Course Catalog - Spring 2024/25


Rabbi Mordechai Burg A Deeper Look

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Rabbi Dov Lev ABCs of Hashkafa 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course provides students with the tools to respond to challenges to our religion by instilling within them a proper understanding of the fundamental tenets of Judaism, as well as a deep sense of confidence in these convictions. Topics include: evidence for God’s existence; the authenticity of Torah; the philosophical underpinnings of prayer; hashgacha pratit; and the development of diverse opinions in Judaism.

Mrs. Chabibi Kaplinsky Adversity in the Midbar

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
If you're alive, you have challenges. In this thrilling class, we will unpack the adversity that was faced in the Midbar. By analyzing and understanding Moshe Rabeinu's responses to adversity, we will learn to emulate how a true leader triumphs over challenges. Through the meforshim, we will get into the psyche of Bnei Yisrael - why things bothered them, how they dealt with it, and which tools we can obtain for ourselves to help us conquer the struggles that we face in our lives.

Mrs. Ahuva Kreitenberg Ahavat Chinam

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
“She seemed so cold” “They showed no appreciation to me” “What is she wearing?” “Why would she say that to me?” Whether these are thoughts that enter our head or actual questions we think we surely know the answers to, the bottom line is that there’s probably a broader picture that we just don’t see. In this class we will dig deeper into the concept of ‘viahavta lireacha kamocha’ and try to understand how to achieve true ahavat chinam from a Torah persective, as well as a psychological interpersonal perspective. Together let’s learn and understand the groundwork for loving and accepting our fellow jew by taking a step back to see some bigger pictures.

Mrs. Adina Katz Art and Soul 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Create artwork in a variety of materials and methods. Learn to identify individual inner strengths by seeing the parallels between your artwork and spiritual processes and concepts. Because being a Jew is a work of art!

Miss Miriam Broderson Aseret Hadibrot

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this course you will get a deeper understanding of the Aseret Hadibrot. Why did Hashem reveal himself to the Jewish people with the Aseret Hadibrot? What about the other mitzvot? When were they given? Are there ten mitzvot in the Aseret Hadibrot? Or are there really more? The first dibra is “Anochi Hashem Elokecha”? Is that a mitzvah? How can we be commanded to believe? These are just a few of the questions that we will address in this course and by the end of it you will discover a whole new layer and depth in the Aseret Hadibrot that you never knew before.

Mrs. Aliyah Schleider Ashira LaHashem

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
If you love to sing and always wanted a deeper understanding of the beautiful songs, this is the class for you. Learn the songs you sing and hear all the time. Delve into their explanations and deeper meanings. Explore the inspiration inherent in every kumzitz. Words of David Hamelech, tefillot and bakashot are all included in this moving class which will hopefully inspire you for many years to come.

Mrs. Chaya Wealcatch Assembly

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this weekly assembly, the whole school will join together to hear special speakers and lecturers from the best that Yerushalayim has to offer.

Mrs. Tzvia Singer At Home in Eretz Yisrael M

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
Welcome to Eretz Yisrael, welcome home! Why is Eretz Yisrael so central to being a Jew? Why is this the ideal place to build a relationship with Hashem? We will learn about the beauty and kedusha of this precious land from many different angles, delving into the meaning and depth of its qualities, names, personalities and mitzvos. We will explore many sources from Tanach and Chazal about its beauty and kedusha, and the mitzvos unique to it. We will learn how to make the most of our time here through building a personal connection with the holiest place on earth.

Mrs. Shiffy Klein Ayeh and Azamrah

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Rav Nosson of Breslov gives us the tools to stay inside the world of holiness, while navigating the blurriness of the world we inhabit. Together, as a close knit group, we will learn this language together, practicing Rebbi Nachman’s two most essential pieces of advice- Ayeh and Azamra.

Rabbi Efraim Goldman Bamidbar M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
This course will be text-based and will study Sefer Bamidbar in depth. This class will take your Chumash appreciation to the next level learning meforshim like you've never learned them before!

Miss Miriam Broderson Becoming Godly

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Do you want to transform your life? Upgrade your relationships? Be happier? In this course, you will do an in depth study of the 13 Middos of Rachamim. You will learn how to apply the 13 Middos of Rachamin to your life and completely change yourself and your relationship with others.

