Frequently Asked Questions

The I. L. Peretz Community Jewish School is a nonprofit, educational institution for children ages 5-13 that meets Sunday mornings at Rutgers Prep on Easton Ave. in Somerset , from September through May.  It is not affiliated with a synagogue.  The school is run by a governing board composed of school parents and a principal and classes are taught by a professional staff of teachers. We are the proud descendant of a secular Jewish school in Central Jersey started by the Arbeter Ring, or Workmen’s Circle, more than 85 years ago.  Peretz is more than just a school, we are a welcoming, inclusive and diverse community committed to cultivating Jewish identity and culture and standing up for social justice.

What is a Secular Jewish School?

As a secular school, our curriculum emphasizes historical and cultural approaches to the study of Judaism.  An examination of religious perspectives is included, but we do not prescribe religious interpretations or practices for our children and prayers are not taught.  The weekly program includes the study of our traditions, history, literature (including bible stories) with a focus on struggles for civil rights and social justice as well as music, folkdancing, drama, art and Hebrew.  Students develop a strong Jewish identity, learn the meaning, spirit and joy of the Jewish holidays and explore what it means to live a moral and ethical life- to be a “mentsh.”  We have a strong emphasis on tikkun olam, Hebrew for “repairing the world.” 

Are there Shabbat and holiday services? Is there a Rabbi?

There are no Friday night or Saturday morning Shabbat ser vices and no Rabbi.  Holiday ceremonies are lead by our President  and  school Principal. The unique ceremonies are not prayer-based, they are in English and focus on connecting the traditional holiday with current social issues. They often include lively group discussions, singing songs in English, Hebrew and Yiddish, Israeli folk dancing, skits and of course food, when appropriate. We begin each year with humanistic Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur ceremonies in a beautiful outdoor setting, followed by building a sukkah for Sukkot. Chanukah is celebrated with latke-making and a party and Purim with a carnival. Yom Hashoah is commemorated and Tu B’shevat and Passover are observed by feasting at community seders.

Do children have Bar and Bat Mitzvahs?

The student’s education culminates with a graduation ceremony requiring students to research and present a topic on a Jewish theme. Parents may choose to do a Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony outside of the school.  Because there is no set formula to follow, creating a unique ceremony becomes part of each family's ongoing process of exploring how to make their Jewishness relevant and rich. Consultation is offered to assist families through this special time.

Are there educational Programs for Adults?

While the children are in class, parents and other community members can attend Sunday morning discussions over bagels, on Jewish-themed topics.  A Yiddish class is also offered on Sunday mornings as well as periodic Israeli folk dance workshops.  Peretz also offers monthly Friday evening cultural, educational and social programs.

Are there opportunities for Community Service and Social Action?

There is a strong emphasis on “mitzvah” activities for the children and families.  Sing-alongs at a senior center, decorating a Spring banner with children at a family shelter, collection for tzedakah charity, food drives, “pet supply” drive and a tour of an animal shelter to name a few.  Speakers are also brought in to discuss social justice issues such as Darfur and immigration and our role in addressing them.  The graduating class is required to do a “mitzvah/community ser vice” project over the course of the year.

What does it cost?

School membership including tuition and books ranges from $705 for one child (grade K-1) in the school to $1560 for 2 children in (grades 2-7). A family membership for those with no children in the school is $120.  A single community membership is $85.

What is expected of parents to help run the school?

The minimal expectation for parents is to provide refreshments for two Sunday morning programs, to help clean up the classrooms on those days, and to ser ve on one holiday committee (generally setting up and cleaning up food.) Heading up a committee or participation on the board is encouraged.

Can you still be part of Peretz if you don’t have children in the school?

Peretz has an active “non-school” community.  Members attend the holiday celebrations and Sunday morning adult educational programs at the school, run a monthly Friday night education ser ies, enjoy a Jewish book group, and attend semiannual weekend retreats at Stokes State Forest along with the school families. An adult-only Chanukah party and annual summer picnic bring school and community families together for socializing.  There is also a teen group where teens meet monthly and plan their own educational, cultural and social activities under the guidance of a dynamic teen advisor.

Who was I.L. Peretz?

Our school was named after the great Yiddish writer I. L. Peretz. He was born in 1852 in Zamosc , Poland . Though raised in the orthodox tradition, he also absorbed worldly knowledge. He is one of the most influential figures of modern Jewish culture. Dedicated to Yiddish culture, he recognized that Jews needed to adapt to their times while pre ser ving their cultural heritage, and his captivating and beautiful writings explore the complexities inherent in the struggle between tradition and the desire for progress.