We find it rewarding to roll up our sleeves and model our progressive Jewish values to our children. (By the way, many of our teachers are often the non-Jewish partners of the family. We love everyone and treat everyone with the respect they deserve. Our members have decided to provide their children with a positive and progressive Jewish identity)
We all play a role in maintaining our community. Jobs change as the needs of the community and skill sets of the parents evolve. Each parent in the school is expected to take on at least one “Cheder Job.” For example:
We all play a role in maintaining our community. Jobs change as the needs of the community and skill sets of the parents evolve. Each parent in the school is expected to take on at least one “Cheder Job.” For example:
- Teacher: Yes, parents teach. That is what makes us unique. Teachers are responsible, often with a co-teacher, for class planning and teaching classes of up to 6 students. Teachers are given wide discretion to use their creativity to engage students in active learning. We have a really awesome and well-thought our multi-year curriculum. Depending on our skill sets, we may hire a Hebrew teacher.
- Board Member: Board Members meet throughout the year and have the responsibility to make sure all others are doing their jobs and the authority to make decisions on Cheder’s behalf. We love our Board!
- Adult Discussion Coordinator: Selects topics for engaging adult discussion, facilitates discussions or arranges for facilitation, arranges for guest speakers. Adult discussion (weekly) is the highlight for many parents to engage in thoughtful discussion on interesting topics after a hard week of work.
- Holiday Celebrations Coordinator: Community meals and celebrations, very Jewish! Our coordinator plans celebrations of Sukkot, Chanukah, Tu b’Shvat, Purim, and other holidays held at school or in members’ homes.
- Retreat Coordinator: Yes, we have optional retreats! Campfires, guitars, so much fun!
- Community Time Leader: We sing! We share what we did in our classes. We sit together as a community.
- Food Coordinator: We LOVE eating! Every family hosts bagels and lox (low-key style) at least once a year. Yes, bagels every week. The kids love it.
- Artistic Director: works with teachers to bring art into the classroom, teaches special art classes.
- Curriculum and Teacher Resource Advisor: helps teachers by finding class materials, coaching on classroom management, and otherwise assisting in class planning and teaching.