We are excited to be introducing new programming at Central Synagogue for our students in grades 3 through 6. In an effort to provide additional opportunities for Jewish engagement, we will be launching a series of social and educational events outside of regular Religious School hours. These events will be staffed by Central Synagogue’s Youth Director, Zach Rolf as well as Full Time Teachers of the Religious School and members of the CiTY (Central Temple Youth) board who are in high school.
Events for 3rd/4th Grade Junior Youth Programming
Events for 5th/6th Grade Junior Youth Programming
Click here to see our Religious School Calendar.
Click here to view the 2011-2012 Religious School Parent’s Handbook
Click here to download the Religious School Student Directory
Our curriculum is built around six key Jewish pillars: God, Torah, Israel, Avodah (worship), Kehilah (community), and Tikkun Olam (social action). In addition, the study of Hebrew is integrated into every lesson in grades K-6.
God
Our students will explore and develop a personal relationship with God and come to understand the covenant between God and the Jewish people as it has been experienced throughout history. They will be equipped with the ability to talk comfortably about God.
Torah
Our students will gain familiarity with Biblical, rabbinic, and other sacred Jewish texts, and will come to appreciate the Jewish value of lifelong study. They will recognize that talmud torah (the study of Torah) helps connect them to one another, to their history, and to Jewish communities around the world.
Israel
Our students will understand and foster a connection with Am Yisrael (the people of Israel), Eretz Yisrael (the land of Israel), and Medinat Yisrael (the State of Israel).
Avodah (Worship)
Our students will learn and find meaning in Jewish prayers and rituals, with particular attention to those incorporated in Reform Judaism. Students will gain familiarity with Jewish holidays and appreciate the value of their continued celebration.
Kehilah (Community)
Our students will understand what it means to be a member of a Kehilah Kedoshah (holy community) and will develop a relationship with Central Synagogue and its religious school, the Reform Movement, and the global Jewish community.
Tikkun Olam (Social Action)
Our students will recognize justice (tzedek) as an essential value to Judaism and the Jewish people. Students will explore the idea of justice and our obligation to help better the world, and take part in social justice projects each year.
Hebrew
Our Hebrew program is primarily a t’filah (worship) based curriculum. Students build Hebrew language acquisition skills through weekly prayer services and classroom exercises. In kindergarten through second grade, the Hebrew program focuses on building letter recognition and basic reading skills. By the end of third grade, all students are expected to master the letters of the alef-bet and should be able to sound out a basic Hebrew text. By the end of sixth grade, students are expected to read all familiar prayers accurately and fluently, identify and translate key vocabulary words, and convey an understanding of key themes for each prayer. Students who master Hebrew reading skills will be provided with the opportunity to study modern Hebrew. Additionally, students should possess a repertoire of Hebrew words and phrases that are integrated into the six strands of the curriculum (God, Torah, Israel, Tikkun Olam, Kehilah, and Avodah).
T’filah
The Central Synagogue T’filah curriculum will strive to engage our community in the ritual of Avodah (worship) by giving students the tools to find meaning in and ownership over their prayer experiences. By coming together with their grade to form a Kehilah Kedosha (holy community), students will explore the purpose of worship and continue to foster a relationship with God. Throughout the school year, students will become familiar with the order and melodies of the typical Reform T’filah service and will gain facility with the Mishkan T’filah siddur (prayer book). Each service will be rooted in Torah and connect to both the calendar year (holidays) and each grade’s curriculum. T’filah will serve as a place for students to explore their world, with a special focus on Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Israel, and the roles they play in our gratitude to God. In addition, students will be able to exercise skills learned in Hebrew class by reciting and exploring the meaning of prayers. Through Creative T’filah, students will have the opportunity to use their personal talents to help plan a service and lead their peers in prayer. As an open and accepting environment, T’filah will serve as a place where students can express their individual Jewish identity and share in exploration with their community.
Central Synagogue offers a holistic program for anyone considering conversion to Judaism. Conversion is a personal decision and journey; therefore, the process will differ for each candidate. We are here to facilitate every aspect of conversion for you – academic, pastoral, and communal – and we enthusiastically welcome you into our community.
Central Synagogue offers pastoral support groups for those dealing with seriously ill family members and the loss of a spouse or child. For information about when and where these small and confidential groups meet, contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) at 212-838-5122 ext. 1009.
Dear Families,
When you joined Central Synagogue, you may have done so for a few different reasons. Perhaps you were looking for a reputable Jewish Nursery School or to begin your child’s Jewish education in a top Religious School program. You may have joined before you had children because you were drawn to our beautiful worship experiences and the reputation of our clergy. Each of these reasons is significant, and each of them is about connecting to the Jewish community.
