Machane TBA Faculty and Staff
Gan Ami School Forms
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Registration Procedures (An Overview on ShulCloud Set Up/Registration)
Set up a ShulCloud Account (For New Families)
Complete Online Registration(For Returning Families/Those with a ShulCloud Account)
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These forms must be filled out for all children, and each must be signed and dated between June 5-July 31, 2023 and turned in by July 31, 2023 for the 2023-2024 School Year.
Immunization Certificate
Click here for Maryland State Vaccination Requirements for Gan Ami Children
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These forms must be turned in by July 31, 2023 for 2023-2024 School Year if applicable.
Kofim: No Forms Needed
Prachim: The Required Annual Forms in the dropdown menu above
Bets: Speech and Language Screening Permission and Required Annual Forms in the dropdown menu above
Gimels: Vision and Hearing Screening Permission and Required Annual Forms in the dropdown menu above
Dalets: Vision and Hearing Screening Permission and Required Annual Forms in the dropdown menu above
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These forms must be signed and dated between June 5-July 31, 2023 and turned in by July 31, 2023 for 2023-2024 School Year if applicable.
Nut Allergy – Parent Permission for School Supplied Foods
Non-Nut Allergy – Parent Permission for School Supplied Foods
Core School Day Program
Transitional Bets | 3 day Bets | 4 day Bets | 5 day Bets | 4 day Gimels | 5 day Gimels | 5+2 Dalets | |
Tuition | 2900 | 5600 | 6470 | 7420 | 6710 | 7710 | 9000 |
Member Discount | 2540 | 4980 | 5780 | 6580 | 5940 | 6870 | 8020 |
Tuition is based on school enrollment for TBANS school year, from the first day of school in September to the last day of school in June. Tuition may be paid in 10 installments, July 1 – April 1. Members are billed on regular monthly Temple bills. Non-members can pay through monthly direct debit (which requires the Direct Debit Form submitted to the Temple bookkeepers) or will be billed in two installments (due July 1 and December 1). Temple accounts must remain current for a child to remain enrolled in school. Sibling Discount: 5% off younger child’s tuition (does not apply to other fees).
Early Arrival, 7:30 – 9:30 am, Monday- Friday
Pre-registered: $12.00 per day; registration occurs 3 times per year.
Drop-in: $15 per day. Available with prior approval from TBANS Office to confirm space availability.
Afternoon Activities, End of core school morning – 2:30, Monday-Friday
Per 1 Activity (one day per week) | Session Fee (3 sessions/year) |
Tuition | 260 |
Member Discount | 230 |
Aftercare Services
Temple Beth Ami offers an Aftercare from 2:30 – 6:00 pm , Monday-Friday.
3 days/week: $4100 per year
4 days/ week: $5150 per year
5 days/week: $6000 per year
TBANS Package, 7:30 am – 6:00 pm, Monday – Friday
Full-time students may attend 7:30 am – 6:00 pm, Monday – Friday for a total cost of $18,225 for the school year. Sibling Discount does not additionally apply.
Activity Fee This is an annual fee, paid with your tuition bill in July.
Transitional Bets: $90
3 day: $100
4 day: $120
5 day: $140
Dalets: $150
A Few Words About Israel (from the January 2019 Chadashot)
Dear Friends,
I am writing these words in mid-November. The pain of Pittsburgh is still raw as we mourn our loss and look to our own safety. At the same time, intense political turmoil in Israel has called the future of the current government into question. I learned long ago never to make any predictions about Israeli politics, so I do not know what the reality will be when you read these words, but the combination of events in Israel along with the rise of anti-Semitism around the world has placed Israel very much at the center of my thoughts.
First, I have always been and remain a proud Zionist. As a child, I remember my incredible pride following the Yom Kippur War, and again after the Camp David Peace Accords with Egypt. Israel was a living example of the Zionist dream to protect our people, live in peace with our neighbors and bring light to the world. I never doubted that we would succeed, eventually, in all three areas.
That said, for well over a decade there has been a growing divide between Israelis and diaspora Jews, especially those of us living in America. As a rabbi, I felt an obligation to support the State of Israel; yet more and more I found myself in tension with the policies of her government. I understood that my children were not at risk the way Israeli children are, that it was not for me to try to dictate how a sovereign nation should govern itself. And, I mourned for the seemingly intractable problem of finding a way to live in peace and security with our Palestinian neighbors, and the senseless and cyclical loss of life for which there seems no end in sight.
Then, over the past two years, the government of Israel issued a series of decisions and statements which effectively denigrated and delegitimized diaspora Jews, especially those of us who are not orthodox. My sense of betrayal, disappointment and anger could not be exaggerated. At my lowest moments, I came close to giving up on Israel altogether, cutting my losses and just focusing on Jewish life here.
Yet, I still believe in the Zionist dream. I still believe in a State of Israel which can be a beacon for all Jews: not because of rising anti-Semitism, not because of fear, but because the dream has intrinsic value, and if we will it – it will be more than a dream.
For those of us who are worried for our safety here in the States, I would remind you that those who would cause us harm are the outliers, not us. In Nazi Germany there were no solidarity rallies after attacks on the Jews, and in America the government does not seek to harm us, but rather seeks justice against those who do.
Could that change one day? Yes, perhaps. But we are nowhere near that kind of crisis, and I do not recommend making Aliyah to Israel because we are afraid.
I do, however, think that Israel deserves our support, and we hers. In fact, I think we need each other now more than ever.
The Jewish people has become just as tribal as anyone. We are split not only by where we locate ourselves on the political spectrum, but also by our denominational affiliations (or lack thereof) and whether we live in Israel, in America or elsewhere in the diaspora.
Imagine my surprise, then, when I read an Israeli newspaper article describing an extraordinary response to Pittsburgh by Israeli law makers from across the political spectrum. On November 7, a group of about 25 Knesset members came together in an emergency meeting to demand that the government of Israel recognize the non-Orthodox Jewish movements. They were convened by six MKs, including two from the leadership of the current coalition. The government is unlikely to listen, but what makes this so important is how it breaks down the divisiveness of our own Jewish inner tribalism. Following the tragedy at Pittsburgh where Conservative Jews were attacked, these MKs recognize that the Zionist dream is for all of us, not just for Israelis and the orthodox. That is an important and valuable concept, fully in consonance with the Zionist ideal. Yet, we must also remember that Israeli politicians are practical. While this meeting took place before the challenge to the current government, the MKs were also shown a startling new statistic: fully 13% of Israelis now identify as either Reform or Conservative. This does not mean that they necessarily affiliate, but it does mean that they share our commitment to pluralism.
Whether we agree or disagree with its policies, Israel is a true democracy; her government represents the will of the people. More and more Israelis are coming to understand and appreciate that they do not need to make the binary choice between being religious (orthodox) or secular when deciding how to express their Jewish identities. I am confident that this is only the beginning and look forward to an Israel which truly represents the pluralism of the larger Jewish world.
As American Reform Jews, we have a vested interest in helping to ensure the continued growth of Reform Judaism in Israel and strengthening our personal connections with our Jewish homeland. In the next several months there will be two ways for you to make a meaningful difference.
First, please look for information about to 2019 World Zionist Congress elections. While the specific date of the elections has yet to be determined, our participation is critically important. The WZC determines not only how millions of dollars will be allocated by the World Zionist Organization and the Jewish Agency in Israel, but even more importantly, who will be responsible for working together to implement the decisions of the WZC. This is how real pluralism is built; as secular, Reform and ultra-Orthodox Jews work together towards common goals, we break down the barriers between us. When we have more information about the elections, we will send the information to you, but please make sure to vote! Every vote for the Reform block is a vote for greater pluralism in Israel and around the world.
Second, I am pleased to announce our next congregational trip to Israel, scheduled for July 2020. A complete itinerary with pricing (apart from airfare) should be available no later than the end of January. I hope that you will join me on the trip of a lifetime! For more information, or if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to give me a holler.
Shalom u’vracha (peace and blessing),
Rabbi Gary Pokras
Recent Posts by Rabbi Pokras
A Passover Message
Why is this year different from all other years? On all other years we gather in close around our tables with family and friends …
The Passover seder combines all the things we love most: food and wine, storytelling, and home hospitality. Perhaps this is why, of all the Jewish holidays, Pesach is the most observed by American Jews – regardless of their level of affiliation or engagement.
The other Jewish holidays have a lot to offer, but none of them combine food, storytelling and hospitality as powerfully as the seder. Which begs a question:
Why didn’t the rabbis give us similar rituals for the other holidays? What is so special about Pesach?
The answer is “telling:” on Passover we recount our primary defining narrative – the Exodus from Egyptian slavery towards freedom. The seder leverages all five of our senses to remind us who we are, where we have come from, and where we have yet to go. For that reason alone, it deserves special treatment.
