Melton Scholars Curriculum

Building on their two years of text-based study, The Scholars Curriculum provides Melton graduates with addition learning opportunities. Comprised of two tracks, Contemporary Jewish Life and Shiv'im Panim, the Scholars Curriculum focuses on a deeper examination of selected Jewish texts, from the Biblical to the modern. In addition, we have the unique opportunity to study with Rabbi Morey Schwartz (formerly of BIAV), via interactive video conference. These are 10 week courses that meet for 90 minutes each week.  A different selection from each curriculum group is offered each semester (a total of six courses each year). For more information on the entire Melton Scholars Curriculum, view the Melton Scholars Curriculum flyer.  

Watch for more information on new classes! 

Jewish Denominations:  Addressing the Challenge of Modernity
The explosion of diversity in contemporary Judaism is reflected in this fascinating study of Jewish Denominations. Taught by Michal Cahlon, this course (new to the Melton Scholars' Curriculum) will offer insight into the historical and ideological development of the major movements by delving into key issues faced today. Cahlon chairs the Judaics Department of the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy Middle and Upper Schools, where she teaches Mishna and rabbinic literature. She has also been a regular presenter at the Day of Discovery. Formerly a business analyst in the financial industry, her inspiration to pursue Jewish education came during a summer session at the Pardes Institute (which led to her graduation from the Educators Program there). She possesses a love of ancient Jewish texts and a desire to impart that love to others. The 10-week course is designed for Melton Graduates (or equivalent).  All interested learners should inquire.
Date:  Begins Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Time:  7:00 - 8:30 pm
Location:  The Center 
Fee:  $215

View detailed information on the Jewish Denominations course

Tuesdays with Morey
Making Sense of the Mishnah:  The Oral Tradition in Written Form
Many people have heard of Mishnah, but very few study it in a way that uncovers its method and unique style. What do we learn about the minds of people who redacted and formulated the Mishnah in this unique way?  This two semester course will familiarize students with the overall structure and content of Mishnah, while uncovering the significant conflicts and agendas refelcted in the choice of texts and wording used when Judaisn took this major step, turning an oral law into a written document.  This topic will span both the fall and spring terms, but each semester is framed as an independent  10 week course.

Tuesdays with Morey is the Kansas City community's opportunity to not only stay in touch with Rabbi Schwartz, but also to take advantage of a unique learning experience. A dynamic teacher and Melton's Director of Curriculum Development in Jerusalem, Rabbi Schwartz prepares 10 week courses that address relevant topics using classical texts. In many cases, we enjoy the privilege of piloting new course content.  "
Date: Tuesdays, October 12 - December 28, 2010 (10 sessions)
Time:  8:30 - 9:45 am
Instructor: Rabbi Morey Schwartz
Location: Village Shalom Board Room 
Fee: $215/semester; $25 discount for couples 

Where's My Miracle?  Exploring Jewish Traditions for Dealing with Tragedy 
Our community has a longstanding connection with Rabbi Morey Schwartz from his years at BIAV, as a Melton classroom instructor, and as our teacher via live video- conference from Jerusalem each Tuesday morning. Many topics of those classroom discussions are an integral part of his new book, Where’s My Miracle? Exploring Jewish Traditions  For Dealing With Tragedy.

The Center is honored to host Rabbi Schwartz at a unique book event on Sunday afternoon, September 12 at 4:30pm. Discussion will be followed by a book signing.  There is no charge to attend this event that is being presented by The Jewish Book Fair and the Department of Adult Jewish Learning. 

To RSVP, contact Jeff Goldenberg, Director of Adult Jewish Learning, at 913-327-4647 or jeffg@jewishkc.org.

 For more information, or to register for any of these programs, contact Jeff Goldenberg, Director, Dept. of Adult Jewish Learning, at 913-327-4647 or JeffG@jewishkc.org.  You may also enroll online.