Who Am  I And How Did I Get Here ?

This inquiry will be coached and guided by Alan Zucker, who has, for over 40 years, done that very project in his family search. In that effort, he has discovered people and stories that were unspoken, lost, or unknown. Mr. Zucker will share his experiences and help guide student efforts so that this project becomes an on-going inquiry into who they are and how they got here. Finding out the origin of family names, places of residence, occupations as well as gathering family photographs are all part of this journey.  We will also discuss relevant Jewish and world history as it may relate to the people and places we uncover in this prosses of Jewish discovery. 

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Learning objectives:

A project of self-discovery by finding your roots:

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• In this project, each student will make personal inquiries, conduct web research, interview family members and start to put together a family tree to trace back in time people, dates, and places that have brought each of the students to this place and time. 

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• The students will learn about the lives, lifestyles, and history, of their ancestors including the origin of family names, different occupations, and cities/villages of origin via photographs, citizenship papers, ships' records, and stories told for the first time.​​

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Combating Antisemitism as
a Jewish Teenager

Jewish teenagers are exposed to antisemitism, both in person and on social media, at an alarming rate.  Whether it is hate speech, offensive “jokes”, or physical intimidation, the persistence of antisemitism is a concern throughout the Jewish community.  In this course, we explore and practice a broad range of effective strategies for students to identify and respond to antisemitism in their high school and college environments and beyond.

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• Enable students to trace the historical development of antisemitism, connecting past events to present-day manifestations, and emphasizing the importance of learning from history to prevent its recurrence.

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• Equip students with the ability to identify and dissect modern forms of antisemitism, including antisemitism appearing on social media.

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• Empower students to become advocates against antisemitism by providing them with resources and strategies for addressing prejudice in their communities.

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Jews And The News

Welcome to the 2023-2024 version of  “Jews and the News” at Mifgash!  Our spirited, discussion-based course will focus this year on the complex and vastly challenging societal issues we face as Jewish high school students in the turmoil of our politically and socially divided society. Since our class will evaluate newsworthy events, it is tough to reliably predict this year's topics. However, if I have to make some predictions, we will likely discuss the chaotic and unprecedented contentious build-up to the 2024 presidential election,  the threats posed to American Jews by both far-right and far-left political extremism and what is termed "identity" politics,  and current challenges facing Israel and Jews around the world.  I know that leaves a lot of room for some interesting possibilities!  And student-initiated discussions and suggestions for topics are always welcomed!   If you would like to discuss and debate these and other current issues in a friendly, fun, and supportive Jewish environment, there's no doubt that  “Jews and the News” is the class for you!

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Learning objectives:

Over the course of the trimester, students will:

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• Explore and discuss current events and societal issues through a Jewish lens and a Jewish historical context.

• Develop an understanding, appreciation, and the ability to consider diverse opinions within both the Jewish community and our broader society.

• Engage in lively discussion and review issues in a fun, respectful, and safe Jewish environment, focusing on topics which might not be freely discussed as part of the students’ standard middle school or high school experience (for example, antisemitism). 

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This Is Us

Join Mia and Alon, our Israeli Shinshinim, in this engaging Israeli-focused interactive, musical, and dance class. Together we will learn about Israeli pop culture by listening to and discussing modern Israeli music. Through the music, we will hear about what modern Israeli life has to offer while understanding the different perspectives of the social, emotional, and cultural aspects of the people and society. Then......we will dance the night away as we move together in modern choreographies to the music and songs we have just learned.

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Learning objectives:

Over the course of the trimester, students will:

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• Students will be exposed to current Israeli music and lyrics and will learn some Hebrew phrases and songs.

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• Students will be taught Hebrew through their dance lessons.

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• Students will have a better understanding of Israeli culture.

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The Flavors Of Israel

In this class, we will learn to identify and appreciate the reach and diverse flavors that are unique to Israeli food. Together we will prepare a variety of popular and authentic Israeli dishes. Israeli fare is a melting pot of regional dishes: Mizrahi, Sephardic, and Ashkenazi styles. Classic Mediterranean flavors and food represent Israelis' history, people, traditions, and journeys. This class is for you if you want to learn about Israeli culture, together with Hebrew, and enjoy cooking. Come join me every Sunday in Rivi's kitchen (at Temple Israel).

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Learning objectives:

Over the course of the trimester, students will:

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• Through the culinary experience, the students will get familiar with a wide variety of Israeli food and its ethnic origins.

• Students will be exposed to and learn the health benefits of a variety of spices, herbs, and spices blends.

• Students will gain culinary skills and confidence in the kitchen.

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