However, we are Jews, which means that among other quirks, we look for meaning in the details. Consider, for example, these words which Moses spoke to the Israelites about the future observance of Passover:
“You shall observe this as an institution for all time, for you and for your descendants. And when you enter the land that the Eternal will give you, as God has promised, you shall observe this rite. And when your children ask you, ‘What do you mean by this rite?’ you shall say, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Eternal, because God passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt when God smote the Egyptians, but saved our houses.’” [Ex. 12:24-27]
This passage is all about l’Dor vaDor – transmitting our tradition through the generations. Moses emphasizes the concept of l’Dor vaDor multiple times throughout the Exodus story. It is no surprise, then, that education became a core value of Torah and therefore also Judaism. What makes this particular passage different is not what Moses said, but when he said it. At God’s command, Moses instructed us to teach our children about the Exodus while we were still in Egypt!
Why would Moses tell us to teach future generations during our most frenetic preparations before the final and most horrible plague arrived?
I have long thought that it was to reassure the Israelites that, on the darkest night of their lives, they had a future. However, over time I have come to understand that Moses was not just speaking to them, but to us. Our laws, values, and traditions are not just about the past, they are about the future. So in each generation, we are instructed to teach our children that we were slaves in Egypt, and that God redeemed us from servitude with awesome wonders and a mighty outstretched hand. We teach our children that no matter what the rest of the world may say, human dignity and freedom are sacred gifts to treasure and protect. We teach our children not to accept the world as it is, but to work towards creating the world as it should be. We teach our children that there is a higher purpose and a deeper meaning to our lives. We teach our children, l’Dor vaDor, so that they will be inspired to act and achieve. We teach our children so that they will teach their children.
Why is this year different from all other years? This year we all feel our oppression, not by Pharaoh but by the virus. This year we all pray for a different kind of redemption, for a life without the disease and quarantine and fear and uncertainty. This year we recognize that we are all children, on the receiving end of the generations who have transmitted our story to us, a story of resilience, of strength, and of hope.
We will celebrate Passover this year, just as our forebears did in Egypt, while still awaiting an end to the plague. Well, not exactly as they did. We will connect digitally, with video and with sound. Our tables will stretch across miles and miles as we share and celebrate together even while we remain physically separate. In the midst of our pain, I hope that we will also find some joy and especially some meaning.
As we gather around our tables this Pesach, I invite us to share how we are bringing l’Dor vaDor (the transmission of our tradition in our new generation) to life. Try going around the table and asking everyone to share their answers to any or all of the following questions:
- Why (for what purpose) do I think God brought us out of Egypt?
- How has that purpose played out in history?
- What is my part in all of this? How am I doing?
- What is the single most important Jewish value I want to pass on to the next generation?
We won’t all agree, that’s for sure, but as we share our ideas, we may discover or rediscover something deeply meaningful about ourselves, our place in history, and our hopes for the future. If you would like, I invite you to share your answers on our Facebook page. We would love to celebrate your answers and enable each of us to learn from one another!
Warm Wishes for a zissen Pesach, a sweet, meaningful, and healthy Passover,
Rabbi Gary Pokras
Recent Posts by Rabbi Pokras
A Weekend of Music with Acclaimed Jewish Musician, Jacob Spike Kraus

12/09 - Tot Shabbat at 5:30 pm

12/09 - Erev Shabbat at 6:30 pm

12/09 - Coffee House Oneg at 7:30 pm
12/10 - Latkes & Vodkas at 7:30 pm
A Weekend of Music With Jacob Spike Kraus December 9 & 10
12/09 - Tot Shabbat at 5:30 pm
12/09 - Erev Shabbat at 6:30 pm

12/09 - Coffee House Oneg at 7:30 pm
12/10 - Latkes & Vodkas at 7:30 pm
About Jacob Spike Kraus
Jacob “Spike” Kraus is a 31 year old singer/songwriter, educator, and innovator, based in New York City. His music has been included in the cantorial curriculum of H.U.C.-J.I.R., is featured by Jewish Rock Radio and PJ Library. As the host of ‘Jewish Holiday Remix’ on Jewish Rock Radio, Spike brings his passion to life: finding creative ways to breathe new life into ancient texts. Throughout the year he tours the country singing with communities and using Jewish music as a tool to educate and engage the next generation of Jews. You can hear Spike’s music anywhere music is streamed or sold, and find out more about Spike at www.jacobspikekraus.com.
Kim Roberts – Director of Education
Kim Roberts joined Temple Beth Ami in July 2008. Prior to joining the Beth Ami family, Kim served as the Director of Education at Temple Ahavat Shalom in Northridge, CA. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware with a dual major in Education (K-8) and Special Education (K-12). In May 2004, she received her Masters Degree in Jewish Education, graduating with Honors, from Baltimore Hebrew University. Kim grew up in Northern Virginia, where she was an active member of her synagogue, her temple youth group and NFTY. Upon graduation from college, Kim served as the Director of Informal Youth Education at Temple Oheb Shalom in Baltimore, MD and eventually as the High School Supervisor. In July 2004, Kim was hired as the Assistant Principal of Temple Ahavat Shalom in Northridge, California. After serving two years in that capacity, she became the Director of Education and Youth Programming. Kim is a member of the NATE (National Association of Temple Educators) and in 2009 was awarded as a RJE (Reform Jewish Educator). Kim has an unending passion for youth work, camp, and making Jewish education come alive! Kim’s husband, Sam, is also a part of the Machane TBA faculty family and together they have three children Adin, Noa and Yael.
Lori Fein – L’mala Primary Supervisor, TBAHigh Supervisor
Lori Fein taught second grade (Bet) at Temple Beth Ami for three years, then gladly accepted the Primary Supervisor position, with the opportunity to focus on our youngest students. She feels fortunate to have added another dimension to her job by becoming the TBAHigh Supervisor. She enjoys spending time with students of all ages and seeing them blossom in the various stages and aspects of their lives. Being Jewish is an essential part of who she is. She loves the culture, holidays, language, songs and prayers that are familiar to her from her childhood. She hopes to instill that same love for Judaism in her children and yours, by showing them how much enjoyment comes from being Jewish. She and her husband, David, have two sons, Kyle and Derek.
Lisa Goodman – Grades 3-7 L’mala Supervisor
Elaine Prigal – Grades 3-6 L’mata and Kayitz Supervisor
Elaine joined the Temple Beth Ami staff in August 2014. Elaine began working in the TBA community as a TBA High and L’mata teacher. As the year progressed, Elaine stepped into her new role as L’mata/Kayitz supervisor for Beth Ami. Elaine received her undergraduate degree from the College of Charleston with a dual major in Special Education (K-12) and Jewish Studies. Elaine grew up in the Greater Washington area attending the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School and was an active participant in United Synagogue Youth. Before working at Temple Beth Ami, Elaine spent her summers at Capital Camps as a counselor, training CIT’s and in the role of supervisor for the 3rd through 5th grade village. Elaine is extremely passionate about experiential education and is thrilled to be working with our award winning L’mata program as well as further developing our experiential education opportunities through our Camp Kayitz program.
Sharon Tash – Curriculum Specialist
Sharon has been a member of our school faculty since 1998. She currently serves as the Curriculum Specialist, creating lessons and large-scale programs for students in grades 3-12. Sharon is also a member of the Adult Education “Live and Learn” faculty at Temple Beth Ami. Trained as an historian, Sharon worked on the start-up team at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and she taught at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School. Sharon and her husband Nathan have 3 kids, all of whom are pursuing degrees in higher education. When she isn’t at TBA running a program or teaching a class, Sharon loves to watch films, attend theater, travel and (her favorite) go to Walt Disney World.
Bobbie Chait – Machane & Kayitz Registrar and Office Manager
Bobbie joined Temple Beth Ami in September 1998. She supports the staff and Temple congregants in the school and camp community on a daily basis regarding any issue pertaining to the smooth and efficient running of the Machane/Kayitz office. Bobbie grew up in New Jersey and moved to Maryland in 1980. She has two sons, Greg and Matt.
Achare Mot/Kedoshim - 5780
Leviticus 16:1 – 20:27
This week’s double Torah portion is simultaneously challenging to read and rich with deep meaning. I have written extensively on it, but this week encountered a commentary so beautiful, I just had to share it with you. It is written by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, whose writings I read ‘religiously,’ and it spoke to me in a powerful way. I hope you find his words as meaningful as I. The link is below. For those who do not want to read the entire piece, here is the conclusion (but, even knowing the end, reading how he builds the case is worth taking a few minutes to consider):
“I believe that there is something unique and contemporary about the ethic of holiness. It tells us that morality and ecology are closely related. They are both about creation: about the world as God’s work and humanity as God’s image. The integrity of humanity and the natural environment go together. The natural universe and humanity were both created by God, and we are charged to protect the first and love the second.” – Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
https://mailchi.mp/rabbisacks/acharei-mot-kedoshim-244711?e=a005653552
Recent Posts by Rabbi Pokras
Acharei Mot - 5779
Leviticus 16:1-34
It may still be Passover, but our weekly Torah portion is about to redirect our attention to Yom Kippur. Acharei Mot describes the sacrificial service for Yom Kippur as it was thousands of years ago, and although we no longer follow this rite, there is still much we can learn.
