Special Events & Programs
Jewish Literature and Cultural Arts
Children’s Library
The Children’s Library is a wonderful place for children to find Jewish books and material. Children are encouraged to borrow books for up to a two-week period. The library is open during school, and when the building is open. Books must be returned to the library by the end of each school year. Parents are responsible for the cost of replacing any books not returned.
Children’s Library Resource Fund
Celebrate a child’s birthday or special occasion by making a donation to the Children’s Library. Upon receiving a donation, a new Jewish resource item or prayer book is purchased, and a label with the child’s name and birthday or simcha is placed on the item.
Blitz Family Children’s Cultural Arts Fund
This fund was established to provide guest speakers, music and art programs for the educational benefit of the children of Temple Beth-El. Celebrate a child’s birthday or special occasion by making a donation to this fund.
Special Events
Consecration
Newly enrolled students in kindergarten through second grade are consecrated in an age-old ceremony to welcome new learners. At Temple Beth-El, consecration is held on Simchat Torah. Parents and students are encouraged to attend and will receive a special mini Torah and consecration certificate. A consecration photograph will be taken and given to each child.
Gimel Siddur Ceremony
The study of the Hebrew language and the learning of prayer skills is an important goal to fulfill. Children begin their Hebrew education in Kitah Gimel (3rd grade). By the end of the school year the students have gained the ability to read and pray. Parents help design a bookplate to be placed in a Gates of Prayer for Young People Siddur, and present it to their child during a special Family Service in their honor.
Sixth Grade Retreat
A retreat for all sixth grade students is a required part of the sixth grade curriculum. The retreat takes place at Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute in Oconomowoc, WI. The cost is included in the tuition.
Special Programs
S.K.I.P. Send A Kid To Israel Partnership
Through a cooperative effort with the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, Temple Beth-El participates in a program that can make a trip to Israel an integral part of the education of students enrolled in the school. SKIP is a savings plan in partnership with the Temple, the student’s family and the Federation.
Beginning in Kitah Gimel (3rd grade), each participating student’s family contributes $125, the Temple contributes $50 per student, and the Federation adds $85 annually. The money is invested in an interest-bearing account through the completion of ninth grade. At the end of the program, students can select any one of a number of Israel Experiences offered through the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.
For more information, contact the Education Office.
Summer F.U.N.
Every summer, Temple Beth-El offers a summer camp for pre-school children. It is a summer filled with water activities, art projects, drama, and both indoor and outdoor programs.Click here to view the 2010 brochure.
Education Committee
The Education Committee formulates the principles and policies of the Slavin-Malkin School, adult education, and the libraries. If you are interested in becoming a part of this committee, please contact the V.P. of Education, Susie Wexler.