A Community Model for Supporting “Beyond the Classroom Experiences” by Judith Schiller, Director of the Retreat Institute of the JECC
Through our involvement with Shinui: The Network for Innovation in Part-Time Jewish Education, we have seen first-hand the benefits of sharing an effective model with colleagues. In this spirit, we are compelled to share the model of the Retreat Institute (RI), a program of the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland (JECC) that receives generous support from the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. The RI supports congregations, schools, and other Jewish organizations plan and implement “beyond the classroom” experiences – uniquely impactful opportunities for deeper learning, community building, and for fostering a love of Judaism.