Guide Category: Education
The Guide to Jewish Living offers a comprehensive, up-to-date directory of Chicago-area Jewish organizations, resources, products, and services. The guide acts as a community driven lexicon sponsored by Jewish Chicago: The JUF’s Magazine to foster connection and support. Email [email protected] with questions or for information on advertising opportunities.
* Listings with an asterisk are part of the JUF/JF partnership of agencies serving the Chicago and worldwide Jewish community.
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GADOL, Keshet’s Adult Day Program
GADOL is designed to bridge the gap existing in community-based programs serving young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Keshet offers state-of-the-art programming and vocational opportunities under the leadership of a supportive staff of directors and specialists, all trained to enable adults with developmental disabilities to reach their full potential.
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Glasser Preschool of Oak Park Temple
Parent/child programs ages 1-2, half-day preschool ages 2-5, lunch and enrichment programs, parenting workshops.
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Hanna Sacks Bais Yaakov High School
Four-year Orthodox high school for girls, accredited by North Central Association.
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Hebrew Language Society
Hebrew Language Society is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit serving the Chicago area. It seeks to increase knowledge, awareness and use of the Hebrew language in social and cultural contexts.
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Hebrew Seminary
The mission of Hebrew Seminary is to train women and men as rabbis and Jewish educators to serve all Jewish communities, including the deaf community. Hebrew Seminary has been an inclusive and egalitarian community for the study and practice of Judaism since our founding in 1992. Our program encourages the highest commitment to traditional scholarship, such as Talmud, Bible, and Hebrew, as well as the spiritual discipline of Kabbalah. This teaches our students to be scholars, educators, and leaders, as well as spiritual guides who can hear and share the voice of God with members of their communities.
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Hebrew Theological College (HTC)
Academic and professional educational programs for advancement of scholarship in Jewish law and culture, offered in accordance with the principles of Orthodox Judaism.
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Hillel at Columbia College Chicago
Metro Chicago Hillel supports students on college campuses throughout Chicagoland. Metro Chicago Hillel is here to ensure that every Jewish student and young adult feels connected and supported during this exciting and challenging time in their lives. From weekly Shabbat dinners, learning cohorts, Israel experiences, holiday celebrations, leadership development, and just a place to meet new friends, Metro Chicago Hillel is at the heart of what makes being a Jewish student or young adult in Chicago so unique. Contact us to learn how to get involved in our broader Metro Chicago Hillel community!
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Hillel at Illinois Institute of Technology
Metro Chicago Hillel supports students on college campuses throughout Chicagoland. Metro Chicago Hillel is here to ensure that every Jewish student and young adult feels connected and supported during this exciting and challenging time in their lives. From weekly Shabbat dinners, learning cohorts, Israel experiences, holiday celebrations, leadership development, and just a place to meet new friends, Metro Chicago Hillel is at the heart of what makes being a Jewish student or young adult in Chicago so unique. Contact us to learn how to get involved in our broader Metro Chicago Hillel community!
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Hillel at Roosevelt University
Metro Chicago Hillel supports students on college campuses throughout Chicagoland. Metro Chicago Hillel is here to ensure that every Jewish student and young adult feels connected and supported during this exciting and challenging time in their lives. From weekly Shabbat dinners, learning cohorts, Israel experiences, holiday celebrations, leadership development, and just a place to meet new friends, Metro Chicago Hillel is at the heart of what makes being a Jewish student or young adult in Chicago so unique. Contact us to learn how to get involved in our broader Metro Chicago Hillel community!
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Hillel at the School of the Art Institute
Metro Chicago Hillel supports students on college campuses throughout Chicagoland. Metro Chicago Hillel is here to ensure that every Jewish student and young adult feels connected and supported during this exciting and challenging time in their lives. From weekly Shabbat dinners, learning cohorts, Israel experiences, holiday celebrations, leadership development, and just a place to meet new friends, Metro Chicago Hillel is at the heart of what makes being a Jewish student or young adult in Chicago so unique. Contact us to learn how to get involved in our broader Metro Chicago Hillel community!
