Supporting Programs

Mitzvah Magic. Mitzvah Magic brings to life the Jewish values that are discussed in the classroom. Each grade selects a Mitzvah theme. The students develop ways for the entire Religious School to perform Mitzvot within their themes through Tzedakah, in-house projects, and field trips.

Music Enrichment. Jewish music is a very important element of Jewish education. The children in Ganon through 6^th grade will learn about the musical perspective of Jewish life, history and culture with Cantor Bruce Siegel, an accomplished singer, songwriter, and musician.

Learning Resource Program. Some students need extra assistance; others benefit from additional challenges. Professional Religious School educators run a structured program designed to provide assistance so that a multitude of needs can be met within the Religious School environment.

Family Education Program. Judaism is not something that is merely taught in the classroom. It needs to be reinforced at home, as well. The Religious School is encouraging this process by implementing a Family Education Program. On selected Sunday mornings, Jewish values and traditions will be taught in a setting that will include students and parents learning together. This process will provide parents with a better understanding of what the children are being taught at the Religious School, and will promote valuable discussions at home about Jewish living and Jewish culture.

Library Program. The Religious School students utilize the many resources offered by the Kurt Gruenwald Memorial Library. Under the guidance of librarian Anne Siegel, a structured program is established for Ganon through sixth grades. In addition, the students in 7^th grade through 12^th grade have an opportunity to utilize the library for various research projects.

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program. The Religious School program is supplemented by Bar/Bat Mitzvah training. Cantor Siegel and Nitza Solon provide individualized instruction so that each student becomes thoroughly familiar with all of the prayers and melodies necessary to lead the Congregation on the day of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah - and beyond.

Computer-Aided Learning. Classroom instruction is supplemented by computer programs aimed at enhancing the learning process. Various software programs in Hebrew reading, grammar, prayer, Jewish History, and many other appropriate topics are available for use by the students. Computer-aided Learning is made possible by the Susan Samuel Computer Educational Memorial Fund.