information: How to Adjust Your Zoom View

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.