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Hillel of Northeastern Illinois University
Metro Chicago Hillel supports students on college campuses throughout Chicagoland. Metro Chicago Hillel is here to ensure that every Jewish student and young adult feels connected and supported during this exciting and challenging time in their lives. From weekly Shabbat dinners, learning cohorts, Israel experiences, holiday celebrations, leadership development, and just a place to meet new friends, Metro Chicago Hillel is at the heart of what makes being a Jewish student or young adult in Chicago so unique. Contact us at [email protected] to learn how to get involved in our broader Metro Chicago Hillel community!
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Hillel Torah North Suburban Day School
Modern Orthodox, co-educational Day School, for children in preschool through eighth grade. Nurturing classroom communities foster the emotional, physical, social and intellectual growth of every child. 21st century child-centered learning approach guides children to explore, discover and engage in learning while integrating Torah and chesed, Israel and Ivrit language into their daily lives.
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Hillel Torah-Alana Beth Stein Pre-School
A Modern Orthodox preschool with a child-centered developmental approach to education focusing on the social-emotional, physical and intellectual growth of each child. Children learn through play and open-ended activities and are given opportunities to explore the world around them, ask questions, and discover how things work. Teachers support the children with a wide range of interests and abilities as they become increasingly independent in the classroom.Our integrated approach emphasizes Torah and chesed, Israel and an Ivrit language curriculum.
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Ida Crown Jewish Academy
State-accredited Orthodox Jewish co-educational high school, including Keshet classes for children with disabilities.
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Illinois Center for Jewish Studies
The mission of the Illinois Center for Jewish Studies (ICJS) is to provide every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or religious observance, the opportunity to be inspired by and connected to Torah and Judaism. We believe that people learn and develop differently, and that Torah study should be unique to every person’s individual journey. ICJS seeks to provide a personalized learning experience to nurture mind and soul in both individual and group settings. The Illinois Center for Jewish Studies hosts weekly educational classes for men and women in bible studies, Jewish philosophy, and special topics. The organization also provides individual one-on-one learning sessions for men to advance their bible knowledge and ability to improve personally. In addition to formal group/individual classes, the organization has seasonal social gatherings in an effort to promote Jewish education, as well as an annual benefit dinner to raise funds for its operations.
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Introduction to Judaism
An 18-week program designed for individuals and couples from Jewish and various other faith backgrounds who want to explore Jewish holidays and life cycle ceremonies, Jewish values, symbols and traditions, and Jewish liturgy and texts. Introduction to Judaism is ideal for those who are part of a Jewish family, are considering conversion, or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish life. Co-sponsored by the Union for Reform Judaism and the Chicago Association of Reform Rabbis. Classes are offered at several locations around Chicago and the suburbs in the fall, winter and spring.
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Jacob Duman Early Childhood Center at Lake County JCC
Housed on our sprawling 37-acre Jewish Community Campus at Lake County JCC, Jacob Duman Early Childhood Center reflects the beauty around it. Children engage in exploration inside and out. Sunny classrooms and our two custom-built, developmentally appropriate playgrounds create an opportunity for learning and outside exploration.We strive to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life. For ages 6 weeks - 4 years.
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JCC Chi Town Connection
Year-round teen program offers social, recreational and cultural activities, leadership development and volunteer opportunities.
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JCC Chicago ‘Z’ Frank Apachi Day Camp
“Z” Frank Apachi Day Camp is located on our beautiful 10-acre campus in Northbrook. With large green spaces, manicured athletic fields, shaded areas and shelters, it's the ideal place for kids who love to play, create and explore. Our camp features air-conditioned spaces, two large heated outdoor pools, an outdoor cooking classroom, arts and crafts studio, adventure tree, boating, tennis court, a climbing wall and more. Campers can try everything from sports, arts and crafts and gaga, to clowning, cooking, drama, yoga and rock climbing. Music is always in the air, theme days are legendary, and our Shabbat celebrations foster a true sense of community and connection. 4 years-7th grade + CIT.
