1. religion and spirituality
2. judaism

Parent Manual & Calendar
Contents
Welcome
pg. 3
Philosophy & Goals
pg.4
Diversity Statement
pg.5
Anit-Bullying Statement
pg.6
Staff Directory & School Calendar
pg.7
Education Theme
pg.8
Jewish Life at School
pg.9
Bar/Bat Mitzvah at Rodeph Sholom
pg.10-12
Student and Parent Responsibilities
pg. 13-14
Nevatim Pre-K Family Class
pg.15
Nitzanim Kindergarten & 1st Grade Program
pg.16
2nd & 3rd grade Highlights
pg.17-18
4th-6th grade Highlights
pg.19-20
7th-12th grade Highlights
pg.21-24
Lewis Steinman Center for Special Needs
pg.25
“Kif Kef” Before-School Program
pg.26
Family Experiences
pg.27-28
Save the Dates for 5th-12th Grade Weekend Retreats!
pg. 29-30
CRuSTY Youth Groups: Grades 2-12
pg.31
What our families are saying…
pg.32
2
Welcome!
‫רּוכים ַה ָּב ִאים‬
ִ ‫ְּב‬
A Jewish education is one of the most precious gifts you will give your child. From
Judaism they will gain faith to sustain them in times of trouble and they will find a
community in which to celebrate life’s successes. Judaism will add meaning and
depth to their lives and root their actions in values.
The Religious School at Congregation Rodeph Sholom can help you give this great
gift to your child. Students in our school build close relationships with gifted
teachers, who act as mentors and role models. Our classroom time is filled with
lively discussions, creative projects and engaging activities.
We continuously explore ways in which our students can be more engaged and
active in finding their own path to learning. Through project based learning (PBL)
we empower and allow our students to use a combination of 21st century skills
(teamwork, problem solving, research gathering, time management, information
synthesizing, utilizing high tech tools) to explore, learn and experience their rich
Jewish heritage.
The core of our Judaica curriculum is built around the three pillars of Jewish life –
Torah, Avodah (prayer) and G’milut Chasadim (deeds of lovingkindness). Torah is
the central text of Judaism—a place to learn about our ancestors and to guide our
actions. Prayer is the heart of Jewish life, making up the rhythms and cycles of
daily, weekly, holiday and life-cycle observance. G’milut Chasadim is the
actualization of Jewish values—the way we interact with the world and leave it a
better place.
Our Hebrew program not only prepares students for B’nai Mitzvah, but it is also the
foundation for a lifetime of Jewish practice. Students learn to connect with prayers
and seek meaning in Jewish practice.
Students pray regularly in services that allow them both to have spiritual
experiences and to practice their Hebrew fluency.
Our school could not be the warm, remarkable place that it is without our dedicated
parents. You are a role model to your children about how Jewish life is lived. Your
participation in school activities and your feedback on your family’s experience here
helps us to continually refine our program. Open communication is a cornerstone to
the Religious School’s strength. We look forward to getting to know your family
and to working with you throughout the upcoming school year.
3
Philosophy &
Goals
Inspire Ideas
Instill Values
Create Community
---
MISSION STATEMENT
Rodeph Sholom Religious School inspires a
community of pre-kindergarten through 12th grade
learners and thinkers to embrace Judaism with joy
and to incorporate the teachings of Torah, prayer
(avodah), and acts of lovingkindness (gemilut
chasadim) in everyday life.
We educate and shape the next generation of Jews in an
inclusive, engaging environment in which students of all
abilities develop a strong Jewish identity through an
understanding of Biblical texts (the Tanakh), Hebrew
language, and Jewish history and culture. Our students
learn to do ethical and ritual mitzvot and repair the world
(tikkun olam) through participation in age-appropriate
experiences with the goal of developing a lifelong
connection with our congregation and the broader Jewish
community. We nurture faith through prayer, music and
creative expression. We encourage our children to form
their own relationship with God, Torah and the people of
Israel.
4
Congregation Rodeph Sholom Religious
School Policy on Diversity
The Reform Religious School strives to develop a strong, positive, exclusively
Jewish identity in all students while deeply respecting them in all their diversity
and diverse backgrounds and family structures. It is important to our
congregation that families who seek to enroll their children in our Religious
School are raising and educating their children exclusively as Jews.
Congregation Rodeph Sholom is a universally welcoming community to all who
seek to draw closer to Judaism. We therefore affirm the position of the Central
Conference of American Rabbis that a child of one Jewish parent is under the
presumption of Jewish descent. This presumption of the Jewish status of the
offspring of any mixed marriage is to be established through appropriate and
timely public and formal acts of identification with the Jewish faith and people.
We recognize the child of an interfaith marriage as fully Jewish provided that
the parent(s) have agreed to raise their child as a Jew and are following up on
that decision.
A family’s choosing Judaism exclusively as their children’s religious identity,
does not preclude a sharing of a non-Jewish partner’s religious traditions. In
fact, children should not be discouraged from occasionally accompanying
non-Jewish family members to their worship services or from participating in
extended-family holiday celebrations. A non-Jewish parent should be free to
share his or her cultural traditions and not be made to feel invisible in his or her
child’s religious life. Participation in cultural and familial traditions should be
distinguished from formal religious instruction.
In keeping with the above statements, enrollment in our Religious School is
open to:


Children who are raised and educated exclusively as Jews, and
Children who are not currently receiving formal education in another religion
We expect that any child registered in our Religious School is being raised
exclusively in the Jewish faith and that when there is more than one parent or
guardian, this is the decision and commitment on the part of all adults
responsible for the child. We understand that for some families, coming to this
decision may be a journey that can present challenges. If you are struggling
with this decision or uncertain of its implications, we urge you to speak with one
of our clergy or the Director of Religious Education before registering your child
in Religious School.
5
Anti-Bullying Statement
"What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow: this is the whole Torah;
(Shab. 31a) Hillel-the Elder
Congregation Rodeph Sholom Religious School is a No-Bullying Zone
At Religious School we have no tolerance for bullying of any kind. We train our staff to identify
bullying, and report such incidences immediately to the administration, who will address those on
a case by case basis. We also talk to our students about bullying, what to do when they feel they
are being bullied, what to do when they witness bullying, and how bullying has no place at the
Religious School.
