The combined 1st/2nd examines Jewish Holidays and Biblical Studies in alternating years. Through arts and crafts, we enjoy a hands-on approach to learning more about each subject. We also sing songs, play games and recite prayers in Hebrew to give children a taste of Hebrew. For example: The Number Song, Head, Shoulders Knees and Toes, Simon Says, and the Hamotzi, all are sung in Hebrew.

Third Grade starts the study of the Hebrew alphabet and continues learning about Jewish holidays and ritual.

The fourth and fifth grade curriculum examines, in some depth, major concepts important to Jewish understanding. In Jewish history, we study Haftorah in year one and post-Biblical history in year two. Major topics include Joshua, the Kings of Israel, the destruction of the temples, differences between Ashkenazic and Sephardic experiences, the Jewish experience in America, and the history of Zionism. In celebrations we study the holidays, the major holidays in year one, and the minor holidays in year two. Our focus is to look at the origins of the holidays, and their relevance for Jews today. In ethics, we study Pirke Avot (the rules of our forbearers), gemulit chasidim (acts of loving kindness), and Jewish responses to basic issues like hatred, jealously, and gossiping.

This year, while studying Joshua, the students acted in a play recounting the first eighteen chapters of that book. Instead of simply reading about the fall of Jericho, they experienced the crossing of the River Jordan, the end of manna, and the preparations necessary for the battle. They were encouraged to connect the narrative to their own growing sense of Jewish history and experience.

I like the activities we do in Sunday School, but I really like seeing my friends. -- Fourth Grade Student