Learning and Appreciating Through Teaching

By Jessica Albalah
SUNY Oneonta

I grew up belonging to a Conservative synagogue. The synagogue has been a huge part of my life, and because of that, I thought it would be a great idea to teach at a Hebrew school during the school year.

I attend SUNY Oneonta during the school year and the synagogue in the Oneonta area is a Reform synagogue. I was a little hesitant because I assumed that some traditions that I was used to would be different at the Reform synagogue. I decided to take the position anyway and I am now a Hebrew School teacher at a Reform synagogue.

At first I was surprised by the number of people not wearing a head covering or a tallit, the presence of instrumental music and choir on Shabbat, English as the main language of worship, the lack of Hebrew and the length of the service. I gradually became used to these practices. Being Jewish is such a strong part of my identity that the Reform customs did not negatively affect me; they have become customs to which I have adapted. I am very lucky to be part of this Reform community; it is extremely rewarding and amazing.

I definitely learned a lot from my Conservative Jewish upbringing and I use what I have learned to be a better Hebrew school teacher. I learned that it is important to be passionate about my religion, so I teach my students to love being Jewish and to embrace their religion. Ever since I was young, celebrating Jewish holidays was very important. I think it is crucial to understand each holiday and its significance in Jewish history. I try to impart to my students the significance of each holiday.

Overall, teaching at a Reform synagogue has broadened my appreciation for another branch of Judaism. It makes me more appreciative of having been raised in a Conservative household. I continue to embrace and love Conservative practice, including the emphasis on Shabbat's place in the week as a time of rest.

Jessica Albalah is a junior at SUNY Oneonta. She is a double major in mathematics and secondary education. Her career goal is to become a middle school math teacher.

[Posted 2/4/11]