In my role as Director of Lifelong Learning, regardless of the reason you were initially drawn into Central Synagogue, I am committed to helping you find a warm and welcoming place in which to dwell and grow. One way to help you accomplish that is through our multiple gateways for family engagement. It is my hope that Central can be a place of deep and meaningful connection for you, one that can be strengthened by your involvement and participation. It is said that when two people come together to study Torah together, a divine spark exists between them. Here, be it through Torah study or social justice or a variety of other venues, you can experience much of this alongside your child.
I encourage you to browse our Adult Programming brochure for our classes, mini-series and lectures, or look to at our website and Luach for other ideas, but take note of the myriad opportunities featured below, as they are designed with the intention of families participating together. For questions or to learn how to participate in anything you learn about below, please contact me at ymw@censyn.org or 212.838.5122 x 4031.
Looking forward to sharing these moments with you,
B’shalom,
Yonni Wattenmaker, RJE
Director of Lifelong Learning
(212) 838-5122 x 4031
ymw@censyn.org
Imagine ushering in the Shabbat each week with a fresh challah that your child has brought home from school. Now this can be a reality! Building on a Nursery School tradition of “from our house to yours” you can now enroll in our “Reclaiming Shabbat” challah delivery program. What better way to enjoy Shabbat than to do so as a family?
N-More Bakery is working with Central Synagogue to offer a weekly challah program. If you enroll, you will come to the synagogue on Fridays throughout the school year to get your kosher challah. On the first Friday, you will receive a copy of Shabbat blessings for you to keep and use each week in your home, and each subsequent week, you will get a bit of Torah text or a Jewish story, with questions for your family to discuss together. Shabbat is about family, community and taking a well-needed break from the pace of our busy lives ~ this is a wonderful way to truly distinguish Shabbat from all other nights.
We will be starting this program on Friday, October 15, 2010. The challahs will be delivered to either your child’s Nursery School or, for Religious School families, Room 707 of the Community House. The dates for pick up are:
2010
October 15, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19
December 3, 10, 17
2011
January 7, 14, 21, 28
February 4, 11, 18
March 4, 11, 18, 25
April 8, 15, 29
May 6, 13, 20
Tot Shabbat occurs twice a month: either on Friday night or Saturday morning. We hold Tot Shabbat services for families with pre-school age children. For many of us, we have warm memories of experiencing Shabbat as children, and we hope to encourage similar memories in your children. All Tot Shabbats will be accompanied by at least one member of the clergy, along with Matt Check from the Religious School or song leader Joanie Leeds. Join us for songs, stories and words of prayer. Snacks are served at the conclusion of every session.
Shabbat Mishpachah, family Shabbat, is a monthly program designed especially for graduates of our Tot Shabbat programs, and our students in kindergarten through fourth grade. At Shabbat Mishpachah, parents and children join together in the Sanctuary at 6:00 pm to welcome Shabbat with the congregation. Then the children head downstairs to the Pavilion for an age-appropriate service led by our Full Time Teacher team and a member of our clergy. Children rejoin their parents in the Sanctuary for the conclusion of the prayer service, and for kiddush and motzi.
Over the course of the school year, the Religious School faculty host Shabbat dinners for families with children in our Religious School. Families join the congregation in worship at our usual 6 pm service, and at its conclusion, proceed downstairs to the Pavilion for Shabbat blessings, dinner, activities and music to enhance the rest of the evening’s celebration.
The PJ Library® program supports families in their Jewish journey by sending Jewish-content books and music on a monthly basis to children from age six months to five, six, seven or eight years depending on the community. Created by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, The PJ Library is funded nationally in partnership with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, local philanthropists, and Jewish organizations. This year, Central Synagogue will invite our parents and grandparents of children 5 and under to participate in this program and come to workshops with our faculty to help you reap the most benefit from this wonderful initiative.
Nearly two thousand years ago Rabbi Tarfon said, “You are not required to complete the work, but neither are you free to absent yourself from it.”
There is so much brokenness in our world that the task of repairing it seems nearly overwhelming. Nonetheless, we are called to take responsibility for the society in which we live. Though the task is great, the opportunity to make an impact is limitless. One need only take the first step.
Social justice is a core value of Judaism. Our community’s commitment to social justice in the world is an integral part of who we are at Central Synagogue. It is truly a way of life for our community and throughout the year we pursue justice in all its forms.
Every November, Central Synagogue partners with a number of charitable organizations throughout the city to host Mitzvah Day. Started in 1997 through a generous donation by the Eric Wasserman Fund for Community Outreach, Mitzvah Day has become a family tradition for so many members of Central Synagogue. There are more than a dozen on-site and off-site projects for volunteers of all ages including baking, knitting, garden clean-up, blood donation, spending time with the elderly and visiting a women’s shelter. Our 13th Annual Mitzvah Day will be held Sunday, November 14, 2010. If you would like to serve as a project captain and support the Mitzvah Day planning efforts, please contact us now.