Rabbi Moshe Rosenstein Bein Adam Lichaveiro

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
A deep understanding of the underlying halachic principles which translate into the practical aspects of relating to one's fellow man.

Rabbi Joseph Oratz Beit Midrash Learning

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Beit Midrash Learning is a class designated to fill multiple opportunities in your schedule. You may choose this class either to fulfill a Beit Midrash requirement for a connected class or to take advantage of the various independent learning options. The Beit Midrash is a place to learn and build your skills on the road to being a lifelong independent learner.

Rabbi Dov Lev Best of ABC's

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Did you ever feel like no one was answering your questions about Jewish life? This is the class that you’ve been waiting for! Without any apologetics and without any assumptions, Rabbi Lev tackles all of the basic and not-so-basic issues in Torah. Students can expect to come out with the tools to respond to challenges to our religion by being instilled with a proper understanding of the fundamental tenets of Judaism as well as a deep sense of confidence in these convictions. This engaging course is oriented to motivated students who like to ponder and to challenge and those who want to be challenged. It merges two semesters of the famous ABC's of Hashkafa course into one fast-paced class. (Note: This class may not be taken by students who took ABC's of Hashkafa in the first semester.) Topics include: How do we really know that Hashem exists and the Torah is true? What is the purpose of the world? Where was G-d during the Holocaust? Do we really have Free Will? What is Olam Haba? What is Bitachon and how can we relate to it? What is Hashgacha Pratis? How do we relate to the different opinions in Judaism and how do we know where we stand? And much, much more.

Mrs. Brachi Lerner Birchot Hashachar

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
We begin each day with Birchot Hashachar, brachos that direct us in gratitude, self-reflection and Torah hashkafos to maximize the day ahead. In this class, we will delve into these morning brachos, discovering deep insights and meaningful lessons to enhance our davening as well as our relationship with Hashem and with ourselves.

Mrs. Sheva Rand Building Blocks

Department: Jewish and Israeli Culture
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course discusses tools for building ourselves, our relationships (present and future) and eventually our homes. We will cover emotional and spiritual techniques such as self-awareness, prioritizing, bitachon and communication to become the people we want to be and to live the life we choose and not the life that happens. We will also discuss strategies for overcoming life’s daily challenges, specifically those in the life of the Jewish woman.

Mrs. Sheva Rand Chessed

Department: Jewish and Israeli Culture
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Students are called upon during their year in seminary to contribute to the lives of Jews living in Israel. Our chessed program is fluid and flexible, as students are given a choice of venues in which they would like to be involved. Tomer Devorah offers the special opportunity of assisting local families as a fulfillment of chessed hours. Mrs. Rand, the chessed coordinator, carefully matches students with the appropriate family, sometimes even with Tomer Devorah teachers. Each family may require different kinds of assistance, from childcare to light housework, to local errands. Students enjoy getting to know their "chesed family" and are able to develop close, meaningful relationships with them. Some of our students have expressed that visiting their chesed family each week was one of the most influential and rewarding experiences of their year, and they have kept contact with the family since then.

Mrs. Leah Rosenstein Chovat Hatalmidim 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
A study of the sefer Chovat Hatalmidim by the Piazecna Rebbe, Rav Klonymus Kalman Shapira. This sefer was written specifically for teenagers and is a guide for personal growth and development.  Students will learn the Rebbe's perspective on avodat Hashem, through his Chassidic lens, and delve into his detailed prescriptions for building oneself, step by step. A fascinating sefer which is as timely today in dealing with the challenges young people face, as it was when it was written in Poland of the 1930s.

Rabbi Noam Fix Concepts in Jewish Thought

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This text-based course looks at classic works of Jewish thought and mussar. Utilizing a variety of texts, important ideas in Jewish philosophy are studied.

Rabbi Dov Lev Contemporary Conundrums in Halacha

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course explores many of the modern halachic issues that face today's Jewish world. Not shying away from controversial concerns, it will tackle sensitive topics such as the mechitza in halacha, abortion, euthanasia, who is a Jew, how to relate to non-observant Jews, and a plethora of other current halachic issues.

