Program Overview:
The B’nei Mitzvah Training Program consists of 24 individual tutoring sessions, of 45 minutes each, with one of Shomrei Torah’s excellent tutors; four 30 minute meetings with a Rabbi to develop the D’var Torah; three rehearsals with a Rabbi in the sanctuary; and a study binder. Supplemental tutoring sessions may be required, at an additional cost of $45 per session, for those students who have not attained the minimum level of Hebrew and T’fillah knowledge necessary to prepare for their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Families will be charged $45 each time the student is absent from her/his tutoring session without 24 hours notice.
Tutor Assignments:
We work hard to make the right match between tutor and student. We consider: the level of expertise, Hebrew fluency, and learning style of the student; the teaching style and expertise of the tutor; the program calendar and logistical constraints. Parents are welcome to contribute their input to our choice by contacting the Program Coordinator. The individual tutoring sessions will take place on a (mostly) weekly basis beginning six to seven months prior to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah date.
Trope Trainer Software:
The B’nei Mitzvah Training Program has had great success using a software program called Trope Trainer to teach Torah and haftarah cantillation. The software will run on any PC (using a Windows 98 or later operating system) or any Mac. CST is able to purchase the software at a reduced price thanks to the generosity of its producer Kinnor Software.
Students will need the help and support of parents to be sure that they are using the software correctly, effectively, and frequently. No specialized computer skills, or knowledge of Hebrew or Trope is needed to use the software.
Study Time:
While learning styles vary, we have found that students should work on their service daily, for 15-30 minutes. They are preparing four areas of study: the t’filot (prayers), the parashah (Torah portion), the d’var Torah (sermon),
and the haftarah (additional readings from the prophets). While much of the curriculum will have been learned before entering the training program (or if not, supplementary tutoring may be recommended) there is a great deal for each student to master. The more encouragement to practice your child gets from you, the more confident your child will be during the service.
Service/Study Guide:
Each student is provided with a binder that contains a wealth of study materials. Students are meant to bond with this binder! Materials will be added as they continue their training.
Please remind your child to bring this binder TO EVERY TUTORING SESSION. Should
the binder be lost, there is a $50 fee for its replacement.