WBTY Teen Programming : Grades 8-12
WBTY (Wilshire Boulevard Temple Youth)
Yearly Membership $575
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).
All programs are designed to be on campus, in your neighborhood, or virtual. The synagogue will continue to follow the guidelines and safety mandates of L.A. County Public Health and the CDC, and we will offer all of these programs accordingly.
WBTY Teen Programming
8th Grade
8th Grade Kibbitz with Clergy
Meets once a month, virtually, on the last Wednesday of the month 5 - 6pm. Taught by Rabbis Nickerson and Simonds, our 8th grade students gather to socialize and examine what it means to remain active and engaged participants in Tikkun Olam. This is the perfect continuation program following WBTYhelps.
Rosh Hodesh/Shevet 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. Rosh Hodesh and Shevet groups are organized by grade level. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings.
Madrichim In Training
An 8-week training program that takes place during the spring months. This is a very important preparation opportunity for students who plan to apply to participate in the madrichim program during high school. On campus or virtual options available.
Hebrew Helper
By invitation only, an opportunity to participate in teaching Hebrew reading skills to religious school students. Participants receive extensive training and this is an outstanding résumé builder. The responsibility is significant and therefore a sincere commitment is required.
Jr.WBTY Social
The Jr.WBTY Social meets for a minimum of 3 in-person events per school year. These events bring students together to see new and old friends, engage with incredible educators, and have fun! Some past events included a Mystery Bus experience and Top Chef: WBT Edition.
*There may be additional fees for off campus events.
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, tikun olam activities around L.A. area, bowling night, rock climbing, maccabiah games and more.
*Additional fees may apply for certain events.
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 Groups
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. Rosh Hodesh and Shevet groups are organized by grade level. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings (either in participant homes or on campus).
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 Retreat (click here to learn more!)
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C. - February 25-28, 2022 (click here to learn more!)
-
Shabbaton Retreats
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.
Confirmation
Confirmation is a ceremonial affirmation that you are intending to continue your connection to Judaism as you move forward in your life. During the Confirmation year, you will be meeting with clergy each week, learning content that is reflective of your age and sophistication level, and also, equally importantly, having fun with one another. Each WBT clergy member will spend 2 classes with you, teaching you about their passions and how Judaism has enhanced and continues to inform their life decisions. While it is preferred you attend each week (Sundays, virtually 4:30pm - 5:30pm), we understand that your life is overflowing with school and commitments. The Confirmation class finishes their year with a Confirmation service in the late Spring and joins the over 125 year tradition of Confirmation at Wilshire Boulevard Temple. In addition, there are two weekend opportunities for Confirmation students: The Love & Relationships Retreat, here in Los Angeles, and L'Taken, the Religious Action Center’s trip to Washington D.C. Learn more about these two weekend opportunities here. There will also be several "in person" social gathering opportunities for Confirmation students throughout the year.
*There is an additional $250 fee for Confirmation which includes the ceremony and in-person gatherings.
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 mostly 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.
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 Groups
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. Rosh Hodesh and Shevet groups are organized by grade level. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings (either in participant homes or on campus).
LEAD JCJ (Trip to Sacramento)
LEAD JCJ (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Democracy) is a one-day program that provides Jewish teens and young adults with the unique opportunity to gather in Sacramento for a day of training, advocacy, and allyship. Partnering with the Jewish Center for Justice, we will learn how to amplify our voices and advocate for solutions to modern-day injustices. As part of this coalition, you will gain the tools and confidence needed to be an activist both at the Capitol and in your own community when you return home. Just one day off of school provides an opportunity to make a difference in California for generations to come. There will be two pre-trip virtual sessions, as well as one post-trip session. The trip will take place during the spring of 2022. Additional costs apply to cover airfare and program. Applications open September 2021.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
-
Love and Relationships Retreat (click here to learn more!)
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C. - February 25-28, 2022 (click here to learn more!)
-
Shabbaton Retreats
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.