Mrs. Penina Gilbert Creation of a Nation

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course is an analysis of Sefer Shemot with an emphasis on comprehending core principles of Jewish belief as derived from the text. The class includes learning the main commentaries in-depth to give a more comprehensive understanding of the Sefer. At the end of this course, students will have a fluency in the chronology of events that led up to our becoming a nation, and they will come away with practical, timeless lessons they can incorporate into their daily lives.
Required books:
Mikraot Gedolot Sefer Shemot

Mrs. Tzippy Friedenberg Discovering Chumash M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
Being an independent learner requires background knowledge and textual skills. Learning Chumash critically, questioning and examining the text and its commentaries, is the most effective way to develop and take away the building blocks for future independent learning. This class aims to delve into several of the most interesting but less-known stories in Chumash, both to build skills in learning psukim and mefarshim as well as learn the timeless lessons which the stories teach us. Students will be”H leave the class prepared to learn critically and deeply on their own in preparation for a lifetime of learning. It is best suited for students who are not yet confident in their independent learning abilities but for whom this is an important goal during their seminary year.

Rabbi Noam Fix Drash V'remez M

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
Using the Classic Commentators on the Torah, each week new insights based on subtle or interesting textual anomalies or usages are explored. With an emphasis on understanding how small changes in text can have a significant impact on meaning and lessons.

Mrs. Gabi Horovitz Eishet Chayil

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Is it just a beautiful song for Friday night, or is it a guidebook for interpersonal relationships and one’s own character? This class takes the time to understand the practical application and life lessons that Shlomo Hamelech, the wisest of all men, left for us. We will analyze the text through the medium of the commentators, and hopefully come out as women of valour – whatever that is supposed to mean…

Mrs. Penina Gilbert Gadlut Ha'adam

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
A Jew must know his own self-worth in order to serve Hashem." -Rabbeinu Yonah. Gadlus Haadam is structured around the two basic components of self-esteem, namely: intrinsic worth and competence. We will learn about topics such as Hashem's love for Klal Yisrael, bechirah, yetzer hara, the neshama, bishvili nivrah haolam, gaavah vs. humility, growth through challenges, yud gimmel middos harachamim, and more.

Mrs. Chaya Schick Haftara

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This year, bring the weekly Haftara to life by gaining insight and inspiration from the timeless messages of Tanach. We'll come away with eye-opening and practical applications to help us become our best selves!

Mrs. Nechama Greenberg Halacha Hashkafa

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Halacha Hashkafa delves into daily halachos, exploring both the practical details of the law and the deeper meanings behind them. This class not only covers practical halachos but also aims to foster a personal and profound connection to these practices, transforming Halacha into an accessible and enriching experience.

Rabbi Dov Lev Halacha Lifecycles 1

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Lifecycles examines lesser-learned halachot, Minhagim and mindsets of Jewish living. Topics include naming children, Shidduchim, wedding ceremonies, Sheva Brachot and much, much more.

Rabbi Joseph Oratz Hashkafa BM1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this Beit Midrash course, you will be able to use your time to learn any sefer you would like.

Rabbi Moshe Rosenstein Hilchot Inyanei Nashim 1

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course covers topics relevant to the Jewish women in today’s society. We examine areas of Halacha that pertain specifically to women and seem to clash with modern-day sensibilities and ideas.

Rabbi Meir Blake Hilchot Shabbat Ashkenaz

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Intended for students who are already familiar with the basic concepts and structure of the Laws of Shabbat, the course moves rapidly and thoroughly through both the structure of the laws as well as countless practical applications and examples.

Rabbi Yirmiyahu Cohen Hilchot Shabbat Sephardic

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This is a Sephardic halacha course whose goal is to advance the students’ working knowledge of the laws of Shabbat as well as the halachic process governing these laws. Students study disagreements within the process and how they are resolved. The primary focus of the course is the principles behind the laws, primarily focusing on the laws of Shabbat as they pertain to the kitchen in a Sephardi home.

Mrs. Diti Raice Homeroom

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Homeroom provides a small intimate class setting with your own mechanechet. It is an opportunity for your group to connect with your mechanechet in a deeper way while addressing many of the common issues and concerns that come up throughout your seminary year. Topics include: the value of chessed, עשה לך רב, interpersonal עבודת המידות, the value of Torah learning, and more.

