Innovations in Education

Over the year, Beth El has stressed the importance and pleasure of life-long learning for all our members, regardless of age or experience.

• Opened a unique preschool in 1975 that stresses the individuality of each child while introducing the joy of Jewish living through symbols, stories, and holiday celebrations. A low student/teacher ratio is enhanced by the presence of clergy who regularly visit, sing, study and play with the little ones.

• Pioneered the practice of retreats for families and children. By bringing small groups of adults and families to nearby conference centers for Shabbat weekends, congregants build a sense of community as they experience the full potential of a day of worship, study, and relaxation. Retreats are also an important part of the Hebrew school; starting in third grade, these joyful, intensive learning experiences foster a sense of community and independent Jewish identity.

• Brought a new focus to the Bar & Bat Mitzvah Year: Starting in 1973, Beth El shifted the focus from the party to the rite of passage by convening a “Torah Class” where students and parents meet for  regular study together. Small groups also attend  a weekend retreat, with creative  worship experiences, challenging study sessions, community building, and lots  of fun– a life- long memory for  both generations.

• Developed a high school  program that retains  teens  through the 12th grade. Since  1979, Beth El has run one of the largest Jewish high school  programs in New England, with one of the highest retention rates. High schoolers get the chance to explore Jewish learning through a range of engaging elective classes, and engage with Jewish theology in a seminar with the rabbi.

In 2006, Project HiBuR was added to the curriculum to foster connections between teens at Beth El with counterparts at a public high school in Haifa. Stressing leadership, Jewish living, and peoplehood, the program includes web-based interaction, video conferencing and visits in the United States and Israel

Innovations in Hebrew school curriculum and family education: Beth El continues to experiment and innovate, seeking new approaches and programs that work for children and families today. Some of our successes have included, Sunday morning “Lehrhaus” for parents and children to gather for breakfast, singing and study – including congregant-led teachings and workshops for families.

• A six week class for kindergarten parents stressing “home” as the center of Jewish learning. The program culminates in a joyful ceremony of the consecration of the children, where each child receives a small tallit.

• Beth El expanded and broadened definition of adult education. In addition to classes and lectures, learning for adults included poetry festivals and residencies with musicians and dancers as well as scholars and rabbis.

• Adult Jewish Literacy, a two year survey course that meets monthly, is taught by clergy and guest teachers. The curriculum includes Classical Jewish texts, The Jewish Historical Experience, and Holidays and Shabbat.