Talmud Torah Religious School

A Message from the Education Director and Assistant Principal:

Dear Talmud Torah Parents,

This past week was one of great upheaval as we witnessed violence and anger that cut into the very fabric of American democracy and our own belief that we live in a society that refuses to accept acts of violence as a way to express ourselves.

Many of our children along with us either saw or heard about what occurred. Rabbi Penina, our Assistant Principal who has three small children, wrote to our teachers eloquently, “When we spoke about it at our home, we talked about how sometimes in life, things do not go the way we would like them to, but we never react with violence; we can be disappointed but we do our best to live our lives the best way we can by making the world better. We can speak out in peaceful protest but never in violence.”

Prior to our Sunday Talmud Torah, we asked teachers to offer a prayer of peace for our nation if students chose to speak about these events without our prompting. We also shared some talking points and specific language that we wanted them to use that would deepen their understanding of the concepts that we have been discussing when teaching Jewish values. While we fear that violence may arise again in the next few weeks, we can only pray for peace and tolerance as we try as a nation to heal and begin a new chapter of listening and talking with Kavod, respect and caring.

As Jewish educators, it is our obligation to teach Gimilut Hasadim, acts of loving kindness and shalom, peace. We ask that you share anything that you have discussed with your children that you think helped them during this period.

We wish you all continued health and safety during these challenging times.

Moshe Ben-Lev and Rabbi Penina Alexander

B’nai Israel’s Talmud Torah Religious School is a dynamic, engaging and creative Jewish learning environment that incorporates the latest in educational practices. We especially focus on creating a social-emotional space where we recognize each student’s strengths and build a strong community.

Our students are active learners who create, explore, and are guided as they discover the relevance of Judaism in their lives. Our teachers are thoughtful, committed and caring who focus on a student-centered approach for learners with a variety of learning styles.

What are the goals we have for our Talmud Torah students?

• To learn Jewish practices and observances for Shabbat, holidays, and every day
• To gain a working knowledge of prayer Hebrew
• To build a Jewish community of peers and families
• To experience working together in an environment including project-based learning and experiential education
• To be joyful in their Jewish practices and beliefs

 We look forward to learning with you!

Moshe Ben-Lev, Education Director and Rabbi Penina Alexander, Assistant Principal 301-816-5576

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