“Bringing it Home” is an innovative curriculum for teachers created by CKids, and is tailor made for Hebrew Schools dealing with the handicaps and uncertainty of Corona.
On Tuesday, 12 Elul – September 1, teachers from around the world gathered virtually to familiarize themselves with the new CKids curriculum, “Bringing It Home”, and hear from its creators. With a talented and experienced lineup of speakers, the event served as both a source of inspiration and an opportunity to learn.
The opening remarks of the evening were given by Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, vice chairman of Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch, emphasizing the vital role Hebrew School plays in Jewish Education. Pointing to the special attention the Rebbe gave to teachers, Rabbi Kotlarsky highlighted the importance of a teacher’s impact on a child’s upbringing.
“This year in particular,” Rabbi Kotlarsky continued, “with zoom possibly being the only Jewish education that children are having, it is imperative to use the time in the classroom to connect with students on an individual basis.”
Rabbi Zalman Lowenthal, director of CKids, explained how “Bringing it Home,” the Hebrew School theme of this year, is dedicated to ensuring Judaism is brought home in a fun, safe and practical way.
A curriculum overview, along with tools and guides to implementing it with zoom, was presented by Miss Chaya Zirkind, director of the CKids Hebrew School. A model lesson was then taught by Mrs. Aviana Dahan, Jewish Online School and Hebrew School teacher, which allowed teachers to see the curriculum in action while providing valuable hands-on experience.
Dr. Rona M. Novick, PhD, dean of the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration at Yeshiva University, highlighted the evening with an insightful and impactful talk addressing the need to navigate your students’ emotional needs. She presented tools for creating an emotionally safe environment during the uncertainty of this global pandemic, and discussed methods of improving your connection with students.
Closing remarks were given by Mrs. Devora Ita Lewis, Shlucha and Hebrew School director in Old Tappan, NJ, followed by a Q & A session moderated by CKids Hebrew School director Miss Chaya Zirkind.
Teachers came away feeling rejuvenated and excited about the curriculum, invigorated with the proper emotional tools for teaching the upcoming Hebrew School year.
Mrs. Pearl Krasnianski, Shlucha and Hebrew School Director in Honolulu, Hawaii reflected the way most attendees felt, “Thank you CKids! That was wonderful, relevant and absolutely brilliant!”
CKids is a project of Merkos 302.
