In 2006, Temple Emanuel and Ahavas Israel combined to create the United Jewish School.  One of the goals of this collaboration was to create an environment that brings together both Conservative and Reform traditions. This includes a pluralist T’fillah program embedded into every Sunday morning. 

At the United Jewish School, we are creating a community. Students develop their Jewish identity, not just through learning from our teachers, but learning from each other. We practice Jewish values, such as Hachnasat Orchim (Welcoming Guests), Tzedakah (Giving to Help Others), Ometz Lev (Courage of the Heart), Eretz Yisrael (learning about The Land of Israel), and so much more. Our Jewish values and Jewish identity are strengthened by studying Torah, learning about the sacred language of Hebrew, learning how to pray, and examining our history. We are equipping this next generation of Jews to be leaders of not just the Jewish community of Grand Rapids, but around the world.Last year, enrollment was approximately 95 students ranging from Gan Katan (2 to 4 years-old) to 10th grade. This year, we have a staff of about 20 teachers and high school madrichim (aides).

Sunday classes, located at Temple Emanuel, are held from 9:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. The Mitzvah Core (9-12th grades) meets Sundays from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.  All classes are at Temple Emanuel at 1715 Fulton East. 

Our supplemental Hebrew program will be an online-only program again, scheduled individually or in small groups with our Hebrew instructors, with your family’s schedule in mind.