Questions? Contact our Academy Principal, Hedva Yitzkak at 847-256-1213 or hedva.yitzhak@bhbe.org.
Core Judaic Curriculum
Students discover Judaism in an experiential environment. Torah, Jewish Values, Holidays, Synagogue, Tikkun Olam, Prayer, Hebrew, Ritual, Israel, Lifecycle, History.
Project-based Learning
Kindergarten through second graders learn through fun activities, using all the senses. Plus Israeli dance, music, art and more!
Third through seventh graders explore Jewish themes and holidays through a choice of experiences, such as theater, art, recording lab, mitzvah lab, and circus, and develop rich, celebratory presentations for the community. Plus weekly study with congregational rabbis, and thoughtful explorations of Jewish tradition and culture with experienced, dynamic educators.
One-on-one Hebrew with expert teachers, personalized for each student, based on level, grade, and the interests/priorities of the child and family. (3rd-7th grades.) This can include Torah trope, extra B’nai Mitzvah practice, learning to lead the Shabbat morning service, advanced conversational Hebrew, and more. Virtual on Tuesdays, or at a convenient time.
My children love how the Hebrew is designed for them! Larry P., Wilmette
Our 11-year-old son loves the individualized Hebrew, working with two other children who will be celebrating their B’nai Mitzvah around the same time. All three should be able to lead the entire first half of their services. Along the way our son has discovered something he truly enjoys, built his confidence, and surpassed his parents in his Hebrew skills—we couldn’t be prouder. Daniel G., Glenview
Ongoing Opportunities for Connection
Family programs, Shabbat and holiday celebrations, community events, parent educational experiences, class get-togethers, and multigenerational school presentations.
My kids always feel like they’re a part of something. Shoshanna R. Skokie
My favorite thing about BHBE is that it is welcoming and inclusive of everyone, regardless of how observant you are. Stacy B. Glenview
Our virtual Tuesday experience weaves together individualized Hebrew with unique opportunities to explore Jewish history and tradition around the world. Plus targeted sessions in key ritual skills, such as Torah and Haftarah trope, virtual Hebrew Through Movement, conducting a Passover Seder, and more. (One-on-one Hebrew is available on other afternoons as well.)
The dedicated teaching staff has been fantastic. Allison K. Evanston
Madrikhim Fully Integrated into Program
High school students serve as mentored aides in the program, providing role models for their younger siblings and friends.
Our substantial and friendly family-led Tot Shabbat community (ages 0 – 6) meets weekly on Saturdays for a thoroughly fun and interactive service, followed by a light brunch and playtime. This is a great opportunity for both kids and parents to make friends. Jr. Congregation, a lively, educational, and meaningful experience with Jewish prayer for students in grades 2 – 6, meets simultaneously in the BHBE chapel. Families with Littles, our monthly program for families with young children, meets on Friday or Saturday evenings from 5:30 – 6:30 (at the start or end of Shabbat), for Shabbat songs, a pizza dinner, and fun entertainment, such as bubble shows, animal shows, magicians, and jugglers. All Shabbat experiences are open to the community!
BHBE’s Next Generation Fund offers substantial scholarships children of BHBE congregants who attend Jewish overnight camps. Generous scholarships are also available for 8th – 12th graders who participate in summer programs to Israel.
THE MISSION of the BHBE Academy is to nurture a thriving community of Jewish students and families, balancing cultural, ritual, and community experiences with core understandings and skills, infused with a deep appreciation for the Hebrew language. We strive to provide students with the tools they will need to lead a meaningful Jewish life in the present time, in an environment that is vibrant, energized, and experientially powerful.
