Youth & Family Programming

Through spiritual practices, ethical action, critical thinking, and creative expression, our children develop positive Jewish connections to traditions, family, friends, and themselves. This year, children and families will learn about Jewish food, music, and ritual objects, explored through the lenses of diaspora, Earth, and liberation.

Our programs cater to different needs, from immersive, weekly learning for kids to field trips and family participation, with specific options for B’Mitzvah preparation and Hebrew language learning. Financial aid is available. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. All of our programs are open to members and non-members.

Click here to find out more about Reconstructionist Judaism.

Here's a quick breakdown of our 2024-2025 programming:

Or Shalom Community School
Designed for: Youth in grades 1st - 6th.
Program runs: 4:30 – 6:00 pm, Weekly on Mondays, Sept 2024 - May 2025 (23 sessions).
Focus: Hands-on learning with a progressive curriculum. Immersive activities include art and outdoor classes. We hold two Shabbat services  (one in fall and one in spring). Multi-age groups and small class sizes support friendship/mentorship across ages. 
Location: Bernal Heights, both in the office and outdoors.
Cost: $1,050 for members, $1,350 for non-members.

Learn more about our Community School

Sunday Family Program
Designed for: Families with children aged 5-12.
Program runs: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, Monthly on Sundays, Sept 2024 - May 2025 (9 sessions).
Focus: Experiential and field trip-based, exploring contemporary Jewish life through activities like making charoset and designing judaica.
Location: Bernal Heights and nearby San Francisco locations.
Cost: $360 for both members and non-members.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SUNDAY FAMILY PROGRAM

B’Mitzvah Program
Designed for: 7th graders and older students pursuing a B’ Mitzvah in the 2024-2025 academic year.
Program runs: 4:30 – 6:00 pm, Twice a Month, Sept 2024 - May 2025, with additional family education and one-on-one sessions with Rabbi Faryn.
Focus: Formation of Jewish identity, Torah study, and collaboration during this rite of passage. Students will plan a collective Mitzvah project, develop their d’var Torah, and write mini-drashes for the ceremony. Families will meet to plan and rehearse the service, attend Shabbat services, and participate in Havdalah Family Education sessions.
Location: Bernal Heights.
Cost: $3,200 for members. $3,700 for non-members.

Learn More about our B'Mitzvah Program

Alef-Bet Class
Designed for: Families with children in grades 4-7th.
Program runs: 6:30 – 7:30 pm, Monday nights, Oct 2024 – Dec 2024 (8 sessions).
Focus: Parents/guardians & children learning to read Hebrew together.
Location: Bernal Heights.
Cost: $550 for both members and non-members. 

Learn More about our alef-bet class

How to enroll