Confirmation & Post-Confirmation

Confirmation & Post-Confirmation (Grades 8-12)

We believe that Jewish education does not stop at the B’nai Mitzvah, and we have developed a comprehensive confirmation and post confirmation program where students can continue to grow and achieve a greater understanding of what it means to be a Jewish person in the United States and the world.

Our Confirmation Program, grades 8-10, provides a diverse curriculum. Students attend a core class that covers a specific topic for each grade level. Students discuss anti-Semitism, bioethics, cults, the Holocaust, modern Jewish heroes, and other relevant issues in terms of the Jewish ethical, moral, and legal response according to Jewish law. Through discussions about current events in Israel, they gain a better understanding of Israeli government and politics. Students are given a choice of electives, including self-defense, ceramics, scrapbooking, Jewish videos and Judaism through science fiction and fantasy, Bible studies, Israeli dancing, Jewish cooking, drama, and more. Dinner seminars, a highlight of the Confirmation Program, are conducted several times a year. Parents are invited to join students to hear various speakers provide valuable information about current topics. The 10th grade students lead Shavuot Services at which time they are confirmed.

Our Post-Confirmation Program, grades 11-12, provides students with an opportunity to continue their Jewish education while remaining involved in synagogue life. Students study Torah, discuss current events, and explore ethical issues with Rabbi Averbach. The format of the class allows students to express themselves candidly in a non-judgmental environment. The program was originally conceived after students leaving the Confirmation Program asked how they could continue their studies at Temple Etz Chaim.