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The Miklos Arato Computer Lab

Temple Beth Sholom’s Creative Center for Jewish Children in the Lawrence Karp Religious School is a SUCCESS.
“Do I have to leave?” “Can I stay longer?” “I don’t want to go home” echos through the halls of our school. Our young people enjoy the age of computers which they are being raised in... so it is a natural to use that venue to bring enjoyment to their Jewish heritage, identity, culture, Hebrew language and peoplehood.
The room is filled with the newest Apple imacs complete with the hippest software including photo booth, garage band, i movie, to name a few. Additionally, each station has its own printer, headphones and email addresses. Internet access with all the administrative parental filters for appropriateness and safety are in place. Let the fun (and learning) begin. We have explored our very identity, artistically taken our photos, our English and Hebrew names have been explored, their meanings, our likes and dislikes, and our music expression of who we are. We have also learned some valuable technology skills along the way, as well as respect for our fellow students and respect for our brand new equipment and room. The walls are filled with photos of all the students and staff with a collage of words and photos around each picture helping to define the individual’s identity and individuality.
The curriculum is endless. The 5th, 6th and 7th graders go to the room each and every day of school. The younger grades will be introduced next... and then we’ll have to get the parents in there to experience the wonderment.