The Breakfast Program, formerly known as the Caring Committee Feeding Program, is among Central Synagogue’s longest ongoing social justice projects. Originally conceived and implemented by longtime congregant Nat Shapiro in 1983, the Breakfast Program was started in response to Mayor Koch’s outcry for New York City’s religious institutions to respond to an exploding homeless and hungry problem. Today, many clients of the Breakfast Program are working poor who greatly appreciate and regularly rely on the warm, nutritious start to their day. Volunteers assemble every Thursday and Friday morning in Stern Lobby (Community House) to prepare and serve the most important meal of the day. A bag lunch is also handed out to clients. These lunches are prepared the prior evening as part of Central Synagogue’s Sandwich Making Program. Your commitment to this important project is needed: Thursday and Friday mornings, 6:00am – 7:30am.
Clients of our weekly Breakfast Program are also sent away with a freshly prepared bag lunch. These sandwiches are made in advance by dedicated groups of volunteers including Nursery School parents, Religious School students, Young Professionals and Social Justice volunteers. Your commitment to this important project is needed: on Wednesday and Thursdays (daytime and evening sessions planned).
Raising Kids Who Care is a working group that came out of the listening campaign, a series of one to one conversations between members of Central Synagogue to learn where individual interests and concerns lie, both within and beyond synagogue life. This committed group of lay leaders has focused on the specific issue of bar/bat mitzvah ~ how to change the culture that surrounds this life-cycle event to one based more deeply in the Jewish values which sustain this milestone, and their reach even beyond a child’s thirteenth year.
Through small groups of approximately 8-10 families of children with similar b’nei mitzvah dates, havurah members will gain a sense of community, support each other, and feel more connected to Central Synagogue. They will engage in events together such as grade-wide family education events and Shabbat dinner, attend Shabbat services together, share the responsibility of being shamashim (ushers) at Saturday morning services, share the Kiddush after their service (?), meet up on Mitzvah Day, any social events the group organizes for its members, and spend time together at the family programs encompassing the theme of values as they relate to the b’nei mitzvah process. Those include:
MANDATORY: In January, the Grade 4 year students are assigned the date on which they will become bar/bat mitzvah. Rather than mailing those dates home, we have created a program around this event in order to emphasize the importance of this time in a child’s life, and to bring our families closer together. During this program, families attend a Shabbat morning service in the sanctuary, learn about the b’nei mitzvah process, and receive their special date. This program will take place on Saturday, December 11, 2010 from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.
MANDATORY: In November, the Grade 5 year parents and students come together in a meaningful session dedicated to thinking about bar/bat mitzvah – what it means, why it matters and what are our commitments as families to Jewish engagement and education throughout and following this process. This program will take place on Monday, November 8, 2010 from 4:15 pm – 6:15 pm.
A special Shabbat experience has been designed specifically for Grade 6 students and their families. At this overnight, families will share in the celebration of Shabbat, together with our clergy and Religious School staff and faculty, and embark on the b’nei mitzvah experience as a community. This year, the retreat will be held Friday-Saturday, January 7-8, 2011 at the Hilton in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
DDD is a parent-driven project that asks you to do three things surrounding your child’s bar or bat mitzvah: consider sending evites instead of paper invitations and/or response cards, donate the amount of money you saved on printing and postage to purchase trees for NYC through the New York Restoration Project and Million Trees NYC and, finally, join other b’nei mitzvah families during the harvest season of Shavuot, June 2011, to plant trees throughout the five boroughs. The goal is to be able to plant a grove as a class!
The three goals of this initiative are to educate students in tzedakah and philanthropy, to encourage participation in the act of Tikkun Olam (social justice) and to empower children to make meaningful and responsible choices in how to improve the lives of others. In an effort to accomplish these goals, during the student’s 7 grade year, they will be taught how working together as a community can make a significant impact on the lives of other people, especially people in need, and they will participate in social justice activities. Then, around the time of your child becoming a bar or bat mitzvah, we are asking for children and their families to make a contribution to the tzedakah collective. The last step of the process occurs during the 8 grade, when he or she can become a participant on the Tzedakah Board. They will learn how to research and evaluate different organizations, both Jewish and secular, and eventually choose organizations to which they will make contributions from the money they have collectively donated to the fund. It is our hope that children will begin to learn the power of giving on a whole new level.
1. Please leave strollers downstairs in the lobby. It is a fire hazard to bring strollers upstairs. Bring diaper bag and personal belongings with you to Room 201.
2. Please turn off all cell phones.
3. No food or beverages are allowed in the Parenting Center. Snacks will be provided for the children each week.
4. Please note that bottles or sippy cups are permitted for babies or toddlers up to 18 months of age. Sippy cups are permitted for older toddlers (18 – 30 months), if necessary. Small cups will be available for children at snack time.
