Adult Learning

Adult Learning

Adult Education and Lifelong Torah

Life can be busy and stressful; making room for meaningful Jewish learning shouldn’t be. CSZ has worked hard to provide a variety of educational opportunities so that top notch Jewish learning is available, no matter your schedule or your level of Jewish knowledge.

Whether you prefer to learn in a classroom or one-on-one, to come to the synagogue, off-site, or online; whether you’ve been engaged in Jewish learning your entire life or if you are thinking about dipping your toes for the first time into the sea of Torah, we have classes, resources, and initiatives for you!

Adult Education at CSZ includes Shabbat Lunch and Learns, Special Shabbatot guest speakers, Moon Meetings (adult learning for Rosh Chodesh), Project Zug chevruta learning, our Read With the Rabbi book and discussion club, young adult experiences with a Torah twist, Foundations for a Thoughtful Judaism for Jewish parents, interfaith couples and more.

Looking for something we aren’t currently offering? Share your idea with Rabbi Dahlen at rabbidahlen@shaareyzedek.org or 248.357.5544 to collaborate on something to add to our catalog.

Yiddish Library

The Charles and Frances Driker Yiddish Collection houses a large collection of Yiddish books donated by the Driker family, as well as a number of volumes collected by CSZ throughout the years.

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.