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JCC Chicago Early Childhood at “Z” Frank Apachi
At 'Z' Frank Apachi, we enjoy the outdoors during all seasons, letting children explore their surroundings while nurturing their natural curiosity. Educators encourage children to follow their interests which emerge into meaningful learning opportunities where they are fully engaged in the process. Here, your child is at the center of all we do. We strive to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life. For ages 20 months - 4 years.
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JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Am Shalom
At JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Am Shalom, building caring relationships with children and their families is central to what we do. Our director and teachers are dedicated professionals who focus on the individual needs of each child. We provide a warm, nurturing environment, enriched with exciting curriculum and a love of Judaism. We strive to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life. For ages 18 months - 4 years.
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JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Bernard Horwich JCC
At JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Bernard Horwich JCC, located in Chicago’s West Rogers Park neighborhood, your child is at the center of all we do.We strive to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life. We believe children flourish and grow in an environment where they can explore, discover and create. Our director and teachers are dedicated professionals who focus on the individual needs of each child. We provide a warm, nurturing environment, enriched with exciting curriculum and a love of Judaism. For ages 2–4 years.
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JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Bernard Weinger JCC
At JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Bernard Weinger JCC, in Northbrook, your child is at the center of all we do. We strive to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life. Our professional, loving, one-of-a-kind teachers will help your family feel that Bernard Weinger JCC is your home away from home. From incredible classrooms to our beautiful outdoor space, your child will have endless opportunities to learn, play, grow and make friends that last a lifetime. For ages 6 weeks – 4 years.
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JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Florence G. Heller JCC
At JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Florence G. Heller JCC, located in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, your child is at the center of all we do. We strive to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life. Our professional, loving, one-of-a-kind educators help your family feel that Florence G. Heller JCC is your home away from home. From incredible classrooms to our beautiful outdoor space, your child will have endless opportunities to learn, play, grow and make friends that last a lifetime. For ages 6 weeks – 4 years.
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JCC Chicago Early Childhood Education
JCC Chicago Early Childhood education provides children with a solid foundation for future learning success, socially, emotionally, cognitively, physically and spiritually. JCC Chicago Early Childhood Centers guide each child to reach his or her individual potential. The approach is simple: JCC Chicago puts your child at the center of everything. NAEYC accredited program covers core curriculum based on national and state standards including math, literacy, science and social studies. The JCC Chicago preschool program integrates Jewish curriculum that is rich in culture and tradition. Premier programs for families with children (infants through 5 years of age) are offered at locations throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Programs include full- and half-day preschool, infant/toddler care, pre-kindergarten, enrichment classes, adult/child classes, parenting classes, JNew Mom's Group, Stay and Play, preschool summer camp, summer fun programs and family events.
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JCC Chicago Family Programming
Second Fridays 5:45-7:30pm Northbrook@ Bernard Weinger JCC; Lake Zurich @ Lake County JCC; Lakeview @ Florence G. Heller JCC. Who doesn't love seconds and thirds of a good thing? Join the JCC community for a young family Shabbat on second Friday nights monthly. We provide dinner and dessert along with songs, stories and of course Shabbat Candle lighting and challah! Each month, Third Saturdays 3:30pm-5:00pm in Northbrook, Lake County, Lakeview. Third Saturdays is an opportunity for your family to enjoy an afternoon of fun with your JCC community. Ending with Havdalah, families can participate in a themed craft, snack and an interactive activity or entertainment.
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JCC Chicago School’s Out
When school is closed, we’re here for you. School’s Out provides an enriching environment for children across Chicago. Our professional staff balances specialized activities with opportunities for independent play. Your child will enjoy participating in unique “In-House” programs that include games, crafts and a chance to meet new friends. Dynamic School’s Out field trips spark curiosity, foster creativity, and encourage fun! School’s Out is open to all children grades K-6, and before and after care may be provided to extend the day. We’re in session for most school holidays, institute days and emergency weather days.
