Students in grades 9-12 are invited to participate in our Madrichim Program that consists of two fundamental building blocks: the hands on work in the Joseph & Belle Braun Anshe Emet Religious School and their choice in classes through Tikkun Chicago.
Those who choose to serve as Madrichim (assistance in the Religious School) will work under the guidance of our Religious School teachers, Youth Director, and clergy, to develop leadership and teaching skills while serving as role models for younger students. Madrichim can choose to receive community service hours or a salary for their work in the school and can choose from a broad range of assignments. Qualified Madrichim will also have the option of working one on one with individual students on their Hebrew reading, or as one on one assistance with our partnership with Keshet. Assignment choices and descriptions can be found on the application. New Madrichim must meet with Samantha Isenstein, Director of Adolescent Education, before placement in an assignment. ALL Madrichim must meet for an orientation before religious school begins in August.
Teens will also be required to take classes to learn for themselves as part of Tikkun Chicago program. Under the direction of Samantha Isenstein, classes are designed to guide teenagers in developing a personal, adult relationship with the Jewish tradition through interactive learning, student-driven discussions, and timely, relevant topics. Tikkun Chicago classes are in 6 to 10 week sessions to meet the needs of our busy teens. Madrichim must choose a minimum of two classes from Tikkun Chicago as part of their participation in the program.
The program also includes a mentorship and teacher-training component. About once a month the Madrichim meet with the teachers as well as participate in professional development and learning.
