A Letter from the Director

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to JUDA of Rockland, where Judaism comes alive and children are encouraged to ask and explore.

Our staff, hands-on curriculum, and holiday workshops are sure to make this experience both educational and enjoyable for our students.

Our curriculum is designed to instill within the children a basic yet thorough understanding of our traditions and values, a strong sense of Jewish pride and a love of Jewish life. Our Aleph Champ reading program has been uniquely successful worldwide in motivating the students toward Hebrew reading fluency.

We firmly believe that the holistic approach we employ is the most effective way to educate children and ensure an enduring connection with our heritage.

On  the first day of Hebrew School, parents and students are invited to attend a welcome breakfast and orientation at which staff and students, parents and directors of JUDA of Rockland can get to know and greet one another.

Finally, I would like to ask that every parent sign up to volunteer. Fill in your choice when you register your child. The committees are:

  • Hebrew School Friday Night Dinner
  • Hebrew School Holiday Celebrations- During Regular Hebrew School
  • Sukkah Party
  • Chanukah Party
  • Chanukah Gift Wrap
  • Tu B'shvat Fair
  • Hamantash Bake
  • Purim Party
  • End-of-Year-Celebration

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to call and discuss them with me at any time.

Looking forward to an exciting and successful partnership!

Sara'le Vigler

Director

Philosophy

JUDA of Rockland offers a warm and lively Jewish atmosphere where children attain a unique and exciting awareness of their Jewish identity.

Indeed, a child equipped with Jewish knowledge and sensitivity to our beautiful teachings and traditions, is a child better equipped to face the awesome moral challenges that they will face throughout their lives.

Aside from imparting Jewish knowledge, our approach places an emphasis on creating a positive, vibrant and joyful environment ensuring children’s continued interest in Judaism even as they move on in life. Our program is thus carefully blended with educational games, incentives, crafts, dramatics, family celebrations, and other engaging curricular activities.

We encourage you as a parent, to get involved and be in-tune with the material your child is learning. You may discover that your child’s Hebrew School education will add an enriching spiritual dimension to the life of your entire family.

Goals

Our Goal is for each student to...

  • Identify strongly as a Jewish person.
  • Know the why's and how's of Jewish life and gain an appreciation for the values and mandate of the Jewish people.
  • Master Hebrew reading.
  • Know the basic history of the Jewish people and its contemporary relevance.
  • Become comfortable expressing their feelings about G‑d, Torah, and religion.
  • Attain a Jewish perspective on life which will influence their involvement beyond their Hebrew School years.

Tuition

  • Kindergarten: $750

  • Grade 1: $1,000

  • Grades 2 - 7: $1,250

Tuition includes all books, supplies and fees.

Bar and Bat Mitzvah Training

All students nearing Bar and Bat Mitzvah: 13 years old for boys and 12 years old for girls, are given special private training to prepare them in a meaningful way for their special day. Please email rabbi@chabadnyack.org to plan your child’s special day.

Shabbat Youth Services

Hebrew School Students are encouraged to attend Shabbat morning services. Services are held every Saturday 10:00am – 12:30pm.

Attendance

Hebrew School for all grades up to and including 7th grade is held on Sunday morning from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. For the benefit of your child and all students, it is imperative that your child arrives on time and remains in school until the end of the session.

Consistent and timely attendance is vital! Please make Hebrew School a priority and impart this sense to your children in unequivocal terms.

Please schedule parties, play dates, sports activities and meetings outside of JUDA Hebrew School hours.

Inclement Weather

In the event of inclement weather, parents will be notified of cancelations and delays by email and Whatsapp.

Location

JUDA of Rockland is located at Chabad of The Nyacks.

Communication

During Hebrew School Hours: 845-642-4539 / 914-393-3152

After Hebrew School Hours: 845-356-6686

Email: hebrewschool@chabadnyack.org

Please share your feedback and suggestions regarding any aspect of JUDA. Your input allows us to constantly improve and upgrade our program and we value it greatly.

JUDA updates, changes or notifications will be made through email and whatsapp.

Parent-Teacher rapport is extremely important. A staff of dedicated teachers runs JUDA of Rockland. Each of them spends hours planning their lessons and designing creative methods of teaching. They are deeply concerned about the progress of each student and would be happy to discuss your child’s progress with you. Please call our office and we will make arrangements for you to speak with your child’s teacher.

Safety

Safety is of primary importance. Minor bumps, scrapes or bruises will be cared for by the school staff.

In case of a serious medical emergency, G‑d forbid, parents, family doctor and emergency responders will be contacted immediately. If, however, we cannot reach you or your doctor immediately we will use our best judgment on behalf of your child.

Special Conditions

If your child has any special challenges or conditions (i.e. social, behavioral, allergies), the knowledge of which would help us in caring for them and maximizing their potential, please bring them to our attention. (Please note that this information will be kept confidential.)

Dress Code & Supplies

Boys are encouraged to wear a kippah during Hebrew School.

Your Child's Belongings

Students are not permitted to bring CELL PHONES, i-pods, electronic gadgets or any dangerous objects to JUDA. In the event that a student brings them or any other materials we deem inappropriate for learning, the teacher will hold it for safekeeping and will return it to the parents at the end of the day. We respectfully request that parents take the lead in enforcing this rule and not put the administration in an uncomfortable position.

FOOD

Snacks and water are provided by JUDA. Please avoid sending any food with your child.

BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

JUDA of Rockland strives to create an atmosphere that reflects our Jewish values. We take pride in our student body who respect teachers, fellow students, and Chabad property.

We expect each student to:

  • Be courteous to fellow students and staff members

  • Follow classroom directions promptly

VOLUNTEERS

Parents are asked to volunteer and help out with at least one JUDA Program to contribute in helping create a successful event. Please select one of the following programs:

  1. JUDA Friday Night Dinner

  2. JUDA Holiday Celebrations (Chanukah, Purim. Pesach)

  3. JUDA Fun Day Events (will take place during Hebrew School Hours)

  4. End of Year Ceremony

HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD SUCCEED

In order for the JUDA program to be most effective, the home and school must work hand in hand to promote a close relationship. The following are a few suggestions to aid you in allowing this to happen.

  • A growing child needs plenty of rest. Set a reasonable bedtime the night before a JUDA day.

  • Many of our students are involved in other extra-curricular activities (e.g. sports, music, etc.). All these are important; however please make your child's Jewish education a priority.

  • There is a direct correlation between a student’s attendance, and his/her interest, achievement and attitude. Every time your child is absent, there is a loss of continuity to the program. Keep your child in school regularly.

  • Please help your child come to JUDA on time.

  • The place to voice your concerns of JUDA is with the director and teacher in private. Please do not discuss issues in the presence of your child.

  • Participation in synagogue services and celebration of Jewish holidays will greatly enhance your child's interest in Judaism and strengthen his/her Jewish identity. Our director and teachers are always willing to provide resources, share their expertise, and help out however possible.

  • Show your child that you are interested in his/her Jewish education. Spend time with your child reviewing what he/she has learned in class and listening to him/her read Hebrew to you. This will greatly encourage and help foster a strong and positive identity.

JUDA of Rockland strives to give your child an exciting experience in a nurturing Jewish environment all while educating your child in the ways of Judaism.

We look forward to a succesful JUDA experience together where you will see much joy from your children.