By Ramona L. Brand, Director of Youth Learning
A Month of Flexible Learning!
If the past two years have taught us anything, it that flexibility and creativity are the watchwords of education!
Due to the Omicron surge, the Religious School pivoted back to virtual learning during the month of January.
We transitioned quickly and smoothly back into virtual learning. Although not ideal, we were able to provide continuity and momentum in our school year. Our teachers are champions, and I am so appreciative of their incredible work to provide outstanding education under all circumstances. In re-sponse to feedback about virtual learning and to be inclusive for all our learners, and families, the Reli-gious School planned creative outdoor, events for each grade level over several weeks of the month.
We dodged snowflakes and maintained a very flexible schedule to meet safely outdoors. We celebrated Tu B’shvat and Consecration with our lower grades, while bundled up at Deep Run Park. It may be winter in Virginia, but it was Spring in our hearts!
Our 6th and 7th grade students and parents caravanned through the city to take the Richmond City History tour. This is always an exciting event. Our 4th and 5th graders spent a morning at Park365 to examine how public spaces can be built for inclusivity while studying the meaning of the text: “Do not place a stumbling block before the blind.”
We are very much looking forward to being back in person with our students. Our teen group postponed a Challah Havdalah event, which has been planned for Jan. 22, and they quickly pivoted to an online Game Night.
We look forward to being back in person with our students but are grateful for the opportuni-ties to “think outside the zoom box” and to keep our school community strong.
February Religious School Calendar:
Sundays: Feb. 6, 13, 27
Wednesdays: Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23
Pre-K meets: Feb. 13, 27
Grades 8 – 10 meet: Feb. 13, 27/ 10 a.m. – noon
Chaverim Katanim: Feb. 27 / 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Temple Beth-El Tot Shabbat Services: On hold until further notice
Contact Ramona L. Brand at (804) 355-3564 ext. 111 or r.brand@bethelrichmond.org to learn more about our vibrant Jewish education and our remarkable congregation or visit http://www.bethelrichmond.org/education/brown-religious-school/ to find a registration form.
