Frequently Asked Questions
Does my family have to join the synagogue for my child to attend religious school?
No. Non-members are welcome, but they pay a slightly higher tuition fee, since the school is heavily subsidized by synagogue membership dues.
What if ours is an interfaith family?
Interfaith families are welcome in our school and in the congregation.
What if my child has a different gender identity?
Students of any gender identity are welcome and will be treated according to their personal pronouns.
What is the cost of tuition?
Click here to see the tuition fees. Please note that it is important to the members of BSBI that every child receive a Jewish
education. For this reason, financial assistance is available. Please contact the office for further information. All such requests are confidential.
What does it mean that the school and synagogue are “egalitarian”?
At BSBI, women and girls are provided the same education as men and boys. When a girl becomes a bat mitzvah, she leads the service on the bimah and reads Torah and Haftarah for the
congregation—just as many of our women congregants do.
What is the school schedule?
School meets 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Sunday mornings for students in grades K-7. Students in grades 3-7 also meet on Thursday afternoons 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
What about snacks?
The school provides a snack and juice on Sunday mornings. All snacks are kosher, and we will accommodate any allergies disclosed on the enrollment form.
What is Junior Congregation?
Junior Congregation is a monthly Saturday morning service led by our principal, Rabbi Alan Lefkowitz, that takes place during the school year. It is a family-oriented opportunity for students
and parents to learn the Shabbat prayers and their meanings.
If we’re not members, can my child have a bar or bat mitzvah at BSBI?
No, the family must become members at least two years in advance in order to have a child come to the bimah for their b’nai mitzvah. B’nai mitzvah are considered communal events in our congregation; preparation involves individualized tutoring.
Does the school have a dress code?
Boys are required, and girls encouraged, to wear kippot (yarmulkes). Other than that, regular casual school clothes are fine. Children do not need to “dress up” for religious school.
What denomination is Beth Sholom B’nai Israel?
Beth Sholom B’nai Israel is a Conservative congregation and belongs to the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.
