Wilshire Boulevard Temple Religious School
WBTY (Wilshire Boulevard Temple Youth)
Yearly WBTY Membership (grades 7, 9-12) is $700.
Yearly WBTY Membership (grade 8) is $250.
WBTY membership entitles students to participate in any, some, or all of the high school programming offered. Once a registered member, teens have access to all of our WBTY teen programming. (Non-temple members may apply for a synagogue youth membership for an additional $200 per year).
To learn more about these WBTY programs, see the grade-level tabs below.
7th Grade
WBTYhelps
Offered once a month, either Sunday from 4-6 pm at the Glazer Campus (Pizza provided) OR Wednesday from 6-8 pm at the Irmas Campus (Dinner provided)
7th grade students delve into domestic and international current events, pop culture, entertainment, etc. with a greater degree of sophistication and empathy. Our students are exposed to media literacy and learn the tools to determine the validity, bias, and truthfulness of the news, as well as how to utilize the skill of lateral reading. They explore these events through the lens of Jewish philosophy and values with the intent to guide students toward informed opinions, valid sources of information, and the ability to articulate their beliefs while being inclusive of other perspectives. We have specific lessons prepared, but pivot on a dime when real time domestic and international events take precedent.
Want to learn more about why we think it's imperative to teach our students about media literacy? We encourage you to read this article.
Jr.WBTY Social
8th Grade
8th Grade Kibbitz with Clergy
Meets once a month, virtually, on Wednesdays from 5 - 6 pm. If you haven't spent time with Rabbis Joel (Nickerson) and Joel (Simonds), you're missing out! This is your chance to delve into anything and everything; no question or topic is off limits. Come prepared to laugh and have great, meaningful conversations that are important to you.
Meets once a month virtually.
Rosh Hodesh/Shevet/B'Yachad Groups
These groups typically meet Sunday evenings, one time each month in participants homes. For those who identify as female, Rosh Hodesh uses Jewish teachings and practices to give girls a place to feel safe, articulate their deepest concerns, consider the impact of gender on their daily lives, have fun, and be ‘real’ with their peers. For those who identify as male, Shevet groups enjoy spending time in a “guy space,” where they can explore what masculinity and being Jewish mean to them. The boys report that the experience offers them a more “honest,” “relevant,” and “cool” way to participate in the Jewish community. B'Yachad is specifically designed for those who identify as non-binary or transgender. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings.
8th Grade WBTYSocial
8th Grade WBTYSocial events are weekend, in-person, exciting social events that our students look forward to every year! Join old and new friends for awesome gatherings and outings! If you do not have an 8th grade WBTY membership, you can still join us for these exciting social events at non-member event rate.
9th Grade
WBTYWednesday
WBTYWednesday meets virtually every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 pm. WBTY teens come together with Wilshire Boulevard Temple's educators and clergy to connect and explore relevant, contemporary issues through a Jewish lens, in an open, social, and inclusive environment. This chance to unwind and connect with old and new friends weekly helps transition participants from the stress of the day or week to a session of fun and engaging activities. Each session is meant for teens to drop in when they are able.
WBTYSocial
WBTY Social are typically weekend, in-person social events planned throughout the school year by our Youth Engagement Coordinator and the WBTY Youth Group Board. These events primarily take place on Saturday evenings and/or Sunday afternoons. Some past WBTYSocial events include sporting events, Santa Monica Pier, murder mystery nights, NFTY events and gatherings with other L.A. high school youth groups, mystery bus rides, beach bonfires, tikkun olam activities around L.A. area, bowling night, rock climbing, maccabiah games and more.
*Additional fees may apply for certain events.
