Home > Blog > Religious School > Religious School Preview
The WHC Religious School is a vibrant community dedicated to fostering Jewish identity, culture, and spirituality. As we approach the 2024-2025 school year, we are thrilled to present our comprehensive programs designed for students from Pre-K through 12th grade.
Starting in Gan (Pre-K), our youngest learners embark on their Jewish journey through socialization and play, engaging in music, art, drama, and dance. These activities are woven into their learning experiences to foster a love of being Jewish. With a strong emphasis on community and friendship, Pre-K students meet once a month, while K-2 students gather weekly on Sunday mornings.
These weekly Sunday morning sessions at Temple or JBSC are divided into three parts: Judaic Studies, tefillah (prayer), and Hebrew. Our elective-based curriculum allows students to explore various aspects of Judaism, including Torah, sacred literature, social justice, and Israel. This approach engages students deeply and fosters meaningful connections with their peers and Jewish identity.
For those wanting additional Hebrew language lessions, sessions are available in person or via Zoom, offering flexibility to accommodate various schedules. In-person sessions include communal prayer and community building, while Zoom sessions ensure that every student has the opportunity to enhance their Hebrew proficiency in a supportive environment.
The 7th grade is a pivotal year filled with b’nei mitzvah celebrations and increased participation in worship services. Our program focuses on leadership, identity, and profound conversations about Jewish life, helping students become thoughtful and engaged community members.
After a b’nei mitzvah, we want to deepen understanding and connection through elective-based learning on contemporary issues and personal Jewish identity. Electives such as Jewish art, cooking, and discussions on famous Jewish athletes provide a platform for students to explore and express their Jewishness.
The 10th-grade Confirmation program affirms students’ connection to the synagogue, providing a strong foundation in Jewish values and Reform ideology. Highlights include a trip to New York City, a Confirmation Retreat, the RAC L’Taken Seminar, and our student-led Confirmation service.
Monthly gatherings address real-life questions and challenges, such as setting priorities, managing stress, responding to antisemitism, and understanding relationships. This program leverages 3,500 years of Jewish wisdom to guide students through a critical period in their lives.
Recognizing that learning Hebrew can be a barrier for some families, WHC is exploring a pilot program focusing on Jewish culture, history, and spirituality without the Hebrew language component. This innovative approach ensures all children can engage with their Jewish heritage joyfully and meaningfully.
Join Our Community
The WHC Religious School is committed to providing a nurturing environment where every child can thrive. We invite you to join our community and experience the joy of Jewish learning and living. For more information or to enroll your child, please contact us today. Let’s build a vibrant future for our children and community together.
To register or for more information, visit whctemple.org/religiousschool
