Jewish Learning for K-7
Building Jewish Identity Through Learning, Celebration, and Community
At Temple Beth El, we believe Jewish education is about more than just learning—it’s about living Jewishly. Our Religious School for Grades K-7 engages students in a hands-on, meaningful curriculum that fosters Jewish identity, values, and community.
Whether your child is just starting their Jewish journey or preparing for B’nei Mitzvah, we create a warm and welcoming space where learning is interactive, joyful, and rooted in Jewish tradition where students can thrive.
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What to Expect
Engaging Jewish Learning
Our curriculum is designed to deepen with each grade, allowing students to explore Jewish traditions, texts, and history at an age-appropriate level:
- Kindergarten: Ritual Objects and Symbols, Holidays, and Shabbat
- 1st Grade: Torah Stories from Genesis; Introduction to Israel
- 2nd Grade: Torah Stories from Exodus to Deuteronomy; Understanding God and Prayer
- 3rd Grade: Life Cycle Observances and Jewish Values
- 4th Grade: Exploration of Prophets and Writings
- 5th Grade: Jewish History, Heroes, and Peoplehood
- 6th Grade: In-depth Study of Israel and Sacred Texts
Hebrew Education
- Introduction to Hebrew begins in 3rd grade, with a focus on prayer fluency and Jewish literacy.
- Hebrew Small Groups meet once a week, either in-person or virtually, for focused learning.
- Personalized Hebrew instruction ensures students are prepared for B’nei Mitzvah and feel confident leading prayers in services.
Hands-On and Experiential Learning
- Interactive lessons, music, art, and community-building activities.
- Holiday celebrations and immersive Jewish experiences throughout the year.
- Family programs that bring Jewish learning into the home.
B’nei Mitzvah Preparation (6th & 7th Grade)
- One-on-one tutoring to develop Torah and Haftarah chanting skills.
- Deep exploration of Jewish values, mitzvot, and personal connection to tradition.
- Guidance on crafting a meaningful B’nei Mitzvah project, giving back to the community.
Students also participate in Sheva (7th Grade Program), which includes:
- Tzedakah: Learning about meaningful giving.
- Holocaust Studies: Understanding Jewish history and resilience.
- Jewish Choices: Applying Jewish values to real-world decisions.
T’filah (Prayer & Music)
Each week, students gather for T’filah (prayer services) and Shira (Jewish music) with our clergy and song leaders. Through T’filah, students experience communal worship, spiritual reflection, and the power of music in Jewish tradition.
- Grades K-2: Introduction to core Jewish prayers, melodies, and movement-based worship.
- Grades 3-4: Building familiarity with Shabbat prayers and participation in leading short services.
- Grades 5-6: Advanced prayer knowledge, leadership roles, and preparation for B’nei Mitzvah.
Hebrew Hafsakah (Active Hebrew Break)
A high-energy Hebrew session during Religious School where students engage in:
- Conversational Hebrew
- Prayer reinforcement through movement and games
- Fun, interactive ways to develop comfort with the Hebrew language
Chug (Enrichment Electives)
Students in Grades K-6 have the opportunity to participate in an optional Chug (elective) hour from 11:30am – 12:30pm, where they can explore Jewish learning in creative, engaging ways:
- Shir Kids (Youth Choir): Express Jewish joy through song and performance. Our Shir Kids perform during Kehillat Shabbat Evening Services each month.
Conversational Hebrew: Strengthen everyday Hebrew speaking skills.
Drama & Storytelling: Bring Jewish stories and traditions to life through performance.
Jewish Art & Culture: Hands-on projects connecting art and Jewish heritage.
Please note: Some Hebrew Small Groups meet during this time.
Religious School Schedule
Classes meet on Sunday mornings with additional weekday Hebrew learning opportunities. Weekday Hebrew tutoring is scheduled individually.
Learn More
We warmly welcome all families to be part of our Religious School community!
Questions? Contact Rabbi Beth Nichols, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning.
