Blog

As a kid, I loved going to Sunday School. Yes, you may find that funny, but it’s true. It seemed magical, and I loved everything about it. But, truth be told, there was one reason I looked forward to Sunday mornings above all else. Her name was Michele Cohen, and all of my childhood memories at TI include her. It’s been many years since we were in Confirmation class together, and I consider myself lucky that our friendship has stood the test of time.  Who knows, maybe it was TI magic…  

At TI, I wear many hats. At Board meetings, I am the congregation’s Treasurer. On Friday nights, I am a Shabbat regular. On the High Holy Days, I sing in the choir. At the DECC, I am Drew’s aunt. And on Sunday mornings, I am Morah (teacher) Debbie.  

For over 20 years, I have been blessed to be a part of the Temple Israel Religious School faculty. I have met hundreds of wonderful young people and their amazing parents. We study together – Torah, prayer, holidays, deeds of loving kindness - but there is so much more. Sunday mornings are about learning that each of us was created in the image of God to do great things in this world, and seeing the spark of God in others makes this world a better place. It’s about kindness, patience, and learning to always be a helper to those in need. It’s about learning that we all make mistakes, but what we learn from them is what matters. On any given Sunday, my classroom is filled with laughter, a few tears, some silliness, joy and love.  We are reading Torah stories, playing games, or making videos – all the while making memories, building friendships, and becoming our best selves. 

Many have said their students have been lucky to part of our school, but I’m not so sure bout that. Us teachers, we have a little secret to tell you – it’s the teachers who are lucky… as the Talmud states, “I have learned much from my teachers, more from my colleagues, and the most from my students.” My students have taught me more than they will ever know, and my life is better for each of them having been a part of it.   

My favorite Sunday of the year – the first day of school – is approaching quickly! If you haven’t had a chance to register your child for the upcoming school year, there’s plenty of time. Or if you're a grown up, looking to impact the future of Judaism, we can use your help! Register your students on the website or call the school office for registration or volunteer information. I can only hope your child’s religious school experience was as great as mine was, and that come one amazing Sunday morning, that TI magic kicks in and they meet their very own “Michele.”  

-Debbie Schultz
 

Interested in more info about Temple Israel Religious School? Click here.

Above left - left to right: Rabbi Bram (previous TI Rabbi), two Religious School students, Michele Steinberg, and Debbie Schultz
Above right - right to left: Debbie Schultz and Michele Steinberg