Ohef Sholom Temple Religious School

509 Raliegh Ave
Norfolk, VA 23507

Alyson Morrissey
P: 757-625-4295
alyson@ohefsholom.org
https://ohefsholom.org

At Ohef Sholom Temple Religious School, students go beyond learning Hebrew,
exploring Jewish holidays, and preparing for their b’nai mitzvah. They are taught to
embrace their Jewish heritage, take pride in their culture, and contribute to building a
strong community. Ohef Sholom is committed to cultivating individuals who embody
lifelong Jewish values, firmly rooted in Torah and Jewish teachings, while maintaining
strong connections to Israel, Jewish history, culture, language, and traditions.
Meeting most Sundays from September through May, 9:30 am to noon, the school
offers a dynamic Jewish educational program for students in Pre-K through ninth grade.
OST welcomes and supports diverse learners. Hebrew is taught during the regular
Sunday program and supplemented by personalized weekday one-on-one Zoom sessions
for students in grades four through seven.
Younger students engage in hands-on learning experiences through art, music,
Hebrew Through Movement, and weekly T’filah (prayer service). Teens take part in
project-based learning that encourages them to explore and deepen their own Jewish
identity. These sessions are guided by OST educators and guest teachers from the
community who share how their Jewish values and experiences have shaped their
personal and professional lives.
A comprehensive special education program, led by licensed special education

professionals, ensures that every student’s needs are met. This includes crafting Jewish
Individualized Education Plans for nearly a dozen students, tailored to their specific
learning styles and goals. A sensory room is also available for students who may benefit
from a quiet break when feeling overwhelmed.
Throughout the year, OST Religious School hosts family programs centered on
Jewish holidays, fostering community and intergenerational engagement in Jewish life.
Beginning in fifth grade, families also participate in the congregation’s B’nai Mitzvah
Pathways program—a multi-year journey that supports students and their families in
exploring the meaning and purpose of becoming b’nai mitzvah. Ohef Sholom is deeply
committed to partnering with families, creating meaningful shared experiences that
strengthen Jewish identity and connection across generations.
Religious School begins on Sunday, Sept. 7. All interested individuals and families
are invited to join that morning for an Open House, alongside the first day of classes.
On a one-time basis, families have the opportunity to enroll in the Religious School
for one year before becoming synagogue members.