Welcome from the Education Director

 “Who is Wise? One who learns from everyone. As it is written, ‘I have gained understanding from all of my teachers.’ And what is it that we actually learn from each other? We learn how to treat one another with respect, kindness, and caring.” 

                                                 Ben Zoma, Pirke Avot 4:1

  At the Rabbi Jerome Weistrop Religious School, our approach to Jewish education rests on the idea that learning in community should be positive & joyous. Our aim is that the experience of being part of this learning community engenders curiosity & wonder and “plants within us” the seeds of a lifelong connection to Judaism and the Jewish people.

  All of our programs are based on giving students not only the skills and knowledge they need, but the wisdom and guidance to use what they learn to inspire a life of goodness. We teach Hebrew reading, Prayer, Holydays, Culture, the Arts, Jewish History, Jewish Philosophy, Israel, and a taste of Talmud through the lens of Jewish values, Mitzvote, Torah, Tzdakkah, and Gemilut Chasadim/Act of Loving Kindness. 

We understand that a complete Jewish education is not separate from our Kahal/ Congregation or K’lal Yisrael/ World Jewish Community. Intergenerational learning happens when we explore Jewish Life together and find meaning in being part of a loving, supportive community which actively values justice and spirituality. 

As such, we see enjoying family Holyday events and Services as providing a formative and lasting understanding of the value of Jewish community in all of our lives. We require participation in 3, Saturday morning, student-led services and offer 1 family dinner and Friday night student-led service, which occur in lieu of RS on those weeks. Students of all ages also participate in Tzdakkah initiatives like Family Table: collecting, delivering, and packing food for families in need, and more.

“L’Dor VaDor/From Generation to Generation” ~

We believe that no matter what age you are, you always have something to learn and something to teach. Our goal is to create dynamic, inclusive, experiential learning environments that offer students and their families an exciting place to explore what Judaism & being part of a vibrant Jewish community has to offer. 

Along with our Teachers, Families, and Education Team, we invite each of you to participate in the Religious School as partners on the road to many meaningful and joyous Jewish experiences!                   –  Cantor Lisa Kipen-Hershenson, Director of Education