middle school

GRADES 6-8

Due to COVID-19, all jLAB programming is currently online. Zoom links are sent in weekly emails.

Monday afternoon

Our Gesher (“Bridge”) program for middle school students meets together on Monday afternoons from 4:30-6:30 pm. The day has several components:

Judaic Studies classes by grade-level | 4:30-5:15 pm

Grade 6: Mitzvot Students examine our commandments and explore what is relevant to them and how these laws “fit” in their modern lives. Students will also engage in Hebrew reading studies to develop and maintain their skills as they approach becoming b’nei mitzvah.

Grade 7: Torah Students explore overriding themes within the Torah as well as specific portions and determine where they see themselves in the stories and texts of our people.

Grade 8: Hineini (I am Here!) Students turn theory into reality by applying Jewish teachings and values to their own lives and exploring opportunities for them to participate in Jewish life as they move into their teenage years.

T’filah | 5:15-5:45 pm

Our middle school students use the natural setting in which it occurs to learn prayer. Students have opportunities to help lead this service alongside the Cantor, and all participants develop the lifelong skill of prayer literacy.

Tracks comprised of mixed grade-levels | 5:45-6:30 pm

Students can choose from:

• Creative Arts
• Science & Technology
• eSports/Gaming

Students explore Judaism as integrated with the interest area of their choice. Opportunities include a variety of disciplines within each area. Through these lenses, students gain an appreciation of the weekly Torah portions, holiday observances, and Jewish values