Mrs. Chaya Wealcatch Inyanei Nashim 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Discover how the ways of Hashem are pleasant. Explore and learn to understand and appreciate our role as a Jewish woman, creating that sweet taste and connection to this unique position in a Jewish home.

Mrs. Shiffy Klein Karva El Nafshi

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this class, we will be delving into the deeply relevant sefer קרבה אל נפשי; and with Rav Kluger’s help, begin the process of getting to know our truest selves. We often encounter discomfort in many of our relationships; this sefer will help us understand how all of these obstacles are rooted in the lack of harmony between נשמה and גוף. We will use this sefer as a guide to building deep and authentic relationships with others, ourselves, and Hashem. Through honest and open conversation, we will work together to find each of our unique paths in עבודת ה׳.
Required books:
Sefer Karva el Nafshi, to be ordered with the teacher

Mrs. Milka Kimmel Kedoshim Tihiyu

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Make your self holy!! Why are we here in this world? In this class we will go through Parshas Kedoshim learning how to make everything you do in this world holy.

Mrs. Michal Liff (Trenk) Kinyanei HaTorah 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
The Mishna in Pirkei Avot teaches us that there are 48 ways in which Torah is acquired. What does it mean to “acquire” Torah? Maybe the end goal could be understood by taking a deeper look at the journey. Each one of the 48 ways is a unique piece - a character trait that has to be identified, analyzed and then worked on. Each one offers another window into the depth of human psyche and psychology. The class offers the students a fascinating exploration of these “kinyanim” and the questions they beg of us to explore, such as: What is the spiritual significance of hearing? How does one achieve the definition of being “beloved”? Is conformity a positive trait? and many more. The main goal of the Kinyanei HaTorah class is for the student to look at different paths to “acquire” Torah, and gain practical insights into applying those lessons to one’s personal development and perspectives on life. As a discussion-based course, students’ participation and involvement in the exchange of ideas with their peers and instructor is imperative to gaining from the material.

Mrs. Chana Schuss Kivun

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Explore the fundamentals of Judaism and Jewish thought through a clear and simple program. Packed with dynamic learning and fascinating ideas, this curriculum by Rebbetzin Leah Kohn spans every part of Torah and life from knowledge of God to Techiyas Hameisim. There is so much core fundamental knowledge in Yiddishkeit that we may have skipped over in school. Hakivun will shine a light onto so much untapped philosophy, information, and history.

Mrs. Hanna Shukrun Kohelet M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
An advanced and challenging course learning Sefer Kohellet in depth. We will explore some of life's fascinating questions and gain a clearer perspective on the purpose of life and Olam HaZeh. How on one hand this world is complete "Hevel" yet it is the key to the greatest enjoyment of all. We will investigate and learn from the incredible Wisdom of Shlomo Hamelech how to make use of the mundane physicality for the benefit of our spirituality. This is an intense class that will use the text as a springboard to much thought, exploration and class discussions. A paper will be assigned at the end of the semester.

Rabbi Gavriel Friedman Living on Purpose

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
All too often we find ourselves living on autopilot. In this class we’ll discuss taking control of our lives, not living by accident, rather living on purpose.

Mrs. Estee Solomon Maaseh Avot 1

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Why does the Torah provide us with details of the lives and challenges of our Avot and Imahot? What can we learn? How can we grow from them? Join us, as we delve into the depths of the G-d given “Blueprint to Life”, to learn from the Fathers and Mothers of our nation. This course will zero in on different aspects of Sefer Bereishit to enable us to learn about the Avot and Imahot in a deeper way. Let us begin to understand, learn, connect, and relate these lessons to our personal lives.

Rabbi Baruch Schechter Megillot

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Travel through the year learning the applicable Megillot that we read on their respective chagim! This class will focus on segments of the megillot brought to light through the interpretations of Chazal, the Rishonim and Acharonim.

Mrs. Hanna Shukrun Michtav Meliyahu M 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
This course will cover some of the major fundamental concepts in Jewish philosophy, basing itself on Rav Dessler’s Michtav M’Eliyahu. It will focus on practical insights concerning how to seek, discover, and develop ourselves to be able to fulfill our purpose in this world. Some of the subjects discussed will be: “Happiness”, “Bad things and Good People”, Nature vs. Miracle, Emunah, Bitachon, Bechirah, and “Enjoyment”. Questions and class participation are very much encouraged.