We also teach our students how to respond to unpleasant situations that may not be classified as
“bullying”, and how to differentiate between the two.
What is bullying?
Bullying is when one person deliberately and repeatedly intimidates or harms another.
Bullying can appear in many different ways:
Physical
Verbal
Indirect
Cyber
hitting, kicking, shoving, mean hand gestures
teasing, taunting, name calling, threatening remarks, spreading rumors
excluding or intentionally leaving a person out, getting someone else to bully
another person, gossiping
using technology to threaten, insult or harass
What is not bullying?
Sometimes students confuse other behaviors with bullying. No doubt, students will say things to
one another which can be mean or hurtful, and whether these things are said intentionally or
unintentionally, they still hurt. No doubt students will push one another in play or shove to be first
in line. Here too, whether these behaviors are intentional or unintentional, they still hurt. However,
sometimes children use poor judgment and say mean things, and sometimes they push one
another, but these actions don’t make them bullies. Only when these behaviors are repeated again
and again, and targeted at the same child, is it bullying.
You can read more about bullying at: stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov or eyeonbullying.org
6
Religious School Staff
Director
Kerith Braunfeld
Phone: (646) 454-3080
E-mail [email protected]
Associate Director of Youth & Teen
Engagement
Sara Spanjer
Phone: (646) 454-3081
E-mail [email protected]
Associate Director
Marcia Stein
Phone: (646) 454-3086
E-mail [email protected]
Assistant Director
Ahuva Graber
Phone: (646) 454-3082
E-mail [email protected]
Assistant Director of Youth & Teen
Engagement
Danny Kron
Phone: (646) 454-3083
E-mail [email protected]
Administrative Assistant &Registrar
Natalia Arad
Phone: (646) 454-3085
E-mail [email protected]
Education Assistant
Bryce Diamond
Phone: (646) 454-3087
E-mail [email protected]
Religious School
Calendar
K & 1st Grade: Wednesdays 4:00-6:00pm
2nd & 3rd Grade: Mondays 4:00-6:00pm
4th-6th Grade: Mondays and Wednesdays 4:00-6:15pm
7th-12th Grade: Tuesdays 5:00-7:00pm



September 15th: First Day 2-6
September 16th: First Day 7-12
September 17th: First Day K/1

October 13th:
NO SCHOOL

November 26th:
NO SCHOOL




December 22nd – 24th : NO SCHOOL
December 29th - 31st: NO SCHOOL
January 1st:
NO SCHOOL
th
January 19 :
NO SCHOOL

February 16th - 18th:
NO SCHOOL


March 16th - 18th:
March 23rd - 25th:
NO SCHOOL
NO SCHOOL

April 6th - 8th:
NO SCHOOL



May 18th:
May 19th:
May 20th:
Last Day 2-6
Last Day 7-12
Last Day K/1
7
Education Theme for 2014-2015
Two Are Better Than One…For If They Fall, One Will Lift Up The Other
‫ת־ח ֵברֹו‬
ֲ ‫ָּקים ֶא‬
ִ ‫ה ֶֽא ָּחד י‬,
ָּ ‫ ִכי ִאם־יִ ּפולּו‬...‫ן־ה ֶא ָּחד‬
ָּ ‫טֹובים ַה ְּשנַיִ ם ִמ‬
ִ
Each year we welcome back our returning teachers, students, and families and perform the
mitzvah of hachnasat orchim, welcoming guests, by greeting all those who are new to
Congregation Rodeph Sholom and/or to Religious School. However, it’s not just about
making our new families and faculty feel welcome with a quick hello and introduction. Each
of these interactions holds the potential for making new friends, something that is very
important in order to maintain our warm, tight-knit community. It is one of our middot,
Jewish values, to have friends and to be a good friend, called dibbuk chaveirim, cleaving to
friends. No surprise the rabbis had a lot to say about this subject. They looked to the Bible
for notable examples of close friendships, such as 1) Jonathan (King Saul’s son) and the
future King David and 2) Ruth and Naomi. “Two are better than one … for if they fall, one
will lift up the other.”(Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
The rabbis looked to the importance of friendship to provide company and support for each
other, but there’s more to it than just this surface understanding. When two people are
sitting together as study partners in chevruta, it is on a different, deeper level of friendship.
It is one in which our friends challenge us, leading us to grow into stronger, more thoughtful
people. “A stone has no value, but when you rub two stones together properly, sparks of
fire emerge.”(Rabbi Mordechai of Lechovitz)
When we study Torah with a chevruta partner, our minds are opened to new ideas, our
thoughts are sharper, and sparks fly! We are not simply transmitting useful skills and
important content to our students. Rather we are creating true friendships through Torah.
And that is the total body of learning we at Religious School seek to impart.
As I am writing this article, our brothers and sisters in Israel are running to bomb shelters
and sending their young and old off to battle. We watch as some in the media and others in
protests refuse to recognize that Israel has the right and the duty to defend her citizens. And
yet, it is not lost on me that there are still rays of hope in this tenuous situation. People and
organizations on both sides of the conflict are promoting dialogue and peaceful coexistence
– and in the process, even becoming friends. The precious goal of turning our enemies into
friends rings truer now than any time in the recent past.
This year’s theme of friendship – of honoring our Bible’s instruction that “two are better
than one” – will inform how we teach and connect our students to each other. Our goal is
that they will support and lift each other up, sharpen each other’s learning, and regard each
other as friends. It is only by turning the “other” into a friend that we may ultimately make
this world a better place, bringing about an eternal peace over us and all people. Kein Y’hi
Ratzon—may this be God’s will.
We are looking forward to another exciting year in Religious School and wish you all a
Shanah Tovah, a year full of blessings, renewal of faith, spirit and soul.
