News from our Co-Deans
Joe Greenfield and Larry Hepner

This is an update for those interested in the curriculum for Hebrew Studies. The foundation of the course of study is guided not by gaining proficiency in conversational Hebrew, but by building a thorough knowledge of the Hebrew used in our worship, observances and prayer books. The successful implementation of the curriculum will make preparation for Bar/Bat Mitzvah easier and build life-long familiarity with the components of our worship.

The Mitkadem program is built on levels, each one called a Ramah (plural - Ramot). There are currently 22 levels (a 23rd and final Ramah is due soon). With the exception of the first two Ramot, which are book based, all the rest are built around self-paced study, activities and worksheets. Each Ramah begins with student contract or Brit. This is where the student keeps track of the activities completed.

There are five types of activities in each Ramah. They are the introduction, reading, vocabulary, grammar and words about prayer. After the introduction, the rest of the activities can be completed in any order and at whatever pace the student wants.

At the conclusion of a Ramah, there is an assessment in two parts typically, one reading and the other written. There is no pressure to perform immediately. The goal here is to learn the material and move on when one is ready.

We have implemented a master record keeping program so that when the next year comes and a student is in a new grade level, we will have a record of the last Ramah completed and comments. This way, the new teachers will have a good idea of where to review and start the year.

This year is a new learning experience for all concerned. In consultation with the education specialist at the URJ, we are on track for the implementation of the curriculum. There is still a lot of growing to do on the part of the new teachers first time to the Mitkadem and on the part of the administration. However, the program offers a lot in terms of student independence of study and teacher support of the student.

This is just an overview of the Mitkadem program. We will be working all year long to make adjustments to the program to enhance the level of learning of each student. If you have questions, please feel free to contact me at the Temple.

Larry Hepner
Co-Dean, Temple Beth Elohim Religious School

Download our School Manual (pdf)