Tifereth Israel

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Education & Learning

From early childhood wonder to lifelong learning—discover the joy of Jewish education at every age

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Beit Sefer Shalom

Greater Des Moines Jewish Federation Religious School

Our vibrant religious school program provides children with a strong foundation in Jewish values, traditions, and Hebrew language through engaging, age-appropriate curriculum.

Beit Sefer Shalom offers comprehensive Jewish education for children from kindergarten through confirmation. Our experienced educators create a warm, welcoming environment where students develop Jewish identity, build community, and gain the knowledge and skills to lead Jewish lives.

Complete Program Information

For complete program details, curriculum guides, teacher biographies, registration forms, and upcoming events, please visit our dedicated Beit Sefer Shalom website. You’ll find detailed information about each grade level, class schedules, tuition information, and answers to frequently asked questions.

What Students Learn

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Hebrew Language

Reading, writing, and conversational Hebrew skills

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Jewish History & Culture

Understanding our rich heritage and traditions

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Holiday Celebrations

Hands-on learning through seasonal observances

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Tikkun Olam

Social action and community service projects

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Community Building

Lifelong friendships and connections

Grade Levels

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Early Childhood

Jewish holidays, stories, basic Hebrew letters, and hands-on learning through play

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Elementary

Social action and community service projects

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Pre-B'nai Mitzvah

Lifelong friendships and connections

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Teen Program

Confirmation preparation, Jewish identity, leadership development, and Israel connection

đź“… Class Schedule

Sunday mornings • September through May

Age-appropriate schedules for each grade level.

📝 Registration Information

Registration for the upcoming school year typically opens in spring. Financial assistance is available – no family is turned away due to inability to pay.

Bar & Bat Mitzvah Study Programs

Comprehensive preparation for becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah

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Our B’nai Mitzvah program is a transformative 18-24 month journey that prepares students to lead services, read from the Torah, and step into Jewish adulthood with confidence and joy.

Four Core Components

For complete program details, curriculum guides, teacher biographies, registration forms, and upcoming events, please visit our dedicated Beit Sefer Shalom website. You’ll find detailed information about each grade level, class schedules, tuition information, and answers to frequently asked questions.

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Hebrew Tutoring

One-on-one sessions with our Hebrew tutor focusing on Torah and Haftarah reading, prayer fluency, and trope (cantillation)

Duration: 12-18 months

Frequency: Weekly 30-45 minute sessions

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Torah Study with Rabbi

Personal meetings with the Rabbi to study your Torah portion, develop your D’var Torah (sermon), and explore the deeper meanings

Duration: 6-8 months

Frequency: Monthly sessions increasing to bi-weekly

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Service Leadership Training

Learn to lead prayers, understand service structure, and practice with the Rabbi and Cantor

Duration: 6 months

Frequency: As needed, intensifying closer to date

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Mitzvah Project

Design and complete a personal project that demonstrates Jewish values and contributes to tikkun olam (repairing the world)

Duration: 3-6 months

Frequency: Self-paced with guidance

Requirements
  • •Family membership in good standing
  • •Enrollment in religious school through 7th grade
  • •Regular attendance at Shabbat services (minimum monthly)
  • •Completion of all tutoring and study sessions
  • •Successful completion of mitzvah project
Timeline & Planning

Students typically begin formal preparation 18-24 months before their Bar or Bat Mitzvah date. Dates are selected approximately 2 years in advance to allow proper preparation time.

Families are encouraged to participate in the journey – attend study sessions, help with the mitzvah project, and grow Jewishly alongside their child.

Adult Education

Never stop learning

Sophisticated, engaging classes for adults seeking deeper understanding of Judaism, Hebrew, and Jewish life.

Introduction to Judaism

Perfect for interfaith couples, conversion candidates, or anyone curious about Jewish life and practice

Hebrew for Adults

Learn to read Hebrew and understand prayer. Multiple levels from complete beginner to advanced

Torah Study Group

Weekly exploration of the Torah portion with Rabbi. Lively discussion, multiple interpretations, coffee and community

Jewish Philosophy Seminar

Deep dives into Jewish thought from ancient to modern. This semester: Martin Buber and the I-Thou relationship