So, let’s talk about what’s been on all of our minds lately: oxen and goats.
Rabbi Abraham Isaac HaCohen Kook, the first modern chief rabbi of Palestine, observed that the Yom Kippur sacrifices contained a unique chattat (sin) offering. During the rest of the year, a chattat offering would be made with a goat. However, on Yom Kippur, the chattat offering must consist of a goat and an ox.
Why does this matter?
HaRav Kook explained that the ox is a symbol of great strength. Oxen were used to cultivate the land and for construction – their effect on human habitation was generally positive. On the other hand, the Hebrew word for goat is se’ir, which shares a root with the verb “to storm and rage.” Kook notes that goats, when they forage, consume not only the leaves but also the roots of plants. When they overgraze they can devastate a land. He notes that both goats and oxen can be used for good, or for bad. Sometimes we need to destroy before we build, and sometimes we can overbuild or over cultivate.
In other words, both constructive and destructive power can be abused or overused. This leads us back to the chattat offering. It makes sense that the more usual sin offering uses a goat, the symbol of our destructive power gone amok. However, on Yom Kippur, when we step back to look at the larger picture of our lives, we also think about those times when we meant well and yet still caused harm. These too require action on our part. We may no longer participate in the sacrificial rites, but we still make the same mistakes, and to be Jewish is to look year-round at how to mend our errors, heal the harm we have caused and bring redemption to our communities.
Perhaps it makes sense after all to read this passage right after Pesach, to remind us that with freedom comes responsibility. As we count the Omer and remind ourselves of our ancestor’s journey from Egyptian slavery to the Revelation at Sinai, perhaps we should also consider our own personal and communal journeys. Why wait until Yom Kippur? Let’s see if we can examine how we are using our freedom now. What are our intentions? When are we working to bring good into our world and when harm? What can we do now to correct our missteps and strengthen our more life-affirming choices?
Redemption, it seems is not a single event in time, but an ongoing process. “It is not up to you to finish the work,” said Rabbi Tarfon, “yet you are not free to avoid it.” [Pirkei Avot 2:16]
Recent Posts by Rabbi Pokras
Acharei Mot 1
Lev. 16:1-34
Rabbi Baht Weiss
Acahrei Mot literally means, “after the death.” The parsha begins with God speaking to Moses “acharei mot shnei bnai Aharon” after the death of Aaron’s two children, who were named Nadav and Abihu, who died in the previous Torah portion. Our text tells us that they died ״בקרבתם לפני ה״ when they drew too close to God. In Leviticus 10, Nadav and Abihu made an offering to God without being instructed to do so nor properly trained, but taking it upon themselves as the High Priest, Aaron’s sons to claim that responsibility. The text is lacking in detail as to why the punishment for the offering was so severe which leads to much rabbinic speculation about why they suffered such a drastic fate. They literally got burned (and killed) for their actions.
The fire that Nadav and Abihu offered is called אש זרה “alien fire.” What makes the fire alien or strange is unclear but it suggests that it didn’t come from God.
The cautionary tale of Nadav and Abihu in Leviticus 10 points out an incorrect way לקרוב l’krov, to approach God and in turn this week’s pasha, Acharei Mot details a correct way to connect and come close to God:
Tell your brother Aaron that he is not to come at will at any time into the Shrine behind the curtain, in front of the cover that is upon the ark, lest he die; for I appear in the cloud over the cover. Thus only shall Aaron enter the Shrine: with a bull of the herd for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering.— He shall be dressed in a sacral linen tunic, with linen breeches next to his flesh, and be girt with a linen sash, and he shall wear a linen turban. They are sacral vestments; he shall bathe his body in water and then put them on.— And from the Israelite community he shall take two he-goats for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering. Aaron is to offer his own bull of sin offering, to make expiation for himself and for his household. Aaron shall take the two he-goats and let them stand before יהוה at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting; and he shall place lots upon the two goats, one marked for יהוה and the other marked for Azazel. (Leviticus 16:2-8)
Our text tells that Aaron may not draw close “at will” as did his sons but rather that there is a time and a place and a proper way in which to conduct oneself. Judaism establishes rituals to establish a sense of order in our personal and communal lives. It helps us to manage life’s chaos and uncertainty. It provides needed boundaries for our lives so we can develop a sense of right and wrong and give us guidance on the path to take through life. Aaron is asked two take two goats who will become the community’s “scapegoats” to transfer the sins of the community onto and make expiation for the sins of the collective community.
A more modern understanding of this need to let go of ‘sins’ could be a way to release the trauma and collective pain of the community—to help them clean their slate and let go of the pain of the past. By washing himself in water, Aaron not only physically cleans himself but spiritually purifies himself. One goat is offered as a sacrifice—the way the people drew close to God before the rabbis developed prayer as a vehicle for connection with God. Interesting, the other goat is sent out into the wilderness, to “Azazel.”
What does this term Azazel mean? The Women’s Torah Commentary explains Azazel is the name of the wilderness beyond the boundaries of settled life; most likely it originated as the name of a demon. Azazel in this case is best imagined as the antithesis of the Tabernacle/Sanctuary, a place of disorder devoid of the relevant priestly distinctions. “By carrying Israel’s impurities into such a wilderness, the scapegoat effectively conveys the chaotic aspects of human life back to its place of origin.”1
This ritual becomes the basis for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, where we attempt to rid ourself of our regrets, our mistakes, and our transgressions—we hope to leave it in the past year and start the new year afresh. In verse 16:30 we are told “For on that day, God will make atonement for you, to cleanse you, that you may be clean from all your sins before God.” Rabbi Menahem Mendl of Kotzk would divide the verse differently. “On that day. God will make atonement.”–God is willing to forgive you, but it is “for you to cleanse yourselves.” The atonement is not automatic, it requires great effort and exertion.
The rituals of Jewish life create structure and boundaries in a world of overwhelming choices and chaos. It gives us parameters to keep us safe, protected and cared for—rules to follow, agreed upon social codes of conduct and also, it provides us a way to move forward when our boundaries are broken or being threatened.
Each of us must define the boundaries that are comfortable for our lives and be sensitive to maintaining appropriate boundaries that demonstrate our respect of others and help all members of our community feel safe and protected. Before we rush forward in an effort to stay show leadership or bring others close, we must make sure we stay within our bounds—in our workspaces, in our families and with our neighbors. Our actions must not be impulsive—they must be done with thought, with intentionality and within the boundaries of the law.
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Action In Montgomery County (AIM)
AIM’s Year-End Report Highlights Accomplishments During 2022
Action in Montgomery (AIM) is a broad-based community power organization rooted in Montgomery County’s neighborhoods and congregations. We are non-partisan, multi-faith, multi-racial, and dedicated to making our county and state a better place to live and thrive (Mission statement from AIM website).
Temple Beth Ami has worked in partnership with AIM to support several of its initiatives especially those related to South Lake Elementary School. Temple members have provided testimony at both the County and State level as well as supported initiatives through letter writing campaigns and attendance at the group’s ACTIONS.
Below is an edited summary of AIM’s Annual Report:
Expanded Afterschool Programs: Excel Beyond the Bell Elementary was expanded to 14 schools by January 2023, serving hundreds of low-income students and families every weekday with academics, enrichment, a hot dinner, and parent organizing to address local issues. South Lake was one of two schools in 2017=18 to pilot the program.
Increased Affordable Housing: The County Council and Executive, with support from AIM, increased funding for subsidizing and developing affordable housing to over $120M.
Expanded Dental Care: AIM secured $100,000 in specialized dental care for uninsured adults in Montgomery County.
Delivering for Local Communities: Tenants across Montgomery County have successfully organized to win local victories on community safety, restoring bus service, building renovations, and more!
Police Reform: AIM leaders won improvements to the new Police Accountability Board, board member compensation, funding for full-time board staff, and ensuring the board reflects the diversity of the county.
Goals for 2023
- Universal PreK
- Dental Care for the Uninsured
- Transit-Oriented Affordable Housing
- Increased Access to College Funding
- Housing Quality and Stabilization for Low-Income Residents
- Expanded Afterschool Programming
- Climate Justice–Equitable Implementation of Green Solution
On March 12, AIM held its first Action of 2023 to share these goals with Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council.
Click here to read the full report.
Adam Zimmerman
Year Started with Machane TBA: 2017
Professional work: Adam has been teaching at Machane since 2017 to honor his grandparents, Frieda and Morris Zimmerman, who were Holocaust survivors. He is a vice president at Burness, a public interest communications firm in Bethesda. He previously worked on Capitol Hill and as a lobbyist.