WBTYDives Into Israel
Ready to take a deep dive into learning about Israel? Now's your chance to join Rabbi Ashley in WBTYDives Into Israel! We will take an innovative look at the people, the land, the cultures and so much more. This is not your typical look at Israel through the lens of falafel, camels, and the Kotel. We will engage through interactive activities, media, and powerful dialogue. Please keep in mind that while this program is not specifically political in nature, there is no way to do a deep dive without understanding the complexities and challenges of its people. We will conclude the year with an in-person Israeli experience (unfortunately, we'll be staying in Los Angeles. Tel Aviv is a bit too far on a school night). Dates: 10/18, 11/8, 12/13, 1/24/23, 2/21, 3/14, and 4/28
WBTYNetwork
WBTYNetwork is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for college planning, interview preparation, resume building, internship networking, and more. Additionally, each member of the WBTYNetwork will be paired with a congregant in a particular field for a mentorship program based on their interests. Teens can plan to meet with their mentor three times a year in person or via Zoom. It is up to the congregant and student to coordinate their meetings. There will also be three group sessions just for our teens. Dates: 9/13, 12/6, and 3/21/23
WBTYCares
WBTYCares is an opportunity for our WBT teens to volunteer at the Karsh Center followed by a social dinner at the Glazer campus. Additionally, these teens will be part of our Religious School Caring Committee. This may mean sending get well cards to WBT families, congratulating our WBT families on various milestones, and continuing to practice and learn about the various ways we can participate in gemilut chasadim (benevolence, selflessness, loving-kindness) and bikur cholim (visiting the sick) every day as Jewish teens. Dates: 10/2, 12/4, 2/5/23, and 5/7
WBTYShabbat & Movie Club
Interested in film? Just want to enjoy dinner and a movie? WBTYShabbat & Movie Club will meet three times a year for a social Shabbat dinner followed by a movie and discussion with Emmy-nominated, USC Graduate Film professor, Jim Ruxin. Jim knows anything and everything about all things film! Not only is this interesting and fun, but a great resume builder for teens (especially those interested in the film industry). Dates: 9/16, 12/9 and last two dates TBD
Madrichim
Madrichim play an active, vital role in our Religious School by working as teaching assistants in the classroom and in other school capacities. Madrichim are placed in classrooms, working with students in grades Kindergarten through sixth grade. Hebrew skills are not required to participate in the Madrichim program. As well as being active in assisting a Religious School teacher and class, Madrichim gain communication and leadership skills, increase self-confidence, express Jewish values, and learn practical skills. This is a paid honorarium position and may also go towards community service hours! Madrichim must apply and be accepted to participate in the program.
Rosh Hodesh/Shevet/B'Yachad Groups
These groups typically meet Sunday evenings, one time each month in participants homes. For those who identify as female, Rosh Hodesh uses Jewish teachings and practices to give girls a place to feel safe, articulate their deepest concerns, consider the impact of gender on their daily lives, have fun, and be ‘real’ with their peers. For those who identify as male, Shevet groups enjoy spending time in a “guy space,” where they can explore what masculinity and being Jewish mean to them. The boys report that the experience offers them a more “honest,” “relevant,” and “cool” way to participate in the Jewish community. B'Yachad is specifically designed for those who identify as non-binary or transgender. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
Students enrolled in WBTY are invited to participate in any or all of the following:
-
Love and Relationships Shabbaton Experience (Dates: 11/5/22, 2/4/23 and 4/15/23)- SIGN UP HERE!
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C.
-
L.E.A.D. Day Trip to Sacramento with Jewish Center for Justice
10th Grade
WBTYWednesday
WBTYWednesday meets virtually every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 pm. WBTY teens come together with Wilshire Boulevard Temple's educators and clergy to connect and explore relevant, contemporary issues through a Jewish lens, in an open, social, and inclusive environment. This chance to unwind and connect with old and new friends weekly helps transition participants from the stress of the day or week to a session of fun and engaging activities. Each session is meant for teens to drop in when they are able.
WBTYSocial
WBTY Social are typically weekend, in-person social events planned throughout the school year by our Youth Engagement Coordinator and the WBTY Youth Group Board. These events primarily take place on Saturday evenings and/or Sunday afternoons. Some past WBTYSocial events include sporting events, Santa Monica Pier, murder mystery nights, NFTY events and gatherings with other L.A. high school youth groups, mystery bus rides, beach bonfires, tikkun olam activities around L.A. area, bowling night, rock climbing, maccabiah games and more.
*Additional fees may apply for certain events.