!‫ָׁשנָׁה טֹובָׁה‬
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Jewish Life at School
Tefillah (Prayer)- Students put their learning into practice at our services, which are held weekly in
the Schnurmacher Chapel on the 6th floor for our 2nd through 12th grade students. Students
participate in age-appropriate prayer experiences meant to develop an inner spiritual life. The
services also allow students to develop relationships with the Rodeph Sholom clergy, which we hope
will continue to grow throughout their lives. In Kindergarten and 1st grade the children participate in
a Tefillah experience in class at the beginning of each session.
Tzedakah (Righteous Giving)- Collecting tzedakah from students at the beginning of each class is a
time-honored Religious School tradition and a wonderful way to begin Jewish learning. Please send
your child to school with some change each day. At the beginning and end of each year the students
will have the chance to choose the Jewish organizations to which they wish to make a donation of
tzedakah. Participating in this important mitzvah instills Jewish values in our students and
encourages them to think of others.
Music- Music is in many ways the soul of Jewish practice. Our capable song leaders work with
students on Israeli, holiday and prayer music. Students have opportunities to learn music
specifically related to their curriculum. Additionally, students are invited to bring their own
instruments and participate in the Tefillah band during weekly services.
Community- We are not just a school, we are also a community of students, parents, faculty and
administration working together as part of Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Our goal is for every
child to feel welcome and comfortable. Families are encouraged to see the Religious School as just
one part of their involvement in the Rodeph Sholom community.
Field trips/ Special Programs- Every year some of our students go on field trips to different Jewish
programs, exhibits, performances, etc. that are offered in the community. We also invite programs
to come in such as the Matzah and Shofar factories, Avodah Arts, etc.
Kif Kef Before School Program- Kif Kef is a fun, transitional program for Kindergarten-sixth grade
students from 3:00-4:00pm on the days when they attend Religious School. Students may choose
from a variety of activities to do during this time such as work on their homework, learn about Israel,
read Jewish books, participate in mitzvah projects, discuss current events, watch Jewish videos,
create interesting art projects, eat snacks, and much more. Complimentary snack is provided for
students in K-6 and 2th-6th grade students have the option of purchasing inexpensive snacks.
The Kif Kef program is available for all K-6 students who arrive at Religious School before 3:45pm
and is free of cost.
9
Bar/Bat Mitzvah at Rodeph Sholom
In order for our families to have a meaningful Bar/Bar Mitzvah experience it is important that
they are part of our community for a number of years leading up to this milestone. We want to
have time to get to know your family and for you to get to know us…our clergy, services,
educators and programs. We also view the Bar/Bat Mitzvah as a family experience, one during
which families need the time to learn together, reflect, and communicate open and honestly
with each other. Through our six Family B’nai Mitzvah program sessions (FBMP) families are
afforded this opportunity.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah Eligibility
Students are required to complete a minimum of three consecutive years of Religious School
beginning in 4th grade immediately prior to and including the entire Bar/Bat Mitzvah
year. Families whose children enter the Religious School after the fourth grade must make
special arrangements with the Director of Religious Education to meet grade-level
requirements and the Bar/Bat Mitzvah date may be delayed. Students who have attended
another accredited Religious School prior to arriving at Congregation Rodeph Sholom are
eligible for Bar/Bat Mitzvah, provided all requirements have been satisfied. Students leaving the
Rodeph Sholom School before the date of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah must join the Religious School
program. Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparations are handled through the Cantor’s office.
Any questions relating to Bar/Bat Mitzvah should be directed to the Cantors’ Assistant at 646454-3039. Bar/Bat Mitzvah dates are coordinated by Gail Becker at 646-454-3022.
Students must be enrolled in and attending a Congregation Rodeph Sholom School to keep
their Bar/Bat Mitzvah date on the calendar.
FAMILY B’NAI MITZVAH PROGRAM (FBMP)
The Bar/Bat Mitzvah year is one of anticipation, anxiousness and excitement. Both the student
and the family members devote a considerable amount of time and energy in preparation for
this ceremony. We are excited for our families to participate in this program that represents an
essential part of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah process. The program is designed to help families deepen
their understanding of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah experience.
This six session program focuses on the questions, “Why are we here?”, “Who am I?”, “Where
am I going?” and topics such as God, prayer, ritual, Tikkun Olam, community and responsibility,
etc. Through interactive, engaging text study and experiences, families will explore how this
milestone impacts the family before, during and after the actual ceremony. As part of this
program, families will meet with one of the rabbis to study their Torah portion and will also
complete a mitzvah project serving both Rodeph Sholom and the larger community.
10
Religious School Requirements
 The school committee, along with the rabbinic and
educational staff agrees that the Rodeph Sholom Religious
School must be a two-day a week program in the 4th, 5th, and
6th grade in order to be one of substance and meaning.
Therefore, it is very important that your child make every
attempt to attend regularly.
Congregation Rodeph Sholom
Requirements of Bar/Bat Mitzvah
1. “Do not separate yourself from the community”…(Hillel)
All Bar/Bat Mitzvah students must be registered in either the
Religious School or Rodeph Sholom School for the academic year
during which their Bar/Bat Mitzvah occurs.
2. “Make your study of Torah a fixed habit, say little and do much
and greet all people with a cheerful smile.” (Shammai)
Students must be enrolled in Religious School by the fourth grade.
Rodeph Sholom School students must enroll in the Religious School
upon leaving RSS.
3. “You stand this day, all of you, before Adonai your God- your
elders and your officials, all the men of Israel, your children, your
wives, even the stranger within your camp, from woodchopper to
water drawer- to enter into the covenant of Adonai your God.”
(Deuteronomy 29:9-11)
Satisfactory attendance and efforts are expected throughout the
student's enrollment in Religious School or at the Rodeph Sholom
School.
4. “Prayer is for the soul what nourishment is for the body.”(Yehuda
HaLevi)
Students and parents should attend at least 10 Shabbat services
once formal Bar/Bat Mitzvah training has begun and prior to the
student's Bar/Bat Mitzvah. At least 6 of those services should be at
Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Some of the services should be
Friday evening and some should be Shabbat morning services.
11
5. “The mitzvot were only given to refine creation through them.”
(Genesis Rabbah (44))
Students and parents are required to attend 6 Family B’nei Mitzvah
Program sessions about a year to a year and a half before the
Bar/Bat Mitzvah date.
