Because we are in an unprecedented time, we are going to continue to approach Jewish Education in an unprecedented way in the 2021-22 School year. We realize that there are needs and comfort levels for each family and our goal is to meet as many of them as we can with a quality, engaging program.
Below you will find links to the 2021-2022 Registration Forms. You have the option this year of adding all your children onto a single form. There are links to the PDF versions of the paperwork on this page, but upon request you can also be sent a fillable PDF.
Prior to the links, I have provided a snapshot of what you can expect for religious school this year, however, this is a fluid situation and subject to change at any time, with little notice.
In Person Learning:
As of now, we will be opening in person on the first day of school, Sunday, September 12th. I have kept everything the same regarding outside learning, masks for all, distancing, seperate pods, reduced comingling and so on.
For all of those interested in attending in person learning that are of age to be vaccinated, will need to share a copy of their card, or a negative COVID test each week they attend.
We will also be starting with in person Wednesdays at a new time of 5:15 pm to 7:00 pm with the first Wednesday being October 6th.
Distanced Option:
I understand that things change quickly and when you opt into distance learning it is with the long term in mind. While I cannot accommodate a week by week choice, I am happy to take things a couple of months at a time with regards to these decisions. We will be utilizing the zoom platform for meetings and alternate times that offer more engagement for everyone involved. The goal is to offer multiple tasks and assignments so that students may choose how to demonstrate their understanding through a manner that peaks their interests and is how they learn best.
Tuesdays
We kept an online option for Hebrew during the week for families that have scheduling conflicts, live far, have carpool challenges and so on. We will be as flexible as possible with your 30 minute tutoring time since this is the only day we are able to offer this alternative.
Materials & Supplies:
Each month we will provide students with boxes containing all the materials they will need for instruction for that month. They will be clearly labeled by week and class for your ease and access. We do hope you are able to provide basic markers, scissors, glue etc. and if that is a problem financially, please do not hesitate to reach out to Michelle. In person students will have individual supplies with their name on them that they will use each week- there will not be communal containers. Anything that would be available to the whole school (ex. paint brushes, cookie cutters, etc.) will only be available to one grade each week and will be thoroughly cleaned before they are put away. Every student will receive a box each month, distanced learning supply boxes will contain materials for both days, while students attending in person when that is an option will have smaller boxes containing items related to Hebrew and chuggim. Pick up will be in a drive through fashion at the synagogue.
Hebrew:
We have a few new Hebrew components this year that we are excited about. The students will be evaluated in September to find their level in the Aleph Champ program. Then during the week they will be provided materials and grouped with children at their level in the smallest online groups possible. Since the goal is around 5 children per group, the meetings will be 30 minutes instead of an hour. Additionally, 6th and 7th graders will meet with Rabbi on Wednesdays for a class focus in on the Torah Service and Musaf. Each grade will also have a “prayer of the month” that they will address each week to help with familiarity as well as letter recognition, decoding and reading.
I look forward to the school year and being able to interact with your children again. I appreciate your commitment to Judaism and providing the opportunity for your children to learn and grow with me and my teachers. Please remember that I am willing to work with you and your family to the very best of my ability and if you have any ideas I am more than happy to hear them.
Please reach out to Michelle Barbour at tsdirector@tiferethisrael.com with any questions.
Sincerely,
Michelle Barbour
Director of Jewish Education and Youth Engagement