Judaic Studies

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Our multi-faceted Judaic studies curriculum offers an in-depth examination of Jewish literature, history and culture. An emphasis on developing critical thinking and textual analytical skills complement the general studies curriculum.

As students study Jewish texts, they examine the difference between subjective and objective history. They analyze selections from Pirkei Avot, the ethical wisdom literature of the Talmud, Rashi, Maimonedes and others as they relate these ancient texts to their current world. Social justice and tzedakah continue to be emphasized at all grades.

The students also study the many forms of Judaism in America as well as the world's religions.

Judaic Studies MS News

  • Eighth Grade Prepares for Israel Trip

    Posted March 21, 2013

    Our eighth graders from the BHDS Marin and SF campuses came together with their teacher chaperones for a morning of planning and bonding before their upcoming two-week trip to Israel. To familiarize themselves with Israel's numerous political parties, the students divided into teams to play...read on for photos...

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  • Survivor of "Exodus" Speaks to Eighth Grade Students

    Posted March 13, 2013

    Holocaust survivor Richard Parasol, orphaned when his entire family in Poland was killed during the liquidation of the Warsaw ghetto, told his story to our eighth grade class. He was saved through the near miraculous help of Polish Catholic family who took him from his parents - delivered over the fence of the ghetto - when he was six. He became a hidden child during the remainder of the war, and in 1947 he arrived in Israel on the Exodus, but the ship was not allowed to dock...

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  • Holocaust Survivors Speak to Eighth Grade

    Posted February 21, 2013

    Holocaust survivors and guest speakers Bill Kay and Rosa Freund spoke to our eighth grade students this week about each of their stories - so different, yet each one displaying the courage, determination and strong love for family that allowed them to find a way to survive under brutal circumstances. "Our students will be among the very last to hear first-hand accounts of the Holocaust," said teacher Beverly Pinto...

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