Upcoming Events

May 2025

A Rabbi, a Priest, and Heaven and Hell: Rabbi Starr and Father Yaw Discuss What Happens After We Die

A Rabbi, a Priest, and Heaven and Hell: Rabbi Starr and Father Yaw Discuss What Happens After We Die

Tuesday, May 20th
12:00 PM
What happens after we die? Judaism and Christianity might have started in the same place, but come to very different conclusions about what happens “next.”... Learn More

June 2025

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Thursday, June 5th
5:00 PM
A Thrilling & Theatrical Thursday, you ask? Club Zed presents an exciting night of sibling rivalry, jealousy, forgiveness, bubble-gum pop & rock and roll with... Learn More

Coffee House: The New Syria: Friend or Foe?

Coffee House: The New Syria: Friend or Foe?

Monday, June 9th
10:45 AM
Rabbi Asher Lopatin and Daniel Bucksbaum share their insights after visiting Damascus as guests of the Syrian government. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation on Middle... Learn More

Gen X Summer Bar & Trivia Night

Gen X Summer Bar & Trivia Night

Tuesday, June 10th
7:00 PM
Join Rabbi Aaron Starr and CSZ Gen Xers for a fun night of 80s/90s trivia, drinks, laughs and prizes at the Urbanrest Brewery in Ferndale... Learn More

July 2025

Mom’s Night Out at Painting with a Twist

Mom’s Night Out at Painting with a Twist

Thursday, July 17th
7:30 PM
Calling all CSZ moms! Join Rebbetzin Meredith Dahlen and Director of Youth and Family Learning Lindsey Lienert for a fun night of painting, schmoozing, and... Learn More

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.