Jewish tradition teaches us about the notion of Derech Eretz, which is usually translated as “the way of the world”. However, much more than that, Derech Eretz is the code of proper behavior that binds us to each other as human beings and as Jews. Derech Eretz is traditionally seen as even more important than Torah. Even before we live our lives in accordance with mitzvot, we must live with Derech Eretz.
Helping our children to learn to live with common decency and appropriate behavior is one of the most challenging parts of parenting and one that parents and teachers must work together to instill in our children.
Our Religious School works hard to teach our children to behave as a mensch would behave, just as parents want their children to behave.
Please and Thank You, Do As I Do, Not As I Say. If we behave politely, our children will learn to behave politely.
That Which is Hateful to You, Do Not Do To Others. Treat others as we would like to be treated.
Manners – Be polite to others. Whether we know them or not, treat people with respect.
The teaching of these core Jewish values is at the root of what we do to educate our children in our Religious School.
To our devoted teachers: Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.
B’Shalom
Rabbi Stanley Halpern