Favorite Pastime: Playing with Ella and Aiden, the two greatest kids in the world
Favorite ice cream flavor: Vanilla
Administration/Aftercare
Administration
Paula Sayag, DirectorPaula joined Temple Beth Ami as the Early Childhood Director in July 2009. Paula earned a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland in “Human Development in Education” and a BS from Cornell University in “Human Development and Family Studies”. She previously worked as the Early Childhood Specialist and Parenting Educator at the Partnership for Jewish Life and Learning. Before that, some of her favorite jobs were teaching “Mommy and Me” classes, supervising university student teachers, teaching undergraduate courses in human development, and working for 9 years at a sleep-away camp. Paula was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but has spent most of her life in Montgomery County, Maryland. Paula lives in Brookeville with her husband, Danny. They have three sons, Jonathan, Eitan, and Eric.
Ellen Bortz, Special Projects CoordinatorEllen has been on staff at the preschool since 1993, but actually has been part of the Gan Ami family, as a parent of sons Adam and Marc, since the day it opened it’s doors in 1989. A native of Great Neck, NY, Ellen and her husband Jon, met at University of Pennsylvania and after several years in Chicago, moved back to the east coast and to Montgomery County in 1986. Ellen’s first career was in account management with several large Advertising Agencies. After a few years as a stay at home mom Ellen returned to the work force, but this time she wanted to be close to her children! First as an assistant for 2 years, and then lead teacher in the Bets for 7 years, Ellen ‘graduated’ to the Dalets as an assistant from 2002 to 2013. Ellen enjoys her role as Special Projects Coordinator assisting the teachers and the school with all communications and documentation, as well as assorted other projects that come her way!
Judi Lapidus, OTR/L, Kesher CoordinatorJudi has been a pediatric occupational therapist since 2004. She graduated from Columbia University’s Programs in Occupational Therapy with a specialization in pediatrics, and developed her foundational skills working with children in a hospital setting and in a sensory integration gym. There she found her true calling to improve the lives of children who suffer from sensory modulation disorder, developmental delay and handwriting issues. Prior to occupational therapy, Judi was the director of a preschool and a preschool teacher for ten years. The blending of education and occupational therapy has afforded Judi the unique ability to understand the complexity of academic needs and the importance of strong sensory processing skills to create the building blocks for success.
Emily Katz, Administrative ManagerEmily joined the Gan Ami staff on May 31, 2022 after completing her Bachelors degree from Elon University. During her time at Elon, Emily served as the Elon Hillel Senior Events Coordinator, held a role as an Engagement Intern for Hillel International, and was the Campus Ambassador and club president of Gift of Life, a Jewish Non-Profit. Although she is new on staff, Emily is no stranger to Temple Beth Ami; she attended Machane for 13 years, from kindergarten to graduation. While she attended Temple Beth Ami Hebrew School, Emily also served as a peer tutor for B’nai Mitzvah students.
Aftercare
Megan Treby
Megan grew up at Temple Beth Ami, as the daughter of dedicated Temple Members Stuart and Judy Treby. Megan worked at Gan Ami while her children attended our nursery school, and she created the structure for our Challah Tots, Bets to Be and Kangaroo programs. Megan worked for the several years as a four year-old teacher in a local day care center. She is happy to be returning “home.” Now she works as Gan Ami’s Aftercare Specialist. She loves getting involved with the new generation of the Temple Beth Ami community.
Greg Derrick
Greg has lived in Montgomery county his entire life. His two children, Sara and Matthew, are Gan Ami alumni. As a stay-at-home dad, Greg began with volunteering at school events, then helped with the afternoon enrichment classes, and eventually began substituting in almost all the classes. This inspired him to pursue additional education in the field of Early Childhood Education. Greg completed the Early Childhood Certificate through Montgomery College. After a few years on the Beth Ami staff, Greg was ‘on loan’ for the 2020-2021 school year to Ohr Kodesh ECC. He is very excited to be back as a part of the Gan Ami staff! Greg lives in Germantown with his children and his super awesome, amazing, spectacular wife, Stacy.
Adon Olam - Friday NIght
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 321 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 625 |
Adon Olam (Shabbat Morning only)
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 321 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 625 |
Adonai S'fatai
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 46 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 164 |
AM Page | PM Page | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 124 | 226 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 242 | 344 |
After the Funeral
Jewish tradition identifies stages of mourning, beginning with a seven-day intense period (shiva) observed in the home(s) of the immediate family, followed by a period of reduced mourning (sheloshim) as one adjusts and returns to worldly routines. Mourning the death of a parent involves an extended period (avelut). Special anniversaries marking the death are discussed in the next section.
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Shiva: The Initial Seven-day Mourning Period
Shiva is a public expression of grief observed by the immediate family of the deceased (parents, children, spouse and siblings). The seven-day mourning period begins immediately after the funeral and burial (not the death). Any part of the day of the internment which occurs prior to sunset, no matter how brief, is counted as the first day of shiva. Shiva may be observed at more than one mourner’s home, or at a single site with mourners returning to their homes to sleep.Because mourners are excused from public worship in the synagogue during shiva, prayer services (including the recitation of Kaddish) may be conducted in the home. Friends and family are encouraged to visit and comfort mourners during the shiva period. Tradition suggests that visitors wait to be acknowledged by the mourner before speaking. It is often better to be a listener and to provide comfort merely by your presence.
The word shiva is a variation of the Hebrew word for “seven”. Shiva traditionally encompasses a seven-day period. The first three days are considered more intense than the last four days. Thus, if the observance of the full shiva may cause financial or physical hardship, the mourner is permitted to go out after the third day, do what is necessary, and then resume shiva. A special seven-day candle is kept lit during the shiva period.
Shiva Services
If possible, a member of our clergy will be present each night of shiva, at the request of the family. Some family members may be capable of conducting the service themselves, and are encouraged to do so. Fellow congregants, who have been trained, may also conduct the service.Our congregation’s tradition is to conduct a Maariv, or evening service. We conduct a service and recite Kaddish regardless of the number of people present. Temple Beth Ami provides the service booklet, Gates of Prayer for Weekdays. These booklets can be supplemented by the funeral director. The family should ask specifically for the prayer books of the Reform Movement.
Home Traditions Associated with Shiva
Covering the mirrors, a custom occasionally associated with the shiva period, is rooted in ancient folklore. Some felt that by looking in the mirror, one might see the angel of death. Moreover, since mourners may neglect their physical appearance, mirrors may be covered so as not to draw attention to the mourners.Sitting on low seats dates back to the biblical times. It is an indication of the lowered position of the mourner, and their reduction of esteem because of their loss.
Wearing dark colors is customary, although black is not obligatory in Jewish tradition. Since leather was considered an item of luxury, wearing slippers or sneakers instead of leather footwear symbolizes the relinquishing of luxury items during mourning.
Mourners should prepare food only for their immediate family. They should not have the added burden of sustaining visitors.
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Sheloshim: The First Thirty Days of Mourning
Sheloshim is the thirty-day period of reduced mourning when one returns to work and daily life. The name of the departed is read in the Temple at Shabbat services each week during this period.As with the shiva period, the occurrence of a major Jewish festival cancels out the remainder of sheloshim. Traditionally, a mourner recites kaddish every day during sheloshim (the mourning is extended for the death of a parent, see avelut below). It is customary to recite kaddish in the synagogue amid the comfort of other Jews, although in the Reform movement, it is permissible to say it alone at home. Temple Beth Ami does not offer daily services, so mourners may wish to attend daily minyans at other synagogues in the area (see listing in section X).
Judaism encourages visitation of graves at appropriate times including the conclusion of shiva or sheloshim and on the yahrzeit. Some people visit on fast days and many make a special visit to the cemetery before the High Holidays. At such times, Psalms and memorial prayers may be recited. It is customary in some places to put stones or blades of grass on the grave stone or marker. Stones recall the ancient practice of upkeep and protection of a grave. Grass, which returns season after season, is thought to be a symbol of eternal life.
Individuals and families find their own appropriate patterns of visitation. Judaism teaches that it is best to find a balance between constant visitation and total neglect.
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Aveilut: Extended Mourning for a Parent
Aveilut refers to the 11-month mourning period observed for the death of a parent (rather than the thirty-day sheloshim period for children, spouses or siblings). Aveilut begins immediately after the burial and extends through the period of shiva and sheloshim. Some of the customs and practices associated with aveilut may continue for a full year. Kaddish may be recited daily for the first eleven months of the year of mourning.Unveiling Ceremony at the Gravesite
Unveiling marks a transition in the process of mourning. It may take place any time after the 30-day sheloshim period. In the case of a parent, a mourner may choose to wait until after the 11-month period of aveilut. There are no formal requirements in our tradition relating to the liturgy of an unveiling ceremony. Many families find it comforting to meet at the gravesite to unveil the monument, with appropriate prayers or psalms recited by family members or other attendees. Eyl Maleh Rachamim and Kaddish are usually recited. Although an unveiling ceremony does not require the presence of clergy, our Rabbis and Cantor are available to assist or lead the service. -
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 112 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 230 |
A Student
• Read 1st sentence in Hebrew
• After B – Read English How deeply You…us as well
B Student
• Read 2nd sentence in Hebrew
• After A – Read English O Merciful One…Your Torah.
