"Kolel" is the Hebrew word meaning "inclusive", "embracing", and "community." We named our high school program, “TEEn Kolel“ because that is exactly what we do with our Temple Emanu El teens! We want all students here at TEE to feel comfortable and a part of the Temple Emanu El family. TEEn Kolel is a place where teens gather together to engage in learning, social activities, ask questions and participate in Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) projects.
T’filah Credits – As part of the high school curriculum, All TEEn Kolel students (Grades 7 – 12) must attend 3 worship services per year , not including Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur. These T’filot have to be either at Temple Emanu El or as part of a Temple Emanu El sponsored event (such as a class trip).
Grade Seven - CHAI Curriculum: We will be using the CHAI curriculum, developed by the URJ (Union For Reform Judaism) and designed to provide students with a foundation for a lifetime of Jewish learning and living. The curriculum is based on “Torah, Avodah, and G'milut Chasadim;" study, worship and deeds of loving-kindness. This year focuses on personal reflection and improvement, “Who I am and who I’d like to be,” helping each student reach his/her potential. Torah study turns back to B’reishit and commentaries, focusing on a few stories of indivials who grow and learn. The focus on G'milut Chasadim starts with individual, tikkun middot and repairing ourselves.
Grade Eight -“Eyewitness to Cleveland Jewish History: Students will make connections with themselves and the Jewish Community at large by exploring how they are “Members of the Tribe.” Students will learn about Cleveland Jewish agencies. There will be a trip with families to the Maltz Museum, an exciting overnight, and exploration of Sacred Choices as they apply to students' own lives.
Grade Nine - “If I am not for Myself, who will be for Me?” Through exploring Hillel’s quote students will discover how Jews are responsible for taking care of one another within their community. They will learn about Jewish values while participating in various Tikun Olam (Repairing the World) projects such as “Operation Cover Up”. Speakers will come in and share their experiences with the students as well. The 2nd semester will be spent on students learning about the Holocaust through a comprehensive, multimedia curriculum.
Grade Ten (Confirmation) - “God, Spirituality and Prayer” Cantor Yomtov will help students explore their own spirituality and beliefs and apply this to their Confirmation service.
To be confirmed at Temple Emanu El, a student must complete 10 th grade and the following 2 requirements:
- Mitzvah Hour – A minimum of 10 hours per year of community service are required.
- T’filah Credits – These are earned by attending 3 worship services per year, as stated above.
