Religious School
Sixth Grade Kallah 5772/2012
Dear Sixth Grade families,
We are very much looking forward to studying with you this year as you work toward bar and bat mitzvah. We are sure that we will share many wonderful experiences in the coming year, and many of those experiences will happen at the Sixth Grade Kallah, Friday, April 27, 2012 - Sunday, April 29, 2012.
Key Information
What is it?
The entire sixth grade goes away for a weekend at camp, with all the expected fun camp things --bunk time, movie nights, and making decadent ice cream sundaes -- as well as a chance to share a beautiful Shabbat together. On Shabbat afternoon, students will rise to the challenge of Eisner's rope course, building group cohesion and personal confidence in the process. Over the years, we have discovered that a weekend of group study, worship, and outdoor challenge is a perfect way to bring students from our weekday Religious School program and tutoring program together, forging a cohesive b'nei mitzvah class before the beginning of the year that lies ahead.
When is it?
Friday, April 27, 2012 - Sunday, April 29, 2012
Students must be at Temple Israel at 2:45pm so that we can get to Eisner in time for dinner. Yes, this sometimes means that they have to leave school early. We will return on Sunday between 1:30pm and 2pm, depending on traffic.
How much does it cost?
The kallah fee is $200 per child. This does not cover all the costs of the kallah, which is partially subsidized by the Temple. If the fee is unaffordable for your family, please contact Teen Educator Naomi Sobel at 617-566-3960 ext 126 to discuss financial aid. We want to make it possible for every sixth grader to attend.
Does my child have to go?
In a word, yes. This kallah is a crucial moment in the process of becoming a bar or bat mitzvah, and attendance is mandatory.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
What are sleeping arrangements?
The students sleep in big bunks (one for girls, one for boys) supervised by sixth grade Religious School teachers, the Teen Educator, and other members of the Education staff at Temple Israel.
Will my child be with his or her friends?
During the weekend, sixth graders will have some activities in the full group and many in smaller groups. We will work to ensure that each student has at least one familiar face in the smaller groups, and also that he or she has a chance to meet new people.
What if my child has an injury or disability that would make climbing a ropes course impossible?
Every activity over the course of the weekend has a variety of roles for sixth graders to fulfill, and the ropes course is no exception: we need students who can climb, students who can spot each other, students who can cheer each other on, and more. If you are concerned about your child's ability to participate fully, please get in touch with Teen Educator Naomi Sobel at 617-566-3960 ext 126 to discuss how we can make this a great, inclusive weekend for him or her.
To register for the Sixth Grade Kallah, or if you have other questions about the kallah, please contact Teen Educator Naomi Sobel at 617-566-3960 ext 126.
L'Shalom,
Temple Israel Education Department