5. The entire Nursery School and Parenting Center are Peanut/Tree Nut Aware Programs. Please let the teachers know if your child has any allergies to food, etc at the first parent meeting or before class begins in the Fall.
6. Please call if you plan to be absent: (212) 838-5122 ext. 4003.
7. Illness – Please do not bring a child to school if the child or caregiver is sick or has a cold. We catch each other’s germs very easily in the classroom.
8. Label all articles of clothing. Please bring a change of clothing, diapers, etc. Dress children for messy play. Please bring an extra set of clothing to class each week in case your child gets wet or messy from special art activities.
9. Please bring a picture of your child to the class.
10. During the first 10 minutes, we would like caregivers to accompany the child into the playroom to help the child get adjusted to the classroom and to the teachers.
11. The last 10 minutes of each class is designated for caregivers and children to get together for music and singing. We want to stress the importance of this time together and encourage everyone to participate.
1. Strollers are to be left in the lobby. It is a fire hazard to bring them upstairs. Bring diaper bag and child to room 201.
2. Please turn off all cell phones – they must be off during class (no texting or e-mailing, please). Important calls can be routed through the Nursery School office: 212-838-5122 x 4003 and the administrator will let you know ASAP. If you absolutely need to make a phone call during class, take your child, and please use the lobby.
3. Parents: No food or beverages are allowed in the Parenting Center. Children: Snacks will be provided. Sippy cups are permitted, please label.
Note: The entire nursery school and parenting center programs are peanut/tree nut aware. Please let the teachers know if your child has any allergies to food, etc.
4. Call if you plan to be absent.
5. Illness – Please do not bring a child to school if the child or parent is sick or has a cold. Germs spread very easily.
6. a. Parents are welcome to attend the parent group even if their child is ill.
b. In the event a parent cannot attend, another family member may come in your place i.e. grandparents, aunts, uncles. If this is not possible, it is unfortunate, but your child will have to miss class that week. Please call in advance to notify the Parenting Center team.
7. Label all articles of clothing, etc. Dress children in comfortable clothing for art activities and water play. Please bring a change of clothing, diapers, etc.
8. The Sunday Program is an integral part of the Parenting Center experience and is a requirement of this program. Set aside time to attend these classes.
9. Bring a picture of your child to the class.
10. Please Be Prompt – our discussions will begin and end on time.
11. Caregivers are to meet you in the lobby.
12. At arrival, during the first 15 minutes, if your child can easily separate, we encourage you to go into the parent room where you can freely socialize before the beginning of the parent discussion group.
13. The last 10 minutes of class are designated for interaction with your child for music and singing. We want to stress the importance of this time….this is a parent/child program and we respectfully ask that you hold your conversation with the other parents until the class has ended.
14. L’Shanah Tovah! Looking forward to a wonderful year.
Our Confirmation students have the unique opportunity to spend a year learning with our clergy, as we attempt to “answer the unanswerable” questions. Our 10th graders are challenged intellectually and spiritually. They build strong and lasting connections with their peers and their clergy at a pivotal point in their young adult lives. Building off the success of last year’s experience in Prague (check out the blog) we are in the middle of planning another study trip for February to a different European destination.
Dinner Provided for all sessions.
All classes are held in the Community House (123 East 55 St.)unless otherwise noted.
| 13 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm (Opening Session) |
| 20 | Tues. | 6:30pm – 7:45pm |
| 27 | Tues. | 6:30pm – 7:45pm |
| 4 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 11 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 18 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 25 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 1 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 8 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 15 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 18-19 | Fri.- Sat. | Mandatory Confirmation Class Retreat |
| 22 | Tues. | No Class - Thanksgiving |
| 29 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 6 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 13 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 20 | Tues. | NO CLASS - Winter Break |
| 27 | Tues. | NO CLASS - Winter Break |
| 3 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 10 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 17 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 24 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 31 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 7 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 14 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 21 | Tues. | NO CLASS - President’s Week Break |
| 28 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 6 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 13 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 20 | Tues. | NO Class - Spring Break |
| 27 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 3 | Tues. | NO CLASS - Spring Break |
| 10 | Tues. | NO CLASS - Pesach |
| 17 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 24 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 1 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm |
| 8 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm (Confirmation Rehearsal) |
| 15 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm (Confirmation Rehearsal) |
| 18 | Fri. | 6:00 pm (Confirmands Blessing & Dinner) |
| 22 | Tues. | 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm (Confirmation Rehearsal) |
| 28 | Mon. | Confirmation Service |
Please click on a month to jump to that calendar:
Each Wednesday evening, from 6:15pm-7:30pm, we offer teens a space to gather and learn together at Central Synagogue. Dinner (pizza & salad) is served every week, starting at 6:15pm. Following dinner, students participate in engaging and challenging Jewish learning with our full-time teaching staff and clergy. Building upon the success of last year’s Civil Rights Journey, we will be embarking on our second study trip for 8th and 9th graders to New Orleans, where we will be participating in service as well as learning about the Jewish culture in the Big Easy. This trip will be taking place April 19-22, 2012.