Mrs. Yocheved Roitburt Middos Chabura

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Self-recognition is the way to enter the inner dimension (pnimiyus) of the soul. In this course, we will learn profound Torah wisdom about our inner world, how to understand ourselves, our middos and those around us. In this chabura style class, we will use psychological insights to help us do inner work on a practical level to unlock our potential and improve our relationships.

Mrs. Mya Beitsch Mind Over Middot 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this course we will explore the science behind our emotions and mental capabilities; and how we have to power to manipulate and control them. The Torah never expects us to accomplish the impossible, and controlling our thoughts is completely in our power. Recent developments in the field of neuroscience have proven what we already know from our Mesorah - that the brain is a fantastically malleable organ that can be manipulated and trained to comply with the moral obligations that Hashem has placed upon us.

Rabbi Baruch Schechter Mishlei 1

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This is a practical, down-to-Earth analysis of various topics of avodat Hashem. The words of Shlomo Hamelech come alive in our relationships with others and our own personal character development. The class is based on Rabbeinu Yonah, the Gr”a, Rashi, the Malbim and other commentators. The class also pulls from many other classic mussar works such as Mesilat Yesharim, Sha’arei Tshuva and Orchot Tzaddikim.

Mrs. Avigayil Grossman Misunderstood Topics in Tanach M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
In this class we will focus on some of the topics that are often misunderstood or completely skipped. Together we will tackle topics of Dovid and Batsheva, Mei Meriva and much more. This class is meant for those who appreciate diving into the text and exploring the vast explanations of our parshanim.

Mrs. Nechama Greenberg Moadim

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
We will cover the main halachot and customs for the various Moadim throughout the year.

Mrs. Sheva Gerzberg Mussar Inside M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
At the beginning of Parshat Shelach, Rashi quotes a midrash asking why the story of the meraglim is placed immediately after the account of Miriam. Rashi explains Miriam was punished for the words she spoke about her brother, yet these wicked people witnessed this and failed to take mussar. ראוּ וְלֹא לָקְחוּ מוּסָר They didn’t take to heart and learn from the events they saw. Do we? In this class, we will delve into moments throughout Tanach—Yosef and his brothers, Bnei Yisrael’s encounter with the serpents in the midbar, Mordechai’s refusal to bow to Haman, the courage of the midwives, the collapse of the Yericho walls, the Manna, the chupah of Har Sinai, Rachel and Leah’s beauty, the binding of Yitzchak, and more. Through the eyes of the Baalei Mussar, we’ll uncover hidden dimensions and transformational lessons within these stories—insights that can inspire us to think deeper, live better, and become more. This isn’t just about learning the stories; it’s about letting them change us.

Rabbi Dov Lev Mysteries of Parshat Bereishit

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Parshat Bereishit is one of the most profound portions of Torah. Yet, few people ever have the opportunity to study it on an advanced level. By carefully analyzing the text and commentaries, this class will provide keys to some of the secrets of Bereishit and will leave a lasting impact on how to relate to Torah, the natural world, and to life in general.
Required books:
Chumash Bereishit

Mrs. Chana Abowitz Mystical Masters

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Be uplifted and enlightened: from the creator of the Shulcan Aruch to contemporary mekubalim, this class will engage and inspire. Learn about the miracle workers who through their lofty lifestyles, miraculous encounters and fascinating teachings impacted the Jewish people forever.

Mrs. Nomi Zahn Nashim B'Tanach M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
Join us as we journey through the lives, lessons, struggles, and successes of the Women of Tanach! First semester we will dive beyond our elementary knowledge that we have grown up knowing about our Imahos Sarah, Rivka, Rachel, and Leah. There are many male characters that we feel we know so well, but what about their wives – who were the wives of Noach, Yosef, Aharon, Moshe, Yonah, and others, and what can we learn from them? We will then continue to the lesser known women found in Navi, K'suvim, and the Talmud to reveal their everlasting legacy to us as Jewish women. Heroines such as the mothers of Shimshon HaGibbur, Shmuel HaNavi and Dovid HaMelech, the saviors of Bnei Yisrael such as Rus, Esther, Yehudis, the fortitude, clarity, and conviction of Serach bas Asher, Chulda Haneviah, Chana, Devorah and the list goes on! Come along as we explore Mefarshim and Midrashim to paint a clearer understanding of these women of Tanach, plus many more. Doing so will yield practical lessons on how to be the best women we can be! Learn the timeless lessons for our lives as well as our inborn greatness as Nashim B'Yisrael.
Required books:
Tanach

Mrs. Chayala Gottesman Nefesh Chaya 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
The nefesh chaya reveals a women’s profound role according to Torah outlook. This course will show you the power that women hold in changing the course of their lives and the making an impact on the lives of others.