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JCC Chicago Sports & Aquatics
JCC Chicago offers a wide variety of sports programming at locations across Chicagoland. All programs provide an opportunity to learn new skills and progress in development through instruction, practice, and individual or team play. Children will learn a love for sports and find new challenges in a variety of classes and leagues within an appropriately competitive atmosphere. Staff is trained to enhance self esteem, teach skills and bring Jewish values to life both on and off the field/court. JCC Chicago also excels at group and individual swim instruction at all swim levels as well as lifeguard training. Swim lessons begin for children as young as three months old. Parent/tot, group and private swim lessons are also available. All-In Swim is a new, inclusive learn-to-swim program for children with autism spectrum disorder and is offered at aquatic locations across the city and suburbs.
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JCC Chicago’s J at School
Start and end each school day with learning, excitement and fun. J at School offers year-round programming with After School, Before School and Enrichment programs. Highly trained JCC staff guide children through entertaining and academically enriching activities, assist
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JCC Maccabi Chicago
An annual, international Olympic-style sporting event held each summer in select cities for Jewish teens, 13-16 years of age. Competition includes basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, flag football, volleyball, track and field, swimming, tennis, golf, ice hockey and more. The largest organized sports program for Jewish teenagers in the world, the Games provide 6,000 Jewish youth with an unparalleled athletic and cultural experience and strengthens Jewish identity. A summer arts experience for creative Jewish teens ages 13-17 features workshops in a variety of specialties with some of the leading artists in each field and incorporates community service, social activities, and themes of Jewish heritage, community, and Israel.
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JCC Perlstein Retreat Center
Host your next gathering on our 20 wooded, lakeside acres, right next door to the Wisconsin Dells. Serene and spacious facilities offer your group a real retreat from the hustle and bustle of every day. We are the perfect location whether you are celebrating, working or playing. Our professional staff help coordinate your special events and meetings. Every event at Perlstein Retreat Center is unique. We will customize our services to meet your needs so that your next gathering will be unforgettable. Winter Address:3050 Woodridge Lane Northbrook, IL 60062
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JCC Pritzker Center for Jewish Education
Supporting Jewish educational programs and services offered by JCC.
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JCC Shalom Over 50
Shalom Over 50 is a Jewish club that meets weekly at Shir Tikvah in Homewood for Yiddish classes, speakers and fellowship. A full schedule of thought-provoking lectures, current events and performances ensures lively discussion and a good time. Lunch is provided each week.
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JCYS George W. Lutz Family Center
Offers early childhood education programs and child care for children 12 months through 5 years old. JCYS Early Childhood Education lays a foundation for intellectual, social, emotional and physical development through play-based curriculum. In each classroom, children freely choose from different learning centers throughout the day, helping to build confidence and develop their social and problem-solving skills. Group time for stories, singing, language development, science, cooking activities, and games adds structure to each day.
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JCYS Iris & Steven Podolsky Family Center
JCYS Iris & Steven Podolsky Family Center offers early childhood education programs for children age 15 months through 5 years. JCYS Early Childhood Education lays a foundation for intellectual, social, emotional and physical development through play-based curriculum. In each classroom, children freely choose from different learning centers throughout the day, helping to build confidence and develop their social and problem-solving skills. Group time for stories, singing, language development, science, cooking activities, and games add structure to each day.
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JCYS Michael R. Lutz Family Center-Wicker Park
JCYS Wicker Park offers early childhood education for children ages 15 months-5 years through school year and summer camp programming. As our center grows, after-school programming for grades K-6 and summer camps for grades K-8 will be added.
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JCYS Northwest Family Center
Offers early childhood education and child care for children 6 weeks through 6 years old. JCYS Early Childhood Education lays a foundation for intellectual, social, emotional and physical development through play-based curriculum. In each classroom, children freely choose from different learning centers throughout the day, helping to build confidence and develop their social and problem-solving skills. Group time for stories, singing, language development, science, cooking activities, and games adds structure to each day.
