Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Nisayon and who is it right for?
Nisayon is an alternative religious school experience that allows families to create their own Jewish learning journey by choosing from a variety of experiential learning opportunities. It is ideal for families looking for a flexible, hands-on approach to Jewish education that integrates Jewish learning with real-world experiences.
7. How will participating in Nisayon affect my
child's b'nai mitzvah prep?
B’nai mitzvah preparation remains the same for all students, regardless of whether they are in Nisayon or the traditional religious school. Families will still need to attend required tutoring and preparation sessions as scheduled. Just as our traditional religious school has an attendance requirement, families will be expected to meet the attendance requirement in Nisayon. Because Nisayon offers flexibility in programming dates and times, it is expected that learners meet the point goals for each pathway.
2. Is Nisayon a good fit for students with special
needs?
We strive to make Jewish learning accessible to all students. While the flexibility of Nisayon may be beneficial for some learners, we encourage families to reach out so we can discuss specific needs and determine the best way to support your child.
8. How will my child learn Hebrew?
Nisayon does not replace Hebrew learning. Students will still need to attend one of our Hebrew learning options: Wednesday or Sunday Hebrew classes, online sessions, or private tutoring. Additionally, frequent attendance at services will strengthen Hebrew skills.
3. What is the attendance policy?
Rather than traditional weekly classes, families will earn points through participation in various learning opportunities throughout the year. Each family will need to meet a minimum number of points annually to remain enrolled in Nisayon.
9. How many students are need for a course to
proceed?
While it depends on the specific course, most will require between 5-7 learners to run. If a course does not meet the minimum, we will work with families to find alternative options.
4. Can families switch between the traditional
religious school and Nisayon?
Because consistency is important for students and teachers, we ask families to commit to their chosen program for the year. Frequent movement between programs can disrupt the classroom environment and make it harder for students to build strong connections with their peers and teachers. However, if you have concerns about your child’s experience in either program, we encourage you to reach out so we can support your family in finding the best learning path.
5. How will my child stay connected with friends
and classmates in the traditional program?
We will offer opportunities for all students, including those in Nisayon, to come together for community-wide programs, holiday celebrations, and social events, ensuring they stay connected with peers in the traditional religious school. Additionally, many of the programs offered in Nisayon, such as family programming and youth group events, will be open to families in both the traditional program and Nisayon.
6. How many students can enroll in the pilot year?
A maximum of 50 students will be accepted into the pilot year. However, we will need a minimum of 15 students enrolled for the program to proceed.
10. Does attending Jewish summer camp count toward Nisayon points?
No, while we strongly encourage Jewish summer camp participation, it does not count toward Nisayon points. However, other immersive learning experiences may be eligible.
11. I have an idea for a course or teacher, who
should I contact?
We welcome new ideas and community involvement! If you have a course suggestion or a potential instructor, please reach out to jordan.magidson@bethshalomaustin.org
12. What happens if we don't complete the required
points each year?
Families who do not meet the minimum points will need to meet with the education team to discuss options for making up points or transitioning to the traditional religious school program.