Machanooga

Machanooga

 "It's so great that my children get to meet kids from other synagogues at Sunday School. It says a lot about Chattanooga that we can all work together."

Chattanooga has had a joint Sunday School for over 20 years. Machanooga is a combination of the Hebrew word “machaneh,” (which means camp) and Chattanooga. This program is a high-energy, fun, and experiential endeavor. We even have our own theme song, Gesher Tzar Meod (“The Narrow Bridge”) in honor of our very own City of Bridges!

The creation of this school is a wonderful sign of the collaborative spirit we enjoy in the Chattanooga Jewish community.

Our collective vision for Machanooga is to infuse the ruach (spirit) of Jewish summer camp into our weekly sessions. Every Sunday begins with shirah, lively singing and a fun presentation of Jewish values and Hebrew vocabulary. Grade level curriculum focuses on key Jewish values, and, taking full advantage of our reputation as the Gig City, we use web-connected technology from Shalom Learning for classroom presentations to inspire meaningful discussions that lead to true learning.

Another twist, again incorporating the best of Jewish camping, is to offer chugim (electives). Part of each Sunday session is devoted to specialized programming led by experts who offer fun and creative ways to teach Jewish values, customs, and history, whether through explorations of Jewish comedy, drama, cooking, gardening, pottery, creative writing, comic books, or anything else our teachers and community members can dream up. Students in grades four and above get to choose from among three chugim in which to participate for three-week blocks. Students in the younger grades have a fun “chug” assigned to their class, rotating every three weeks. Final products and presentations of the chugim will be displayed for parents and friends to enjoy.

As for our older teens, the beloved madrichim, more resources have been devoted to further their development as young leaders, offering instruction in classroom management, lesson writing, and presentations. We help them become more confident as they engage in their roles as assistant teachers at Machanooga. And, yes, they are paid for their time and efforts.

Reach out to Rosh Nooga ([email protected]) to talk about dates, ideas, registration, or anything else Machanooga related! Please do not hesitate to volunteer or to ask any questions. No offer or commitment is too small!