Hebrew School

The Hebrew School strives to create a rich, vibrant learning environment in which we can nourish our children’s growing Jewish identities, create a community of peers that is part of the larger community at BJ and the global Jewish community, and build the skills that children will need to be participatory members of their community.

The Hebrew School is a place where our children can learn new skills and ideas, struggle with questions of theology, meaning, and connection at an age-appropriate level, and test what they have learned through prayer, discussion, and interaction with BJ’s spiritual leaders and staff.

Schedule

The Hebrew School meets at 270 West 89th Street between Broadway and West End Avenue) on Mondays and Thursdays, 4:00-6:00pm.

“Our family and BJ are integrally woven together. We have been enriched by its members, the people who participate in the daily minyan and Shabbat services and by the spiritual leaders – on a daily basis, and in times of joy as well (and in particular) in times of grief.” — BJ Member

Policies and Procedures

• How does the Hebrew School welcome interfaith families?

The Hebrew School warmly welcomes all students who wish to pursue a Jewish education.  As a community, we maintain the standard of matrilineal descent, which means that to be halakhically (according to Jewish law) Jewish, one must be born to a Jewish mother.  If one is not born to a Jewish mother, one must undergo a conversion process prior to becoming bar or bat mitzvah.  We understand this is a delicate subject, and strive to work sensitively with families in the months and years preceding a child’s 13th birthday.  If  you have any questions about conversion, please contact Rabbinic Fellow Adam Roffman.

• What about children with special learning needs?

The Hebrew School is committed to educating any child who walks through our doors. Children with special needs and their families will meet with our Inclusion Intern to create a plan to best serve that child’s needs.

Registration

For more information, including membership requirements, financial aid, and payment schedules, and registration forms, click here.

Download a two-sided calendar with all of the Hebrew School’s important dates here.