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August 26, 2015

Deleted: August 25, 2015August 16,

2015

August 26, 2015


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Religious School

Mission

The mission of the TBT Religious School is to create a strong Jewish

identity within our students. We do this through teaching them

Torah, Jewish history, Hebrew reading and prayer, and the study of

Jewish holidays. Our curriculum focuses on Jewish life and religious

practice, Tefilah (prayer), Bible, Hebrew, and Jewish social studies.

We hope that our children will feel comfortable in any synagogue they

go to with this foundation. We want them to have a special feeling

inside of them for God, synagogue and Judaism. We take all the

aspects of Jewish education and help our students to apply it to their

own personal lives, which strengthen their connection to our religion.

We enhance that connection not only through study, but also

through art, music, ongoing discussions with the rabbi and by

providing our students with meaningful Jewish experiences throughout

the year. It is our hope that these wonderful components of our

education program create a positive attitude about Judaism that

children will carry into their adult lives.

The Goals of Temple Beth Tikvah’s Religious School Program are:

-to be knowledgeable about and engaged in Jewish life and religious practice.

-to develop a relationship with and reverence for God.

-to be connected to their synagogue community.

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Dear TBT Families,

Bruchim Haba’im—Welcome to another year with the Beth Tikvah religious school community. There is

indeed a wonderful year ahead of us, filled with opportunities for students of all ages (including parents!). You

are receiving this handbook filled with important information about our philosophy, policies and programs to

illustrate Beth Tikvah’s commitment to substantive and meaningful Jewish learning experiences for our

students.

Every time we read the Sh’ma, we read “V’shinantam l’vanecha, we are instructed to “teach our children

diligently,” making it our responsibility to give our children the Jewish education they deserve—an education

shaped by vision, hope, and purpose, so that they will have the tools to look at the world through Jewish eyes

and know how to respond to the peaks and valleys we find in “real life.”

The clergy and educators here at Temple Beth Tikvah see ourselves as your partners. To the very best of our

abilities, we will seek out ways not only to engage your children in Jewish learning, but to deepen their

understanding and commitments to their Jewish journeys. That means we are concerned about how they learn,

their self-esteem, and their capacity for compassion. It also means that we need our students’ parents and

families to journey with them. And we are here to support you in this endeavor as you reinforce “doing Jewish”

in your homes, in our synagogue, and places in-between.

As much as we are a people of thinkers and questioners, we are first and foremost a people of action. We are

not supposed to study about life, but to choose life, develop meaningful relationships, and bring God’s Presence

into our lives. So for all of you who seek out how to make Jewish choices for yourselves and your families, we

are here for you.

At Beth Tikvah we strive to create an inviting, interactive and safe environment for all our students to learn

about the history, heritage and customs of Jewish tradition and to grow to become skilled in living a Jewish life.

To further this goal, we strive to have students internalize the values of kavod – respect and tikkun olam – repair

of the world.

We stand ready to act in covenant with you to fulfill these responsibilities to benefit our congregation, the

Jewish people and each and every one of you. In addition to educating your children, we will continue to offer

many opportunities for adult learning, as well. We hope that you will participate in one or more of these

offerings during the year.

With warm wishes and shalom,

Hassia Levin Alexandria Shuval-Weiner Nancy Kassel

Director of Education Rabbi Cantor

Formatted: Font: Not Italic

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Religious School Leadership and Standards

II. Standards and Requirements for Bar/Bat Mitzvah

III. Behavior Contract and Sample Action Plan

IV. Curriculum: Religious School Pre-Kindergarten through Seventh Grade

V. School Calendar

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RELIGIOUS SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

Alexandria Shuval-Weiner Donald Tam

Rabbi Rabbi Emeritus

Nancy Kassel

Cantor

Hassia Levin Perri Kunofsky

Education Director Religious School Administrator

ADMISSION STANDARDS

Temple Beth Tikvah’s religious school provides education to students from Preschool through seventh grade.

Our Preschool consists of students who are four by September 1st of the year of admission. Children admitted

to Kindergarten must be five years old by September 1st of the year of admission.

Children will be placed into the same grade as their public/private school whenever possible. There are

exceptions, however, if a child does not have the Religious School background required. In these cases,

placement will be at the discretion of the Director of Education after consultation with the parents.

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL HOURS

PreK – 7th

grades Sunday 9:30 am - 12:00 pm

3rd

– 6th

grades Tuesday 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

8th

-12th

grades Monday 6:45 pm – 8:30 pm

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL ADDRESS and PHONE NUMBERS

Temple Beth Tikvah

Religious School Office

9955 Coleman Road

Roswell, GA 30075

(770) 642-4168 phone

(770) 642-0813 fax

[email protected]

www.bethtikvah.com

Facebook Page Temple Beth Tikvah RS

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ATTENDANCE Regular attendance is essential to quality Jewish education. Temple Beth Tikvah’s Board of Education

believes that regular religious school attendance is so important that a policy has been implemented to

discourage excessive absences. Students who miss more than twenty-five percent (25%) of class sessions of

religious school during one school year period may be retained if their Hebrew proficiency is insufficient to

warrant promotion to the next grade level. If your child must be absent due to illness or family emergency

please notify the religious school office as soon as possible The Board of Education also resolved in May of

2006 that “Because 7th

Grade is a B’nai Mitzvah preparation year, there will only be 3 unexcused

absences allowed in 7th

grade. Any other absences must be medical or Jewish life cycle related with

written documentation”. To discuss extenuating circumstances please contact the religious school office.

