248-357-5544 | csz.info@shaareyzedek.org
We strive to create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment where Judaism is joyful and accessible for all students. We are committed to empowering each child to develop a personal and meaningful relationship with Judaism through Hebrew language, Jewish prayer, and engaging, hands-on experiences and activities. Our goal is to nurture the budding Jewish soul, inspire a lifelong love of Jewish learning, and prepare our students to be active participants in synagogue and Jewish life.
We believe that connecting home and school experiences is essential to each student’s growth. By fostering a holistic family experience and encouraging active participation from our families, we aim to build a strong, supportive community where every child can thrive.
CSZ Village Religious School provides a comprehensive and values-driven Jewish education, fostering intellectual growth, spiritual development, and a strong sense of community among students and their families.
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We have a range of programs that serve preschool through teens. All grade levels start together on Sunday mornings in our Bernstein Chapel for a school-wide service with Rabbi Yoni, a time for joyful singing, Tefillah and connection.Â
Our preschool program meets Sunday mornings and is designed to inspire a love of Judaism through fun and engaging activities. Best of all, it’s very affordable—just $100 for the whole school year! Children must be potty trained (or well on their way!) to attend. Our enthusiastic teachers lead circle time, music, snack, and hands-on projects in a nurturing environment where they can explore their Jewish heritage with joy and creativity.
Grades Kindergarten through second grade join us once a week, each Sunday morning. These grades dive into the world of Tefillah, learning the letters and sounds of the Aleph Bet to build a strong foundation for reading, and explore Jewish holidays and history.
These grades come twice a week for more instruction time, and they move further into Hebrew reading, Tefillah, and begin to prepare to become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. On Tuesday evenings we begin with a kosher pizza dinner, which includes community-building activities, Jewish learning, and Tefillah with Rabbi Yoni.
Teens in 8th–12th grade are encouraged to apply to be part of our Madrichim program! Madrichim serve as assistants to our teachers in Religious School on Sunday mornings. Our Madrichim receive regular leadership training and coaching and are essential members of our school community.
Fill out the form with any questions your might have or to setup a tour of our school and meet our staff.Â
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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:Â Â
Learning and practicing Jewish rituals, holidays, and ethical actions, emphasizing how these observances connect individuals to Jewish tradition and community.Â
Fostering a connection to Israel by exploring its geography, history, and significance as the Jewish homeland.Â
Centering on learning and understanding Torah stories, characters, and teachings, and applying their lessons to daily life.Â
Emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior, acts of kindness (Gemilut Chasadim), and fulfilling obligations like Tzedakah (charity).Â
Exploring the meaning and practice of prayer, teaching students how to communicate with God and understand the significance of different prayers.Â
Focusing on learning the Hebrew alphabet, vocabulary, and basic reading skills to engage with Jewish texts and prayers.Â
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.Â
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.