This program is a Reform-sponsored two-year course of Jewish studies for 11th and 12th grade students who have been Confirmed. Its goal is to train future religious school teachers and leaders for the Reform movement.

Objectives

Students will:

• Acquire knowledge of the history of Reform Judaism
• Show proficiency in the reading of Hebrew and understanding of basic Hebrew prayers
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of Bible through a Reform Jewish lens
• Will demonstrate basic teaching skills by student teaching weekly under the aegis of the student’s home congregation
• Will demonstrate knowledge of educational theory as covered in the Education curriculum.

Credit Requirements

14 credits after the completion of the equivalent of Confirmation in a Union for Reform Judaism-affiliated religious school.

Students attend class one night a week, plus enroll in a supervised student teaching program at a Reform synagogue for both years. As required by the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, synagogues will offer an additional formal study component. This study period will be held for two hours a month with the Rabbi, Education Director or teacher. Each individual synagogue will determine whether students will meet monthly, weekly or bi-weekly to fulfill this requirement.

NOTE: Along with the Teaching Certificate, seniors may receive up to four college credits through an arrangement with Gratz College.

Subject Requirements

• History of Reform Judaism
• Hebrew
• Bible Survey
• Educational Theory and Methodology
• Those students who pass a Hebrew exam at the beginning of the year may choose another elective course in its place, if available.