6. “It is within our power to mirror God’s unending love in deeds of
kindness, like brooks that hold the sky.” (Rabbi Abraham Joshua
Heschel)
Students, individually or with their families, are required to be
involved in some community service/Mitzvah project during the
year prior to Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The value of "living what we learn" is
very important to the synagogue, the school and Jewish tradition.
7. “Tell the Israelite people to bring Me gifts; you shall accept gifts for
Me from every person whose heart so moves him…And let them
make Me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them.” (Exodus 25)
The Bar/Bat Mitzvah fee and any financial obligation to
Congregation Rodeph Sholom must be fulfilled before the Bar/Bat
Mitzvah services. (Exceptions to any of the above specified
requirements must be approved by the Rabbi and Director of the
school).
8. “Rabbi Akiba says: If you have studied Torah in your youth, study
Torah in your old age. Say not, “I shall not study Torah in my old
age,” for you do not know whether you will understand better
young or old.”
The Bar/Bat Mitzvah is not the end of a student's Jewish
education. Students are expected to continue through their
Confirmation in 10th grade. Participation in our high school
program, which continues through graduation in grade 12, is
encouraged.
12
STUDENT AND PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES
"Make your study of Torah a fixed habit, say little and do much and greet all people with a cheerful
smile" -Shammai
Parent/Student Visits
Parent Visitation Parents are encouraged to visit our classrooms at any time. All you need to do
is call the Religious School office to let us know that you are coming.
Student Visitation For security reasons we cannot allow children who are not registered in
Religious School to visit in our classrooms. Guests who do arrive at our school will be asked to
be picked up immediately.
Regular attendance
Your child's regular attendance is the largest indicator of his or her success in Religious School.
We understand the time constraints that busy families face, however we ask that you make
school a priority. The time we are given to teach is so limited, that we must ask you to be
certain that your child attends regularly. If a student is absent for more than 25% of all classes in
a year, that year will not be able to count toward the requirement of completing three full years
of school prior to Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Tardiness
Arriving late keeps your child back in his/her studies and disturbs the class and the teacher as
well. Please make every effort that your child gets to class on time.
Dress code
Students are expected to dress appropriately for Religious School. Good taste, with the
consideration that they are entering a religious institution - their synagogue - is vital for the
promotion of respect and decorum.
Student behavior
The attitude that your child brings to Religious School is of consummate importance. Respect
for fellow students, as well as teachers, is a central element in the educational process in our
Religious School. Disruptive behavior and lack of respect will not be tolerated.
Respect for property
Respect for property should be an unspoken understanding of all of our students. Although we
do not expect such occurrences to take place, parents will be responsible for any damage done
to the synagogue by their children.
13
No food or drink
No food or drink will be allowed into the classroom areas. Snacks are provided to students
before school in Kif Kef and during school.
Remember—We are a NUT SENSITIVE SCHOOL!!! (No nuts or nut products are served or may
be brought to school.)
The safety of your children
The safety of your children during Religious School dismissal is of utmost importance to us. If a
student needs to leave before regular dismissal time, a parent or caregiver needs to sign
him/her out in the Religious School office. No student will be permitted to leave the premises
on his/her own before dismissal. Also, students arriving early to school are expected to enter
the building and proceed straight to the supervised “Before School” Kif-Kef location.
Behavior
Each teacher will state his/her discipline policy to the class. If a student chooses to display
unacceptable behavior, he/she will be sent to the Director for a conference. If unacceptable
behavior occurs again, the parent(s) will be informed and asked for cooperation in solving the
problem. Inappropriate behavior shall be defined as any behavior that disrupts either the teacher's
right to teach or any other student's right to learn.
Evaluation
We send home written evaluations twice a year for Jewish Studies. These evaluation letters
review your child's attendance, classroom participation, behavior, socialization, mastery of
subject matter and ability to relate material to their lives. You will also receive regular updates
about your child’s Hebrew progress. However, if a teacher is concerned about a student in any
of these areas, he or she may request a parent conference. Parents should also feel free to
contact a teacher or the Director at any time to discuss a child's progress.
Communication
We encourage an open flow of communication between the home and the school. Toward the
beginning of each school year you will receive a roster of the students in your child's class as
well as contact information for your child's teacher. Feel free to contact your child's teacher, as
well as the school Director, if you have any questions about your child's education. You can
expect to get a weekly e-mail update from your child's teacher detailing class projects, what
children are learning and upcoming events. We also send a bi-weekly e-blast with pictures,
information about upcoming events, and links to Jewish activities for families.
14
Nevatim Pre-K Family Class
A Pre-K parent-child program where families share Jewish
activities, experiences and dinner. Be a Jewish explorer
through story, song, movement, drama and more!
Cost: $390 per session (two sessions, 5 classes each)
Timing: Class meets from 4:30PM-6:00PM
Dates:
Session One:
September 23rd: Rosh Hashanah
October 7th: Torah Stories
October 21st: Helping others & Tzedakah
November 11th: PJ Havdalah
December 2nd: Chanukah
Session Two:
January 20th: Our Names
February 3rd: Tu Bishvat
March 3rd: Purim
March 31st: Passover
April 21st: Yom Ha’atzmaut
Questions?
Contact Marcia Stein at
[email protected] or
646-454-3086
15
Nitzanim Kindergarten &
First Grade Program
Participating in the unique Rodeph Sholom Nitzanim* Learning
Center Program, your child will embark on a journey into the
world of Jewish learning and discovery, wonder and
excitement, spiritual growth and social development within the
nurturing environment of our congregation.
*Nitzanim-Hebrew for flower buds
Timing: Classes meet on WEDNESDAYS from 4:00PM-6:00PM
The learning center program is designed to engage your child with interactive
experiences as teachers guide him/her through a variety of activities and materials
in the centers that target multiple learning styles (visual, oral, auditory, and
kinesthetic).
The structure of the program includes:
Mifgash - Group Meeting: weekly rituals including weather, Alef-Bet Yoga, tefillah
(prayer), songs, and an introduction of concepts and learning centers for the day.
