Jewish teen-education programs gear up for the new year

There are several informal Jewish teen-education programs throughout the state, most based at the local Jewish Federation or JCC, and supported by a Jewish Federation, JCC, and/or Jewish community foundation. Curricula run the creative gamut, from the arts to community service to text-based study, ethics, and Holocaust education, and from Jewish Superheroes, sports figures, and comedians, to Torah Yoga to political activism – all through a Jewish lens and tailored to teens’ interests and schedules. All designed to encourage post-bnei mitzvah to continue their Jewish journey and stay engaged in the Jewish community, many programs also offer opportunities for leadership and philanthropy.

Pluralistic and open to all Jewish teens, regardless of synagogue affiliation, level of observance, or prior Jewish education, the programs typically meet one evening a week; some include an additional Sunday afternoon.

Full details are available on each program’s website.

Eastern Connecticut 


Jewish Community High School


Grades 9-12

Jewish Federation of

Eastern Connecticut 


Tracy Todd, Director 


www.jfec.com 


(860) 442-8062

The JCHS year comprises three semesters, with the second semester dedicated to community service, as an opportunity for participants to fulfill the community-service graduation requirement of some Eastern Connecticut public high schools. JCHS meetings being with dinner and conclude with dessert and socializing.

This year, JCHS is offering classes on a variety of topics, taught by area rabbis, including “Rock and Roll: Jewish Themes and Influences;” “Jewish Humor from Adam to Adam Sandler;” “Life on the Line: You Make the Call!;” “Jews in the News;” and “Jewish Life.”

The 2012 graduates of Mercaz.

Eastern Fairfield County

Merkaz: The Community

High School for Judaic Studies

Grades 9-12
Jewish Center for

Community Services of

Eastern Fairfield County

Marjorie Krubiner, Director

www.jccs.org/merkaz

(203) 372-6567

Through interactive activities, facilitated discussions, debates, films, the arts, guest speakers, experiential programs, field trips, and interviewing area Holocaust survivors, interfaith clergy, and lay leaders, students address many of the “tough questions” about identity, community, Jewish engagement, and personal choices. Merkaz students experience, witness, and hear the stories of many members of our community, getting a unique opportunity to interact with them “up close and personal.”

Course offerings include social action, Holocaust education, digital storytelling, meditation, conversational Hebrew, dance, film, and art. Learn about Israel, contemporary issues, leadership and ethical dilemmas. College- application and preparation classes are available for juniors and seniors.

Greater Hartford

Jewish Teen Learning Connection

Grades 6-12

Zachs Campus, West Hartford

Heather Fiedler, Executive Director

www.jtconnect.org

(860) 727-6110

After a two-year review process, the former Yachad: Greater Hartford Jewish Community High School marks its 18th year with a new program name, office location, and curriculum. Rebranded as Jewish Teen Learning Connection, the program offers classes and activities at several locations throughout the region, including the Farmington Valley and East of the River. Schedule options include full-semester and one- and two-month “minimester” for juniors and seniors.

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