Who can join The Academy?  And what are the confirmation requirements?

Any teens entering Grades 7-12 are eligible for The Academy program. You do not need to be a member of Stephen S. Wise Temple. Academy members can become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah in their 7th grade year and are confirmed in the spring of their 10th grade year. To be confirmed, members must complete two academic years in The Academy.

What happens after I register for The Academy? 

Once enrolled, each student will receive a confirmation e-mail with detailed information about the year's program. There will be information sessions and orientations as listed below:

Grade 7 Information Session: May 17, 2011, 4:15 pm-5:15 pm
New Student Orientation: September 11, 2012, 12 noon-1 p.m.

What is the time commitment for the Academy?

Unlike other supplementary educational programs that require one class per week for a total of 26-30 weeks, students are required to take one 10 class course that meets once a month and attend other hands-on programs such as youth group events, community service projects, and Friday night services. Even when adding these experiences, based on each student’s schedule, The Academy requires participation about every other week, or twice a month. Students who already attend Jewish educational programs such as Milken or Hebrew High are encouraged, but not required, to take the monthly learning class. 

How do I choose my classes and events? 

The registration form sent to you after you enroll is how you choose which classes, programs, and events you want to participate in through out the year. Please fill it out and return to the Academy (there are online and paper forms available). Use the calendar to help decide your plan for the year. You are expected to attend the events and programs you register for at the beginnig of the year, however, if you can not confirm your attendance in the beginning of the year, you can always change it later. Just make sure to tell the Academy office if you change your plans.

Can I get community service credit for my school when I participate in The Academy social action programs?

If the student’s school approves The Academy Social Justice Projects, they will be given credit for both The Academy and the school.

Can I take more than one Academy class or can I attend more than the minimum requirements?

Students who go above the minimum requirements will be designated as part of “Rabbi Herscher’s Honor Circle” and will be made mention in college recommendations. Since all Academy classes meet at the same day and time each month, members can only take one class. However, if you want to supplement your Jewish learning in other ways, contact the Academy Dean.

If I am receiving my formal Jewish education at another institution, is The Academy beneficial for me?

Yes! The Academy is designed to enhance a student’s junior and high school education, regardless of what school they attend. For those attending Jewish day schools, The Academy offers a wide variety of Jewish learning opportunities that might not otherwise be available in their formal education.