INCLEMENT WEATHER Religious school will close due to inclement weather if Cobb and/or Fulton county schools close. Announcements may be made on television channel 11 (WXIA). Please watch this channel for the

announcement. If you are still in doubt, call the religious school number and we should have an answering

machine recording confirming or denying the cancellation.

HOMEWORK Teachers at their discretion may assign meaningful homework. While we are aware that students have

homework from their public/private school, homework can be an important reinforcement of Religious School

studies and is designed to facilitate excellence in our student’s Jewish knowledge.

SECURITY The safety and security of our students is our number one priority. We are instituting a Religious School

Services table along with our Roswell police officers to help make our building safe and secure. The police

officers constantly survey the building monitoring the coming and going of parents, congregants, and visitors to

our building. The primary purpose of the Religious School Services Assistant will be to provide additional

coverage by making sure that people, as they enter the building, have a reason for being there. This person will

also check your students out and provide additional assistance to the Religious School office as needed.

In order to take a student out of class early, a parent must come to the religious school security table no later

than 11:45 a.m. on Sundays or 6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays, show his/her driver’s license,

and then sign his/her child out of the school. Students will be called by means of our intercom system.

Teachers will not release students unless a school staff member has instructed them to do so. On Sundays

bring your child on/after 9:15 a.m. and Tuesdays bring your child on/after 4:45 p.m. We will block off the

school hallway to prevent students from entering their classes before the above listed times. This is our only

way of making sure that our students are supervised and safe at all times. If your child arrives early (i.e., more

than 15 minutes before school begins) he/she will be required to sit and wait in the school lobby until the

appropriate time.

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CARPOOL In order to make carpool a success, we must all work together and participate positively. This is for the safety

and best interest of your child(ren). Please read the following carpool information and Do’s and Don’t list.

Carpool drop-off begins fifteen minutes before the start of the school day. Parking in the carpool line does not

begin until 9:45 am on Sunday and 5:15 pm on Tuesday. This will allow time for late-comers to enter the

building safely and efficiently. If you intend on staying in the parking lot throughout the school day, please

park in the lot until the above specified times. At the specified carpool times, you may begin creating carpool

lines.

The religious school will utilize our intercom system for carpool dismissal. Students will remain in their

classrooms during carpool. Carpool numbers will be called out over the intercom system specifying group (1-

5), lane (one or two). All students must have a carpool number in order to participate in carpool. Teachers will

remain in the classrooms to supervise students during carpool time. Carpool numbers will be read after

announcements. PreK and Kindergarten students will be escorted out of the building by a staff member and

helped to their vehicles. If students do not hear their number called the first time we will call the student by

name. If your child(ren) do not come out when their number is called you will be asked to pull over to the side

of the parking lot so we can locate your child and allow other parents to leave the premisis in a timely manner.

CARPOOL SYSTEM - DO’S & DON’TS DO obtain a carpool number, teach it to your children, and display it properly in the right hand side of your

windshield.

DO explain to your children the carpool system. Be positive when mentioning carpool to them. It is their

responsibility to listen to the carpool numbers being called and to leave their classrooms when their number is

called.

DO stay in your car while in the carpool line; or else leave your keys in your car. This will enable carpool staff

the ability to move your car.

DO be an example to your children by behaving in a decorous manner – especially when you see other parents

not doing the same. Please understand that safety is our primary concern.

DO follow the directions of the carpool staff.

DON’T attempt to check out your children after 11:45 a.m. on Sunday, or 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday. Parents not

participating in carpool must check their children out 15 minutes before the end of the school day. Religious

school doors will be locked promptly 15 minutes before carpool begins to minimize confusion in the office,

classrooms and to expedite dismissal.

DON’T switch lanes. Please stay in your lane to avoid unnecessary clogging and delays to the other people in

line. We will only have two (2) lanes so please don’t create a third carpool lane.

DON’T disrupt classes by checking your children out for “non-emergency” issues. The school’s primary goal

is to give our students a well-rounded Jewish education. Having children leaving prior to the end of the day

defeats the purpose and continuity of our teaching.

DON’T park across the street. Participating in carpool and following the rules will set a good example for your

children.

DON’T use your cellular phone in the carpool line. We need your full attention and focus once our children are

dismissed.

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STUDENT EVALUATION Teachers will evaluate students on an ongoing basis. Student reports will go home in the last session in

December and the last session of school in May.

TUITION REFUND POLICY Temple Beth Tikvah Religious School will not issue tuition refunds beyond the first 3 sessions of the school

year. Refunds will incur a $100.00 processing fee. Refund requests must be in writing, and submitted in

duplicate: one to the Religious School Director and one to the main office of the Temple. Approved refunds will

be issued within 60 days of the request.