Ain Kamocha
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 244 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 362 |
Al Shlosha D’varim
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 249 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 367 |
Aleinu
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Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 282 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 586 |
Aleinu / V’ne-emar / Bayom Hahu
Pages | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 282, 287 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 586, 591 |
Aleph/Bet Staff
Alef Staff
Kofim (Monkeys)
Paula Sayag
Paula joined Temple Beth Ami as the Early Childhood Director in July 2009. Paula earned a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland in “Human Development in Education” and a BS from Cornell University in “Human Development and Family Studies”. She previously worked as the Early Childhood Specialist and Parenting Educator at the Partnership for Jewish Life and Learning. Before that, some of her favorite jobs were teaching “Mommy and Me” classes, supervising university student teachers, teaching undergraduate courses in human development, and working for 9 years at a sleep-away camp. Paula was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but has spent most of her life in Montgomery County, Maryland. Paula lives in Brookeville with her husband, Danny. They have three sons, Jonathan, Eitan, and Eric.
Prachim (Flowers)
Loretta Blue
Loretta Blue has been teaching preschool since 1998 and has years of experience under her belt. Before joining the staff, she owned and operated Plastercraft, an art studio for children in Rockville. When she joined Gan Ami, she worked her first two years as a teacher in the summer program. She enjoyed it so much that she then became a teacher in the two-year-old program! Loretta has 3 children and 8 grandchildren. Her youngest child is a Gan Ami graduate!
Bari Handelman
Bari has lived and worked in the Greater Washington area for many years. Originally from Connecticut, she earned a degree in education from New York University. She has always enjoyed working for the Jewish community, first as an Executive Assistant and later as an early childhood teacher. She has taught parent-child classes, 2 year olds, and enrichment for 3-5 year olds, as well as led tot services for Shabbat and holidays. She joined the Gan Ami staff in September 2014 as our Parent-Child class expert. She lives in Gaithersburg with her husband, Brian, and two children, Hannah and Max.
Karen Porter
Karen is a native Washingtonian whose two sons both went to Hebrew school and were Bar Mitzvah at Temple Beth Ami. Working in the medical field for more than 20 years, she was forced to retire due to COVID. Loving children, she wanted to go back to work part time. Karen is married to her husband Doug; both of her sons are happily married as well, and she welcomed her first grandchild in July 2022.
Bet Staff
Chaverim (Friends)
Stacy Rubinstein
Stacy returned “home” to work at Gan Ami in the fall of 2018. Stacy was raised in Montgomery County, graduated from Walter Johnson High School and returned post college. After seeing how Gan Ami teachers welcomed her family, she was inspired to become an early childhood educator. She participated in training in 2012-13, and then taught at Washington Hebrew Congregation for 4 years. Her son Jake completed Gan Ami in 2016, and her daughter Maddie in 2018. Now it’s her turn, and she couldn’t be happier! When not in school, you can find Stacy selling packages for a wedding photography company, having silly dance parties with her children, and attending lots of hockey games (Go Caps!).
Beverlee Diamond
Beverlee Diamond, a mother of three Temple Beth Ami Nursery School alums, and a former Gan Ami assistant teacher, is back! Beverlee is from Cape Town, South Africa, where she received her degree in Marketing. Beverlee and her husband Shaun immigrated to the United States in 1993. After spending so much time in the halls of Temple Beth Ami, she found a special community and a love for educating children. Beverlee starts every morning with a Peloton class and ends every night watching her youngest daughter, Bianca, play soccer. Beverlee’s son Cameron works in the family furniture business. Beverlee’s middle child, Tori, is a 2021 graduate from CESJDS and will be taking a gap year in Israel and then off to Indiana University! Judaism plays a pivotal role in Beverlee’s life and that of her family. Beverlee is so excited for “Round 2” at Gan Ami!
Doobim (Teddy Bears)
Bari Handelman
Bari has lived and worked in the Greater Washington area for many years. Originally from Connecticut, she earned a degree in education from New York University. She has always enjoyed working for the Jewish community, first as an Executive Assistant and later as an early childhood teacher. She has taught parent-child classes, 2 year olds, and enrichment for 3-5 year olds, as well as led tot services for Shabbat and holidays. She joined the Gan Ami staff in September 2014 as our Parent-Child class expert. She lives in Gaithersburg with her husband, Brian, and two children, Hannah and Max.
Susan Bloom is from Richmond, Virginia and has a degree in Elementary Education from Virginia Commonwealth University. After teaching for a year in an Alexandria, VA elementary school, Susan held several office positions before discovering her true love was in Early Childhood Education. Susan taught for twelve years at Beth Sholom in Potomac before joining the staff at Beth Ami in 1990. After 12 years at Gan Ami Susan retired to spend more time with her grandchild. However, she soon realized she could have it all and returned to the Gan Ami staff the following fall! She truly loves what she does and is very proud to be an Early Childhood Educator. Susan finds it a rewarding and fulfilling position.
Shemashot (Suns)
Laurie Galfold
Laurie started as a parent at Gan Ami in 1989 when her son Phil was a 4 year old, and Jeff was a mid-year 2 year old. Over the next several years, Laurie alternated between being a substitute, a 2-day 2’s teacher, and for one year, a stay at home mom with Jeff and Emily. But the lure was too great, and Laurie returned to teaching soon after her daughter was born. All three of Laurie’s children are Gan Ami grads! Laurie says, “Working with children is clearly the primary reason I have stayed at Gan Ami for as long as I have, but a close second is the staff. We are a family that thoroughly enjoys being together.” Laurie has always lived in the DC area except for 3 years in Palo Alto, California. Laurie attended Winston Churchill High School and graduated from the University of Maryland.
Beth Jolles
Beth graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies. Before coming to Gan Ami, Beth taught pre-school at CLC and various parent/toddler classes throughout the county. She enjoys time with her two daughters, exercise, 70’s music, sushi, and jelly beans. Beth lives in North Potomac with her husband Jim.
Allan Sull
Year started with Machane: 1991
Professional work: Religious school in Buffalo, NY (1971-1991); Special education/social studies teacher, Montgomery County Public Schools – Teaching history and government to high school students with serious emotional disabilities (1992-2019)
Favorite Pastime: Ballroom dancing, sports (Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, Washington Nationals)
Favorite ice cream flavor: Fat free chocolate marshmallow and fat free chocolate mint
Allyson Kahler
Year started with Machane: 2009
Professional work: Previously a teacher with MCPS; Currently a substitute with MCPS.
Dance instructor, chairperson for TBA Purim Carnival, Choreographer for TBA Players.
Favorite Pastime: Spending quality time with family and friends
Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint chocolate chip
Alyssa Katon
Year Started with Machane TBA: 2019
Professional work: 2nd grade teacher
Favorite Pastime: Going to the beach
Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate chip cookie dough

Click the Icon or Text Below for More Information
Tues. Apr. 4
10:30am
Wed. Apr. 5
Sunset
Thurs. Apr. 6
9:30am
Thurs. Apr. 6
10:30am
Thurs. Apr. 6
6pm-9pm
Fri. Apr. 7
6pm
Sat. Apr. 8
10:30am
Tues. Apr. 11
10:30am
Tues. Apr. 11
6:30pm
Wed. Apr. 12
10:30am
Thurs. Apr. 13
7 pm
Friday. Apr. 14
5:30pm
Fri. Apr. 14
6:30pm
Friday. Apr. 14
6:30pm
Sun. Apr. 16
3pm
Tues. Apr. 18
10:30am
Tues. Apr. 18
6:30pm
Wed. Apr. 19
7pm-8:30pm
Wed. Apr. 19
7pm-8:30pm
Thurs. Apr. 20
2pm
Thurs. Apr. 20
7pm
Thurs. Apr. 20
7pm
Friday. Apr. 21
Evening
Sun. Apr. 23
Sun. Apr. 23
12:15-1:15pm
Sun. Apr. 23
9:30am
Sun. Apr. 23
9:30
Thurs. Apr. 23
1pm (Virtually)
Sun. Apr. 23
6:30pm
Tues. Apr. 25
10:30am
Tues. Apr. 25
6:30pm - 8:00pm
Wed. Apr. 26
Thurs. Apr. 27
7:30pm
Fri. Apr. 28
6:30pm
Sun. Apr. 30
Weekly or Ongoing Events

Saturdays
9:30am
Sundays
2pm (Virtually)
Fridays
9:45am
(No Group on 4/7)

Sundays
9:45am
Hours Vary

Arrival, Dismissal and Parking Lot Procedures
Arrival
KATAN (Pre-K): Guardians must PARK and walk their child to the PRESCHOOL door, where they will be met by a staff member.
