Register your student for SHMA Jewish Learning-classes start September 7.

When Cantor Dov Goldberg joined Congregation B’nai Israel (CBI) in Rumson in 2013, the synagogue got not only a teacher and educator with a beautiful voice, they also got a professional with years of experience in Jewish education, psychology and philosophy. After being at CBI for more than one year and observing the traditional Hebrew School model, Cantor Goldberg, with the collaboration of the Board of Education, is ready to introduce a new form of religious education to the Two River area—one that is more exciting, flexible and accommodating to busy Jewish families.

“It’s not your Zaydie’s Hebrew school,” explains Goldberg. “SHMA (soul heart mind academy) is a new, dynamic, and flexible Jewish youth education program for children in pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. The education program is designed to be more exciting but, at the same time, stay true to the traditions and values of CBI.” “The SHMA program, which begins Sunday, September 7, will incorporate more hands-on, exploratory, project-based learning,” explains Goldberg.

“The Judaic curriculum will continue to focus on Prayer, Holidays, Customs, Hebrew reading and language but through innovative approaches, such as project-based learning, earning Kabbalot (merit badge inspired achievement seals), and Chugim (activity clubs) where students will be able to choose among several types of activities such as fine arts, school journals, cooking, chorus, dance, etc.” “Middle school students will focus on the intellectual, spiritual and practical meaning of becoming a Bat/Bar Mitzvah. Hebrew high school students will continue to learn with Rabbi Sultar and also take elective courses about things that matter to them: contemporary politics, philanthropy, culture, a cappella, short film making, etc. through the lens of the Jewish tradition,” continued Goldberg.

“Another big change this year, is that on six weekends, the teaching will take place on Shabbat mornings instead of on Sundays so that students can engage in Shabbat-friendly learning and participate in the service with the congregation. On those weekends, parents will also be offered adult education,” explains Goldberg. For those students that have class conflicts, there will be new home flex-options that will allow a student to learn at home through various digital media. “We are excited about these changes,” said Lois Green, President of CBI. “It’s a new way of thinking about Jewish education. Listening to parent feedback, we are confident that the curriculum and schedule changes will help make families’ lives easier,” continued Green.

As in prior years, there is no charge for a child to participate in the monthly Pre-K class. Tuition, class hours and more detailed information about the program can be found at shmaatcbirumson.org. To inquire further about SHMA or to register, contact Cantor Goldberg at 732-842-1800 x 202 or shmaatcbirumson.org. CBI is located in Rumson, New Jersey at the corner of Hance and Ridge Roads.