CONSECRATION Consecration is a tradition in many American Jewish schools where we “consecrate” our children as they begin

the formal Jewish education. It is a lovely, family-friendly ritual moment to mark the beginning of your child’s

sacred journey. Any child in Kindergarten through Third Grade entering religious school or a Jewish day school

for the first time will be consecrated at Temple Beth Tikvah on Sunday, October 19th

. Children beyond Third

Grade may be consecrated in this service if they and their parents desire. Please be sure to inform the school

office immediately if your child has not been consecrated and will be attending the ceremony. We can be

reached at [email protected] or 770-642-4168. RSVP's must be received by Friday, October 10th

in

order to give the office ample time to prepare your child’s certificate.

TZEDAKAH On a weekly basis, the opportunity and obligation to observe the mitzvah of Tzedakah will take place in the

Religious School. Children should be encouraged to give of their own so they understand the experience of

sharing with others. Some organizations that have benefited from our children’s support are: Jewish Federation

of Greater Atlanta, Alzheimer’s Association of Israel, Jewish National Fund, Make a Wish Foundation of

America, and many more. In addition, a portion of the money will be used to benefit the Religious School and

its students.

DRESS CODE Students must show respect for our school, sanctuary, teachers, and fellow students by wearing attire similar to

that required in public school. No head coverings, other than kippot, may be worn. During special holidays or

memorial days students may be asked to wear synagogue attire or a formal white shirt. Please be respectful

during these times by participating as requested.

CLASSROOM DISTRACTIONS Toys, stuffed animals, electronic devices, cell phones, iPods, and similar items are not permitted in the

classroom (unless the child is participating in a teacher initiated “show and tell”). These items can be

distracting to teachers and other students and are not conducive to learning.

SCHOOL PROPERTY We need to take special care of our school because it is our "home." Because the school is joined to the

Synagogue, we must also preserve the sanctity of the building as a place of worship. Students will be held

accountable for any destruction or property damage that he/she may affect.

STUDENT GUEST POLICY Students are NOT encouraged to bring guests to school because of the disruption it might create. It is

important to note that a student's attention is more directed to the task of learning without guests present. All

exceptions must be approved by the School Director, based on a written parental request one week in advance.

mailto:[email protected]

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VOLUNTEER PROGRAM We desire all Temple Beth Tikvah parents to become involved. All parents are required to volunteer for one

event or day per child. The maximum you will be asked to volunteer will be two times per family. There is

always something to be done at the school. Please give of your time generously.

1. Be a Room Parent 3. Work on special programs 5. Drive on field trips

2. Be a substitute teacher 4 Assist with school flyers and mailings

PLAYGROUND Our school is proud of the playground that was donated by the Alterman Family during the 1995-1996 school

year. Students will be allowed to play on the playground ONLY if supervised by a parent or teacher. The

playground will be open during religious school hours for our youngest students. After playing, students must

wipe their feet on the mats as they enter the school building. Students must stay off the fence. If the

playground is locked, the religious school office and janitor both have keys.

STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES Temple Beth Tikvah Religious School is eager to know about a student’s unique educational needs. Parents are

encouraged to share information on how their child learns best by submitting any educational plans and

accommodations that have been put into place in the secular school. We also encourage parents to discuss any

learning style concerns with our educational staff, whether or not an I.E.P. exists for the secular school. The

Director of Education and the student’s teacher are available to meet with parents at any time to discuss

alternatives and options to accommodate our children with special needs. As always, any information that you

share with us regarding your child will be kept confidential. The family is financially responsible if a child has

special needs that require a dedicated teacher or teaching assistant for his/her success. Prior to any special

assistance being received these services must be paid for in advance in full for the calendar school year.

BOARD OF EDUCATION We are fortunate to have an active Board of Education. The Board is involved with overseeing events and

decision making that relates to religious school life. We encourage all parents to become actively involved in

the education of their children by participating with the Board members in their continuing support of the

ongoing programs.

OUR RABBI Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner is an important part of our education program. During the Religious School

year, Rabbi Shuval-Weiner will lead tefillah (prayer experiences), holiday assemblies and discussion groups for

all grades, provide classroom demonstrations, work closely with the Bar/Bat Mitzvah students, and coordinate

Shabbat Service participation. Rabbi Shuval-Weiner also teaches the Confirmation class to our students in tenth

grade.

OUR CANTOR Cantor Nancy Kassel is an active part of our educational program. Cantor Kassel leads our students in weekly

tefillah (prayer) and song. She also assists in preparing our students for grade-wide Shabbat and family

services. In addition Cantor Kassel works with our sixth grade students in the classroom teaching them trope

and liturgy, conducts our children’s choir, heads the Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutoring program, and works with our

Confirmation students.

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Post Bar/Bat Mitzvah Education Program

Temple Beth Tikvah’s leadership is devoted to its students of all ages. It is our position that Jewish learning is a

lifetime endeavor. As our students become b’nai mitzvah, they are not only reaching a life cycle moment, they

are affirming their commitments as Jews. Therefore, we are offering a program for post-b’nai mitzvah students

in grades 8-12. On Monday nights, all of these students will gather for dinner as part of one single community,

then they will break into their own classes. Confirmation, taught by Rabbi Shuval-Weiner, will be the class for

our tenth graders and the students’ next significant Jewish life cycle moment.

STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR BAR/BAT MITZVAH

The following requirements apply to students who will become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah at Temple Beth Tikvah:

1. A minimum of five years attendance in mid-week Hebrew classes. Exceptions can only be

made by the Director of Education.

