The Friday School is an evolving, cooperatively-run Jewish school providing children grades pre-K through 7 with a basis for lifelong Jewish learning since 1974.

The school provides classes in Hebrew, Jewish history, culture and ethics as a resource for families looking for an independent alternative to traditional Jewish education. Families from all backgrounds and beliefs are welcome.

On Friday afternoons, the school offers a class in Hebrew, followed by a class in Jewish history, culture and ethics for each age group. Children may take one or both classes, and everyone joins in for the Shabbat blessings, singing, and other activities.

• Classes in Hebrew, Jewish history, culture and ethics for children grades pre-K through 7
• Weekly Shabbat blessings and singing
• Holiday celebrations throughout the year
• Periodic theme-based gatherings for the entire family
• Guidance for Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations, if desired
• A warm community of diverse families who are like-minded in our desire for an enjoyable, independent and alternative Jewish education for our children

Through the year we hold holiday celebrations, family gatherings, Shabbat evenings, challah baking, mitzvah activities, and more.

The school meets once a week on Fridays from 3:45 to 6:00 September through May at the Jewish Community Center, 401 Elmgrove Ave. Providence, R.I.

Our goal is to establish lifelong interest in Jewish learning, culture and ethics. The Friday School values and welcomes everyone interested in this type of alternative Jewish education in their varying perspectives, lifestyles, racial/ethnic backgrounds, beliefs and exploration of Judaism. In this way all of our children and parents can comfortably and proudly identify as participating members of the Jewish community.

The Friday School employs a professional director who works together with the parents to run our school. Our teachers bring a broad array of skills, and include enthusiastic students from Brown University.

Interested in the Friday School?

Please contact Roberta Goldman at info@thefridayschool.org.

• The Friday School is a cooperative of families creating community among our members, and encouraging involvement of families with diverse lifestyles, including interfaith and unaffiliated families.
• The Friday School provides an enjoyable opportunity to instill in our children an enthusiasm for Jewish culture and learning through an alternative-style Jewish education.
• We conveniently meet once per week for 1-2 hours.
• If your child is already in the elementary school grades, no problem – we can provide a class that fits your needs.

Often Friday School families plan their own special Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations. This resources includes downloads of services, tutors and local venues. To be listed in our resources guide, email us at bnai-mitzvah@thefridayschool.org.