High Schoolers Tackled Election Issues
Makor's Chai-School is in full swing. More than 18 teens, grades 9-12, meet weekly to discuss issues of relevance to young Jewish adults in a relaxed social atmosphere. Throughout this fall and winter we have focused on Jewish voting values. Our teens delved into the most pressing issues of this election cycle and how Judaism informs their opinions. We examined the Jewish perspectives, both right and left, on issues such as gun control, gender and sexuality, environment, education, race, and antisemitism in the media.
We look forward to continuing our discussions of American social concerns, and will now expand our conversation to Israel, including the BDS (Boycott, Divest and Sanction) movement, anti-Israel sentiment on campus, settlements and Jerusalem. We hope to equip our teens with the tools to address issues they will soon face on the college campus. Plans are also underway for a dialogue with Muslim teens this spring.
Our Chai-school leaders include Deb Char, Barb Mendoza and Rabbi Judy Chessin. Our experiential program always includes great food and wonderful animated dialogue. Our high school students have had astounding attendance, a sign that they enjoy their time together and value lively and relevant conversation. Whereas other synagogues end their "formal" religious training after 10th grade and Confirmation, we at Temple Beth Or are proud to offer a meaningful Jewish program for students up to 12th grade.
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