2. To qualify for the Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparatory course, the Sixth grade students are tested on Hebrew

reading. All Sixth Graders are independently tested for reading fluency. Students MUST pass all tests to

qualify. After testing, parents are notified of the results in writing by Hassia Levin, Education Director.

3. With the exception of students attending Jewish day schools, enrollment in our Religious School and

Hebrew classes through completion of 7th

grade is required.

For students who have completed 7th

grade and become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in 8th

grade,

the student must be enrolled in our Kesher program for 8th

/9th

graders.

4. Attendance at Shabbat services is essential not only as a learning experience, but more importantly as a

means of making meaningful contact with God and our Jewish values, grounded in Torah, through study and

prayer. As part of this requirement it is necessary for Bar/Bat Mitzvah students and their families to attend at

least six-seven Saturday morning services and six-seven Friday evening services for a total of thirteen

services during the year prior to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Parents’ commitment and support is essential in

helping our students fulfill this requirement. Friday evening services begin at various times. Saturday morning

services begin at 10:00 am. Please check the temple calendar or website to confirm the time schedule. Our

Family and Youth services can fulfill this requirement (but not our Shabbat Shalom Yeladim/Tot Shabbat

experiences). You can also fulfill the requirement with our Festival Services (Sukkot, Passover and Shavuot).

Attendance cards will be distributed and presented to Rabbi Shuval-Weiner or Cantor Kassel who will keep

track of all of our students’ attendance. If our families do not join us for services, Rabbi Shuval-Weiner will

adjust what a student may or may not lead during the Shabbat morning service. In other words, he will not

change the date, but the student may not be able to lead the service. The student will only be able to chant from

the Torah and chant the Haftarah (even if there is another student who shares the same date).

5. In addition to Hebrew classes, attendance at special Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutoring classes is necessary for a

period of six to eight months immediately preceding the Bar/Bat Mitzvah date, organized by Cantor Kassel.

You will be billed for this expense.

6. Students will meet with the Rabbi for the purpose of discussing and preparing interpretations of the Torah

readings for the Shabbat when they will be called to the Torah. This is called the d’var Torah, “a word of

Torah.” These sessions are scheduled according to Bar/Bat Mitzvah date.

7. Recognizing that Bar/Bat Mitzvah is the time for taking on adult Jewish responsibility, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah

student should be encouraged to continue through Confirmation by attending our TBT 8th

through 10th

grade

education program.

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8. We request that Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations NOT take place during religious school hours.

For our complete statement of guidelines, standards, and policies, please consult our Bar/Bat Mitzvah

Handbook.

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Temple Beth Tikvah Behavior Contract

GENERAL STATEMENT:

Developing a positive school climate involves the use of (1) age appropriate consequences (2) a simple structure

(3) reasonable rules (4) and the child assuming an important role in his/her own educational environment. In

such an atmosphere, the class is neither teacher-dominated nor student-controlled; rather, it is a joint effort to

learn, relate, and experience.

The following policies are designed to help end student/teacher power struggles, free the administration from

having to deal with day-to-day disciplinary issues, and preserve instructional time in the classroom.

CLASSROOM RULES:

The students and teachers in each class will compile a list of rules cooperatively.

RELIGIOUS SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS:

Students, teachers, administrators, and parents will show respect toward each other with appropriate

words and deeds.

Students will show respect toward all areas of the synagogue building. The teacher and/or room parents

permit food and drinks during designated snack times and special programs as assigned. Proper

treatment of landscaped areas, the playground, and restrooms is expected at all times, and students

should wear attire similar to what would be worn to elementary or middle school. NO head coverings,

other than kippot may be worn.

Students will come to class ready to learn. This includes bringing the necessary books and materials,

completed homework, a positive attitude, good questions, and an open mind.

Students will choose to either fulfill the expectations or accept the consequences listed in the behavior

agreement.

Parents will actively help their child(ren) fulfill expectations 1-4.

Parents will keep absences, late arrivals, and early dismissals to an absolute minimum. Excessive

absences (more than 25% of the sessions) make it very difficult to accurately assess progress and may

result in retention.

Parents will communicate positive comments, questions, or concerns to the child’s teacher, the

Education Director, or a member of the Board of Education.

Teachers will create a positive learning environment in the class with appropriate learning activities,

“incentives,” and “rewards”.

Teachers will notify the parents of positive achievements as well as difficulties experienced by the

student in class.

Teachers will be available to meet with students and/or parents to discuss and resolve behavior and

academic issues. If needed, the Director of Education is always available.

CONSEQUENCES:

Should a situation arise in which behavior by a student (or group of students) results in the loss of instructional

time, the following procedures will be followed:

The teacher will positively refocus the student(s) by reminding the class of the expectations and that a

second infraction will lead to dismissal from the classroom.

If dismissal from class occurs, the student will be sent immediately to the office and parents will be

notified.

If a second dismissal from class occurs within a month, the student will need to be accompanied back to

the classroom by a parent with an action plan detailing positive behavior changes.

If a third dismissal occurs within four sessions of the first dismissal, parents will be notified immediately

to come get their child from school. Readmission to class will take place only after a satisfactory

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resolution has been achieved in a scheduled meeting with the Education Director, the teacher, the

student, and the parents. The parents may also be required to attend class with their child during the

next class session.

