Hebrew, the language of the Jewish people, is taught from kindergarten onwards. The immersion approach is used in the teaching of Hebrew.
Judaic Studies includes the teaching of Tanakh (Bible), Israel, Jewish history and Jewish heritage. Jewish values are taught and reinforced in all classes and all aspects of school life. Jewish festivals are celebrated and days of significance recognized and commemorated.
Judaic ritual is central to our school's culture. The school week begins with a Havdallah ceremony, separating Shabbat from the rest of the week. Tefillah (prayers), led by the senior students, is held in each classroom on Tuesday Wednesday and Friday, while on Thursday the whole school prays together. The fifth grade is taught Torah trope and reads from the Torah on Thursdays.
Kabbalat Shabbat is a joyous, festive occasion on Friday afternoons. Students, faculty and teachers assemble to welcome, through music and song, the approaching Sabbath. Parents and friends are encouraged to attend.
Middle School
Judaic Studies
Students expand their knowledge of the basics and move into more abstract and critical approaches to the study of our tradition. The students increase their appreciation for Biblical texts, which they will study in the original Hebrew. The material is presented in creative and thought provoking ways to encourage students to question, challenge and learn. Students examine the teachings of great commentators such as Rashi and Rambam and participate in the Jewish tradition of storytelling through occasional dramatic representations of Judaic stories. In addition to the information and skills the students acquire, they develop a love and excitement for Judaism. The Judaic, Social Studies and Hebrew Curriculum are integrated where appropriate throughout the year as well as the study of the Land of Israel. Thematic study of "tikun olam" (social action), "Tzedakah" (righteousness), and "Gemilut Hassadim", (deeds of lovingkindness) are part of the core Judaic curriculum. In addition, an examination of tallit and tefilin (prayer shawl and phylacteries) will lead to regular use during our prayer services for
Jewish history is experienced early in the year as we travel from the Patriarchs to Ancient Israel, the rise of Rome, the Golden Age of Spain, and Ellis Island. In general, periods of Jewish history are taught concurrently with history taught in general studies. Methods used are debate, critical writing, guest visitors (from past and present!), pertinent video inclusion, and use of our core history text, My People, Vol. I by the late Abba Eban.
Middle School Hebrew
The Middle School Hebrew program includes a beginners Hebrew program, Ulpan. Our beginning Hebrew students are taught sounds and symbols of the Hebrew alphabet concurrent with the natural approach to learning a foreign language using TPR - Total Physical Response. Students begin in a receptive mode and eventually develop the ability to express themselves in Hebrew using simple phrases. The beginning Hebrew curriculum covers basic grammar, verbs and vocabulary as well as elementary writing skills, allowing the students to read, write and comprehend simple Hebrew stories. More advanced students continue to develop their Hebrew language as well as their cultural understanding of the language through reading, conversation and writing. The core content exposes the student to the culture of Israel through literature, poetry, prayers, traditions, holidays and celebrations, with an emphasis on the spoken, functional language of Hebrew. Classes are activities based, including projects, games and songs that are representative of Israeli culture.