Mercazim - Center Time: Rotation through various centers: Hebrew each week with
others (examples include bible, spirituality, holidays, games & tikkun olam- repairing
the world - centers) alternating throughout the year
Chatif: Snack
Musika: Music with our song leader
Aruchat Erev- Dinner: Students learn the blessings and enjoy a meal with friends.
Mishpachah-Family Connections:Take home bags with learning activities for families
Questions?
Contact Marcia Stein at [email protected] or 646-454-3086
16
2nd & 3rd Grade Highlights
Timing: Classes meet on MONDAYS from 4:00PM-6:00PM
Daily Schedule: T’fillah(Prayer)/Storytelling/Music
Snack – Question of the Day
Jewish Studies
Dinner
Hebrew
PHD Hebrew Study in 2nd & 3rd Grade
The Hebrew language is taught through a systematic decoding program
called PHD (Phonetic Hebrew decoding) and the development of basic
vocabulary.
2nd
Grade
Students study selections from the Torah and begin to learn the various values
taught by the Biblical personalities while exploring connections to their own
lives today. A conceptual and experiential approach is used in order to teach
and experience the Jewish holidays.
Special Projects:
 My Torah Commentary: Students
create a personal Torah
commentary through response
opportunities to stories in the first
book of the Torah, Genesis, which
they read throughout the year.
 Torah Tour: Parents are invited to
join their children in the spring for
an interactive scavenger hunt
through the 2nd grade Torah
Commentary.
 2nd Grade Community Haggadah
Project: All classes work on a few
steps of the seder through photo,
written, and artistic expression
which is then compiled with athome experiences to incorporate
during a family Passover
celebration.
17
3rd Grade
The students study the Prophets and Writings and through these books explore
Jewish Ethics and History. Their biblical study weaves the history of Israel from
biblical times to today as they begin to learn about the special connection
Jews have to Israel. The Jewish holidays are studied through a variety of
resources to facilitate discussions and class celebrations.
Special Projects:
 Israel Brochure Project:
Students explore Israel through
answering the questions, Why
do we want to go there? What
will be seeing? And what has
happened there in history?
Research and discussion
culminate in the creation of
their own travel brochures.
 Tour of Israel: Parents are
invited to join their children in
the spring for an interactive
scavenger hunt through the 3rd
grade Israel Travel brochures
and celebration in honor of
Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s
Independence day.
Questions?
Contact Marcia Stein at [email protected] or 646-454-3086
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4th-6th Grade Highlights
Timing: Classes meet on MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS from
4:00PM-6:15PM
Daily Schedule: Hebrew
Jewish Studies
Music on Mondays
Tefillah (Prayer) on Wednesdays
Tefillah (Prayer)/Hebrew Study in 4th-6th Grade
In 4th through 6th Grade students engage in the study of the prayers used in the
synagogue and establish fluency in Hebrew. These skills will enrich their
synagogue experience and further develop their connection to the Jewish
people through prayer. Students who successfully complete the Hebrew
Contract program, an individualized program that teaches students a general
understanding of the Shabbat and holiday prayers and blessings and how to
read them fluently, will enter our Ulpan class to study Modern Hebrew.
4th Grade
Studying Torah with commentary is introduced and students are asked to take
Grade
a “closer look” at the Book of Genesis, Bereshit, in addition to conducting a
yearlong in-depth study of the Jewish calendar.
Special Projects:
 Field Trip to the Jewish Museum: Students
participate in a hands-on workshop
about Jewish holiday ritual objects from
all over the world and from different time
periods. This field trip commences the
yearlong preparation for our Jewish
Holiday Do It Yourself Video Series.
 Jewish Holiday Do It Yourself Video
Series: Students explore the concepts
and rituals of the Jewish holidays
analyzing Jewish folklore, texts, laws,
cuisine, customs, and rituals reflecting on
their own holiday experiences and
discovering ways to enrich their
celebrations in order to create Do It
Yourself Videos for the Religious School
families. At the fair, students share what
they’ve learned with their parents.
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5th Grade
Students explore the Jewish people’s journey of the Exodus from Egypt, from a
small nation in Israel to an international community in the 19th century,
discovering how in every century Jews have adapted to changing times while
holding fast to our core beliefs.
Special Projects:
 Field Trip to the Museum of Jewish
Heritage: By exploring the galleries and
participating in a hands-on workshop
students learn about the importance of
analyzing artifacts to learn about the
stories, people, and time periods they
represent. This trip kicks off the yearlong
Living Museum program.
 The Living Museum Online & In School
Exhibit: As fifth graders study Jewish
history, families discover how they fit into
the larger picture of the Jewish people
by choosing an artifact that describes
their family’s Jewish story. The year
culminates with an in-house and online
exhibit of the objects to which parents
are invited.
6th Grade
Specialized Content Units: Students rotate to different teachers for each Jewish Studies unit and
will create hands-on projects to depict their knowledge and understanding of each subject
area. Parents will be invited in at the end of the year to view the projects as students present
what they’ve learned. The units are:




Stop, Drop & Torah Roll: Jewish Values
Jewish Skills for Living
Holocaust & the Importance of Memory in Judaism
Israel: Diverse People & Challenges, Develop a
Relationship with our Jewish Homeland
Questions?
Contact Kerith Braunfeld at [email protected] or 646-454-3080
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7th-12th Grade Highlights
Timing: TUESDAYS 5PM-7PM
We invite our teens to take a break from the hectic pace of
school life to connect, learn & celebrate holidays with clergy
and educators! Students can choose to:
 Join the Post-B’nai Mitzvah Internship Program and stay
connected to Rodeph Sholom while making money
 Earn money or community service hours helping out in
Religious School classrooms in the Madrichim program
 Travel to New Orleans with 8th grade Social Action Club to
help rebuild their communities (February)
 Lobby on Capitol Hill in D.C. with the Religious Action Center
(RAC) in 9th-12th grades (January)
 Live with Israeli teens in the Partnership 2gether (P2G)
Exchange (December & April) in 10th-12th grades
 Get confirmed in 10th grade and join our 6th floor wall of
fame...and celebrate your graduation with us in 12th grade!