If a fourth dismissal occurs, the student may face additional detention, suspension, or expulsion. This

decision will be made by the Education Director and parents will be notified.

When appropriate behavior has been displayed for one month without classroom dismissal, the student

is given a clean slate and the cycle of consequences starts over again.

If a situation arises in which property is stolen or destroyed, the repair or replacement cost will be incurred by

the student.

At no time will physical or verbal abuse, stealing, or the use, possession, or sale of devices or substances that

are harmful to self and/or others be allowed on Temple property. This will result in immediate suspension

and/or expulsion from school, based on the discretion of the Education Director and the severity of the

circumstances. It has been Board mandated that religious school fees cannot be refunded in a case of dismissal

from religious school, based on reasons set forth above.

We at Beth Tikvah’s Religious School thank you for your cooperation in implementing our behavior contract.

Together, we can provide a safe and productive learning environment for our children.

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CURRICULUM: PreK THROUGH SEVENTH GRADE

PreK

Children will explore and learn about bible, and Mitzvot. The primary program we will be utilizing is called A

Child’s Garden of Torah. The series is made up of twenty-five lessons with stickers that introduce and review

bible stories. The lessons are written clearly so that beginning readers will find themselves able to read and

non-readers will be able to easily follow along. We will also utilize a series called Look at Me. This is a four

part series that talks about Mitzvah, Synagogue, Shabbat and Hanukkah.

TEXTS: Look at Me – I Can Celebrate Series Holiday Activity Kit A Child’s Garden of Torah

Freddie Levin and Sunny Yudkoff Zelda Meshberg Joel Lurie Grishaver

KINDERGARTEN

Children will explore and learn about Jewish Holidays, Jewish Life, Shabbat, Bible, and Mitzvot. The primary

program we will be utilizing is called Let’s Discover the Holidays. The series is made up of sixteen, 4-page

folders highlighting each holiday with lively artwork, photographs, and activities. The books are written clearly

so that beginning readers will find themselves able to read and non-readers will be able to easily follow along.

Students will learn about biblical characters and review Bible stories in Teach Me Torah. Each four-page

Shalom Sesame Classroom Magazine provides content-rich photographs, developmentally-appropriate text,

playful Shalom Sesame characters, and thought-provoking questions and activities designed to engage children

and build Jewish identity. Jewish and Me: Mitzvot, a set of eight 4-page folders for the early childhood

classroom, focusing on mitzvot, values, developmental skills, and social skills. Children will identify ways they

can create shalom bayit (peace in the home), practice recycling to take care of the environment, make a card or

gift for someone who does not feel well, and more. The students will use activity books to familiarize

themselves with the Aleph-Bet.

TEXTS: Let’s Discover the Holidays Teach Me Torah Shalom Sesame Now I know my Alef Bet

Sarah Feldman Vicki L. Weber Dena Neusner Bonnie Sharfmann &

Deena Bloomstone

FIRST GRADE

The study in First Grade continues to develop the student's understanding of the Jewish holidays and being

Jewish. Children will be presented with an overview of the yearly cycle, with its observances, symbols, and

activities in the form of drawings, exercises, games and other activities. The concepts of tzedakah (acts of

justice through giving) and mitzvah (Jewish sacred obligations) will also be taught enabling the children to

understand the many dimensions of charity, justice and kindness. Through the discussion of holidays, their

symbols, and their meanings, students will begin to explore the concepts of miracles, determination, heroism,

and freedom. They will discover these not only through the holiday cycle, but through stories in the Bible and

other Hebrew literature. They will see these themes emerge specifically in studying the stories of God’s

creation of the world, Noah’s ark, the Macabees, and the scroll of Esther. Students will also acquaint

themselves with berachot (blessings) for Shabbat and the holidays. The holiday classroom text, BJL

Beginnings allows our students to learn about the Jewish holidays, symbols, and customs through easily

readable stories, drawings, exercises, and games. The secondary program Let’s Discover the Aleph Bet to

further teach the children the Aleph Bet.

TEXTS: Let’s Discover Israel BJL Beginnings Let’s Discover the Alef Bet

Gila Gevirtz Sarah Feldman

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SECOND GRADE

In second grade students deeply examine their Jewish heritage. Children will explore classic Bible tales

through the text, Let's Discover the Bible, which will re-orient them with Bible stories, vocabulary, and history.

Students will also use the holiday series entitled, Let's Celebrate, in which students will learn more about the

rituals, customs and traditions that accompany every Jewish holiday. The discussion of Jewish heritage

stretches back in history to figures from Torah and Midrash (rabbinic writings) and extends forward into the

discussion of modern Israel, its people and its culture. The exploration of Jewish culture extends into the study

of the students’ lives and homes, where they will see how the practice of mitzvot and celebration of Jewish

holidays ties them spiritually to their foremothers and forefathers. Students will continue working with the

Alef-Bet through Shalom Alef Bet.

TEXTS: Let's Discover the Bible Let's Celebrate Shalom Alef Bet

Shirley Rose Project Editor - Adam Siegal Pearl Tarnor

THIRD GRADE Third grade children will study the Bible through the text, The Explorer's Bible, Volume 1. This text allows

students to utilize their linguistic and comprehension abilities, as well as reinforce the history, ethics and

archaeology of times past in relation to how we live today. Students will continue to learn about the Jewish

holidays and customs through the text, My Jewish Year: Celebrating Our Holidays. This book expands upon

the holidays, emphasizing Jewish traditions, ritual, symbols, legends and history through stories and exercises.

