Religious Education - Hebrew School

Class Descriptions  2011-2012 Calendar  Registration form 2011-12

As a Reconstructionist synagogue, Beth Israel offers a unique Hebrew school program that concentrates on the study of all aspects of Jewish civilization--religion and prayer, history, art, ethics, music and the Hebrew language. Our language program is designed to equip the student with a basic knowledge and fluency in reading Hebrew so that he or she can participate actively in Jewish prayer services.

Our teaching methodology is to encourage students to grapple with their own beliefs and values. Our teaching includes a naturalist-humanist approach to all aspects of Jewish civilization combined with a deep respect for diversity of belief and practice among our students and their parents.

Each student and parent is encouraged to deepen and expand their Jewish knowledge in a way that is rich and meaningful. A comprehensive program of Family Education offers both parallel study and joint activities to help families explore together the teachings and practice of Judaism.

The school strives to blend the academic study of Jewish civilization with a comprehensive experiential program. To this end, we have planned Shabbat seders, family services, holiday celebrations and special events that invite participation. We hope to instill in our students a love and pride in their Jewishness.