PRIMARY (grades K-2): Guardians must PARK, walk their child(ren) into the building through the MAIN door and walk them to their classroom(s). (Note – If you prefer to drop your Primary student off from the carpool lane, please they must be able to walk themselves through the lobby, up the stairs and to their classroom, as there will not be extra staff available to accompany them.)
L’MALA/L’MATA (grades 3-6): Guardians may drop off at the MAIN door from the carpool lane. They are also welcome to park and come into the building with their child if preferred. Please make sure your child knows if they are upstairs (L’mala) or downstairs (L’mata) first session, and who their teachers are.
TBAjrHigh (7th grade) and TBAHigh (8th-12th grade): Guardians may drop off at the MAIN door from the carpool lane. They are also welcome to park and come into the building with their child if preferred.
Dismissal
KATAN (Pre-K) & PRIMARY (grades K-2): Guardians MUST PARK, come in through the MAIN DOOR, and wait in front of the sign with your child’s class number. Children will be lined up behind their sign with their teacher. Class numbers are listed below. Please do not congregate in the lobby just inside the doors, as this blocks other parents from entering. No Primary students will be dismissed to the carpool lane.
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PreK:
Stacy Rubenstein- #1K:
Jody Rosenblum- #2
Linda King- #3
Taryn Vieweger- #41st Grade:
Ally Kahler- #5
Debi Voiner- #6
Erin Felrice- #72nd Grade:
Randi Neches- #8
Randi Kotok- #9
Cara O’Connor – #10
PRIMARY ENRICHMENT/KEHILLAH: Guardians must PARK, enter the building through the MAIN DOOR and pick their child upstairs in the Keshet Social Hall. No Primary Enrichment/Kehillah students will be dismissed to the carpool lane or to older siblings.
L’MALA/L’MATA (grades 3-6): Guardians can PARK, enter the building through the MAIN DOOR to pick up their child at their designated grade level area in the lobby OR pick up their child in the carpool lane (see parking lot photo below). Please make sure your child knows how they will be picked up!
TBAjrHigh (7th grade) and TBAHigh (8th-12th grade): Guardians may wait in their car and pick up their child in the carpool lane (see parking lot photo below), or park and come into the lobby. For safety purposes, students may only enter cars that are between the Sanctuary and Chapel entrance doors when using the carpool lane.
Carpool Lane & Parking Lot
Please look at the parking lot diagram below showing lane use. When you are picking up or dropping off children, do not use the red “No Parking” areas as alternative drop-off locations as this creates unacceptable hazards for our children and additional maintenance costs for our congregation. “No Parking” signs will clearly mark these areas.
Safety must be our highest priority in the parking lot – even more important than being on time. A large part of the safety of our children depends on every driver recognizing the importance of designated lane use and of No Parking areas. Parking on grassy areas results in passengers exiting vehicles directly into the flow of traffic. Leaving your car in any location that is not a parking place, even for “just a few seconds” to run into the building, creates a hazard for everyone behind you.
Above all, please be the most defensive and courteous driver possible. Nearly every week we see a story about a child being injured in a parking lot accident. While we have been fortunate that we have not had any injuries in our parking lot, it is important for everyone driving into our lot to understand that there are children present, and that they sometimes take an unpredictable path. We do not want the next “Child Injured in Parking Lot” story to be about the Temple Beth Ami lot.
Thank you for your continuing concern for our families and support of our congregation.

Feel free to direct any questions about these procedures to Kim Roberts, Director of Education.

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Ashrei (Hebrew and English)
Pages | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 220-223 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 338-341 |
Chant 1st 4 lines (below),
then read all English (refer to your siddur),
then chant last 5 lines (below)
Ashrei ( All Hebrew)
Pages | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 220-223 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 338-341 |
Av Harachamim
Page | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 244 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 362 |
Avot v'Imahot
Page | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 48 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 166 |
AM Page | PM Page | |
Shabbat Only Mishkan T’filah: | 126 | 228 |
Mishkan T’filah: | 244 | 346 |
B'Chukkotai - 5779
Leviticus 26:3 – 27:34
Can a Torah commentary start with a Santa story? You decide.
Rabbi Paul Plotkin shares the following:
Jane and her older sister had been fighting a lot this year. Jane’s parents warned her that Santa Clause was watching, and Santa does not like it when children fight.
Well, that did not have much of an impact! So, the mother said, “I’ll just have to tell Santa about your misbehavior;” and she picked up the phone and dialed.
Jane’s eyes grew big, as her mother said,
“Hello, Mrs. Clause? [It was really Jane’s aunt; Santa’s real line was apparently busy] Mrs. Clause, is it okay if you could put Santa on the line?”
Jane’s mouth dropped open, as mom described to Santa [Jane’s uncle], how the three year old was acting. And then mom put Jane on the phone.
Santa, in a deepened voice, explained to Jane how there would be no presents on Christmas morning to children who fought with their sisters. He would be watching and expect that things would be better from now on.
Jane solemnly nodded to each of Santa’s remarks, and silently hung the phone up, when he was done.
After a long moment, mom asked,“What did Santa say to you, dear?”
And in almost a whisper, Jane, sadly, but matter-of-factly, stated, “Santa said he won’t be bringing toys to my sister this year.”
Jane was three, and already had it figured out! It’s not about me! I can’t be held responsible for what I do! It must be somebody else. If Santa is not going to give a gift because we are fighting, it’s my sister’s fault, not mine!
What does this have to do with the Torah? Everything! B’Chukkotai brings the book of Leviticus to an end. The opening (and shorter section) of the parasha consists of a series of blessings which will come if we follow God’s law. Then the tochecha (the admonition) takes over, detailing a much longer series of devastating curses which will result if do not follow the law. According to tradition, these curses are chanted rapidly and “under the breath” (in a soft, hard to hear tone) during a single long reading. We don’t like to listen to the curses, and in some synagogues, it is difficult to even find someone to read them. Yet, there is wisdom in their placement at the end of Leviticus, the book of Torah most concerned with holiness.
B’Chukkotai is not simply about divine reward and punishment, it is about human agency. Rabbi Plotkin shares the story of Jane because it exemplifies why we need this parasha: our actions have consequences, and we are responsible for the choices we make. Put differently, our choices and actions create consequences which we experience regardless of whether we take responsibility or not. So, if we want to have any sort of influence over what comes back our way, we need to take responsibility for choosing well. This is the beginning of Jewish mindfulness as a practice. The more attention we pay to how we make decisions and how we take action in our lives, the more agency we gain over what we do.
However, our responsibility extends far beyond ourselves. The point is not just to act for our reward and to avoid punishment; in the kind of just community Torah commands we also take responsibility for each other. If we see a wrong, we are required to right it. If we witness a crime, we cannot claim to be innocent bystanders. Either we act to stop or at least to report the crime, or we enable the crime to happen.
Whether we like it or not we are responsible – and that means we have the power to bring great pain or great blessing to the world.
As we conclude the book of Leviticus and contemplate how to bring more holiness into our lives, but one question remains: how shall we choose?
Recent Posts by Rabbi Pokras
DVD Recordings $36.00
We live stream all services; however, if you would like a DVD recording of the service at which your child becomes a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, please let the main office know and one will be created. The service recording costs is $36.00 and payment must be received the week before the Shabbat at which s/he will be called to the Torah.
Appointments Tutoring, Clergy, Bima Rehearsals, and Photography
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT ALL STUDENTS MUST BE ENROLLED IN AND ATTENDING MACHANE TBA AND
ALL ACCOUNTS MUST BE CURRENT, OR ARRANGEMENTS MADE WITH THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY,
IN ORDER TO BEGIN THE BAR/BAT MITZVAH PROCESS.
Tutoring
Each student is allotted 14 one half hour tutoring lessons. Please note, if the student needs to cancel a scheduled session, 24 hours notice will be required. If proper notice is not given, the missed session will be counted against the student’s 14 total allotted sessions. If the student requires additional tutoring after 14 lessons, it will be at the student’s family’s expense and the tutor’s availability.
Clergy Appointments
- One half hour appointment with the Cantor, approximately halfway through the tutoring process to review tutoring progress.
- One half-hour appointments with the Rabbi to prepare the Torah/Haftarah speech
- One half-hour appointment with the Rabbi to review the Pirkei Avot/ personal speech
- A one hour family meeting with either of the Rabbis to
- Review the order of the service and family members’ participation
- Select the items to be included in the congregational service supplement
- Assign honors to members of extended family
- Please bring with you and give to the Rabbi with whom you are meeting:
-A copy of your child’s selection from Pirke Avot
-Parsha, chapter, verse and page numbers from the Plaut Torah of your child’s Torah and Haftarah portions
-A list of the readings you have selected to be included in the service supplement
-The Hebrew names of those individuals who will be called to the Torah, including the Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Hebrew Name ben (male)/bat (female) Father’s Hebrew Name v’ Mother’s Hebrew Name
Bima Rehearsals
Three forty five minute rehearsals on the Bima, one with each of the three clergy.