With the assistance of their teachers, students are asked to make connections between the lives of biblical

figures and their own lives, to see how the choices that figures from the Torah and the prophets effected the

lives of the Jewish people, and how faced with difficult decisions, the students themselves might choose.

Returning once again to the concepts of freedom and heroism, students are asked to look for these treasured

values in their own lives. Using Reading Hebrew, students will learn a step-by-step mastery of the Alef-Bet,

involving decoding and reading fluency. Some technical skills introduced will be visual discrimination, auditory

discrimination, manuscript writing, speed-reading, prayer practice and fluency of vocabulary. Students are

assisted in expanding their introductory knowledge of Hebrew consonant and vowel recognition, putting these

sounds together to form words. Children are encouraged to read aloud and grow comfortable with their reading

ability. each chapter's primary theme.

TEXTS: The Explorers Bible 1 Derech Binah Reading Hebrew

Dina Maiben Lillian Adler Castberg and Adler

My Jewish Year: Celebrating Our Jewish Holidays

Adam Fisher

FOURTH GRADE Our Fourth Grade students will use the book, Welcome to Israel, to take an informative and fun filled “tour” of

Israel. It introduces students to Israel history; geography; and political, commercial and cultural life. Students

will further explore Jewish holidays and life cycle events with the text, The Book of the Jewish Year. Hebrew

reading skills will be further developed by introducing the children to prayer. Students will use the book Hineni

1: Hebrew Through Prayer, to build upon their Hebrew fluency and prayer comprehension. Students will use

their growing Hebrew reading skills to learn the meaning of the Saturday morning Shabbat prayers. They will

also learn the months of the Hebrew calendar, as well as Hebrew numbers, and these vocabulary words are used

to enhance the discussion of the Jewish Holiday cycle. Also included in the curriculum is a book and study

workshop called, Sedra Scenes. This book provides the students a chance to focus on the Torah portion of the

week by acting out and reliving events and personalities. By doing so, the children feel much more in touch

with the stories of the Torah and see the importance and practicality of their studies. The students will Explore

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the Bible 2 as Jews have done for centuries - by pondering, personalizing, and wrestling with the text.

Combining faithful but accessible translations with thematic connections between the narratives and student’s

daily lives.

TEXTS: Welcome to Israel Sedra Scenes The Explorers Bible 2

Lilly Rivlin with Gila Givirtz Stan J. Beiner Dina Maiben

The Book of the Jewish Year Hineni 1- Hebrew Through Prayer

Steven Wylen Terry Kaye

FIFTH GRADE Fifth Grade students will advance in their study of Hebrew, prayer and Shabbat worship. The curriculum

emphasizes the above three aspects that lead to a natural transition into formal Bar/Bat Mitzvah studies. The

primary focus of this year is to provide a complete understanding of the Shabbat service in preparation for

becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

Students will use the text Experiencing the Torah as their primary Bible/history text. The chapters highlight

Jewish history through stories, photographs, artwork, and historical time-lines.

The Book of Jewish Holidays is a combination of holiday customs and Jewish traditions. The book contains

everything about feasts, fasts, and festivals that mark the Jewish year with innovative activities and creative

projects to bring it all to life. Hineni 2: Hebrew Through Prayer is the Hebrew text for 5th

grade. This text

continues with the Shabbat morning service and selected prayers for Friday night. The students will also focus

on the weekly Torah Portions by reading skits and participating in group discussions.

TEXTS: Parasha Plays The Book of Jewish Holidays Richard J. Allen Ruth Lurie Kozodoy

Hineni 2: Experiencing the Torah Manga Midrash

Hebrew Through Prayer Joel Lurie Grishaver Gervirtzl, May & Wakelin

Terry Kaye

SIXTH GRADE

An emphasis will be placed on prayer study and Hebrew reading fluency in preparation for the student's Bar/Bat

Mitzvah. The Siddur (prayerbook) will serve as a pertinent text to assure that each student will be prepared for

his/her place as an active participant in Jewish life. Students will begin to perfect the prayers necessary for

advancement into the Bar/Bat Mitzvah year.

The Jewish Lifecycle Book and the Time of Our Lives explain Jewish lifecycle events and the pertinence they

have to our lives. The ultimate purpose is to introduce, explain, interpret, and illuminate the fundamental

concepts of Judaism which weave together the basics of history, belief, ritual, halacha and tradition into the

fabric of Jewish life. Students will study the different ways Jewish lifecycle events are observed in Orthodox,

Conservative, and Reform traditions. Modern traditions are compared to a basic understanding of Torah and the

teachings of rabbis. Why Be Different? A Look at Judaism focuses on Jewish values and ethics important for

every Jewish child. It helps answer questions like, “How can we believe in G-d if there is suffering in the

world?” and “Who decides what is right and wrong?” Students will be taught to think about morality in society

as a whole. Additionally, our sixth grade will study both Holocaust and Israel through the texts Joseph and Me:

In the Days of the Holocaust and A Young Person’s History of Israel.

