Temple Israel offers a comprehensive sequence of educational programs for our youth. The Temple offers a Hebrew program, in addition to contributing to a community-wide Sunday school. A variety of educational activities, including the confirmation program, are available for teenagers.

Temple Israel offers a three-year sequence of Hebrew study, usually beginning in the fourth grade. (Hebrew letters and basic vocabulary are introduced at LJCRS). The goals of the program are: letter and vowel recognition, reading proficiency, prayer- and modern-Hebrew vocabulary, and familiarity with a service in the siddur (prayer book). Students learn how to write letters and basic words. The broader aim is for students to develop an appreciation for the Hebrew language, seeing it as a link among Jews worldwide and as the foundation of Jewish traditions. Students develop a solid background for bar/bat mitzvah training.

While they are in the Hebrew program, students are expected to attend Shabbat services with their parents regularly. They are required to continue their studies at LJCRS. This program is open only to Temple members. It is free, except for books and materials. Classes meet twice weekly.

A year of preparation precedes the bar/bat mitzvah. It includes intensive group and individual study. A class trains students to lead the Shabbat service. In addition, activities for students, along with their families are held. These meetings orient families to the bar/bat mitzvah as a life-cycle event and promote the involvement of the entire family. Six to eight months before their bar or bat mitzvah, students meet individually with the rabbi to learn their Torah and Haftarah readings.

Requirements for bar/bat mitzvah include attendance at L.J.C.R.S. for the three years prior to and during the year of the bar/bat mitzvah. Students also must attend Shabbat services with their parents during the year before their bar/bat mitzvah, leading a prayer once a month. Through the 13 Mitzvot program, students are asked to engage in educational and social-action activities that they choose. On the day of the ceremony, the child conducts the service. He or she reads a Torah and Haftarah portion and delivers a speech about their reading. Our congregation takes great pride in making every bar/bat mitzvah special and in celebrating with our youth.