Grades 7 to 10 will take two different core classes each semester, each class taught by a different instructor. They will also receive a 1/2 hour mini class. This model allows us to cover a diversity of topics with a wider pool of teachers.

Structure:
2 – 1 hour core classes each week, service and mini class alternate every other week.

9TH GRADE
1st Semester
Core 1: Comparative Religion/How Jews Read Torah versus Christians Read Text
Students examine the diversity of religious expression in our world and examine ways Jews and Christians read the same sacred texts but understand and apply them to their lives quite differently.

Core2: Jewish Views of God as Seen through the Words of the Prophets
Students examine how the classical prophet’s understanding of God might affect our own understanding of God and behavior as Jews.

Mini Class: Current Events

2nd Semester
Core 1: America Jewish History
Jews have been living in this country for 350 years, since the first community of Dutch Jews came from Brazil to New Amsterdam in 1654, seeking religious freedom. Students will examine the patterns of immigration beginning primarily in the 19th century, and analyze the Jewish movements and institutions that American Jews have created for us.

Core 2: Midrash/Talmud
Students will surf the sea of Rabbinic literature from the 1st to the 6th century, containing tremendous wisdom to inform our lives as modern Jews.

Mini Class: Current Events

Class Trip:
Each year, students in ninth grade travel to New York city and are introduced to Jewish immigration and culture. In preparation for this experience, students will explore American Jewish History.

Parent Involvement:
Parents are expected to insure their child attends Religious School regularly and on time. In addition, parents will be responsible for reading all materials sent home and reinforcing the lessons learned during Religious School. Parents are expected to read the novels their child is reading and be able to discuss the issues raised with their child. Parents are expected to participate in parent/child learning experiences planned by the teacher and/or Religious School.