 Participate in CRuSTY Youth Group (Congregation Rodeph
“uh” Sholom Temple Youth) for fun with friends and
leadership, worship, and social action opportunities.
Questions?
Contact Sara Spanjer at [email protected] or 646-454-3081
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The Middle School Years (7th & 8th Grade)
7th Grade: Finding Your Place in the Community
We are excited about all our B’nai Mitzvah students’ ceremonies and parties, but
Tuesday nights is way more than just about that. Through our exciting chugim
(electives), students will come to realize that the ceremony is simply the
beginning. Our chugim topics include Israel, Spirituality, Mitzvot, and Jewish
Communities Around the World – we offer all of these topics through different types of
experiences such as cooking, media, sports, creative movement and the arts. Students
will continue preparing to become B’nai Mitzvah and learn Hebrew during their weekly
Hebrew Contract classes. Once a month students join a special tefilah (prayer service)
where we come together and express prayer in different creative ways such as through
yoga, meditation, movement, drum circles, etc. Students will also take part in J-Word this is a student driven advisory group that explores topics affecting their lives and their
identity as they are on their journey of becoming a Jewish teen.
8th Grade: Social Action Club
The journey continues as students organize their own social action program, selecting
causes, projects and a leadership board inspired by the concepts of the film “Pay It
Forward.” Every two weeks, students plan a social action project and then carry it out
the following week, starting with our own community and building outward. The club
travels to New Orleans in February to learn and assist in post-Katrina rebuilding efforts.
The Post B’nai Mitzvah PAID Internship Program
7th & 8th graders can earn money through a Manhigut and Tikkun Olam (Leadership
and Service) Internship with Rodeph Sholom!
What You Have To Do:
 Complete the Bar/Bat Mitzvah process*
 Be enrolled in and attending Religious School at least 80% of Tuesday nights
 Participate in the Internship chug (club) during Tuesday night program 5:30-6pm
 Do 20 hours of service at Rodeph Sholom*
What You Earn:
 Stipend of $300 per 20 hours
 Clergy letter of recommendation
 25% of pay received after 10 hours with remainder paid after 20 hours
 8th graders can earn $500 for a 2nd set of hours
*Pre-B’nai Mitzvah students can start anytime in 7th or 8th grade and
earn one service credit hour for every two hours worked (up to 5 credit hours)
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The High School Years (9th- 12th Grade)
Our Tuesday night High School Program provides teens with a solid foundation of
Jewish knowledge necessary to help them make informed Jewish decisions. During a
weekly minyan our teens are empowered to connect with the prayers of the service
through varied experiences. Students participate in clubs (Chugim) offering
experiential learning opportunities such as Jewish Cooking, Values in Sports, P2G
(Partnership 2Gether) Israel Exchange and Modern Hebrew. Each grade also meets with
one of our Rabbis for more intensive study (Midrasha) focusing on topics related to
God, Torah, Israel, Social Action and Packing for College.
An important part of the High School program and our senior Youth Group (CRuSTY) is
the creation of a community (Kehillah Kedoshah) in which all Rodeph Sholom teens
can feel a sense of belonging, friendship, safety and purpose. Every week students
have the opportunity to connect with their rabbis, cantors and educators. During
dinner there is ample opportunity to socialize with friends and staff.
Commitment to Tikkun Olam-repairing the world through community service,
speaking, lobbying, and rallying on current domestic or foreign political issues - is a
central part of the High School years and our students are committed to learning,
caring and making a difference in the world.
Our program provides our teens with a Leadership (Manhigut) Development program
that inspires them to become the Jewish leaders of tomorrow. Under the continuous
encouragement of our clergy, educators and youth workers, they acquire leadership
skills through peer-led programming, serving on committees, and CRuSTY board and
fundraising events.
10th Grade Confirmation
Confirmation is a ceremony that was originated by the Reform movement for students
in the 10th grade of Religious School and is dedicated to Torah and Torah study. The
year culminates in a beautiful ceremony offering the confirmands the opportunity to
publicly affirm their loyalty to Judaism, the Torah, and the Jewish people. Many
students reflect that this ceremony is meaningful to them as it was their own choice to
reach this milestone.
11th & 12th Grade
Packing for College: Where does Judaism Fit?
One of the most exciting and anxiety-producing times in a family’s life cycle is when a
teen prepares to transition from life as a high school student to life on a college
campus.
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This program helps answer questions such as:



Not sure which college to choose?
Concerned about Jewish life on campus?
What will saying goodbye be like?
Madrichim
Teacher Assistant Program for Post B’nai Mitzvah Students
8th-12th graders have the opportunity to contribute to Congregation Rodeph Sholom’s
community. More than just helping in the Religious School, Madrichim are encouraged
to be role models and leaders to the younger students. Most of all, it helps with
community building, by the different ages interacting with one another. The
Madrichim experience offers leadership skills, resume & college application
additions, payment, and service hours.
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Lewis Steinman
Educating Jewish Children
with Special Needs
Center
“Educate Every Child According to his Way”
(Proverbs 22:6)
In Judaism all life is viewed as precious and holy. Each individual contributes his or her
unique part to the world, whether great or small. Perfection of the world lies in the
development of each and every Jewish individual to his/her maximum potential. God
did not create us all the same, yet we are all created in God’s image. Each of us has
his/her own task to complete, his/her own potential to be realized.
Only by working together, to assist everyone to maximize their abilities, do we bring
completion to the world. All children are capable of receiving a Jewish education
according to their capabilities and deserve to learn about their Jewish heritage and
share our rich history and lifestyle.
The Rodeph Sholom Religious School is in the unique position to offer Jewish Education
in a supplementary setting for students with special needs.
This is made possible through a generous grant from the Steinman family and the Rudin
Foundation in memory of Lewis Steinman.
The Lewis Steinman Center
Our goal is to develop a plan that strives toward the full inclusion of the student into
regular classes with the support of the Special Education staff. In cases where this
cannot be achieved, the learning environment will be adapted to include small group
learning and one on one learning.
