What is Shoresh typically like on Fridays?
4:00–6:00 PM Main learning
All learners at Shoresh spend part of their session doing community-building activities to build relationships with each other and with Shoresh team members. This focus on kehillah (community), is central to helping learners grow Jewish roots in the congregation.
Kindergarten–1st grade learners have a dynamic schedule of hands-on activities for that helps them learn how to be Jewish and about Jewish values. This includes Shabbat-focused music, art, reading, and playing outside when feasible. Learners often work in small groups in centers as they explore a particular topic.
2nd–5th grade learners explore how Judaism is relevant in today's world through project based learning. Learners and teachers investigate topics with age-appropriate materials. They then, together, decide which project will best demonstrate their learning. Recent projects have included skits, scrapbooks, cooking projects, parent showcases, and short videos.
6th–9th grade learners learn about modern issues and grapple with Jewish values and texts through animated discussions with clergy and teachers. Our oldest learners are able to explore more complex topics, and they often enjoy hands-on activities just as much as our youngest learners! Part of the session is also spent on activities learners choose as they build autonomy.
Read more details about the Shoresh curriculum, including Shoresh-wide and grade-level learning priorities.
What is the calendar? How do learners get to Shoresh from school? Answers to these and other questions are in our FAQs!
6:00–6:30 PM Family Shabbat service
Designed for learners and parents together, this service is a central component of our Shabbat-based model. Learners conclude Friday afternoon learning by welcoming Shabbat in a meaningful community setting where they can put their knowledge into practice at our weekly Shabbat service.
The family service is beloved by Shoresh families! Parents—and often grandparents, cousins, and others—cherish the focused time with their child. At the end of the energetic, musical service, our community comes together to light candles, make kiddush, and bless the children of our community for Shabbat.