(Dinners provided at all sessions)
All classes are held in the Community House (123 East 55th St) unless otherwise noted.
| 14 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 21 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 28 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Erev Rosh HaShanah |
| 5 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm (Sandwich Making) |
| 12 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Erev Sukkot |
| 19 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Erev Simchat Torah |
| 26 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 2 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 9 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 16 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 23 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Thanksgiving |
| 30 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 7 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 14 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 21 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Winter Break |
| 28 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Winter Break |
| 4 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 11 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 18 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 25 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 1 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 8 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 15 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 22 | Wed. | No Class - President’s Week Break |
| 29 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 7 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 14 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 21 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Spring Break |
| 28 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm (Sandwich Making) |
| 4 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Spring Break |
| 11 | Wed. | NO CLASS - Pesach |
| 18 | Wed. | 6:15 pm - 7:30 pm |
| 25 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 2 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 9 | Mon. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 16 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 23 | Wed. | 6:15 pm – 7:30 pm |
| 28 | Wed. | Confirmation Service |
Please click on a month to jump to that calendar:
Your child’s registration makes them eligible for any and all of the teen programming that we offer here – both academic as well as social – from speaking series to weekend youth group events and retreats. Building off the success of last year’s experience in Prague (check out the blog) we are in the middle of planning another study trip for February to a different European destination that will be open to all students in grades 10-12.
SEPTEMBER
| 25 | Sun. | Apple Picking |
| 8 | Sat. | Yom Kippur Teen Experience |
| 15 | Sat. | Sukkot Themed Midnight Run |
| 20 | Thu. | Simchat Torah @ B’nai Jeshurun |
| 11 | Fri. | ’10-11’ Confirmation Reunion Shabbat |
| 10 | Sat. | “Festival of Lights” Laser Tag / Chanukah Event |
| 6-9 | Fri.-Mon. | Religious Action Center, Washington, D.C. |
| 21-22 | Sat.-Sun. | Shul-In (Cancelled) |
| 16-21 | Thu.-Tue. | Study trip for students in grades 10-12 |
| 10 | Sat. | Midnight Run |
| 9 | Mon. | 2nd Annual CiTY Passover Seder (date tentative) |
| 14 | Sat. | Beit Torah Event |
| 27-29 | Fri.-Sun. | Spring Retreat |
| 12 | Sat. | Israeli Film Festival Event |
| 28 | Mon. | Confirmation Service |
| 2 | Sat. | Closing Event |
Please click on a month to jump to that calendar:
| Thursday | October 7 | Caregiver Class Parent Meeting, 8:30 – 9:30, Room 201 |
| Tuesday | October 12 | First day of Toldot for: | 12 – 20 Months, 8:45 – 10:00 | 20 – 27 months, 10:30 – 12:00 | 24 – 32 months, 12:30 – 2:00 |
| Thursday | October 14 | First day of Toldot for: | Baby Group, 9:00 – 10:00 | Caregiver Class, 10:30 – 12:00 |
| Sunday | November 21 | Toldot/Parenting Center Sunday | Follow weekly schedule for times |
| Thursday | November 25 | No Class – Thanksgiving |
| Sunday | December 12 | Toldot/Parenting Center Sunday |
| Tuesday | December 21 | No Class – Winter Break |
| Thursday | December 23 | No Class – Winter Break |
| Tuesday | December 28 | No Class – Winter Break |
| Thursday | December 30 | No Class – Winter Break |
| January | 2011 | Call for Toldot Applications for the 2011 – 2012 school year |
| Tuesday | January 4 | No Class – Intake Day |
| Thursday | January 6 | No Class – Intake Day |
| Sunday | January 23 | Toldot/Parenting Center Sunday |
| Tuesday | February 22 | No Class – President’s Week |
| Tuesday | February 24 | No Class – President’s Week |
| Monday | February 28 | Toldot Applications sent out for 2011 – 2012 |
| Sunday | March 20 | Final Toldot/Parenting Center Sunday |
| Tuesday | March 29 | No Class – Spring Break |
| Thursday | March 31 | No Class – Spring Break |
| Tuesday | April 5 | Class Resumes |
| Thursday | April 7 | Class Resumes |
| Tuesday | April 19 | No School – Passover Break |
| Thursday | April 21 | No School – Passover Break |
| Tuesday | April 26 | Class Resumes |
| Thursday | April 28 | Class Resumes |
| Tuesday | May 24 | Last Day of Parenting Center |
| Thursday | May 26 | Last Day of Parenting Center |
Dear Parents,
What are the two best ways to ensure that your teenager will live an actively Jewish life when he or she becomes an adult?
