Integrated Jewish Learning
Values in Action
Jewish values such as tikkun olam (repairing the world), tzedakah (charitable giving), chesed (kindness), and bal tashchit (not wasting) are woven into classroom lessons and lived through service learning.
Students participate in hands-on, age-appropriate mitzvah projects throughout the year—collecting items for underserved children, supporting environmental initiatives, crafting blankets for children in need, and visiting residents at local senior centers. Weekly tzedakah donations and holiday giving teach students the power of collective impact.
At Shlenker, Jewish learning is purposeful, relevant, and alive.
By integrating it across subjects and grade levels, we cultivate students who are academically prepared, spiritually grounded, and ready to lead lives of meaning and impact.
Hebrew Language & Prayer
Beginning in Early Childhood, Hebrew is introduced as a living, vibrant language. Students progress from early vocabulary and holiday blessings to reading, writing, and understanding Hebrew in both conversational and liturgical contexts.
Daily prayer experiences and weekly Kabbalat Shabbat services foster spiritual growth and fluency, empowering students to lead with confidence and connection.
Torah
In the Early Childhood years, students are introduced to Torah through stories and experiences that are integrated into their everyday classroom units and activities. In PreK-4, they explore Torah stories more deeply during Kabbalat Shabbat, building early connections to Jewish values and community.
In the Elementary grades, students continue to engage with Torah through lessons that emphasize kindness, respect, and responsibility. They are encouraged to ask questions, make personal connections, and see Torah as a living source of guidance and inspiration.
Holidays & Celebrations
The Jewish calendar comes alive at Shlenker. Students learn the rituals, prayers, and significance of each holiday through integrated classroom activities, Hebrew lessons, and school-wide celebrations.
From singing and dancing on Simchat Torah to planting trees for Tu B’Shvat, students embrace the joy and depth of Jewish tradition.
Israel Education
Shlenker students develop a personal and evolving relationship with Israel. In the Early Childhood years, learning focuses on building familiarity and love for Israel through songs, stories, holidays, and exposure to Israeli culture. Hebrew language learning begins in PreK-3, helping students connect naturally to Israel’s people and traditions.
In the older grades, instruction expands to include Israel’s geography, history, culture, and modern life. Students explore how Israel’s past and present shape Jewish identity today and develop an appreciation for its diversity, creativity, and resilience. Yom Ha’atzmaut is celebrated with school-wide experiences that highlight Israeli innovation and spirit.
Holocaust Education
Beginning in third grade, students are introduced to Holocaust education through developmentally appropriate lessons. They meet with survivors and descendants, participate in memorial services, and explore the importance of remembrance, resilience, and moral responsibility.