YOUTH EDUCATION AT BETH YAM:
Nurturing Our Children in a Welcoming Religious School
As the only synagogue in southern Beaufort County with a thriving, beautiful Religious School, we are honored to offer a rich Jewish education to children ages 3 – 18 in a supportive environment. We provide a compassionate and encouraging atmosphere for our parents, no matter their faith, who face unique challenges raising Jewish children in today’s world.
Each week, we provide engaging and meaningful experiences that prepare our students to live a proud Jewish life. Our curriculum uses art, history, play, prayer and Hebrew language study to teach Jewish values and traditions as they prepare for their B’nai Mitzvahs and lifelong Jewish learning.
Our Director of Youth Education, Valerie Seldes, has over 25 years of experience in general and special education and is a dedicated and respected Special Education teacher in the Beaufort County School District. Valerie brings extensive experience and expertise in curriculum design and development, lesson planning, instructor training and oversight and managing learner challenges.
Class and program offerings include:
- Weekly classes for children in preschool through grade 7- Classes focus on teaching history, traditions, our culture, holidays, prayers and the reading of Hebrew at the appropriate age and learning levels.
- Madrichim Project – Weekly classes for students approaching their B’nai Mitzvahs in the coming year, who have completed two years in the Dalet Class. Students rotate days meeting with the Rabbi, Hebrew language instructors, or spending time working independently on their required Mitzvah Projects.
- Lishmah – Monthly seminar with the Rabbi and a group leader for post B’nai Mitzvah students, preparing them for the opportunity to participate in the International March of the Living Program during their junior or senior years of high school.
- High School Youth Group – Monthly classes for high school, post B’nai Mitzvah students that encourages social action, Tikkun Olam and team building.
Please reach out to Valerie Seldes at religiousschool@bethyam.org for more information regarding programming, tuition, registration or to address any other questions.
Thank you for your interest in our Youth Education Programs at Congregation Beth Yam. We can’t wait to meet you!