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Temple Beth Israel of Highland Park and Eagle Rock (TBI) is delighted to respond to requests from congregation members and the wider Jewish community by an exciting Jewish education environment of classes and religious services and celebrations for children and parents. We are offering four integrated settings:
The goal of our Hebrew School is to involve children in lively and engaging learning about our holidays, customs, prayer, synagogue observances, the Torah, and Hebrew language.
Our goals are that students feel at home in the synagogue, are comfortable and proud of the Jewish elements of their identity, and will be ready to celebrate Bar and Bat Mitzvahs that hold personal meaning for themselves and their families.
We are enrolling students who have reached the age of 8 years old by 12/2/09. Students who are 9 and 10 years of age may also enroll. Students age 11 may enroll and will be expected to participate in some additional tutoring if they are planning to participate in a Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Our program meets twice a month from October through June. We meet on the first Sunday of the month and the third Shabbat (Saturday) morning. All classes start at 10:00 AM and end at 12:00 noon.
On Sundays, we begin with an assembly, singing, prayer and announcements. Students then attend two 45-minute sessions with a break and nutritious snack in between. We teach Hebrew reading and basic synagogue vocabulary using contemporary texts and workbooks. Frequently, we engage students in an arts-oriented activity connected to the Jewish holidays or other important aspects of Jewish culture.
Our instructor is Karen Olin, and we are pleased that she is returning for her second year. Karen will have a Student Assistant this year.
We are excited to offer a Shabbat experience for our children — and families! Our students will gather to learn about the order of the Shabbat service and its melodies and prayers along with a lesson from the Torah. Students will join the adult congregation for 15–20 minutes during the initial parts of the Torah service. This exposure is designed to create familiarity with the Shabbat service and is an essential element in Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation. After spending time during this joyous part of the adult service, the children will return to their class for discussion and a childrenŐs Kiddush.
Our instructor for the Shabbat morning program is Mark Strunin, Education Director. He will also have a Student Assistant.
Last year, one of the most exciting elements of TBI's program was the study sessions for parents while Hebrew School was in session. Parents learning while children learn — a wonderful synergy! That successful program will continue this year with study sessions beginning at 10:30 AM and continuing to 11:45 AM.
The general theme for this year will be "Introduction to the Many Voices within Judaism." Readings from a common text will be the basis for active discussions. Janetta Held will continue as key leader and organizer. Mark Strunin will also facilitate sessions, along with invited guest leaders and teachers.
"Mechina" is Hebrew for "preparation." Our Mechina program is the pre-Hebrew school of Temple Beth Israel. Once a month, young children will join in an open and fun-filled setting where Hebrew words, simple blessings, songs, games and arts and crafts will create a desire for Jewish learning.
We are enrolling students who have reached the age of 5 years old by 12/2/09. Students ages 6 and 7 may also enroll.
The Mechina program meets once a month from October through June. We meet on the third Sunday from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM.
Each meeting of Mechina will emphasize a Jewish holiday or experience through Hebrew words, stories, singing, blessings, games and crafts. And we'll serve a nutritious snack.
The instructor for this program has not yet been finalized, but s/he will be experienced with young children. Parents are encouraged to help out.
We hope that both Hebrew School students and the Mechina class will participate actively in the TBI's Young Family Shabbat Service held on the second Friday night of each month beginning at 6:30 PM.
Tuition for each Hebrew School student is $400 for the year. If a family enrolls more than one child in any TBI program, the cost of the Hebrew School tuition drops to $320.
We charge a book fee of $50 for our Hebrew text, Bible text and Jewish holiday book. Students own their books. This fee also provides funds for teacher materials and supplies.
Tuition for the Mechina program is $275 for the year. If a family enrolls more than one child in any TBI program, the cost of tuition for the Mechina program is $220.
Students must come from families who are members of Temple Beth Israel. The Temple's membership rate is $340 for the year which runs from March 1 to February 28. New members may join on a pro-rated basis. Membership includes High Holiday seating.
A non-refundable deposit of $50 is requested to reserve a place in the Hebrew School or in the Mechina program. Please make your check payable to Temple Beth Israel. We have a PayPal option at www.tbila.org/money. Our mailing address is:
Temple Beth Israel; P.O. Box 421186; Los Angeles, CA 90042
| Tuition Payment for TBI Education Program |