Gesher and Hallah High for students in 8th grade through 11th grade who want to continue their Jewish education after they become B’nai Mitzvah. 8th and 9th graders are in Gesher (bridge), while 10th and 11th graders are in Hallah High. The two groups sometimes join together for tzedakah projects. Gesher and Hallah High meet once a week, on Sundays.
The curricula for both age groups uses video and audio clips, art projects, readings, guest speakers, and a variety of hands-on activities to help students find their own understanding of being a Jewish adult with a complex and changing identity.
At the 8th-9th grade level, the students focus on mitzvot (commandments) and middot (values). Guest speakers from the Lincoln community are invited to lead discussions about the way civic life relates to Jewish values.
The 10th and 11th grade curriculum asks students to look at historic and contemporary events through the lens of Judaism. Topics have included the Civil Rights movement, women’s roles in history, and an introduction to world religions. Discussions focus on the ways that ancient teachings remain relevant in a modern world. These are lessons our young people can carry with them into their future lives.