Each student will:
- Chant his/her Torah portion from the Sefer Torah
- Chant his/her Haftarah portion
- Deliver all prepared speeches.
One parent should attend these rehearsals.
Photography
Photography session (optional) A 45 minute session in the Sanctuary the week of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah for family photographs. Please make arrangements with Susan Neumann. Photographers must review the Photographer Guidelines and submit their signed waiver and insurance forms.
B'nai Mitzvah Family Obligations
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In addition to the normal yearly fees of dues, religious school, capital assessment and, where applicable, Building Fund, you should anticipate the following expenses:
- a) A Bar/Bat Mitzvah fee, which is set annually by the congregation. This one-time fee is inclusive; there are no further fees for regular Bar/Bat Mitzvah instruction, custodial services or other Temple support. This fee is billed the fiscal year following the one in which you receive your date assignment. Fees for an extended Kiddush, or building rental are additional and are billed during the fiscal year in which your simcha occurs.
You must be current in all financial obligations at least six weeks prior to your Bar/Bat Mitzvah date.
Additional expenses you may incur:
- a) Extended Kiddush – A simple Kiddush of wine and challah is provided by the congregation: you may wish to expand.
- b) Oneg Shabbat – if you wish to participate in the sponsorship of the Oneg Shabbat on the Erev Shabbat prior to the Shabbat service
- c) Kippot (if being personalized)
- d) Fee for use of Social Hall and kitchen for private reception
- e) Contributions to a Temple fund in honor of the occasion
- a) A Bar/Bat Mitzvah fee, which is set annually by the congregation. This one-time fee is inclusive; there are no further fees for regular Bar/Bat Mitzvah instruction, custodial services or other Temple support. This fee is billed the fiscal year following the one in which you receive your date assignment. Fees for an extended Kiddush, or building rental are additional and are billed during the fiscal year in which your simcha occurs.
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To assure that your family and friends feel welcome and to give each family the opportunity to help another family, each Bar/Bat Mitzvah family is expected to serve as ushers at two or three Bar/Bat Mitzvah services, at least one to be completed prior to your child’s becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Ushers are expected to greet worshipers, seat latecomers and maintain decorum during the service. Following the service, they collect books; pass out wine, white grape juice and challah. The Bar/Bat Mitzvah Kiddush Committee contacts you several months before your simcha to attend a meeting at which your responsibilities are explained in detail and dates for helping will be selected.
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Please remember that all students must be enrolled in and attending Machane TBA, or arrangements made with the Education Director Kim Roberts, in order to begin the bar/bat mitzvah process.
B'nai Mitzvah Family Participation in Services Honors
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The presentation of the tallit, the prayer shawl, is an outward symbol of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah taking their place as an adult member of the covenanted children of Israel. The tallit is presented towards the beginning of the service by one or two people with a special relationship to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
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This honor generally requires two adults. A child may participate as an additional third person. Often this honor is appropriate for a younger sibling. If two families are sharing the service, this honor is shared as well. The family of the child who is chanting from the Torah first usually undresses the Torah, and the second child’s family dresses the Torah at the conclusion of the Torah service.
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Each family may choose up to three additional opportunities for participation, either in the form of one or two aliyot to the Torah or readings in the service, to a total three honors.
- Readings: Readings in the service may be assigned to family members from the Our Rabbis and Cantor are happy to help you select readings which are most appropriate for the individuals you wish to honor, including non-Jewish family members.
- Family Aliyah: In addition to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah child, the family may invite others to share the honor of being called to the Torah by their Hebrew names for an aliyah (to recite the blessings before and after the Torah is read. The blessings are recited in Hebrew.) Often Jewish parents, grandparents, or an older sibling who has celebrated Bar/Bat Mitzvah receive this honor. Each family may assign up to two family aliyot.
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If you choose to attend Shabbat evening services the night before your child becomes a Bar/Bat Mitzvah , you will be offered the opportunity to light candles for the congregation, and the Bar/Bat Mitzvah child will be invited to lead the congregation in Kiddush and Motzi at the conclusion of services.
The Meaning and History of Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Translated literally as “son/daughter of the commandment,” Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a coming of age – a beautiful and important moment in the cycle of life. In Judaism, a life-cycle event is a ceremony which marks a change in a person’s covenantal status. Brit Milah and baby naming mark the entry of a new soul into the Jewish covenant. A Jewish wedding marks the beginning of a new Jewish family, and Bar/Bat Mitzvah is all about being ready to take responsibility for upholding our end of the brit (covenant), our sacred agreement with G-d.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah is not mentioned in the Bible, but in the third century Rabbi Judah ben Tema taught, “A 13 year old is obligated to fulfill [all] the commandments.”[1] Judah ben Tema also said that this readiness came after a child had studied the Bible and the teachings of the rabbis, so that becoming an adult was the culmination of a particular educational process.
Until recent times, young men and women at 13 years of age worked full-time to help support their families. It was under these circumstances that the Bar Mitzvah ceremony evolved. The first historical record of a Bar Mitzvah ceremony dates back to the Middle Ages in the 13th or 14th century. By the 1700’s the custom of celebrating a boy’s becoming Bar Mitzvah became widely accepted in the Jewish world. At first, all festivities were held in the boy’s home, and a modest meal might be served after the synagogue service. But with the passage of time the festive family meal grew into an elaborate party, and often, lavish banquets were held in the public halls of larger towns. The leaders of the Jewish community in Cracow, Poland, were so aroused at this that in 1595 they placed a tax on such celebrations to keep them from becoming extravaganzas. They feared, as do many of us today, that the religious significance of becoming a Bar Mitzvah would be dwarfed in importance by the sumptuous party given after the service.
Since neither the Bible nor the Talmud give any specific rules for the Bar Mitzvah ceremony, customs varied from place to place. Each Jewish community adopted practices that made sense to it. In most Ashkenazi congregations (especially in Eastern Europe), a Jewish boy wore a tallit (prayer shawl) for the first time on the occasion of his becoming a Bar Mitzvah. In many Sephardi (Mediterranean) communities, however, a man could not put on a tallit until he was married. In 17th century Germany, the Bar Mitzvah vowed to donate a pound of wax for candles to light the synagogue; in Morocco the teacher and not the youngster was given gifts in honor of the occasion. In all instances, however, the highlight of the ceremony occurred when the boy was called to read from the Torah.
In the early 20th century, Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan (founder of Reconstructionist Judaism) officiated over the first ever Bat Mitzvah, who happened to be his daughter. In the years that followed, Bat Mitzvah ceremonies for girls became as common as Bar Mitzvah ceremonies for boys. Reform Judaism in the United States equalized the ceremonies so that girls and boys are asked to fulfill the same spiritual requirements and to conduct the same portions of the service. It is a beautiful moment in the life of the family and the child, as well as for the community. Indeed, throughout its history, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration has always been a major community event. Therefore, we are all encouraged to attend every celebration of becoming Bar or Bat Mitzvah.
[1] Pirkei Avot, 5:21
TEMPLE BETH AMI
GUIDELINES FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS
Please submit signed waiver (below) with proof of insurance
3 weeks before prior to photo session
Welcome to Temple Beth Ami. We are pleased that you will be coming to our Temple to photograph members of our congregation for their upcoming simcha. Please be respectful of the following policies:
- You have been assigned a 45 minute time slot for photographs in the Sanctuary. You may start setting up your equipment in the Sanctuary 15 minutes before your allotted time, and you have 15 minutes after your time to break down your equipment; please enter the Sanctuary only at that time and be prepared to leave on time. We ask that you be respectful of the time for the next family or other use of the facility; we may have to terminate your photographic session because of time constraints.
- Please bring your own accessories, such as a stepladder, etc. We do not have equipment available for your use.
- When using the sanctuary:
You must use the “faux” Torah provided on the center lectern for all pictures
You may not open the doors or the curtain of the ark
YOU MAY NOT REMOVE MICROPHONES OR ANY MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT FROM THE BIMAH. The microphones will be removed from the lectern for your photographs; you may not move any of the bima furniture. If you need something removed, contact the front office and a custodian will be called. This is in response to the continuing damage of our equipment. An Equipment Repair Fund fee will be charged to anyone who does not follow this policy. Thank you. - Please respect our “faux” Torah. It contains parchment sections taken from a real Torah, and should be treated with the same respect. The Torah may be touched with the “yad” (attached pointer) only, not with one’s hands.
- Please do not stand on the pews
- The Sanctuary lobby is available for additional photos; not to exceed 30 minutes. The congregant must arrange this in advance with the Rabbis’ Administrative Assistant. If you require any other venue for your photographs, including outside of the building, the congregant must also arrange this in advance with the Temple Administrator, usually on a rental basis. We cannot provide last minute accommodations.
