Sholem School Curriculum
How We Teach - Progressive Jewish Curriculum
The Sholem Sunday School’s skilled teachers use progressive, project-based methods that spark curiosity, creativity, and group participation. Classes are fun, thoughtful, and designed to build critical thinking in a supportive, inclusive environment.
We follow a spiral curriculum, where key ideas return over time with greater complexity as students grow. Each two-year class explores a central question, with lessons that build on prior knowledge and connect across themes.
Our teachers work closely together to ensure continuity in class content, and to help students connect what they’re learning year to year, both intellectually and emotionally.
The Four Lenses
Our entire curriculum is filtered through four “lenses,” or focus areas.
Everything we design, from a two-year class, to a 45-minute lesson, is continuously filtered through the four lenses.
History in Context
We connect Jewish history to broader world events, showing how culture and social action evolve over time.
Culture and Tradition
We explore Jewish languages, holidays, and ask what traditions matter and why they’re worth preserving.
Diversity and Identity
We help students explore who they are, express their individuality, and understand inclusion and equity.
Values in Action
We help students think critically about their values and how to apply them in real life with responsibility and purpose.