Yizkor Remembrances

Dear CSZ Family,

As the High Holy Days approach, Congregation Shaarey Zedek is pleased to offer our members the opportunity to perpetuate the memory of loved ones by including their names in a new, beautiful Yizkor book to be published by our Synagogue.

We will accept names for the 2022-2023 Yizkor book through Friday, July 15, 2022. The cost is $18 per name, and there is no limit to the number of names that may be memorialized. Please complete the form enclosed with the letter, and return it with your payment in the envelope provided or you may fill out the form electronically by clicking here.

As always, the Yizkor book will contain the full service, and will be used on:

Yom Kippur (Thursday, October 5, 2022)
Sh’mini Atzeret (Tuesday, October 17, 2022 )
Eighth Day of Pesach (Thursday, April 13, 2023)
Second Day of Shavuot (Saturday, May 27, 2023)

We encourage you to mark your calendars and join us for these moving memorial services.

May the names of your loved ones always be remembered for a blessing.

 

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.