Mrs. Shelly Padowitz Not Just Nach

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Snippets from amazing happenings in Nach put under our modern day microscope to gain a better understanding of ourselves and our obligations as Torah Jews.

Mrs. Shavy Weiss Olam Hamiddos 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this course, we will be learning Sefer Olam Hamiddos. Using this Sefer as our guide, we will learn about ourselves and those around us. Together, we’ll delve into learning about Middos to help shape us to become more in touch with ourselves and live more authentically.

Mrs. Avigayil Grossman Out and About in Jerusalem M

Department: Jewish and Israeli Culture
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
In this independent study course, students independently travel around Yerushalayim and visit sites of interest at your own pace.  Lists of recommended sites are provided and the Holy City is open for exploration!  This course requires no classroom time and there is no test! It is done on your own time and schedule and will greatly enhance appreciation for the multifaceted city in which you are living for the year.

Rabbi Nachman Seltzer Paradigm Shift

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
The course examines the ebb and flow of the Jewish Year through fascinating classes on Yomim Tovim, the parsha of the week and many unexpected and interesting events that occur throughout the year of a Jew. We meet countless historical figures along the way (both good and evil) and identify key historical events in the Jewish year and life – emerging with a clearer understanding of what it means to be a Jew in today’s turbulent times.

Rabbi Shlomo Borinstein Parsha B'iyun 1

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
The purpose of this class is to gain a deeper understanding of the seemingly simple stories and events of the Chumash. A typical class will start off with questions and slowly we'll put everything together to form a clear, exciting picture. The class usually ends with the student gaining an important lesson. The learning of Chumash will never be the same again.

Mrs. Tova Sherr Perek Shira

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This Perek Shira class will be a self development class through learning about Nature. We will delve into what each animal teaches us along with what we can learn from forces of nature like lightening and thunder. We will also cover topics such as; the power of silence, boundaries and the strength it takes to be a Jew in this generation.

Rabbi Joseph Oratz Perspectives in Tanach M

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
This course will take a fresh look at familiar events and parshiyot that are well known to us. By looking at the big picture we will discover ideas embedded in the text that will shed new light on the stories and mitzvot that shape our lives and the messages we are meant to learn from them. This class meets twice a week and has an additional Beit Medrash preparation period. You'll need a Tanach for class, and a healthy dose of curiosity and creativity.
Required books:
Tanach

Mrs. Diti Raice Pirkei Avot 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course will be taking a refreshing deep dive into this timeless classic, using its lessons as a launchpad to explore and solidify all of the core relationships in our lives - between us and ourselves, Hashem, His people and His Torah. Join us on a journey within, as we get to know our deepest selves better, and touch on topics such as vulnerability, self-worth, exploring our inner child, true love, and much much more.

Mrs. Tzippy Links Rebbe Nachman's Stories

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
“The world says that stories put you to sleep and I say that stories are what awakens from sleep.” (Rebbe Nachman, Likutey Moharan part 1) Before Rebbe Nachman started to give over his stories, he said to his students: “I see that my regular teachings are not bringing you back to Hashem; I will start telling you stories.” “These stories are so powerful that they awaken every soul to our Father in heaven.” (Rebbe Noson from Breslov) Rebbe Nachman’s stories: Awaken us from our spiritual sleep. Fill us with optimism and encouragement. Teach us joy, simplicity, faith and serenity. Heal our soul. Through these amazing stories that we will learn together, you can connect to your own life story and taste the sweetness of real truth.

Mrs. Yael Mahfar Relationships in Torah 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Explore tanach characters and the middot they had to perfect in their relationships to become the greats that they were. Become the best You through understanding the relationships of our Avos. Among them, learn about the relationship between Yaakov and Yosef, Rachel and Leah, David and Yehonatan, and more. Learn from the way these characters channeled their feelings to reach their utmost potential.

