Religious Education at CKI
Few Mitzvot appear more often in Jewish tradition than the requirement to “Teach Our Children.” That commitment is expressed most directly through our Religious School. From Pre-School through Bar/Bat Mitzvah and beyond, CKI provides a modern, challenging curriculum that uses the latest methods and materials to teach our enduring values and heritage.
Curriculum
Our Religious School curriculum is based on a thoughtful consideration of both the material we want to impart to our children and on creating life-long, active members of the Jewish community. We focus on the individual needs of our students, and are able to tailor instruction to meet those needs.
Class Offerings
Kindergarten, Grade 1 and Grade 2 meet on Sundays from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm to study holidays, culture, history and some Hebrew.
Grades 3 through 7 meet on Sundays from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. Students first attend a session of Hebrew classes, followed by a short break with a Kosher snack, and then a second session of Judaic studies. All the students attend a short “learning” service to become familiar with the prayers and sections of our Saturday morning service.
Judaic studies cover Israel, Jewish History, Current Events, Morals, Values, and Culture. Students explore topics relevant to their lives and to what is happening in the world today.
Students are placed in Hebrew language classes according to their proficiency:
- Hebrew 1: Introduction to Hebrew – for new students who haven’t had any Hebrew before.
- Hebrew 2: Beginning Hebrew – for students who are still learning their letters and sounds as well as basic vocabulary and prayers.
- Hebrew 3: Intermediate Hebrew – for students who have mastered all the letters and are now ready to explore the intricacies of the Hebrew Language and learn the Friday Night Service.
- Hebrew 4: Advanced Hebrew – for children who are approaching their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. This class focuses on the Saturday Service, Parsha, and grammar of the Hebrew language.
In the year leading up to their Bar or Bat Mitzvah, students learn to chant their Torah and Haftarah portions, and prepare to lead the Friday night and Saturday morning services. They attend Tuesday afternoon classes in addition to the Sunday classes.
Faculty
Our staff members are knowledgable, enthusiastic teachers. In addition, members of our congregation act as mentors for students who need extra help and encouragement
If you have questions, would like registration materials for your child, or are interested in teaching in our Religious School, please contact us at School@ckibbnj.org or 732-469-0934.