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SCHOOL GOALS The religious school at Congregation B'nai Torah fosters an environment in which each student can find a strong personal Jewish identity. The education curriculum is designed to give the students the opportunity to develop their Jewish identity by building a foundation of Jewish values and skills . One of our goals is for our students to become familiar with Hebrew as a language for both prayer and conversation. Aside from it being the ancient language of our people, it is also a modern language that unites Jews all over the world. Students begin studying Hebrew in grade 1 and continue until they are Bar/Bat Mitzvahed. The emphasis is on prayer literacy, fluency in reading and comprehension of the prayers contained in the Reform prayerbook. In each grade, students add a different perspective and deeper understanding of the holidays and practices. We start studying the Bible as simple stories and gradually include more complex readings. Eventually, students develop skills to read, interpret and explain the Torah text so as to be pertinent to their lives. History starts in the primary grades with legends and stories of ancient heroes and heroines. In the upper grades, history provides the students with a sense of connection to our past. All grades participate in holiday activities, arts and crafts, and music by our music specialist. Each grade is responsible for preparing a Friday Night Family Shabbat service. Also, since the study of Tzedakah (performing acts of kindness) is central to Jewish learning, each grade will participate in a Tzedakah (social action) project. This helps students build a foundation of Jewish values and beliefs, which are intended to help guide them throughout their adult lives. In order for these values and skills to be effective, they must be reflected in the home an synagogue. We, therefore, encourage families to be involved in their children's Jewish education, to celebrate Judaism in their home, and to participate in the ritual, educational and social action programs of our congregation. Ms. Sandra Shufrin is our religious school principal. She has significant experience and credentials to continue toward our goal our providing children with an important, and exciting Jewish experience. |
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