Confirmation
Confirmation is a ceremonial affirmation that you are intending to continue your connection to Judaism as you move forward in your life. During the Confirmation year, you will be meeting with clergy each week, learning content that is reflective of your age and sophistication level, and also, equally importantly, having fun with one another. Each WBT clergy member will spend 2 classes with you, teaching you about their passions and how Judaism has enhanced and continues to inform their life decisions. While it is preferred you attend each week (Sundays, virtually 4:30pm - 5:30pm), we understand that your life is overflowing with school and commitments. The Confirmation class finishes their year with a Confirmation service in the late Spring and joins the over 125 year tradition of Confirmation at Wilshire Boulevard Temple. In addition, there are two weekend opportunities for Confirmation students: The Love & Relationships Retreat, here in Los Angeles, and L'Taken, the Religious Action Center’s trip to Washington D.C. Learn more about these two weekend opportunities here. There will also be several "in person" social gathering opportunities for Confirmation students throughout the year.
*There is an additional $250 fee for Confirmation which includes the ceremony and in-person gatherings.
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 mostly 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.
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 Groups
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. Rosh Hodesh and Shevet groups are organized by grade level. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings (either in participant homes or on campus).
LEAD JCJ (Trip to Sacramento)
LEAD JCJ (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Democracy) is a one-day program that provides Jewish teens and young adults with the unique opportunity to gather in Sacramento for a day of training, advocacy, and allyship. Partnering with the Jewish Center for Justice, we will learn how to amplify our voices and advocate for solutions to modern-day injustices. As part of this coalition, you will gain the tools and confidence needed to be an activist both at the Capitol and in your own community when you return home. Just one day off of school provides an opportunity to make a difference in California for generations to come. There will be two pre-trip virtual sessions, as well as one post-trip session. The trip will take place during the spring of 2022. Additional costs apply to cover airfare and program. Applications open September 2021.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
-
Love and Relationships Retreat (click here to learn more!)
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C. - February 25-28, 2022 (click here to learn more!)
-
Shabbaton Retreats
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.
Confirmation
Confirmation is a ceremonial affirmation that you are intending to continue your connection to Judaism as you move forward in your life. During the Confirmation year, you will be meeting with clergy each week, learning content that is reflective of your age and sophistication level, and also, equally importantly, having fun with one another. Each WBT clergy member will spend 2 classes with you, teaching you about their passions and how Judaism has enhanced and continues to inform their life decisions. While it is preferred you attend each week (Sundays, virtually 4:30pm - 5:30pm), we understand that your life is overflowing with school and commitments. The Confirmation class finishes their year with a Confirmation service in the late Spring and joins the over 125 year tradition of Confirmation at Wilshire Boulevard Temple. In addition, there are two weekend opportunities for Confirmation students: The Love & Relationships Retreat, here in Los Angeles, and L'Taken, the Religious Action Center’s trip to Washington D.C. Learn more about these two weekend opportunities here. There will also be several "in person" social gathering opportunities for Confirmation students throughout the year.
*There is an additional $250 fee for Confirmation which includes the ceremony and in-person gatherings.
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 mostly 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.
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 Groups
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. Rosh Hodesh and Shevet groups are organized by grade level. Along with the group leader, the group decides the time and location of the meetings (either in participant homes or on campus).
LEAD JCJ (Trip to Sacramento)
LEAD JCJ (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Democracy) is a one-day program that provides Jewish teens and young adults with the unique opportunity to gather in Sacramento for a day of training, advocacy, and allyship. Partnering with the Jewish Center for Justice, we will learn how to amplify our voices and advocate for solutions to modern-day injustices. As part of this coalition, you will gain the tools and confidence needed to be an activist both at the Capitol and in your own community when you return home. Just one day off of school provides an opportunity to make a difference in California for generations to come. There will be two pre-trip virtual sessions, as well as one post-trip session. The trip will take place during the spring of 2022. Additional costs apply to cover airfare and program. Applications open September 2021.
Retreats & Travel
*Additional fees may be required
-
Love and Relationships Retreat (click here to learn more!)
-
The Religious Action Center’s L’Taken trip to Washington D.C. - February 25-28, 2022 (click here to learn more!)
-
Shabbaton Retreats
Emily Greenfeld
Youth Engagement Coordinator
egreenfeld@wbtla.org