A process has been developed which requires the following steps:
1. Parent(s) and student meet with the Special Education Coordinator
2. Develop an Individual Education Plan for the student
3. Contact and meet with the student’s teachers
Attendance
Inclusion, whether all or part of the time, provides a myriad of opportunities for students
to interact and strengthen their sense of community in a Jewish environment; therefore
there will be a minimum attendance requirement of 2 hours per week for all students
participating in this program. In a full inclusion program the student will attend the
regular hours required for that grade.
Questions? Contact Kerith Braunfeld at
[email protected] or 646-454-3080
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Kif Kef
Before-School Program
Ever wonder what your child should do during the hour
between school and Religious School? We have a solution:
The “Kif Kef” program at the Rodeph Sholom Religious School!
Who:
This program is open to all students in grades K‐12 who arrive
early
When:
From 3:00pm‐4:00pm on the days your child attends Religious
School
(4:00pm‐5:00pm for grades 7‐12)
Where:
Grades K‐1 meet in the Music Room, 84th Street building
Grades 2‐6 meet in the 6th floor Eisner Auditorium, 83rd Street
building
Grades 7‐12 meet in 5th floor Kitchen, 83rd street building
What:
A fun, educational program filled with a variety of activities.
Students may choose to work on homework, read, eat snacks*,
participate in mitzvah projects, discuss current events, and do art
projects.
Cost:
FREE!!! *A complimentary snack is provided. Students in grades 2‐
6 have the option of purchasing additional inexpensive snacks.
Questions? Contact the Religious School office at 646‐454‐3085
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Family Experiences
Rodeph Sholom is committed to supporting families on their Jewish journey. Judaism enriches
our lives with learning, ritual, values, community, connections with Israel, our heritage and so
much more. At Rodeph Sholom families have the opportunity to study, do mitzvah work, and
celebrate Shabbat and holidays together. Children who see their parents attending classes and/
or participating in Jewish experiences recognize the value and importance of Judaism and
Jewish living to the entire family.
Welcome (Back) Ice Cream & Pizza Party
Thursday, September 11th 5:30pm. See your friends! Meet our new staff! Welcome new
families! Learn about our exciting year ahead!
Shabbat Dinners
Join together with your friends (old & new) for a relaxing dinner after Shir Chadash
services. No cooking needed…just relax and enjoy some family and adult schmooze
time! Singing and activities for all ages!
Dates:
October 17th
November 14th
January 9th
February 13th
March 13th
May 8th
Family Supper in the Sukkah!
Wednesday, October 8th – after Religious School
Enjoy supper in the sukkah, say the blessings, sing and join the annual Edible Sukkah competition!
Family Chanukah Candle Lighting
Wednesday, December 17th – 5:30-7:00pm
Light the 2nd night candle with us followed by a pizza and
latke dinner and a fun class community building project.
Shabbat & Holiday B’Yachad (“Shabbat Together”) for families with children ages 0–7.
Meets the 1st & 3rd Shabbat of the month and various holidays. Lively prayer, Torah
reading, family activities, and a light lunch! Beginning October 18th
PJ Library at CRS!
PJ Library (“PJ” for “pajamas”) program offers FREE high quality Jewish books and music each month to
Jewish families with children ages 6 months to 7 years. Visit www.crsnyc.org to sign up!
PJ and Play Story Time
Ages 2-5 years old, 4:30 - 5:15 on the 2nd Thursday of each month.
Drop in and join us once a month for stories, activities, playtime on the indoor playground, and snack from 4:30 5:15. We will have guest readers each month to share our favorite PJ Library books! Interested in reading a story?
Please contact Marcia Stein @ [email protected] for more information.
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Family Experiences Cont.
Siyum/Student Presentations
*Siyum--“completion” This refers to the completion of any unit of Torah study/Jewish learning. Traditionally it
involves a celebration with food and an opportunity for those who’ve studied the material to share what
they’ve learned. 5:30PM Start Time.
Dates:
Kindergarten: 5/20
1st Grade: 4/29
2nd Grade: 2/9
3rd Grade: 4/27
4th Grade: 5/4
5th Grade: 2/25
6th Grade: 5/6
MMI: Monthly Mitzvah Initiative – Mitzvah work
becomes a habit for Religious School families
Shop & Deliver As part of MMI, after dismissal —buy healthy foods and walk with us to the West
Side Campaign Against Hunger (WSCAH) food pantry. If you can’t walk over with us, bring in
healthy foods or bring in tzedakah money and we’ll buy the food for you.
Backpack Buddies Each 4th-6th grade class and parents will have the opportunity to participate in
this program which provides food insecure children with a backpack full of food for the weekend.
MMI: Shop & Deliver Dates
September 29th January 12th
October 20th
February 23rd
th
November 24
March 30th
th
December 17
April 27th
Mitzvah day This year Religious School families will be preparing for and hosting a Fall Festival for children at the
Lincoln Square Neighborhood Center, with the same children who will be receiving the backpacks of food we will
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be packing this year. Join us for this special day on Sunday, November 9 , 1:30-3:00pm.
WANTED: Parent Association Volunteers
We believe that our parents are a wealth of talent, information and intelligence, and
that you have something unique to share.
We’d love for you to become involved! Sign up on your registration form to volunteer for
specific projects:





Shabbat Dinners
Fundraisers
Family Programming
MMI (Monthly Mitzvah Initiative: Shop & Deliver,
Backpack Buddies
Grade Representative
We partner with parents to create initiatives that strengthen our community, increase
social action, and encourage family study and celebration.
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Weekend Trips Your Child(ren)
Won’t Want to Miss!
 5th-8th grade Fall Conclave at Camp Kutz
October 24-26, 2014
 10th-12th grade Partnership 2Gether Israel
Exchange
Israel December 2015 & NYC Spring 2016
 9th-12th grade trip to Religious Action
Center in Washington, DC
January 23-26, 2015
 8th grade trip to New Orleans
February 2015
Questions?
Contact Sara Spanjer at [email protected] or 646-454-3081
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Conclaves/Weekend Retreats
A very important part of our students’ Jewish education is learning about Judaism in an informal
environment that allows them to establish closer relationships with staff and peers. Students from the
fifth through twelfth grades attend various conclaves in order to enrich what they are learning in their
classes.
