We want our children to be comfortable in Jewish settings and able to learn, pray and lead in our sacred language. Familiarity with written and spoken Hebrew language is essential to developing a strong Jewish identity. Our youngest students are introduced to Hebrew letters and words through songs and play, while older students learn simple Hebrew commands integrated with Jewish Life Vocabulary, a collection of common Hebrew words and phrases that increase the students’ connections to Jewish peoplehood, traditions, culture and life.  

 

As students begin to prepare for Bar/Bat Mitzvah, the ability to read, chant and understand the traditional prayers of our ancestors becomes the focus. Students who complete at least four years of JEMS should be prepared to lead the Shabbat service. Private tutoring is required to learn individual Torah portions.