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TEXTS: The Jewish Lifecycle Book Why Be Different? A Look at Judaism

Rabbi Michal Shekel Janice Prager and Arlene Lepoff

Mishkan T’Filah The Times of Our Lives

CCAR Nina Beth Cardin and Scott Blumenthal

SEVENTH GRADE

The 7th

Grade curriculum focuses on the modern history of Judaism and Israel. We live in a world today that

struggles with issues pertaining to the existence of Israel; with our children facing questions and a culture that

makes it difficult to explain the complex situation to themselves and others. For a strong Jewish identity, the

study of their own heritage and the State of Israel is so important. The students will discuss Jewish life in

Europe (Eastern and Western) as well as Jews discovering the New World, the history of Zionism, the rise of

anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, the establishment of the State of Israel and its political, social, and cultural life.

Our students will be developing their own book by using documents, personal histories, literature, films, and

creative activities to enrich their learning. Our goal is for our students to feel confident and have pride in their

Jewish heritage and strengthen their identity as Jews.

As a part of the curriculum, students will have speakers and field trips as well as participate in hands-on mitzvah

and tzedakah projects that will help them discover their own roles and responsibilities as young adults and as

Jews in the community.

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2015

Sunday Religious

School

Tuesday Hebrew School

Monday Kesher

Monday Confirmation

Monday Kivunim

August 23 - First Sunday 25- First Tuesday 23 - Journey Through Kesher

30

September 1

6 - NRS 8

13 - NRS 15 - NRS

20 - NRS 22 - NRS

27 - NRS 29 - NRS

October

4 - NRS Consecration during

Simchat Torah 6 - NRS

11 - NRS 13

18 20 19 - First night for all Monday classes

25 27 26 26 26

November 1 3 2 2 2

8 10 9 9 9- NRS

15 17 16-Parent Session 16 16

Kallah-NRS 24 - NRS 23 - NRS 23 - NRS 23 - NRS

29- NRS 30 30

December 1 - NRS

6 8 7 7 7

13 15 - NRS 14 14 14

20 - NRS 22 - NRS 21 - NRS 21 - NRS 21 - NRS


January 3 - NRS 5 - NRS 4 - NRS 4 - NRS 4 - NRS

10 12 11 11 11

17 - NRS 19 18 - NRS 18 - NRS 18 - NRS

24 26 25-Parent Session 25 25

31

February 2 1 1 1 - NRS

7 9 8 8 8


21 23 22 22 - NRS 22

28 29 29 29 -NRS

March 1

6 8 7-Parent Session 7 - NRS 7

13 15 14 14 14 - NRS

20 22 21 21 21

27 29 28 28 28 - NRS

April 3 - NRS 5 - NRS 4 - NRS 4 - NRS 4 - NRS

10 - NRS 12 11 11 11

17 19 18-Parent Session(Kesher)

Last night for all Monday classes

24 - NRS 26 - NRS

May 1 3 - Last Tuesday

Confirmation Ceremony May 6th

8 - NRS

15 - Last Sunday

Formatted Table

Formatted Table

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2015

August 2015

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Teacher

Meeting 6:00pm Madrichim

Meeting 6:00pm

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 9:30am First Day of Religious School

5pm First Day of Hebrew School Open House for 3rd - 6th grades

30 31 9:30am Religious School Open House for PreK -2nd and 7th grades

6:00pm Journey Through Kesher

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2015

September 2015


1 2 3 4 5 5pm Religious

School

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 No Religious School

Labor Day No Religious School TBT Offices Closed

5pm Religious School

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 No Religious School Erev Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashana No Religious School TBT Offices Closed

Rosh Hashana II No Religious School TBT Offices Closed


Cobb County Break No Religious School

Cobb County Break No Religious School Erev Yom Kippur TBT Offices Close at noon

Yom Kippur Cobb County Break TBT Offices Closed

Cobb County Break

Cobb County Break

27 28 29 30 No Religious School

Sukkot I No Religious School TBT Offices Closed

Sukkot II No Religious School

Sukkot III

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2015

October 2015


1 2 3 Sukkot IV Sukkot V

Rabbi Shuval-Weiner Installation

Sukkot VI

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Sukkot VII No Religious School 6pm Simchat Torah & Consecration service

Shmini Atzeret Simchat Torah No Religious School TBT Offices Closed

No Religious School

Fulton County Schools Closed


Columbus Day Fulton County Schools Closed No Religious School


18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Family Promise 9:30am Religious School

Family Promise 6:45pm First Night for Kesher, Confirmation & Kivunim

Family Promise 5pm Religious School

Family Promise

Family Promise

Family Promise Family Promise

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Family Promise 9:30am Religious School 6th grade B’nai Mitzvah Orientation Meeting

6:45pm Kesher, Confirmation & Kivunim


Halloween

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2015

November 2015


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9:30am Religious School



8 9 10 11 12 13 14 9:30am Religious School

6:45pm Kesher & Confirmation


Veterans Day

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Family Promise 9:30am Religious School

Family Promise 6:45pm Kesher(Parent Night), Confirmation & Kivunim

Family Promise 5pm Religious School

Family Promise

Family Promise

Family Promise Family Promise

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Family Promise No Religious School Teacher Kallah – Temple Sinai