Fifth and sixth graders attend Fall Conclave, a special camp retreat weekend in which students and staff
participate in a wide variety of activities based around a given theme related to their regular
curriculum. The weekend includes Friday night, Shabbat morning, and Havdalah services, social activities
and exploration of a theme by participation in large and small group activities and art projects. In
addition, there are outdoor facilities for sports and other fun active games. Singing, supervised social
time, arts and crafts, a camp-wide scavenger hunt and movies are fun components of the retreat
experience. All fifth and sixth grade students are expected to attend these weekends.
Seventh graders also attend Fall Conclave, participating in their own Adventure & Leadership program
using ropes, zip-lines and climbing equipment, trust exercises and team building and helping to run
programs for the younger students. In addition, seventh graders come together for a year-end overnight
trip that varies from year to year but is always celebratory and educational. This is another opportunity to
deepen relationships with one another and staff, celebrate the year that was and all the while widening
their spiritual knowledge in a fun and exciting environment.
Eighth Graders get to visit New Orleans where students are given a chance to celebrate a meaningful
Shabbat, meet with local Jewish teens, explore the local culture and engage in social action projects
throughout their trip. The goal of this trip is to get students thinking of social issues that concern them
and ways they can positively make changes.
Ninth graders attend a special seminar at the Religious Action Center in Washington, D.C. Students learn
about prominent political issues and Reform Judaism’s position regarding these issues. Then students
have the exciting opportunity to lobby Senators and House Representatives according to their beliefs and
what they learned during the seminar. In addition, ninth graders have the opportunity to participate in
the annual Albany advocacy program. Students will learn about several social justice issues, and gain the
necessary knowledge to lobby their state Assembly members and Senators
Tenth through twelfth graders are also invited to attend the RAC and Albany trips mentioned above and
also attend Senior Youth Group weekend retreats.
th
th
Partnership 2Gether (P2G) Jerusalem-New York Teen Exchange (10 -12 grades)
P2G participants join in study and action with the High School Youth of Kol HaNeshama, our sister Reform
congregation in Jerusalem. The two groups learn from each other about the different needs of each
community and engage in Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) projects. Working together the students
discuss via e-mails, web forums, social media, phone calls, and video conferences the issues concerning
each community and the project culminates in a face-to-face meeting in Jerusalem and New York. This
allows them to create a special bond and enables our youth on both sides of the ocean to enrich their
lives and the life of their community. This program is funded by the UJA-Federation-Partnership 2Gether
program and includes funding for our youth to visit Jerusalem. (10 days).
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Youth Groups 2nd -12th Grade (CRuSTY)
Through fun events and experiential education students will have many opportunities to
interact and engage in social and educational programs. CRuSTY is a safe place where social,
emotional and spiritual needs are nurtured. Youth groups are divided by grade, and provide a
natural setting for learning about Jewish identity in innovative and creative ways. At its heart,
CRuSTY is a community builder. Children will deepen already existing relationships and create
new friendships in a cool and exciting atmosphere. We look forward to meeting you and your
children this upcoming CRuSTY year!
CRuSTY 2 2nd grade
CRuSTY 2 is aimed at welcoming 2nd graders and their families to the youth group atmosphere at
Rodeph Sholom. With four events a year that explore Jewish holidays and our community,
CRuSTY 2 is designed to build relationships between families and get a taste of youth
programming.
CRuSTY 34 3rd/4th grades
At its core, CRuSTY 34 is based on fun and age-appropriate activities that bring 3rd and 4th graders
together for holiday parties, day trips to amazing places and social gatherings that create
lifelong bonds. Children get to participate in a safe, inclusive and social atmosphere while
delving deeper into their Jewish identity.
CRuSTY 56 5th/6th grades
The CRuSTY 56 program is focused on strengthening our 5th and 6th graders’ connection to each
other, Rodeph Sholom and the larger Jewish community. We invite all 5th and 6th graders to
participate in a welcoming and entertaining set of events, with a Jewish educational twist.
CRuSTY 78 7th/8th grades
CRuSTY 78’s activities are geared toward socializing with friends while giving 7th and 8th graders
the tools to become Jewish leaders of tomorrow through meaningful social action. In CRuSTY 78
students begin playing a bigger role in planning and preparing events.
CRuSTY 9th – 12th Grades
Congregation Rodeph Sholom Senior Youth Group
CRuSTY 9th-12th is designed to help fulfill the social, emotional, and spiritual needs of our teens.
This community runs on the direction of our teens and allows them to join together in social
action events to help others, in educational programs to expand their knowledge as developing
Jewish teens, to gather with other Jewish teens in the Manhattan area for exciting experiences,
and to do fun events geared toward simply having a good time together!
The teens also serve as leaders and role models to our younger youth groups CRuSTY 2nd – 8th
grade, to build community and show the younger students what their future will look like at
Rodeph Sholom. CRuSTY empowers our teens to take on leadership positions and explore their
Jewish identities together. Their enthusiasm and passion inspire the entire congregation each
and every year. Best of all, there is something for everyone, and it’s fun!
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What Our Families Are Saying…
They both enjoyed the Conclave trip and always enjoy the thrill of completing Hebrew
packets!
My daughter’s favorite experiences are when teachers share personal stories that bring
Jewish learning to life.
A very nurturing environment where learning is very comfortable and encouraging
The informative emails from my child’s teacher let us know what is being covered each
week.
The teachers have been great so every time dropping off and picking up my child was
so happy and memorable for me.
My son was happy and safe
I enjoy the milestone ceremonies; B’nai Mitzvah, Confirmation, Graduation.
Watching our children gain confidence
Our child was able to make so many wonderful new friends while also loving the
learning of our religion.
We love the sense of community and all of the activities that support community
building.
The monthly mitzvah program where parents and children worked together was
inspiring. I was able to participate in about half of the programs and loved having the
opportunity to do so.
Never hearing a complaint about having to go to Religious School and instead seeing
my kids looking forward to it!
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