Hebrew • Identity • Community

Sha’arim is our Hebrew-immersion style track for our youngest learners. It gives children in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 1 a warm entry point into Jewish life, language, and tradition. The program runs in parallel with the regular OMJS calendar and takes place on Sundays at the JCC.

What makes Sha’arim special?

Hebrew-rich environment
Children are introduced to Hebrew words and phrases through songs, stories, games, and classroom routines, building familiarity and comfort with the language.

Values and holidays
Learning about Jewish values and holidays is woven into classroom activities, so students experience Jewish life as meaningful and joyful.

Creative learning
Each lesson engages children through movement, music, art, and play, allowing them to learn in ways that feel natural at their age.

Community connections
Sha’arim students take part in school-wide activities and intergenerational programs, helping them feel part of a larger Jewish community from the very beginning.

Pluralistic and inclusive
As with all of OMJS, Sha’arim welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and embraces different expressions of Jewish identity.

Why Sha’arim?

The earliest years are the perfect time to open the “gates” to Jewish learning. Sha’arim provides the foundation for language, identity, and belonging that children will carry with them throughout their time at OMJS and beyond.