WBTYDives Into Israel
Ready to take a deep dive into learning about Israel? Now's your chance to join Rabbi Ashley in WBTYDives Into Israel! We will take an innovative look at the people, the land, the cultures and so much more. This is not your typical look at Israel through the lens of falafel, camels, and the Kotel. We will engage through interactive activities, media, and powerful dialogue. Please keep in mind that while this program is not specifically political in nature, there is no way to do a deep dive without understanding the complexities and challenges of its people. We will conclude the year with an in-person Israeli experience (unfortunately, we'll be staying in Los Angeles. Tel Aviv is a bit too far on a school night). Dates: 10/18, 11/8, 12/13, 1/24/23, 2/21, 3/14, and 4/28
WBTYNetwork
WBTYNetwork is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for college planning, interview preparation, resume building, internship networking, and more. Additionally, each member of the WBTYNetwork will be paired with a congregant in a particular field for a mentorship program based on their interests. Teens can plan to meet with their mentor three times a year in person or via Zoom. It is up to the congregant and student to coordinate their meetings. There will also be three group sessions just for our teens. Dates: 9/13, 12/6, and 3/21/23
WBTYCares
WBTYCares is an opportunity for our WBT teens to volunteer at the Karsh Center followed by a social dinner at the Glazer campus. Additionally, these teens will be part of our Religious School Caring Committee. This may mean sending get well cards to WBT families, congratulating our WBT families on various milestones, and continuing to practice and learn about the various ways we can participate in gemilut chasadim (benevolence, selflessness, loving-kindness) and bikur cholim (visiting the sick) every day as Jewish teens. Dates: 10/2, 12/4, 2/5/23, and 5/7
WBTYShabbat & Movie Club
Interested in film? Just want to enjoy dinner and a movie? WBTYShabbat & Movie Club will meet three times a year for a social Shabbat dinner followed by a movie and discussion with Emmy-nominated, USC Graduate Film professor, Jim Ruxin. Jim knows anything and everything about all things film! Not only is this interesting and fun, but a great resume builder for teens (especially those interested in the film industry). Dates: 9/16, 12/9 and last two dates TBD
Madrichim
Madrichim play an active, vital role in our Religious School by working as teaching assistants in the classroom and in other school capacities. Madrichim are placed in classrooms, working with students in grades Kindergarten through sixth grade. Hebrew skills are not required to participate in the Madrichim program. As well as being active in assisting a Religious School teacher and class, Madrichim gain communication and leadership skills, increase self-confidence, express Jewish values, and learn practical skills. This is a paid honorarium position and may also go towards community service hours! Madrichim must apply and be accepted to participate in the program.
Rosh Hodesh/Shevet/B'Yachad Groups
These groups typically meet Sunday evenings, one time each month in participants homes. For those who identify as female, Rosh Hodesh uses Jewish teachings and practices to give girls a place to feel safe, articulate their deepest concerns, consider the impact of gender on their daily lives, have fun, and be ‘real’ with their peers. For those who identify as male, Shevet groups enjoy spending time in a “guy space,” where they can explore what masculinity and being Jewish mean to them. The boys report that the experience offers them a more “honest,” “relevant,” and “cool” way to participate in the Jewish community. B'Yachad is specifically designed for those who identify as non-binary or transgender. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
Students enrolled in WBTY are invited to participate in any or all of the following:
-
Love and Relationships Shabbaton Experience (Dates: 11/5/22, 2/4/23 and 4/15/23)- SIGN UP HERE!
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C.
-
L.E.A.D. Day Trip to Sacramento with Jewish Center for Justice
11th Grade
WBTYWednesday
WBTYWednesday meets virtually every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 pm. WBTY teens come together with Wilshire Boulevard Temple's educators and clergy to connect and explore relevant, contemporary issues through a Jewish lens, in an open, social, and inclusive environment. This chance to unwind and connect with old and new friends weekly helps transition participants from the stress of the day or week to a session of fun and engaging activities. Each session is meant for teens to drop in when they are able.
WBTYSocial
WBTY Social are typically weekend, in-person social events planned throughout the school year by our Youth Engagement Coordinator and the WBTY Youth Group Board. These events primarily take place on Saturday evenings and/or Sunday afternoons. Some past WBTYSocial events include sporting events, Santa Monica Pier, murder mystery nights, NFTY events and gatherings with other L.A. high school youth groups, mystery bus rides, beach bonfires, tikkun olam activities around L.A. area, bowling night, rock climbing, maccabiah games and more.
