Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is JLI?
A. The mission of the Jewish Learning Institute’s teen division is to assist Jewish high school kids in developing the tools they need to thrive in the real world. For the past eleven years, JLI has been creating the highest quality learning curricula for adults and continues to set new standards in the field. Our holistic approach to Jewish study considers the impact of Judaic wisdom on personal and interpersonal growth.
Drawing on research-based instructional design and cutting-edge approaches to learning, JLI's innovative presentation of Jewish teachings is designed to be both intellectually rigorous and highly accessible.
Q. We're not religious or affiliated with Chabad. Is this program for our teenager?
A. Yes. We believe there is a great value for your son or daughter in the JLI Teens program. In fact, our students come from all backgrounds and affiliations. Some have little or no involvement, if any, in the organized Jewish community, while others are very active in their local synagogue or temple. The benefits of the program are universal.
JLI Teens curriculum is not preachy. It’s designed to speak to the minds and hearts of high school students from all lifestyles, engaging them and challenging them to think for themselves about issues surrounding Judaism, and its relevance to our modern lives.
Q. My teen is already overburdened with school work. Won’t this be a distraction?
Not at all! Studies show that participation in extracurricular activities results in higher academic achievement overall, as well as improving the way high school students manage time. Additionally, technological advancements in today’s world have created a real social crisis, and as we know, many of our youth spend more time texting than engaged in interpersonal experiences. JLI Teens provides a structured and positive environment for socializing, chatting and even hanging out with peers.
Q. Will I have to drag my teen to the sessions each week?
A. NO, they’ll be reminding you! In past sessions, our affiliates have reported high student return-attendance. Not surprisingly, they love it!
JLI Teens is not a lecture. Our unique learning model is multisensory – designed with the busy, over-stimulated 21st-century teenager in mind. Our presenters challenge their students’ paradigms, inspiring them to evaluate and grow.
Q. Will JLI Teens help my son/daughter as they prepare for college?
A. During the program, students will develop and exercise debate, leadership, and communication skills - important tools for a successful college career. When your son or daughter attends a JLI Teens course they become a member of the International JLI Teen Scholars Network, and will receive an official certificate testifying to their participation in the program. This can be a great feature to add to their college application and resume.
Q. Where and when is the program offered?
A. The first course, called “Israel 3D”, runs for 6 weeks from October 28th-December9th, on Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:00 pm (skipping Thanksgiving). The course is taking place at THE SPOT at Shoppingtown mall in DeWitt, which is located down the ocrridor from Dick's Sporting Goods. There is a nominal charge of $80 to help cover some of the costs of the program, which includes dinner/refreshments.
