Academics

Tikkun Olam

PARTNERS IN TIKKUN OLAM: REPAIRING THE WORLD

"You and I can change the world."

Judaism values each individual as an ongoing partner with God in creating the world. Each student has the opportunity to improve the world through words, deeds and actions. 

At VBS Day School, we are committed to a well-rounded education that includes the attainment of the highest academic goals, as well as character education. As stated in our school mission, this is accomplished by teaching, inspiring and modeling Jewish values. Students learn the value of helping others in need throughout the year as part of their grade-level tikkun olam project.

Tikkun Olam - Hineni Action Day

Jewish values that develop a caring character are central to learning at the Day School. Students are introduced to social issues through a service learning approach. Through the study of Jewish texts, real-life examples and discussions paired with active hands-on activities and projects our students become partners in Tikkun Olam. The year is highlighted by the Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis Hineni Action Day, an entire day of service devoted to making a difference in the world.
 
Grade-level tikkun olam themes are integrated throughout the curriculum:
  • Kindergarten – Welcoming Newcomers
  • 1st Grade – Caring for Animals
  • 2nd Grade – Respecting Individual Differences
  • 3rd Grade – Caring for the Environment
  • 4th Grade – Feeding the Hungry
  • 5th Grade – Honoring the Elderly
  • 6th Grade – Supporting Israel and World Issues

Learning Through Action

There are different ways our students can reach out and help others. One way is through tzedakah (justice), the righteous acts of giving money and creating a more just world. Another way to reach out to others is through gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness). Each grade will determine the ways that students can experience both tzedakah and gemilut chasadim relating to their grade level mitzvah. Students are encouraged to bring in cans of food for SOVA Food Pantry each Friday as a reminder of the ongoing mitzvah of helping others in need. During monthly Rosh Hodesh (new Hebrew month) celebrations and other times during the year, students are encouraged to bring in special items to help those in need. At VBS Day School, students are immersed in the values of helping others in need.