We are the Cheder Jewish Community, a parent-taught cooperative located in suburban Washington, DC. 

Since 2002, when the size of t e Cheder School surpassed the capacity of members’ homes, the Cheder Jewish School has rented space. Today (2024-25) we meet in Washington DC (Takoma DC) near Takoma Park and Silver Spring, Maryland. Many families lives in DC and in Maryland. 

We explore, celebrate, and transmit to our children Jewish insight and a sense of Jewish belonging. Historically, the Cheder Jewish School met in the homes of members. In some years when the community could not be accommodated in a single home, two neighboring houses were used. 

Founded in the 1970s and originally called the Fabrangen Cheder Community (from farbrangen "bringing together in joy"), today's Cheder Jewish Community is a vibrant, progressive Jewish community of about 20 households, many of which are interfaith, multiracial, LGBTQ+, etc. The community celebrates and makes music together, works on social justice projects, and sponsors a Hebrew and Jewish education school. The Cheder Jewish School was designed to be an alternative to “drop-off” Sunday school. Over the years, as members’ children got older, the group included more opportunities for adult members to come together to consider, explore, and celebrate their Jewishness. The Cheder’s membership reflects a variety of religious and spiritual beliefs and practices (and lack thereof), often referring to itself as “Reconformodox.” 

The Cheder Jewish Cmmunity is a non-profit organization, incorporated in the state of Maryland. The Cheder is governed by a Board of Trustees.  At a minimum the Board consists of a Chair, a Head of School, a Treasurer, and a Secretary. There is no limit on the size of the Board.

Board members, who are elected at an annual meeting by adult members of the Cheder Community, serve for one year terms, but may serve consecutive terms without term limits. The Cheder Board meets periodically throughout the year and has authority to make all decisions regarding governance.