1. My child does not want to add any school days to his/her already busy schedule, but I feel it is important to provide him/her with some form of a Jewish education.
Chabad Hebrew School is not a typical school. We understand that children learn through hand on activities and interactive discussions, and we strive to create an environment which is fun and exciting! Kids don’t want to miss a day!
2. We are not observant or very religious. Will my child feel out of place at a Chabad Hebrew School?
One of the common myths associated with Chabad is that it is a place that is only for religious Jews. Although the synagogue is traditional, and our staff is observant, almost NONE of our Hebrew School families are orthodox. Our students are from very diverse Jewish backgrounds and most attend public school or non-Jewish private schools. Many of our families identify as Conservative, Reform or unaffiliated, but choose to send their children to Chabad Hebrew School because of the excellent quality of education we offer. The range of observance is varied, some families attend synagogue or do Shabbat at home, some observe the holidays, some parents read Hebrew, many do not. When teaching about observance and Mitzvot, our teachers are careful to present in a way that includes all children. Our curriculum teaches personal Judaism, without labels or divisions.
3. How does Chabad Hebrew School prepare my child for Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
At our Hebrew School, your child will gain a solid foundation of Judaism and Hebrew Reading in preparation for becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in the synagogue of your choice. Some families prefer to celebrate elsewhere and maintain membership at various local synagogues. Families who choose to hold Bar/Bat Mitzvah services at Chabad are welcome to do so. We offer Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremonies which are tailored to each child and family. Additional Bar/ Bat Mitzvah tutoring is available through our Hebrew School for students who would like to prepare for a service.
4. What is Chabad all about?
Chabad is a community organization dedicated to helping every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance. Chabad invites you to explore and experience all areas of Jewish religion, tradition, and practice in an open-minded and non-judgmental atmosphere. All of Chabad's classes, programs, and services are designed to heighten the awareness and lend valuable insight into one's heritage, traditions, religious practice, laws and rituals. Each individual is invited to participate, study, and learn. Each individual makes his or her own respective religious lifestyle decisions at his or her own pace, and each mitzvah stands on its own as an important step in one’s personal growth. Chabad is inclusive and nonjudgmental, and our programs are open to all Jews. In fact, the majority of people who participate in programs at Chabad are not Orthodox. The teachings of Chabad are imbued with the renowned Chassidic spirit and joy, but in no way is the commitment to an Orthodox lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at Chabad functions.
5. I like what I am reading here, but I still have more questions. Where can I get more information?
We welcome you to come by for a chat and tour the Hebrew School. Please contact Chaya Gopin at 561-414-7999 or email [email protected] to set up an appointment.