Rabbi Mordechai Burg Rodfei Emet

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
What is the truth? And what is Emet? Is it the same thing? This weekly rollercoaster takes students on a fast-paced ride through truth and falseness. With vivid examples and hilarious anecdotes, learning how to identify the truth – and how to grab onto it and live by it – has never been this exciting or fun.

Rabbi Moshe Rosenstein Ruin and Rebirth

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
Beginning with Jewish life in Eastern Europe 100 years ago at the close of World War I, and moving through the history of the Holocaust, the establishment of the State of Israel and the nearly 70 years since, this course uses Jewish History and the events of the 20th century that involved the Jews and Israel as a backdrop to discuss a wide variety of timely hashkafic and halachic matters.  Covering topics like how far a Jew must go to keep mitzvot in times of crisis, to the halachot of the proper way to engage in war with our enemies in modern times, to the hashkafic and political ramifications of the revival of the Hebrew language, students will learn to view history through the eyes of the Torah.

Mrs. Yocheved Roitburt Secrets of Shabbos

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Learn about the radiance and beauty of Shabbos. In this course, we will delve into the meaning and purpose of this holy day and discover how to practically connect to it. Using Rav Pincus’ sefer ‘Shabbos Kodesh’ and different Chassidic texts, we will unveil the secrets of Shabbos.

Rabbi Moshe Rosenstein Sefer Tomer Devorah

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Written in the 1500s by the great mystic and Kabbalist of Tzfat, Rav Moshe Cordevero, Sefer Tomer Devorah is a deep and complex work on the understanding of the human soul. This classic mussar and Kaballah sefer has been learned and taught in Klal Yisrael for centuries and is a considered one of the basics of the Jewish Torah library.

Mrs. Chana Abowitz Sephardic Roots 1

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Fall in love with your rich mesorah! A Halacha class tailor-made for the sephardic (or wanna be sephardic) woman. Get acquainted with the writings of the leading Sephardic Rabbis of our generation. We cover the full spectrum of Halacha and minhagim pertaining to the Sephardic woman, including Holidays, daily rituals, brachot, kashrut, tzniut and more…

Mrs. Hanna Shukrun Shir Hashirim M 1

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
This course will examine some deep insights to the relationship between HKB”H and Am Yisrael. Using the P’sukim with Rashi, Medrash, Gra and Malbim we will explore the depth of this Sefer. The goal of the class is to bring us to a higher awareness of Hashem’s love for us and OUR deep inner desire to be close to Hashem. We will gain a true appreciation for Shir Hashirim as the only Sefer in Tanach that Chazal refer to as “Kodesh Kodashim”. Questions and class participation are VERY much encouraged.
Required books:
Shir HaShirim with Mefarshim

Rabbi Meir Blake Shoftim

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
The aim of this class is to use the text of the holy writings to delve into the life and times of the Judges. We will learn about the extraordinary roles they played and the timeless lessons they taught us along the way. As we read the stories that make up our nation’s past we will realize how relevant the teachings are today and for our future.
Required books:
Sefer Shoftim or Nach with Mefarshim

Mrs. Milka Kimmel Sichot Mussar

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Rav Chaim Shmuelevitz, the famed rosh hayeshiva of Yeshivas Mir, goes through the weekly parsha and brings out profound mussar ideas that are applicable to every day life. Together we will be going through these powerful lessons and applying them specifically to our lives as seminary girls who are striving to grow.

Rabbi Yaakov Altman Simcha BAvodah 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Tools, tips, tricks, and new perspectives to make your daily Avodas Hashem and tefillah more meaningful and charged with enthusiasm. Topics include self-love, emotional health & tools to manage one's emotional state, marriage, how to relate to failure & overcome it, practical methods for change and growth, handling challenges & difficulties, planning, focus, how not to become overwhelmed, how to handle anxiety and stress, and much more...

Rabbi Efraim Goldman Sodot HaTorah M

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
This class will cover secrets of the Torah including God’s grand master plan, גלגולים , letters of the א-ב, the entire תורה in the word בחירה, the structure of the תורה, Kabalah and more.

