Teaching our children

Congregation Shir Hadash Religious School Mission Statement states:

            The mission of Shir Hadash Religious School is to inspire students to become life long learners committed to torah (study), avodah (spiritual development), gemilut hasidim (service to others), and tikkun olam (repair of the world).  From a Reconstructionist perspective students should pursue their personal connection with Judaism as a civilization, study Torah as a history of our people and as an  expression of humankind’s relationship with G-d, and reflect on their moral and ethical obligations to the earth and all its inhabitants.  Through creative and enjoyable programs and teaching techniques, as well as social and service opportunities, Shir Hadash’s students are encouraged to connect with the Shir Hadash community, the Milwaukee Jewish community, the American Jewish community, and K’lal Yisrael (the Jewish people).  Shir Hadash Religous School strives to inspire students to make informed choices concerning living authentic Jewish lives.  Through the study of Tanach and extra-biblical texts, Hebrew, Jewish history, rituals and their meanings, and mitzvot as moral and ethical guides, students should develop their own sense of G-d and Judaism in their lives.

Now in its fourth year, Shir Hadash Religious School continues to break new ground using innovative, interactive educational programs to meet the needs of its diverse student/parent population.

Our wonderful Hadashim (pre-schoolers and K-4) students and their parents meet once a month to learn Jewish customs and traditions, hear stories of our past and present, sing Jewish songs, play Jewish games, dance, and create memories with interactive craft projects.  Parents are rewarded with ideas and suggestions on how to include even the youngest members of the family into Jewish practices and celebrations.

This year our second level includes K-5 through second grade.  In keeping with the Reconstructionist emphasis on Tikkun Olam, our children continue to focus on the mitzvot of service to others including visiting the sick, feeding the hungry, and protecting our planet.  God’s Paintbrush used in conjunction with God’s Paintbrush Classroom Activity Kit and Torah stories has opened an on-going discussion about God in our children’s lives and our world.  A Pre-Hebrew program introduces students orally to common Hebrew words and sayings used in the home, the synagogue, and the classroom.

The Integrated Judaic/Hebrew program serves our 3rd through 6th graders.  While our Hebrew beginners learn their Alephbet through programmed instruction, games, and supplementary learning tools, they also are gaining insight into their Jewish heritage and culture as they learn basic Hebrew vocabulary.  Our 4th through 6th graders study Hebrew using individual booklets which focus on specific prayers and blessings.  This is a self-paced program where each student progresses at his or her own pace using repetition, introduction to shoreshim and vocabulary, picture inspired translations, midrashim, and games.  Group work reinforces and enhances the student’s interest and progress.  Judaic studies bring all the students together to study the synagogue, symbols of our faith, Mainonides’ Ladder of Tzedakah, and ways to practice Gemilut Hasidim in their lives.

Classes are open not only to Shir Hadash members, but to anyone interested in a unique Jewish learning experience.  Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation for members is provided on an individual basis.

For further information or to register your child for classes, or if you have any questions, contact our Religious School Coordinator, Chris Avdah Cowles at school@cshmilw.org.

David Dropkin is our Youth Committee chairperson.

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