Here's a brief checklist to help preparing for your family's BIJ Bar/Bat Mitzvah experience:
The 5th grade Requirements:
• Enroll in and attend Religious School and Hebrew School Sundays & Wednesdays (except Day School students who enroll in the 6th grade.)
• Set the date for your bar/bat mitzvah service
• Attend a minimum of SIX erev Shabbat or Shabbat morning services
• Beginning signing the service attendance binder on Cantor’s podium in sanctuary
Recommendations:
• Attend some Shabbat and bar/bat mitzvah services at BIJ
• Participate community-wide events and celebrations
6th grade Requirements:
• Enroll in and attend Religious School & Hebrew School (Sundays and Wednesdays). Jewish day school students exempt from Hebrew (Wednesdays) after assessment
• 12 months prior to bar/bat mitzvah meet with Cantor for Hebrew assessment.
• 12 months prior to date, meet with Rabbi for introductions
• 6-9 months prior to bar/bat mitzvah date, meet weekly Cantor for individual tutoring
• Attend a minimum of six Erev Shabbat or Shabbat morning services
• Fulfill Religious School community service requirement
Recommendations:
• Ask for a buddy family to answer questions and build connections
• Participate community-wide events and celebrations
• Attend Bar/Bat Mitzvah Orientation Meeting
7th grade Requirements:
• Remain enrolled in and continue to attend Religious School on Sundays and Wednesdays (Wednesdays may be waived by assessment)
• Attend 12 services prior to bar/bat mitzvah - at least half on Saturday mornings
• Attend family workshops
• Practice and rehearse with the rabbi and cantor to prepare for leading service
Recommendations:
• Invite Religious School classmates to your bar/bat Mitzvah service