For fifth-grader Michael, Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Religious School is more than just a place to learn: “It’s a chance to express my true identity,” he said. Despite a packed schedule of school and sports, Michael prioritizes his weekly Jewish education: “I told myself I had to make room for Religious School because I look forward to it every week and don’t want to lose something I treasure so much.”
“Our students love it here,” explained Rabbi Rena Rifkin, Stephen Wise’s director of youth education. “It’s amazing to be in a place where you can just feel proud and joyful about being Jewish.” She described the Religious School as “a Jewish learning lab” where students are encouraged to uncover, examine and explore. “We’re not just sitting with a book for hours. We’re getting our hands dirty.”
Michael said he appreciates the value of starting his Jewish education early. “My mom always says it’s better to learn more languages when you’re young. It’s the same with Jewish culture — it’ll help you later in life. If you don’t learn how to ride a bike when you’re young, isn’t it gonna be harder to learn when you’re older?”
The Religious School’s immersive, hands-on approach lays a strong foundation for lifelong Jewish identity. From baking with the “Challah Prince” to exploring a makeshift Israeli shuk, students engage with Judaism in dynamic and meaningful ways. By fifth grade, they’ve delved into the Jewish textual canon and can present their own commentaries. As they prepare for their b’nai mitzvah, they work closely with clergy and one-on-one tutors to deepen their understanding of Torah and Haftarah, culminating in a joyous b’nai mitzvah ceremony in Stephen Wise’s sanctuary.
The strong foundation Religious School provides helps students see their b’nai mitzvah as more than just a coming-of-age event, explained Rabbi Rifkin. “Students see it as a milestone within the larger community, not an endpoint.” In fact, many students return as madrichim (student leaders) or active participants to stay connected to the Jewish community.
Tenth-grader Alissa is one such student. A Religious School alumna, she found renewed strength in the Stephen Wise community after October 7. “Seeing what was happening around me at school and on social media was really hard,” she said. “Many of my Jewish friends wore a Star of David, but as much as I wanted to, I was scared.”
Attending High Holy Day services this past fall inspired her. “I saw so many people I hadn’t seen in so long. And the sermon really spoke to me,” she shared. She started wearing a Magen David ring. “It’s something I want to be proud of, not afraid to wear.” And determined to reconnect and give back, Alissa gave Rabbi Rifkin a call. “I just want to be here in any way I can,” she told her former teacher.
A few weeks later, Alissa returned to the Religious School as a madricha. “I was here from kindergarten through my bat mitzvah, so I thought it’d be a great way to bring back that part of my life,” she said. “I loved being here when I was younger — singing and having t’filah — and now I come during the holidays and still know all the songs.”
“They’re not just here to learn the prayers and blessings for their b’nai mitzvah,” said Rabbi Rifkin, “but to become someone who feels at home in a Shabbat service and within the Jewish community. It’s incredibly empowering, especially in dark times, to know: ‘There’s a role for me. There’s a place for me here.’ It’s a powerful message for both kids and adults — that no matter where life takes you, you can always return to this community.”
Learn more about Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Religious School by visiting swfs.org/school, contacting the office via email at school@swfs.org or calling (212)-877-4050, ext. 230. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
*Children’s names have been changed to protect their privacy.