Cobb & Fulton County Break No Religious School


Cobb & Fulton County Break

Cobb & Fulton County Break TBT Offices Closed Thanksgiving Day

Cobb & Fulton County Break TBT Offices Closed

29 30 No Religious School


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2015

December 2015


1 2 3 4 5 No Religious

School

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 9:30am Religious School Light first candle

Hanukkah I 6:45pm Kesher, Confirmation & Kivunim

Hanukkah II 5pm Religious School

Hanukkah III Hanukkah IV Hanukkah V 6:30pm 5th Grade Family Shabbat

Hanukkah

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Hanukkah VII 9:30am Religious School Chanukkah Assembly

Hanukkah VIII 6:45pm Kesher, Confirmation & Kivunim

No Religious School








27 28 29 30 31 Cobb & Fulton County Break No Religious School





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2015

January 2016


1 2 Cobb & Fulton

County Break New Year's Day



No Religious School

No Religious School

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 9:30am Religious School 2nd and 3rd grade Family Education Day




Cobb & Fulton Schools Closed No Religious School Martin Luther King Day


24 25 26 27 28 29 30 9:30am Religious School Tu'b Shevat Assembly 4th and 5th grade Family Education Day

Tu B' Shevat 6:45pm Kesher(Parents Night), Confirmation & Kivunim


Holocaust International Remembrance Day

6:30pm 1st and 2nd Grade Family Shabbat

31 9am Religious School 8:30 - 7th grade Field Trip

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2015

February 2016


1 2 3 4 5 6 6:45pm

Kesher & Confirmation


6:30pm 6th Grade Family Shabbat

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 9:30am Religious School “Becoming” – A 6

th Grade

Family Education Program



Fulton County Schools Closed Lincoln's Birthday


Cobb & Fulton County Break No Religious School President's Day

Cobb County Break No Religious School

Cobb County Break

Cobb County Break

Cobb County Break

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 9:30am Religious School 10am Religious School Parent Movie Day

Washington's Birthday 6:45pm Kesher & Kivunim


28 29 9:30am Religious School


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2015

March 2016


1 2 3 4 5 5pm Religious

School Confirmation

Trip 6:30pm 3rd and 4th Grade Family Shabbat

Confirmation Trip

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Confirmation Trip 9:30am Religious School 7th Grade - Sojourn

Confirmation Trip 6:45pm Kesher(Parent Night) & Kivunim




13 14 15 16 17 18 19 9:30am Religious School PreK, K and 1st grade Family Education Day



20 21 22 23 25 26 9:30am Religious School RS Purim Assembly



27 28 29 30 31 9:30am Religious School 7th grade Family Education Day

7pm Kesher & Confirmation


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2015

April 2016


1 2


No Religious School Spring Break Cobb and Fulton County

No Religious School Spring Break Cobb and Fulton County

Spring Break Cobb and Fulton County






17 18 19 20 21 22 23 9:30am Religious School Passover Experience

6:45pm Kesher (Parent Night), Confirmation & Kivunim - Last Night


First Seder Pesach I (First day of Passover)

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Pesach II (Passover) No Religious School

Pesach III (Passover) No Religious School

Pesach IV (Passover) No Religious School

Pesach V (Passover)

Pesach VI (Passover)

Pesach VII (Last day of Passover)

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2015

May 2016


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9:30am Religious School Yom Hashoah and Yom Hazikaron Assembly

5pm Religious School Last Day of Hebrew School

Yom HaShoah - Holocaust Memorial Day

10th Grade

Confirmation


Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day)

Yom HaAtzmaut (Independence Day)

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 9:30am Religious School Last Day of Sunday School Yom HaAtzmaut,

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 TBT Annual Meeting

29 30 31 Memorial Day

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2015

SCHOOL CLOSINGS - WATCH WXIA

Open House Days

3rd

through 6th grade - Tuesday, August 25th

5:00pm

PreK through 2nd

and 7th

grade - Sunday, August 30th

9:30am

GRADE LEVEL SHABBAT SERVICE SCHEDULE

PreK, 1st & 2nd Grade Shabbat & Family Service Friday, January 29th @6:30 PM 3rd & 4th Grade Shabbat & Family Service Friday, March 4th @6:30 PM 5th Grade Shabbat & Family Service Friday, December 11th @6:30 PM 6th Grade Shabbat and Family Service Friday, February 5th @6:30 PM Kindergarten Consecration Sunday, October 4th @6:00PM 10th Grade Confirmation Friday, May 6th @6:30 PM

All graded Shabbats start with the Oneg at 6:00PM

FAMILY EDUCATION DAYS* PreK, K & 1st - Sunday, March 13th @9:35AM 6th grade – Sunday, February 7th @9:35am 2nd & 3rd grade – Sunday, January 10th @9:35AM 4th & 5th grade – Sunday, January 24th @9:35AM 6th grade – Sunday, October 25th 10:10AM – 7th grade – Sunday, March 27th @9:35AM B’nai Mitzvah orientation meeting - Social Hall

*All family education days begin with Tefilah services at 9:35 in the Sanctuary.

After services parents are asked to gather in the social hall.

Deleted: Parents, please go directly to the

sanctuary after you drop off your children.

After Tefilah proceed to your child’s classroom.¶

Deleted: August 25, 2015August 16, 2015 August 26, 2015 Student Handbook.pdf · Deleted: August 25,...

Documents

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