The centerpiece of SCJ’s curriculum

B Mitzvah preparation focuses on Jewish tools ~ preparing for the ceremony itself ~ and Jewish knowledge ~ an intellectual exploration of Judaism, stemming from the Torah portion, culminating in the writing of the Dvar Torah (literally words of Torah).  The family takes an active role in the cultural and spiritual exploration, while the B Mitzvah engages in a Mitzvah project focusing on social justice.

During the typical study period of 9-12 months, each student learns to read & write Hebrew, recite blessings and prayers, and chant from the Torah (and sometimes Haftarah as well).  SCJ has developed a personalized method of learning the musical language of the Torah, known as Trope (cantillation), through which students acquire a life-long skill that enables them to chant any passage.

Students emerge from their studies prepared for the ceremony, confident in their skills, and with a positive view of the experience ~ the unfortunate antithesis of how many experienced their own B Mitzvah preparations.