Components of Beit Midrash Family Education & Engagement

*The information below reflects engagement activities that take place during a typical year at Beit Midrash.

Student & Family Tefillah

All students start their day at Beit Midrash with Tefillah in our beautiful sanctuary. We ask that a parent or guardian stay with younger children for this time. By making this a family learning time, parents can connect with other families and model the importance of Jewish learning for their kids. 

Sunday Schmoozes

Parents/guardians are always invited to stay and schmooze (chat) in the social hall after Tefillah. Generally these gatherings are impromptu but occasionally we may organize a group discussion about Jewish parenting issues and someone might bring bagels and coffee or donuts. It’s a time to build community and be together.

Beit Midrash Havdalah

At least once during the school year, we gather to end Shabbat and start our week in the sweetest way possible.

Mitzvah Days

Mitzvah Days are a central part of the Beit Midrash curriculum, when students get to see their Jewish values put into action. Family participation on these days helps to underscore the importance of service learning and we can do more in the community! We also welcome help planning the many logistics of Mitzvah Days.

Volunteering

We are always in need of volunteers! Each year there will be many opportunities for parents (and teens) to support Jewish learning at Beit Midrash. We often need folks to assist with purchasing snacks, keep our building tidy, help teachers prep special projects, and help supervise during occasional trips to the forest sanctuary or Arnold Park. Please plan to volunteer for something at least twice a year.

Closing Circle

As always, families are invited to participate in Closing Circle, which begins about 5 minutes before pickup. This is a chance to come together once more before lunch and Hebrew classes begin for older students.

Pizza Lunch

What began as a Teen Fundraiser for the Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence (CARDV) has now become an integral part of the Beit Midrash experience. Pizza Lunch! Signups are at the door each Beit Midrash morning and Woodstock's Pizza is delivered after Beit Midrash ends, just in time for lunch. Everyone who wants is welcome to stay and socialize over pizza (or any vegetarian lunch you want to bring). Pizza slices are reasonably-priced and all proceeds are donated to CARDV.

Kitah Keshet

Kitah Keshet is the epitome of family engagement! This special program is open to infants and toddlers through the age of 3 along with their caregivers, to explore Jewish songs, dancing, crafts, and play and engage with other self-identified Jewish families. Kitah Keshet runs at the same time as preK-7th Beit Midrash classes but uses a different registration form. More information and registration forms can be found under the "Kitah Keshet" link.