"The heart and soul of Jewish learning"
Neshama Education Program
Toddler & pre-k through 12th grade
Jewish learning is a lifelong journey that engages the entire family, not just the child. At Neshama, we create meaningful opportunities for every family member to connect with Judaism at every stage of life. Learning doesn’t only happen in the classroom—it happens in our homes, in our places of worship, and in the rhythm of daily life. That’s why the learning that begins at school is designed to resonate beyond the classroom, enriching every aspect of Jewish living.
The Neshama Education Program is dedicated to offering Jewish learning that is both relevant and transformative, inspiring individuals to explore their Jewish heritage. We equip students and their families with the knowledge and tools to engage meaningfully in Jewish life, with pride in their heritage and a deep understanding that their choices and actions help shape the future of the Jewish people.
At Congregation Beth Shalom, the education of our youth begins at the earliest stages of development. We offer exceptional programs for our youngest learners, fostering a love for Jewish traditions from the very beginning. The Rabbi and Director of Education are deeply involved in nurturing a strong foundation of Jewish learning that supports and uplifts our children throughout their educational journey.
Our teachers are devoted educators who not only impart knowledge but also inspire a love of Jewish life and learning, creating a vibrant and supportive environment for students of all ages. They value the role of Jewish education in their students' lives and strive to foster a deep connection to Judaism. All staff members undergo a comprehensive background check.
We are committed to learning that is inclusive, inspiring, and relevant to our congregation and community at every age and level.
• We are inclusive: We welcome students as they are, so that they feel part of something bigger.
• We are inspiring: The children are guided to learn about themselves, using tools rooted in our tradition to be a force for good.
• We are relevant: We make spiritual growth a priority amidst a sea of change, improving ourselves and thereby the world.
Congregation Beth Shalom's curriculum is built on strands: Torah, Avodah, and G’milut Chasadim. We aim to provide a strong foundation for later Jewish learning and living. We want our students to feel seen and known, and to be present and engaged in the experience of growing up in our Jewish learning community.
Torah: Torah is an ongoing dialogue between the text and its students. The Torah is a part of our daily lives; it accompanies us wherever we go. Developing the skills to study Torah is essential to integrating Torah into our lives.
Avodah: Avodah is the work we do to find sacred connections to God, community, and self. Engaging in the work of avodah can bring order, beauty, meaning, and insight to our lives and our community.
G’milut Chasadim: We have a responsibility to perform personal acts of G’milut Chasidim to make the world a better and holier place.
We strongly encourage participation in Consecration, B-Mitzvah, and Confirmation. These life cycle events are the stepping stones to a life of Jewish learning.