On the web

http://www.jvibe.com/Real_life/HebrewSchoolProject.php

About the Hebrew School Project

The Hebrew School Project is a compilation of stories, lines, memories, questions, and confessions from people who have been shaped by hebrew school and the beginning of their religious exploration. This extends beyond just hebrew school but to the adventures we find when we use what we have learned there and apply it to our life. The Hebrew School Project shows how we can be changed by our Jewish identities.

Jenna

When I was around eleven years old, I told my Hebrew school teacher that I said kaddish for my fish. She yelled at me and said that you couldn't say prayers in the bathroom.

beginning

I cried my first week in Hebrew school. I cried because it had taken years for me to get my parents to find the money and desire to send me. I cried because my father died before he could see me go. When I got there, with my crisp new Siddur and pencils in tow, I was told I was behind. I didn’t mind, because I knew that Hebrew school was not just another after-school activity. I grew up hearing people say “I am Jewish because …”. In turn I replied with Hanukkah candles and matzah but I found some core of my identity when I said instead “because I am Jewish…”. Because I am Jewish, I want to

be a mensch . As one, I truly believe one person can change the world. I am highly affected by the passion of friends and family. With it they have changed my world.