SAJ’s synagogue-school program Makom has a robust Teen (teaching) Assistant program, that empowers the next generation of Jewish leaders and emerging educators.

Students in 8th-12th grade serve in administrative, interactive, and creative capacities in our synagogue-school. Whether online in Zoom breakout rooms (2020-2021) or in person, Teen Assistants are partners to teachers in keeping every student engaged, safe, and cared for.  

Teen Assistants receive professional development training as a cohort, and mentoring from their supervising teacher, to develop skills in classroom management, Jewish content, awareness of student needs, etc.  

If their schools permit it, Teens get recognition for volunteer hours and letters of recommendation for colleges, summer work, and other professional opportunities.

Teen Assistants can become role models for our younger students, and often take on additional babysitting opportunities.

This school year, we expect classroom Teen Assistants to be at SAJ on Saturdays 9:30am-12:15pm.

We also have various projects in the office, and around holidays, that can be staggered at other times.

For information about Teen Assisting, please contact Director of Education and Family Engagement, Debra Fricano at Debra@saj.nyc

Teens will be mentored by Teen Coordinator, Nina Gettes!