I.L. Peretz Community School is a secular Jewish school in Central New Jersey affiliated with the Workmen’s Circle (circle.org). The school for children in grades K-7 meets Sunday mornings from September to May. The curriculum emphasizes historical and cultural approaches to the study of their Jewishness and a commitment to community, to Tikkun Olam, Hebrew for “repair the world,” and to make “a shenere un bessere velt,” Yiddish for “a more beautiful and better world.” Classes are directed toward understanding their people’s past and enriching their present lives as Jews. The curriculum, led by a professional staff of teachers, includes the study of Jewish traditions, history, literature, music, dance and Hebrew. While the children are in class, adults meet over bagels and coffee for weekly discussions on a wide range of topics. Their community also offers programs on Friday evenings, retreats, book groups, holiday parties, a teen group, a community Passover seder, and secular services for the High Holidays. In this community, Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies are as unique and individual as the students themselves and reflect their individual Jewish heritages. Community leaders are available to guide families through this special time. Find out more by attending an upcoming open house on Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Rutgers Preparatory School. For more information, call 732-545-9691 or visit www.ilperetz.org.