Studies show that the top factors in predicting future Jewish involvement are: a) participating in a synagogue youth program during one’s teen years, and b) visiting Israel between the ages of 16 and 26.
Yes, it’s true – teen programs and a trip to Israel are more important that Hebrew school or a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in determining your child’s Jewish identity. On every scale we can measure, teens who participate in youth programs end up affiliating and associating with Jewish life more than those who do not participate.
I’m not sure that there’s a stronger case I can make… other than telling you that CiTY’s programs suit a teens needs in many ways. CiTY Nights is a more conventional learning (and pizza!) program held every Wednesday from 6:15 pm to 7:45 pm. It is intended for the student who prefers to come each week on the same day and time.
Other CiTY events are held on weekends and are intended for the student who seeks a more flexible schedule. You are free to mix and match as you choose.
All programs are intended to excite and challenge teens, as we ask them think deeply about who they are and the world they live in.
All they have to do is walk in the door. You know that Central Synagogue is your home. Make it your teen’s home as well.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Michael S. Friedman
Back to CiTY’s Homepage
Hi everyone!
I’m Jessica Bendes and I’m incredibly excited to be the president of CiTY.
I can’t believe that October is here! This summer seems to have just flown by. It feels like school just ended, and yet we’ve only got a few more weeks to relax. But while school starting again may not be something to we all want to celebrate, the start of a new year of CiTY definitely is. Also with the start of a new year comes a new group of 9th graders, so to all new members of CiTY let me be the first to say welcome and tell you that I can’t wait to meet you all! To all of the returning members, I am so excited to start off another great year together.
See you all soon!
This track is comprised of fun and engaging programs all around Manhattan and the Greater New York City area. This is an ideal option for those teens interested in socializing with old and new friends both from Central Synagogue and from other local synagogues with similar backgrounds and ideals. We are always looking to expand our social calendar, and we welcome ideas from you. You can also have the opportunity to help run or chair an upcoming event!
Jewish Teen NYC Tours
October 18, 2009
December 13, 2009
April 18, 2009
May 16, 2010
Apple Picking
October 4, 2009
All-Knighter
February 27, 2010
Intra-Synagogue Fundraiser
January 23, 2010
This track focuses on building Jewish identity and enriching the students’ connections to both Central Synagogue and their Jewish faith. The major tenets of Reform Judaism are Torah (teachings), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and avodah (faith in God.) The programs listed here are either written by teenagers, or are tailor-made for them. As Reform Jews, we are obligated to educate ourselves and make choices on how we want to practice our Judaism, and these programs aim to inform teenagers about those choices.
Teen High Holy Day Experience
September 20 and September 28,2009
Shabbat Services
October 16, 2009
November 13, 2009
February 26, 2010
April 23, 2010
Book Groups
Teen Choir
Jewish Teen Film Series
Spring Retreat with Rodeph Sholom
April 9-11, 2010
This track is comprised of programs that engage teens Jewish “Call to Action.” All programs and events are centered around tikkun olam, the idea that human beings serve as partners with God in completing the work of creation. Tikkun olam is an essential part of being a Reform Jew and a member of Central Synagogue.
The teenagers of Central Synagogue are very aware of the role they play and the responsibility they have in helping those who are less fortunate. As a member of CiTY, our teens will have the opportunity to engage in tikkun olam on both local and global levels. All of the programs are written and chosen by the teens themselves. CiTY is a place where teens can come to perform mitzvot with their peers. The program schedule is fluid and we are always looking for new ideas. It is our hope that this track will inspire the individual and the group to grow together, take what they have learned and become leaders in the effort to help repair the world.