*Additional fees may apply for certain events.
WBTYDives Into Israel
Ready to take a deep dive into learning about Israel? Now's your chance to join Rabbi Ashley in WBTYDives Into Israel! We will take an innovative look at the people, the land, the cultures and so much more. This is not your typical look at Israel through the lens of falafel, camels, and the Kotel. We will engage through interactive activities, media, and powerful dialogue. Please keep in mind that while this program is not specifically political in nature, there is no way to do a deep dive without understanding the complexities and challenges of its people. We will conclude the year with an in-person Israeli experience (unfortunately, we'll be staying in Los Angeles. Tel Aviv is a bit too far on a school night). Dates: 10/18, 11/8, 12/13, 1/24/23, 2/21, 3/14, and 4/28
WBTYNetwork
WBTYNetwork is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for college planning, interview preparation, resume building, internship networking, and more. Additionally, each member of the WBTYNetwork will be paired with a congregant in a particular field for a mentorship program based on their interests. Teens can plan to meet with their mentor three times a year in person or via Zoom. It is up to the congregant and student to coordinate their meetings. There will also be three group sessions just for our teens. Dates: 9/13, 12/6, and 3/21/23
WBTYCares
WBTYCares is an opportunity for our WBT teens to volunteer at the Karsh Center followed by a social dinner at the Glazer campus. Additionally, these teens will be part of our Religious School Caring Committee. This may mean sending get well cards to WBT families, congratulating our WBT families on various milestones, and continuing to practice and learn about the various ways we can participate in gemilut chasadim (benevolence, selflessness, loving-kindness) and bikur cholim (visiting the sick) every day as Jewish teens. Dates: 10/2, 12/4, 2/5/23, and 5/7
WBTYShabbat & Movie Club
Interested in film? Just want to enjoy dinner and a movie? WBTYShabbat & Movie Club will meet three times a year for a social Shabbat dinner followed by a movie and discussion with Emmy-nominated, USC Graduate Film professor, Jim Ruxin. Jim knows anything and everything about all things film! Not only is this interesting and fun, but a great resume builder for teens (especially those interested in the film industry). Dates: 9/16, 12/9 and last two dates TBD
Madrichim
Madrichim play an active, vital role in our Religious School by working as teaching assistants in the classroom and in other school capacities. Madrichim are placed in classrooms, working with students in grades Kindergarten through sixth grade. Hebrew skills are not required to participate in the Madrichim program. As well as being active in assisting a Religious School teacher and class, Madrichim gain communication and leadership skills, increase self-confidence, express Jewish values, and learn practical skills. This is a paid honorarium position and may also go towards community service hours! Madrichim must apply and be accepted to participate in the program.
Rosh Hodesh/Shevet/B'Yachad Groups
These groups typically meet Sunday evenings, one time each month in participants homes. For those who identify as female, Rosh Hodesh uses Jewish teachings and practices to give girls a place to feel safe, articulate their deepest concerns, consider the impact of gender on their daily lives, have fun, and be ‘real’ with their peers. For those who identify as male, Shevet groups enjoy spending time in a “guy space,” where they can explore what masculinity and being Jewish mean to them. The boys report that the experience offers them a more “honest,” “relevant,” and “cool” way to participate in the Jewish community. B'Yachad is specifically designed for those who identify as non-binary or transgender. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
Students enrolled in WBTY are invited to participate in any or all of the following:
-
Love and Relationships Shabbaton Experience (Dates: 11/5/22, 2/4/23 and 4/15/23)- SIGN UP HERE!
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C.
-
L.E.A.D. Day Trip to Sacramento with Jewish Center for Justice
12th Grade
WBTYWednesday
WBTYWednesday meets virtually every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 pm. WBTY teens come together with Wilshire Boulevard Temple's educators and clergy to connect and explore relevant, contemporary issues through a Jewish lens, in an open, social, and inclusive environment. This chance to unwind and connect with old and new friends weekly helps transition participants from the stress of the day or week to a session of fun and engaging activities. Each session is meant for teens to drop in when they are able.
