Religious School

The Dor Hadash Religious School provides Reconstructionist Jewish education in a warm and welcoming after-school setting for children of grade-school age through B’Mitzvah. We are the only Reconstructionist Religious School in western Pennsylvania. The Reconstructionist philosophy is embedded throughout our school curriculum.

• Our classes meet once per week on a weekday for two hours and students do assignments at home. We give between one and two hours of homework per week, depending on the grade; ideally, this is to be done together with parents.  Our goal is to reinforce the habit of Jewish learning in the home.  The homework also allows classes to include discussions and debates, not just the presentation of material.
• We encourage community and families learning together. Together as a community, we celebrate Shabbat and holidays. We include cultural programs that involve cooking, arts and crafts, dance, and other forms of exploration. We enjoy a yearly Chanukah on Ice program that engages with students from Pittsburgh's diverse immigrant student community.

Our teachers are knowledgeable in Jewish tradition, yet emphasize exploration and an open mind to think about how Jewish rituals and celebrations might be changed (‘reconstructed’) to enhance their meaning and effect. History is explored in context, with an eye on modern critique.  Students will have opportunities to explore customs and traditions, and offer modern interpretations as well. 

• Our curriculum takes a wide cultural approach.
• We are committed to small class sizes.
• We employ teen graduates of our school as madrichim (teacher's assistants)
• Families have the opportunity to work on mitzvah projects throughout the year.
• Our parents have formed a weekly study group. During the school year, this group often meets during school to study Torah or other topics. All are welcome to join.

Behind all we do is always the philosophy of Reconstructionist Judaism.

• We promote true equality within the Jewish tradition
• We cultivate a sincere regard for other religions and cultures
• We emphasize the continuing evolution of Jewish commitment