Gan, Alef and Bet learners begin their Jewish journey through exploring Torah, holidays, Israel and Hebrew. Fun and experiential techniques capture learners’ interests and set them on a path for an engaging Jewish life.

Kindergarten – Fostering a love of Judaism

The goal for Gan learners is to have fun while acquiring a love of Judaism. They are introduced to Hebrew, holidays, Torah, and Israel through drama, arts, singing, and games. They also begin to explore the stories and symbols that are the basis of the Jewish tradition. Gan students begin to feel a sense of pride in being Jewish and gain the confidence to succeed in the coming years in the Congregational School.

First grade – The lens of synagogue

Alef learners spend the year exploring Hebrew, holidays, Torah, and Israel through the lens of the synagogue. The goal for Alef is for children to become familiar with the many aspects of synagogue life and the clergy, and to feel a sense of belonging to Judaism and their community. Holidays will be introduced in terms of synagogue/communal practices. Alef students will begin to learn what the Torah is and why it is important to the Jewish people. Stories from Genesis as well as biblical stories related to holidays will be introduced. In Hebrew language, learners will review the letters and learn the rudiments of reading. They will acquire a vocabulary of holiday and synagogue related Hebrew words. The goal is for learners to have letter recognition and beginning reading skills by the end of the year. Just as the synagogue is a type of home for Jews, learners will discover that Israel is the home for all the Jewish people in the world.

Second grade – The lens of family

Bet learners spend the year exploring Hebrew, holidays, Torah, and Israel through the lens of the family. Learners become familiar with the Genesis and Exodus narratives. The biblical narrative is examined through the lens of familial relationships. Learners will be encouraged to apply real-life scenarios to the text, making the Bible come alive. Learners should feel a sense of connectedness to both Judaism and their community. In Hebrew, learners review letters and begin a reinforcement of reading skills. Several prayers are introduced through music. Israel is examined through the connection of the Biblical stories to the Land.