WBTYSocial
WBTY Social are typically weekend, in-person social events planned throughout the school year by our Youth Engagement Coordinator and the WBTY Youth Group Board. These events primarily take place on Saturday evenings and/or Sunday afternoons. Some past WBTYSocial events include sporting events, Santa Monica Pier, murder mystery nights, NFTY events and gatherings with other L.A. high school youth groups, mystery bus rides, beach bonfires, tikkun olam activities around L.A. area, bowling night, rock climbing, maccabiah games and more.
*Additional fees may apply for certain events.
WBTYDives Into Israel
Ready to take a deep dive into learning about Israel? Now's your chance to join Rabbi Ashley in WBTYDives Into Israel! We will take an innovative look at the people, the land, the cultures and so much more. This is not your typical look at Israel through the lens of falafel, camels, and the Kotel. We will engage through interactive activities, media, and powerful dialogue. Please keep in mind that while this program is not specifically political in nature, there is no way to do a deep dive without understanding the complexities and challenges of its people. We will conclude the year with an in-person Israeli experience (unfortunately, we'll be staying in Los Angeles. Tel Aviv is a bit too far on a school night). Dates: 10/18, 11/8, 12/13, 1/24/23, 2/21, 3/14, and 4/28
WBTYNetwork
WBTYNetwork is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for college planning, interview preparation, resume building, internship networking, and more. Additionally, each member of the WBTYNetwork will be paired with a congregant in a particular field for a mentorship program based on their interests. Teens can plan to meet with their mentor three times a year in person or via Zoom. It is up to the congregant and student to coordinate their meetings. There will also be three group sessions just for our teens. Dates: 9/13, 12/6, and 3/21/23
WBTYCares
WBTYCares is an opportunity for our WBT teens to volunteer at the Karsh Center followed by a social dinner at the Glazer campus. Additionally, these teens will be part of our Religious School Caring Committee. This may mean sending get well cards to WBT families, congratulating our WBT families on various milestones, and continuing to practice and learn about the various ways we can participate in gemilut chasadim (benevolence, selflessness, loving-kindness) and bikur cholim (visiting the sick) every day as Jewish teens. Dates: 10/2, 12/4, 2/5/23, and 5/7
WBTYShabbat & Movie Club
Interested in film? Just want to enjoy dinner and a movie? WBTYShabbat & Movie Club will meet three times a year for a social Shabbat dinner followed by a movie and discussion with Emmy-nominated, USC Graduate Film professor, Jim Ruxin. Jim knows anything and everything about all things film! Not only is this interesting and fun, but a great resume builder for teens (especially those interested in the film industry). Dates: 9/16, 12/9 and last two dates TBD
Madrichim
Madrichim play an active, vital role in our Religious School by working as teaching assistants in the classroom and in other school capacities. Madrichim are placed in classrooms, working with students in grades Kindergarten through sixth grade. Hebrew skills are not required to participate in the Madrichim program. As well as being active in assisting a Religious School teacher and class, Madrichim gain communication and leadership skills, increase self-confidence, express Jewish values, and learn practical skills. This is a paid honorarium position and may also go towards community service hours! Madrichim must apply and be accepted to participate in the program.
Rosh Hodesh/Shevet/B'Yachad Groups
These groups typically meet Sunday evenings, one time each month in participants homes. For those who identify as female, Rosh Hodesh uses Jewish teachings and practices to give girls a place to feel safe, articulate their deepest concerns, consider the impact of gender on their daily lives, have fun, and be ‘real’ with their peers. For those who identify as male, Shevet groups enjoy spending time in a “guy space,” where they can explore what masculinity and being Jewish mean to them. The boys report that the experience offers them a more “honest,” “relevant,” and “cool” way to participate in the Jewish community. B'Yachad is specifically designed for those who identify as non-binary or transgender. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
Students enrolled in WBTY are invited to participate in any or all of the following:
-
Love and Relationships Shabbaton Experience (Dates: 11/5/22, 2/4/23 and 4/15/23)- SIGN UP HERE!
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C.
-
L.E.A.D. Day Trip to Sacramento with Jewish Center for Justice
Emily Greenfeld
Youth Engagement Coordinator
egreenfeld@wbtla.org