This fall, Hebrew schools around the world will be looking different. Some schools will hold classes via Zoom. Some classes will be held in person, full of hand sanitizer, thermometers, and face masks. Some shluchim will be ready to close at a moment’s notice. But in this climate of uncertainty, one thing won’t change: the students’ motivation for learning, ignited by JewQ, the international Torah competition that Hebrew schools are calling the “highlight of the year.”
JewQ is a chance for kids to become experts in the fundamentals of Judaism. They study the JewQ textbook, Living Jewish, in school or on their own, then take tests to qualify for the final championship. “JewQ has transformed Hebrew school education,” says Rabbi Zalmy Loewenthal, CKids director. “It’s brought a completely new motivation to learning.”
This year, with coronavirus still a very real concern, JewQ is ready to adapt to the “new normal.” Students can continue studying the material from home and tests will be offered virtually.
Although a date is pencilled in for May 2021, CKids is aware of the possibility that a Shabbaton, the highlight of the JewQ experience, won’t be possible. To that end a catalog of exciting prizes will be prepared as an alternative reward for the champions.
The Covid-era format has already proved possible. Australia, which launched JewQ in 11 Hebrew schools earlier this summer, has seen great success even with a fully digital model. “JewQ is not only surviving in the current environment, but thriving!” says Rabbi Mendel Raskin, JewQ Director.
The feedback of JewQ in Australia offers a glimpse of the parallel success possible around the world. “In uncertain times we need to constantly adapt, says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Director of Merkos 302. “Our level of Jewish education can never be compromised.”
Registration for shluchim is now open! To learn more or sign up visit CKids.net/jewq.
