College credits for high school students studying Judaism

CTeen of North Orlando recently completed its first CTeen University course, marking a milestone in continued quality Jewish learning for youth in the area. For 14 weeks, teens met with Rabbi Yanky Majesky every Sunday morning to study Torah and Judaism on a whole new level.  "Sadly, for most, Jewish learning ends at bar/bas mitzvah and that only allows one to have a child's perspective on Judaism, it has been an honor and privilege to delve deeper into Jewish learning with this special group of teens" said Rabbi Majesky.

CTeen has collaborated with the prestigious Yeshiva University to present CTeenU a series of dynamic curriculums for high-school students. In its first semester, students of CTeenU covered topics like purpose, music, and the afterlife in Jewish philosophy, and earned two private college credits.

Each lecture integrates textual study, group discussion, and activities to engage the students. "This class was so enlightening, I learned new things every week and got inspired to do more exploration on my own" said student Zoe Carmi.

Student Sebastian Wagner sees the course as helping Jewish young adults find meaning, pride and beauty in their Judaism.  He remarks, "The course brings up important issues for today, intertwining historical and religious themes and making them ever more relevant."

The private study with Rabbi Majesky allowed the students a comfortable environment for them to question and challenge areas of Jewish life they never get to discuss. "I highly recommend CTeenU to any high school student looking to deepen their understanding of Judaism" said student Noah Goldberg.

Following the conclusion of the course, the graduating students celebrated with dinner at the Kosher Grill and a trip to an Escape Room.

For more information on CTeenU visit CTeenU.com. For more information on the local chapter or to register your teen for the upcoming course in the fall email Rabbi Yanky Majesky Rabbi@JewishNorthOrlando.com or call Chabad of North Orlando 407-636-5994.