The CAS Learning & Engagement Center is a dynamic, interactive educational program starting at age 2. We use the curriculum from The Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL). Classes meet on Sunday mornings from 9:30-12:30 (note: 2-year-olds meet from 9:30 to 12).
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Children are introduced to Jewish life through songs, stories, sensory play, holiday celebrations, and simple Hebrew exposure.
The focus is on creating a warm, safe, and joyful environment where children begin to build their Jewish identity and connection to community.
Our 2-year-old students attend from 9:30 AM–12:00 PM and enjoy a developmentally appropriate program that includes music, movement, crafts, play-based learning, snack time, and hands-on Jewish experiences designed especially for young learners.
Students begin to "blossom" in their Jewish learning.
They explore Hebrew letters and sounds, Jewish holidays, mitzvot through hands-on activities, and simple Torah stories.
This stage builds curiosity, confidence, and excitement about being part of the Jewish people.
Students grow into active learners.
They begin reading basic Hebrew words, learning prayers, understanding Jewish values (middot), and connecting Torah stories to their lives.
Emphasis is placed on Jewish identity, classroom community, and foundational skills.
Students deepen their Jewish learning and connection.
They expand Hebrew reading, explore Torah portions, mitzvot in daily life, and Jewish holidays with more depth.
They begin thinking about responsibility, belonging, and what it means to be part of Am Yisrael.
This is a major milestone stage.
Students prepare for B'nai Mitzvah by learning Torah blessings, Haftorah introduction, prayer skills, Jewish ethics, and leadership.
They explore Jewish identity more deeply and begin taking ownership of their role in Jewish community life.
Students transition from learners to leaders.
They serve as assistants in younger classrooms, learn leadership skills, and take responsibility within the synagogue community.
They continue Jewish learning while developing confidence, maturity, and a sense of purpose in guiding others.
The goal of the b'nai mitzvah program at CAS is to equip students with the tools and knowledge necessary to be an active participant in worship services throughout their lifetime. Students begin additional preparation for bar or bat mitzvah at least 12 months prior to their date. They acquire a thorough knowledge of both Torah and Haftarah Trope, and apply that knowledge toward learning their assigned material. By the end of their studies, most students have the skills to learn any other Torah or Haftarah portion that may be assigned to them in the future.
After Torah is mastered, study progresses to the service itself. Students progress at their own speed, and have the choice of leading as much of the Friday night and Saturday morning service as they can learn.
Students also prepare a d'var Torah, which they will present during the service.
High school students struggle with their identity. They ask a variety of questions, like "Who am I?", "What should I do with my life?", and "Where do I fit in?". The problem is compounded for Jewish youth growing up in an area where they are the minority.
The process of confirmation classes helps Jewish young people develop a strong Jewish identity and helps them to develop the skills that they need after high school. Besides simply sitting in class, confirmation gives students a chance to interact with other students as they discuss topics and are called on to defend their beliefs in controlled settings.
Confirmation is the culmination of participation in religious school as a student, and a required step if a student wishes to make the transition to becoming a madrikh (classroom assistant) in the CAS Learning & Engagement Center.
At CAS, confirmation is a year-long study process for high school students, typically concluding in a Friday night confirmation service.