Holiday traditions are taught in greater depth. 4th Grade Students explore the origins of Sephardic and Ashkenazic communities around the world, and discuss the many ways of being Jewish. 5th Grade Students become familiar with Jewish immigration to the United States, American Jewish communities, and the evolution of American Judaism. Fifth graders trace their own roots. 6th Grade Students study the major events related to the founding of the State of Israel, and explore the social, political, and economic climate of modern Israel.
Discussions emphasize current events.
7th Grade Students examine the roots of modern Jewish political and social movements. The Holocaust is introduced, supplemented by films and visiting speakers. Discussions of current events continue. 8th Grade Students discuss a wide range of topics, including Jewish interpretations of current ethical and political issues, as well as subjects of special concern. The year culminates in a graduation ceremony where the students present their independent study projects to the school.