Kethillath Shalom Goes Back to School

Starting in Fall 2019, Kehillath Shalom Synagogue will launch its new youth education approach with its Torah School for children K-7th grade and their families. This Cold Spring Harbor Reconstructionist synagogue, founded in 1969, decided to reorganize its school after extensive conversations with its School Committee, current students and parents, and consultants. It has developed a new model designed to excite and energize the community.

The program emerged from a planning model developed by Reconstructing Judaism called “appreciative inquiry”; participants explored what they love about the school, shared their hopes and dreams for their children, and learned about other supplementary school structures. Among many insights, an exciting development emerged: the parents desired greater access to learning themselves.

The name Torah School reflects that “Torah” means all of Jewish teaching and traditions, including those communities create. The KSS Torah School will seek to awaken in each children a Jewish identity rooted in ethics, wonder, gratitude, and tradition. A Reconstructionist approach fosters intellectual engagement and a commitment to Tikkun Olam (repairing the world). By meeting each student as they are, and honoring the potential for who they will become, the school will develop lifelong Jewish learners.

The new Torah School will meet twice-monthly on Shabbat. These classes will meet from 10 – 12:45, allowing for children to have class time, participate in services, and have kiddush with the community. After all, schmoozing and noshing are essential aspects of the Jewish experience! During that time, parents are encouraged to come to Torah Study from 10 – 11 and/or services from 11:15 – 12:30.

In addition, there will be monthly Sunday workshops, periodic Friday night gatherings, and an annual congregational retreat. As a result, children and families become a full part of the synagogue cycle, experiencing Jewish life and not just reading about it.

There is still time to register for the 2019-2020 academic year! For questions about the program, the schedule of meetings, or the cost of the program, please contact Rabbi Lina Zerbarini or the main office at kehillathshalom@optonline.net or at 631-367-4589. All are welcome.