Special Programs/Services for Families with Teens
Growth. Exploration. Identity.
Belonging to a synagogue community provides teens with a supportive environment to explore their identity, connect with peers, and take ownership of their Judaism. It offers opportunities for mentorship, empathy, social action, moral guidance, as well as meaningful traditions and rituals. Engaging in synagogue services and activities fosters responsibility, cultural pride, and a sense of belonging during a formative life stage.
Visitors are welcome!
Teen Chefs for MESH
With adult supervision, Shomrei teens gather in the kitchen approximately once a month to prepare a 50-person meal for Montclair Emergency Services for Hope (MESH), a local charity dedicated to feeding the hungry in our community.
Zamru Fri•PM and Potluck
(monthly, Friday, Sept-Jun)
Welcome Shabbat with a spirited, lively, uplifting service in the round with musical accompaniment. Sing along with familiar and new Jewish melodies from around the world. Stay for a pescatarian/dairy potluck Shabbat meal immediately after the service. (signup for potluck)
Jewish Teen Collaborative
Shomrei and three other local synagogues, Bnai Keshet, Ner Tamid, and Temple Sholom, collaborate to bring their teens together for engaging activities that foster bonding and a strong sense of Jewish community. Past events have included bowling, pie baking, dinner and a Broadway show, CPR certification course, and a day trip to Great Adventure theme park. These activities are partially funded by the Federation, which helps keep costs low or even free for participants.
Madrichim (Teacher Assistants)
Post-B'nai Mitzvah teens in 8th grade are invited to volunteer or work in the JLC. Starting in 9th grade (for those at least 14 years old), teens can choose to either volunteer or receive payment for their time. Teens assist on Shabbat, Wednesdays, or both, supporting teachers in JLC classrooms and providing administrative support.
STOM (Shomrei Teens of Montclair) Youth Group
STOM, a JLC program for Post-B’nai Mitzvah Jewish teens, blends learning and socializing to strengthen Jewish identity while fostering meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and the Shomrei community. Through engaging discussions on Jewish history, Israel, and social action, teens build a foundation for personal growth and community involvement. more info about the jlc
Shomrei Outdoors (occasional)
Take a walk! Stroll nearby nature preserves with Shomrei friends and families and experience the beautiful connection between nature and Judaism. The walk is low-impact physically and suitable for mobile children and elderly. The walks is typically led by our Rabbinic Intern.
Parents' Night Out (ocassional)
Join other parents in our community for a kid-free night at someone’s home or out on the town to get to know one another or bond over a social activity.
Jewish Learning Center (JLC) Hebrew School
K - 1st Grade
Students will delight in discovering Jewish traditions through song, experiential Torah stories, and hands-on exploration of Israel. They will learn the customs, prayers, and traditions of Shabbat while celebrating the richness of Jewish culture. Our multi-sensory approach keeps children active, engaged, and connected with their friends and teachers in a positive, upbeat Jewish environment.
2nd - 7th Grades
Our curriculum centers on coming together as a community on Shabbat mornings. Students experience the rhythm of the Jewish week through prayers, Torah study, and meaningful peer connections. Developmentally appropriate davening, active games, and hands-on activities reinforce Torah, Jewish history, and Israel. We celebrate holidays, engage in lively discussions, and create parsha plays. Wednesdays focus on small group Hebrew instruction, enhancing prayer proficiency and confidence, alongside classes in Jewish ethics, values, Torah, and history, fostering a rich and engaging learning environment.
