Shabbat Observances
Shabbat is a moment of joy for all our students. We celebrate weekly on Friday to greet the coming Shabbat and spend special weekends together each year at shabbatonim.
Shabbatonim
Our shabbatonim (grade-wide weekend retreats) are a unique way for classmates to relax and get to know each other in a much deeper way.
Participating in a yearly shabbaton helps students spend time together in an immersive weekend experience. While honoring different ways of observing Shabbat, all shabbatonim include a hesed project, Shabbat observance and fun, bonding activities, culminating in a moving havdalah service. JLI Fellows serve as role models and build leadership skills by planning and running each shabbaton.
Shabbat Schmooze
In a weekly "Shabbat Schmooze," students gather on Friday mornings to celebrate the upcoming Shabbat. JLI Fellows bake and distribute challah bites, students and staff dance in celebration, and the school unites in song. This weekly tradition, held outside whenever possible, reminds us of the meaningful connections we have to our traditions and to one another.
Members of the Jewish Leadership Initiative, a selective leadership development program, lead our students in participation in Jewish life and holiday programming, including leading Shabbatonim and weekly Shabbat celebrations.
Learn more about JLI and other leadership development opportunities at Barrack