Mitzvah Day
November 15, 2009
Midnight Runs
October 24, 2009
December 12, 2009
March 13, 2010
RAC Trip to Washington DC
January 8-11, 2010
Purim Carnival
March 1, 2010
Central Synagogue Breakfast Program
Every Thursday and Friday morning (5:45-7:30am)
AIDS Walk
September 13
Chelsea Piers Bowling – Opening Program for 9th – 12th Grade
September 20
Teen Tashlich Service
September 23
CiTY-Nights Begins for 8th and 9th Grade
September 28
Teen Yom Kippur Experience
September 30
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
October 4
Apple Picking for 9th – 12th Grade
October 7
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
October 14
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
October 16
CiTY Shabbat Services for 8th – 12th Grade
October 18
Teen Tour-Jewish NYC for 8th-12th Grade
October 21
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
October 24
Midnight Run for 9th – 12th Grade
October 28
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
November 4
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
November 11
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
November 13
CiTY Shabbat Services for 8th – 12th Grade
November 15
Mitzvah Day for 8th -12th Grade
November 18
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
December 2
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
December 9
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
December 12
Midnight Run for 9th – 12th Grade
December 13
Teen Tour-Jewish NYC 8th – 12th Grade
December 16
CiTY Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
January 6
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
January 8 – 11
RAC Trip to Washington DC for 9th – 12th Grade
January 13
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
January 20
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
January 23
Intra-Synagogue Fundraiser for 9th -12th Grade
January 27
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
February 3
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
February 10
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
February 24
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
February 26
CiTY Shabbat Services for 8th – 12th Grade
February 27
All-Knighter for 9th – 12th Grade
March 1
Purim Carnival for 8th – 12th Grade
March 3
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
March 10
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
March 13
Midnight Run for 9th – 12th Grade
March 17
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
April 7
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
April 9-11
Spring Retreat with Rodeph Sholom for 9th – 12th Grade
April 14
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
April 18
Teen Tour-Jewish NYC 8th – 12th Grade
April 21
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
April 23
CiTY Shabbat Services for 8th – 12th Grade
April 28
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
May 5
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
May 12
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade
May 16
Teen Tour-Jewish NYC 8th – 12th Grade
May 19
Confirmation Service
May 26
CiTY-Nights for 8th and 9th Grade (Last Class)
Dear Parents,
We understand the busy lives of teenagers today, particularly in NYC, and we also recognize the challenges of parents trying to guide headstrong teenagers into certain decisions! We also understand that everyone wants to feel connected to something meaningful and to be a significant piece of something to which you belong.
Through the creative energy of Youth Advisor Greg Weitzman in combination with Rabbi Michael Friedman’s and my years of successful programming work with teens, we have re-envisioned how we can provide exactly those experiences for your 8th through 12th graders, while allowing their opinions, needs and desires to shine through.
CiTY (Central’s Temple Youth) is a new concept for post Bar and Bat Mitzvah age kids – a multi-venue program designed to tap individual interests and cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships between teens and their peers, Central Synagogue and their world.
Within CiTY, there are four programmatic tracks in which your child can participate:
Weekly classes aimed at the more academic minded teen
Taps into both the social and spiritual sides with Shabbat services and dinners, book groups, film screenings and tours of Jewish NY
Geared towards those looking for community service, with events like the Midnight Run and the AIDS walk (great for college resumes!)
For the teens who just want to hang with friends on ski trips and other social events
Your teen is invited to participate in as many or as few events as his or her busy schedule permits. The financial commitment is $1000. This tuition entitles your child to unlimited events, meals at each event, and one over night experience, like the 4 day trip to Washington, DC, where Jewish high school students come together to learn how to lobby Congress.
Please give CiTY some real consideration, and encourage your teen to give this a try. Jewish involvement doesn’t have to end at 13…that is the age at which so many of the struggles with faith begin, and tremendous growth – emotionally and spiritually – occurs. In New York City, the pace is particularly hectic with multiple influences effecting these changes. What better place to wrestle with these issues than at Central?
Click here for a registration form and commit to being a partner with us in this endeavor.
Sincerely,
Yonni Wattenmaker, RJE
Director of Lifelong Learning
(212) 838-5122 x 4031
CiTY (Central Synagogue Temple Youth)
Central Synagogue provides a safe and vibrant Jewish space for teens in which they can grow spiritually, socially, and intellectually. We equip them with tools to answer the difficult questions as they navigate through a complex and diverse world. They will be encouraged to explore challenging questions about God, Torah, Israel and the world around them. Central Synagogue will be an anchor in their sometimes tumultuous lives.
Central Synagogue will serve our youth by offering a range of options that suit our students’ needs, from regular weekly evening sessions to varied weekend events and study trips. In addition, we aim to motivate and encourage teen initiative so that teens become a part of the planning process for themselves and their peers.
This year we are starting a brand new program, yet another way for students to stay engaged in Jewish life. Students in grades 7-12 are welcome to get involved in our Religious School classrooms as Madrichim (assistant teachers). Students will earn community service credit as well as receive valuable leadership training as they take their place as role models for our younger members. There will be 3 educational workshops throughout the month of October and early November – after which the students will be placed in a classroom.
If you would like to sign your child up for this program, or for any other questions about teen programs at Central Synagogue, please contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 212-838-5122 x 4039.
Susan Alpert, Director
(212) 838-5122, ext. 4001
Jo Sohinki, Assistant Director
(212) 838-5122, ext. 4002
Danielle Rodriguez, Education Department Assistant
(212) 838-5122, ext. 4003
Throughout the year several tzedakah projects and collection drives are organized by our Tzedakah Committee in order to get our children involved with tikun olam (repairing the world). These projects and drives help homebound elderly, poor children and families and the environment among other worthy causes. In addition, the Tzedakah Committee Chairs liaison with the Social Action Committee at Central Synagogue, helping to involve the nursery school with synagogue wide mitzvah days and other initiatives.
