Focus on Judaic Studies

Jewish Press March, 2005

The Judaic Studies program at Hillel School of Tampa is an integrated program that works closely with the rest of the academic curriculum.  “When fourth grade students are studying the history of Florida during social studies class, they are learning about Jews in Florida in Judaic studies,” says Mrs. Amy Wasser, Head of School and Judaic Studies Director.  “The middle school students read novels about WWII in language arts as they learn about the Holocaust in Judaic studies.  We teach our students to see the world from more than one point of view, and understand their heritage within a larger framework.”

Hebrew and Judaic studies are taught each day, covering a great deal of material in two daily lessons.  In transitional kindergarten and kindergarten the two subjects are combined into one lesson.  Judaic studies at Hillel aim to give each child the tools to incorporate their learning into their family’s home.  “We do not mandate any level of practice,” says Mrs. Wasser, “we believe in embracing all of our families and celebrating our differences.” 

The lower division focuses on an introduction to holiday customs and bible stories, beginning prayer and discussion of Jewish ethics.  “By the end of first grade, most of our children can read and write in Hebrew,” says Mrs. Wasser.

The benefits of learning a second language have long been established.  Numerous studies have shown that children in foreign language programs tend to demonstrate greater cognitive development, creativity, and divergent thinking than monolingual children, At Hillel, Hebrew is taught as a modern language, providing students with an invaluable skill.

“In the intermediate division, our students’ Hebrew skills continue to flourish.  Judaic studies expands to Jewish literature and the history and culture of Israel,” continues Mrs. Wasser.  “Life cycle and ethics are examined from a Jewish perspective and Torah studies gain additional depth.”

Hillel’s Middle School program is a challenging one and the Judaic and Hebrew studies curriculum is stepped up accordingly.

“In the middle years the students put on plays and learn to do research in Hebrew.  By the time they graduate, they have a working ability in Hebrew,” says Mrs. Wasser. 

“Judaic Studies expands to the study of comparative religion, which explores the five major world religions, as well as comparative Judaism.  Study of the Holocaust, Jewish history and ethics, and Israel are all part of the program.  The trip to Israel at the end of eighth grade provides the perfect culmination for years of Judaic and Hebrew studies.”

Mrs. Wasser is very proud of the Judaic Studies and Hebrew program at Hillel.  “I believe that when our students graduate, they are prepared to go out in the world with a strong Jewish identity, and a solid foundation in their heritage.”