Enrollment in KidSchool is available to The City Congregation member households only. Preschool enrollment is available to nonmembers. (Please note: Preschool program is contingent on sufficient enrollment.) If you prefer to pay by phone, call us at (212) 213-1002.
Our educational philosophy
At The City Congregation we share the commitment to education that has been one of the core values of Jewish civilization for centuries. As Humanistic Jews we use critical thinking to assess all claims to truth. While we believe that it is important for our children to become familiar with the Hebrew Bible and other ancient texts we do not automatically accept them as authoritative. We subject them to the same scrutiny we would apply to any body of knowledge.
We believe that learning should be substantive and also fun. When there are no expectations, there is little progress. And when there is little enjoyment, there can be little motivation.
We believe that education takes place not just in formal class settings but in unstructured conversation and social encounters. Students and parents are always encouraged to take part in our community celebrations and observances.
Education is a lifelong endeavor.
While children are in the KidSchool, parents are strongly encouraged to join other members of the congregation for our free adult education classes, which take place at the same time. Adult participation demonstrates to children the importance of belonging to a Jewish community, and that learning is a lifelong endeavor.
Bar and bat mitzvah program
Our Jewish KidSchool is the ideal (though not required) preparation for our secular bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah classes. These last for two years, and typically begin when students are in the sixth or seventh grade.
Our teachers are professional educators and social workers with significant training and education in Jewish studies. Members of the congregation with experience in education serve as consultants.
Payment plans and partial scholarships for tuition are available. If you would like to request one of these options, please email or call (212) 213-1002.