Thank you for your interest in Toldot (Central Synagogue’s Parenting Center). Applications must be received no later than March 9, 2012. Acceptance into the program is based upon the number of available spaces needed to fill a class based on age and gender balance. Priority is given to sibling families and current Synagogue members. Families currently enrolled in the Parenting Center need to reapply for admission, but do not have to pay another application fee. There are no parent tours or children visits for this program. Notification of acceptance will be mailed by March 30, 2012. Contracts with deposits are due no later than April 25, 2012. Interest is keen for our Jewish Parenting Center classes and we encourage that applications be returned shortly after you receive them.
Please be advised that participation in our Parenting Center classes does not assure you a spot in Central Synagogue’s May Family Nursery School and therefore should not be a motivating factor in applying to the Parenting Center.
| Toddling Tots: 12 to 20 months | $3,700 | |
| Today’s Toddlers: 20 to 27 months | $11,500 | |
| Creative Caregiving | $3,000 |
Susan Alpert, Director
(212) 838-5122, ext. 4001
Jo Sohinki, Assistant Director
(212) 838-5122, ext. 4002
Danielle Rodriguez, Education Department Assistant
(212) 838-5122, ext. 4003
| Thursday | September 16 | Parent Orientation, 8:30am, Beir Chapel | |
| Monday | September 20 | 1st Day of School for Bananot (Building Bridges), 3’s, and 4/5’s classes | |
| Wednesday | September 22 | 4/5’s Apple Trip | |
| Thursday | September 23 | No School – Sukkot | |
| Monday | September 27 | 1st Day of School for Anavim (Purple) 3AM | |
| Tuesday | September 28 | 1st Day of School for Anavim (Purple) 2AM | |
| Wednesday | September 29 | 1st On-Going Schools Meeting, 9:15am, Room 503 | NS Consecration, Main Sanctuary, 11:30am | Dismissal after service |
| Thursday | September 30 | No School – Simchat Torah | |
| Monday | October 4 | Enrichment Specialists begin | |
| Monday | October 11 | No School – Columbus Day | |
| Friday | October 22 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 5:00pm | |
| Saturday | October 23 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 9:30am | |
| Wednesday | October 27 | Parent Workshop, Room 503, 9:30am - 10:30am | |
| Thursday | October 28 | 1/2 Day of School—12:00pm dismissal – 2’s; 12:15 pm dismissal – 3’s, 4/5’s | Open House/Curriculum Night (class schedules to follow) |
| Tuesday | November 9 | Picture Day | |
| Wednesday | November 10 | Picture Day | |
| Thursday | November 11 | Chanukah Book Fair and Boutique with special guest Bernadette Peters, Pavilion,8:30am– 3:00pm | |
| Sunday | November 14 | Mitzvah Day – specific NS projects are planned for 10:00am Opening Event | |
| Monday | November 15 | No School—Parent/Teacher Conferences | |
| Tuesday | November 16 | No School for Anavim 2AM—Parent/Teacher Conferences | |
| Friday | November 19 | Grandparent Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 5:00pm | |
| Saturday | November 20 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 9:30am | |
| Wenedday | November 24 | 12:15 pm dismissal for Tutim (Red) and Tzipporim (Blue) Rooms | |
| Thursday | November 25 | No School – Thanksgiving | |
| Friday | November 26 | No School | |
| Wednesday | December 1 | Morning Classes Only, CS All-Staff Meeting, 11:45am dismissal | 1st Chanukah Candle | NS Parent Sandwich-Making, 9:30am |
| Friday | December 3 | Classroom Chanukah Parties | |
| Saturday | December 4 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 9:30am | |
| Friday | December 10 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 5:00pm | |
| Wednesday | December 15 | Parent Workshop, Room 503, 9:30am - 10:30am | |
| Friday | December 17 | Last Day Before Winter Break (12/20 – 12/31) | |
| Monday | January 3 | School Resumes | |
| Friday | January 7 | Benefit and PA Meeting, Room 902, 9:15am | |
| Tuesday | January 11 | Parent Workshop, Room 503, 9:30am - 10:30am | |
| Friday | January 14 | First Bananot (BB) Friday | |
| Monday | January 17 | No School – MLK Day | |
| Friday | January 21 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 5:00pm | |
| Saturday | January 22 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 9:30am | |
| Thursday | January 27 | NS Parent Sandwich-Making, 9:30am | |
| Wednesday | February 9 | On-Going Schools Meeting, 9:15am, Room 503 | |
| Friday | February 11 | Tot Shabbat, 9th Floor, 5:00pm | |
| Saturday |