Mrs. Shelly Padowitz Taamei Hamitzvot

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Each class will deal with a different mitzvah- taking it from its initial source in the text through the system of texts and commentaries (full sources given and explained in every class) with analysis to understand how it applies to us practically and personally. Making theoretic ideas and complicated rules real and tangible where it's usually hard to grasp.

Mrs. Shiffy Klein Tanya

Department: Jewish and Israeli Culture
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this course, we will delve into Sefer HaTanya through the broader lens of Chassidut as a whole; using the revolutionary work as a means of living with Hashem in our daily lives. Following the derech of the Baal HaTanya, together we will grapple with the deepest questions in the heart of a Jew, and use them to better understand each of our specific places and unique roles in Avodat Hashem.

Mrs. Tamar Busani Tefilla 1

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This course gives a broad understanding of the philosophy and meaning of prayer. Recognizing that tefillah constitutes a central part of our relationship with the Creator, a strong emphasis is placed on nurturing the role of tefillah in our lives in order to strengthen that relationship. Diving deep into the underlying functionality of tefilla, we aim to achieve a clear appreciation for how prayer not only pertains to each one of us but plays a fundamental role in helping us live a happy meaningful and fulfilled life. We will explore some key pieces from the siddur and touch on basic Halacha pertaining to everyday tefillah.

Mrs. Rivka Lichtman Tehillim 1

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
A holistic look at Tehillim that focuses on the relevance of David HaMelech’s songs to our lives today. We will use the text as a springboard to discuss many applications of Tehillim to everyday challenges, joys, disappointments and struggles using a combination of meforshim, real-life anecdotes and humor.

Mrs. Iska Teller The Nineteen Letters of R' Hirsch

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
We will be learning about the foundations of Emuna and religious life in the face of modern culture. The format of the class will be analyzing each letter of the nineteen and understanding it in the context of today's culture, bringing in a wide array of sources from Chumash and Nach, as well as early and contemporary rabbinical sources. The class is designed to be dynamic, encouraging conversation to better understand our unique place as religious Jewish women in the modern world.

Mrs. Ruth Buchler Torah Personalities M

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: Yes

Course Details:
Be fascinated by the people in Tanach and Talmud who changed their lives from the worst crimes to lives of purity​.​ Trace the causes ​o​f their transformations and be astounded at who they became​.​ For each personality in Torah we discuss​, we will also meet regular people in today's generation who have found the same strength to remake their lives and hear incredible real life stories of hope and salvation. We will evaluate the challenges they faced with an eye to reality to keep it relevant​.

Mrs. Ruth Buchler Torah Time Capsule

Department: Jewish Thought and Philosophy
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
Go back in time- experience life in Israel at the time of the Mishna and Gemara based on Torah sources put into chronological order and actual live ruins (shuls, coins, houses, pots, swimming pools and more) from that era.

Mrs. Yehudis Rabinowitz Vayeshev

Department: Bible
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this course we will delve into perplexing topics from פרשת וישב such as מכירת יוסף, the מעשה of יהודה ותמר and the various dreams throughout the פרשה. Why does the source of מלכות בית דוד come from the seemingly improper act of יהודה and תמר? Did the holy שבטים really sell יוסף out of jealousy? Did יעקב אבינו not understand the detrimental effects of showing favoritism towards one child? What were the symbolic reasons behind יוסף's roller coaster of a life?

Mrs. Avigayil Grossman Word Power

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 1
Credits: 1
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
This class will encourage diving deep into our minds to discover the psychology behind why we say what we say (or shouldn’t say), understanding how our speech reflects our self esteem and how the Torah’s wisdom guides us to be the best version of ourselves.

Rabbi Zev Tendler Your Kosher Kitchen 1

Department: Jewish Law
Hours per week: 2
Credits: 2
Matmidah class: No

Course Details:
In this advanced Kashrus class, you will not only learn how to smartly set up and maintain a Kosher kitchen, but also crisis management for when things go wrong! (It happens to the best of us). There will be an emphasis on background principles of kashrus as well as policies of major Kashrus agencies. You will become an educated kosher consumer who knows how to shop, cook, and eat according to halacha. Plus, knock one challenge off the overwhelmed newlywed list as you set up your new kosher kitchen with confidence and ease. Note: This class is for both Sefardim and Ashkenazim.