Saul Rube

Saul A. Rube had the privilege of learning and being raised at CSZ among many great people. First and foremost were his parents, Esther and Cantor Sidney Rube (z’l), who served Shaarey Zedek for 33 years. Other great influences were Rabbi Irwin Groner (z’l) , and the incredible group of daily “Minyanaires” who were models of what it meant to be active and knowledgeable participants of a shul community.

Mr. Rube is the heir to a strong family legacy of cantorial and synagogue arts and skills. He took on his first Bat Mitzvah student at the age of ten! He has read Torah and organized and led daily and Shabbat and Holiday services at a broad variety of synagogues in Massachusetts, New York, and Michigan. Twenty-five years of service nurturing a nationally-recognized Judaic Studies program at Hillel Day School were also excellent preparation for deep involvement in creating and sustaining vibrant, egalitarian, and pluralist Jewish communities. Stints at Berkley Schools and ongoing teaching of Hebrew at Eastern Michigan University were further opportunities to create community, based on investing in relationships.

Saul is a proud alumnus of the CSZ Beth Hayeled, and continued his Jewish and general education at Akiva Hebrew Day School, Yeshiva High School in Skokie, IL and Yeshiva University, where he earned a B.A. in English Literature and Judaic Studies. Saul also holds an M.Ed. in Curriculum, Instruction and Leadership from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

He and his wife, Jennifer are pleased to culminate a lifetime of experience and passion at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, goingwith their synagogue family michayil l’chayil, from strength to strength.

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.