- We are a secure building; all doors are kept locked at all times. Doors may not be propped open at any time.
- Please return the attached waiver, along with a copy of your insurance policy, at least three weeks prior to arriving for the photo session.
- We reserve the right to terminate any photographic session if Temple Beth Ami guidelines are not followed.

Sports Equipment Donation for Bar Mitzvah Project
My name is Jake and I love to play sports! That’s why I am partnering with Leveling the Playing Field (LPF) which is a nonprofit that collects and redistributes equipment to expand access and equity within youth sports and recreation programs in under-resourced communities. You can donate almost all sports equipment except for skis, snowboards and bikes. There will be a donation bin for small equipment in the lobby of Temple Beth Ami from December 1st through January 15th. For larger sized donations email Jake for drop off location. No equipment but want to support? You can make a financial donation here: Jake Ilkovitch’s Mitzvah Project.
B’nai Mitzvah Guide
The purpose of this guide is to describe and explain the philosophy and policies related to the celebration of Bar/Bat Mitzvah at Temple Beth Ami. It is suggested that you read this guide carefully, because it will answer many of the questions you may have.
It is the responsibility and pleasure of the Temple staff, clergy, and volunteers to help you with your preparation in whatever way they can. If you have questions, frustrations, anxieties, suggestions, please feel free to call the office for assistance.
Debbie Ezrin, Executive Director
301-340-6818
HOW WE UNDERSTAND BAR AND BAT MITZVAH
Measured in the broad span of Jewish history, the ceremony called Bar Mitzvah entered the scene rather recently. Only in the fourteenth century do we find young men of thirteen years called to the Torah to become “sons of the commandment”. There was no similar ceremony for women.
In our time, Reform Judaism has championed the religious equality of men and women and has introduced a Bat Mitzvah ceremony, where a young woman can publicly accept her religious responsibilities.
The thirteenth birthday traditionally marked the time when Jews became religiously adult, when they ceased being the “children of Jewish parents” and became Jews in their own right. From that day, they were responsible for fulfilling the Mitzvot – the religious precepts. The newly enfranchised Jew celebrated the occasion in the synagogue by exercising the most basic of their privileges and responsibilities: reading from the Torah and leading a religious service. Bar and Bat Mitzvah marks the first time a young person is able to read from the Torah and lead the congregation in prayer; this, indeed, is a milestone in Jewish life and a joyous occasion for their entire family and the congregation.
To lead and to teach, such are the ways of young adult Jews celebrating their coming of age. The ceremonies of Bar and Bat Mitzvah are not goals or ends in themselves; they represent beginnings, first steps on the lifelong path of Jewish responsibility. It is the fervent hope of our congregation that, as each child assumes the role of an adult Jew, they will become a life-long learner and a credit to the House of Israel.
Temple Beth Ami expects the Bar/Bat Mitzvah, as a full-fledged member of our religious community, to take their responsibility seriously by participating in worship services and by continuing their Jewish education through Confirmation and beyond. Please remember, becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah is not a party. It is not even simply a ceremony at the Temple or an event that happens only once. Bar/Bat Mitzvah is the acceptance of a responsibility. One becomes Bar or Bat Mitzvah – the son or daughter of the Mitzvot – for their entire life. The celebration lasts for a few moments; the commitment is forever
WHO MAY BECOME A BAR/BAT MITZVAH AT TEMPLE BETH AMI
Bar/Bat Mitzvah may be celebrated by a child of a Temple member who has reached or passed his or her thirteenth birthday and has successfully completed the required program of preparation. The Bar/Bat Mitzvah candidate must be a student in good standing in the appropriate religious school program at the time of Bar/Bat Mitzvah and is required as a minimum to continue their studies through the completion of eighth grade, with the expectation of continuing through Confirmation and beyond. Families of children who are not able to meet these requirements must discuss their particular situation with the Clergy and Director of Education prior to the start of the date assignment process.
It is the intent of Temple Beth Ami to make possible the celebration of Bar/Bat Mitzvah for all interested families and their children. In the case of children with special learning needs, the Rabbis, Cantor and the Director of Education will help parents establish appropriate guidelines for instruction, preparation and participation, so the child and family can experience the satisfaction of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration.
It is required that members be current in all financial obligations to the Temple prior to receiving a date and starting tutoring, and at least six weeks prior to the Bar or Bat Mitzvah; any special arrangements must be made with the financial secretary.
BAR/BAT MITZVAH PREPARATION
At the successful completion of the sixth grade of religious school and with simultaneous enrollment in the appropriate religious school program, a candidate for Bar/Bat Mitzvah undertakes a course of study to prepare for the Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony. This course of study is meant to teach each student the skills necessary to read a Torah and Haftarah portion, to participate in the Shabbat service, and to analyze and explain the significance of the particular portion assigned to him or her. Students and their families receive their particular Torah and Haftorah portion at a “Torah and Tutoring” class with the Cantor, seven to nine months before their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The Cantor shares many helpful tips to successfully learn the portions and offer resources to unlocking their meaning. Each student has the benefit of the Cantor’s guidance. Midway through the preparation of their Torah and Haftorah portions, students again meet with the Cantor. The purpose of this meeting is to review the student’s progress and to provide the student with the Cantor’s expert assistance and advice. The Cantor may also offer suggestions to the student, or to the tutor, regarding techniques that enable the student to prepare more comfortably and effectively.
The congregation currently provides individual instruction for all our students with highly skilled and competent tutors. We have a variety of tutors on our Temple Beth Ami Staff, supervised by our Cantor. The Cantor, in coordination with the Director of Education assigns the tutors. Please contact the Cantor if you have any special concerns or requests. Tutoring begins with the mastering of Torah and Haftarah blessings and a review of trope (the system for chanting the Torah and Haftarah portions) that was taught in the spring semester of sixth grade by the Cantor. This is followed by a period of instruction, which emphasizes the mastery of the particular Torah and Haftarah portion assigned to each Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The entire course of private study is currently designed for completion in 14 weeks.
Students are assigned on a sequential basis permitting the Temple to monitor each student’s program more closely and to provide the tutors with a sufficient and balanced schedule of students throughout the year. Each family must own the Torah, A Commentary by Plaut (available for purchase in the Temple office). The congregation provides an effective and well-planned program for Bar/Bar Mitzvah preparation. Any family interested in an alternative program of preparation must contact the Cantor before making any alternative arrangements. Financial arrangements for private tutoring are to be negotiated between the family and the tutor. In such circumstances, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah fee will be adjusted accordingly. Please notify the Executive Director or Administrator if such an adjustment is necessary.
The Assistant/Associate Rabbi will meet with each Bar/Bat Mitzvah and their parents
in small groups prior to a Shabbat morning service. About an hour will be spent talking about the service and the honors available during the service for family and friends. The Assistant/Associate Rabbi will explain the options, as well as reviewing the resources available to aid the families in preparation for their service.
The speeches that introduce the Torah and Haftarah plus the student’s personal remarks provide an opportunity for each Bar/Bat Mitzvah to thoughtfully express some of their insights, interests and feelings to the congregation. Our Rabbis have a special role in helping each student prepare these important elements.
Our Senior Rabbi meets with small groups of students and their families approximately 3 months prior to the date of their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The Rabbi explains the process for creating the 2 speeches to be prepared by each student for the ceremony, an introduction to the Torah and Haftorah portions and their personal remarks. This meeting includes the presentation of a text as a gift to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah from the staff and teachers of the congregation. This text, Pirke Avot (The Wisdom of the Sages), is a classic collection of rabbinic teachings emphasizing ethics, morality and civility. After participating in the study session with the Senior Rabbi, the student and their family will be asked to choose one reading among the many in Pirke Avot which is of special significance to the student and to base the student’s personal remarks on that passage. One of the Rabbis meets individually
with each student and their parents in order to guide and assist them in completing personal remarks. Each student also meets individually with one of the Rabbis several times in order to complete the Torah and Haftorah introductions.
This combination of small-group and one-on-one learning with the congregation’s clergy is an important and integral part of Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation at Temple Beth Ami. It gives each student and their family an opportunity for study and discussion with our Rabbis and our Cantor. It provides a framework for preparing portions and remarks that emphasize the importance of our B’nai Mitzvah and the significance of their accomplishments to the entire Temple community. Valuable relationships are established or strengthened between clergy, students and families, and between the interests of the students and the insights to be found in the classic texts of Judaism.
Approximately four weeks prior to the date of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration, the student begins a series of weekly meetings with one of the Clergy. During this time, the student will review all the prepared material and practice reading from the Torah scroll. All the meetings, both group and individual, are coordinated by the Clergy Assistant.
- THE BAR/BAT MITZVAH SERVICE
The Bar/Bat Mitzvah student is invited to participate in either a Shabbat morning or Shabbat afternoon service (held only during non-daylight saving time months). At the Shabbat morning and Shabbat afternoon services, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah chants or recites the b