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JET – Jewish Education Team
Empowers and inspires Jewish college students and young professionals to develop a stronger connection to our Jewish heritage, the Jewish people and the land of Israel through fun, authentic and innovative educational, social and travel programs.
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Jewish Council for Youth Services
Guided by Jewish values and culture, Jewish Council for Youth Services provides educational and recreational programs for Chicagoland's children, and through board service, develops the next generation of Jewish civic leaders.
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Jewish Family Experience
A dynamic family-based Hebrew school and Bnei Mitzvah program, JFE 's team of dedicated and passionate teachers combine experiential learning with a welcoming classroom atmosphere to provide a strong and inspired Jewish education. Founded and supported by the ATT, in partnership with NCSY and the Chicago Torah Network. JFE's once-a-week program attracts a wide range of families from across the North Shore. Families are welcome regardless of religious background or affiliation. Parents participate in holiday workshops together with their children and enjoy weekly discussions led by Chicago Torah Network. Visit jewishfamilyexp.org for more information.
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Jewish Family Interactive eXperience (J-FIX)
A family Hebrew school and bar/bat mitzvah program servicing the Northern and Western suburbs. Welcomes Jewish families from all backgrounds and instills Jewish values, Jewish identity and Jewish pride in students. A comprehensive, fun and exciting curriculum gives children a strong Jewish foundation to build upon for the future. Need-based scholarships available to qualifying families. Inspiring and informative adult education classes are offered simultaneously for parents at no charge.
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Jewish Learning Institute (JLI)
Accredited courses in Jewish life, Kabbalah, mysticism, Talmud, and Jewish history for Jews of all backgrounds. Special CLE and CME accredited programs for lawyers and doctors. Locations throughout the Chicago area: Chicago (Bucktown/Hyde Park/Chicago Loop/Rogers Park), Elgin, Evanston, Glenview, Gurnee, Highland Park, Naperville, Northbrook, Oak Park, Skokie, Wilmette, Vernon Hills, as well as Champaign and Peoria.
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Jewish Performing Arts Academy
Instruction for high-school students in Jewish song--vocal and instrumental--and dance; four groups: the Shiga'on Singers, the Shiga'on Dancers, the Maxwell Street Junior Klezmer Band, and the Jewish Community Youth Orchestra; performances for community o
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Jewish Residential Summer Camp Scholarship Program
Supplemental funding, based on financial need, to help youngsters attend an eligible midwestern Jewish residential summer camp; applications available from camp offices.
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Jewish Scouting-Jewish Committee on Scouting
Promotes Boy Scouting among Jewish youth (ages 6-18), helps Jewish institutions provide Scouting opportunities and promotes Jewish values in Scouting.
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Jewish Student Connection (JSC)
These inclusive high school clubs help teens find a deeper connection to Jewish values and their community. By becoming a part of the JSC experience, teens can participate in monthly club experiences as well as the following opportunities: Summer programming to continue engagement year-round and connect JSC teens across participating schools; scholarships to enable access to life-enriching Jewish programs such as the Maccabi Games, Diller, Write On, and others; new and strengthened partnerships, including opportunities for JSC teens to give back through volunteer efforts.
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Jewish Student Union (JSU)
Runs more than 200 Jewish culture clubs on public high school campuses. The clubs provide Jewish teens with programs that strengthen their Jewish identity and connection to Israel.
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Jewish Theological Seminary
Development field office for the Midwest, dedicated to principles of Conservative Judaism. Programs for the community, and a full course of study at the high school, undergraduate, graduate, rabbinical, cantorial, and professional levels.
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Jewish University of America Graduate School
Programs for master's and doctoral degrees, open to Orthodox men.
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Joan Dachs Bais Yaakov
A state-accredited Orthodox Day School for girls kindergarten through eighth grade. A co-ed nursery; onsite REACH program; onsite Keshet classes for children with developmental disabilities.