Mifgash Jewish Community High School Program is a community of Jewish students who meet weekly to learn from engaging faculty. Our students come from many different backgrounds, and all are united in a commitment to Jewish learning and a willingness to contribute to classroom discussions. Our mission is to create an active learning community that is responsive to the needs of Jewish teens, and to offer teens opportunities to strengthen their Jewish identity and knowledge, their connection to the Jewish community, and their bond to Israel.
Mifgash welcomes all Jewish students in grades 8-12. Students choose their own classes from a diverse selection of courses. Every semester offers the chance to try something new! All of our classes are discussion-based, and there are no tests, quizzes or exams.
Mifgash transforms our students from Jewish learners to Jewish leaders.
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2025 Spring Course Descriptions
Jews and Sports - Mr. Matthew Green
In this class we will delve deeply into the multifaceted relationship between Jewish identity and the world of athletics. We will engage in thought-provoking discussions centered around
various themes, starting with the significance of our bodies as they relate to cultural and personal identity, exploring both our physical strengths and vulnerabilities. Participants
will examine concepts of internal self-image and how they influence not only individual performance but also collective representation in sports. Key topics will encompass the nature of
competition, the principles of sportsmanship, and ethical dilemmas surrounding doping, cheating, and fraud. Furthermore, we will reflect on the profound idea of being created B'tzelem Elokim
(in the image of God), recognizing how this perspective shapes our understanding of achievement and failure in sports.
The class will also cover memorable and historic events involving Jews and Israelis in the realm of sports and the Olympics, providing a comprehensive look at how Jewish culture has
impacted and been impacted by the world of athletics. Through these discussions, we will aim to foster a deeper understanding of the intersection between Jewish identity and the sporting
world.
Rap With The Rabbis - My Favorite Text - Community Clergy
Embark on a journey of exploration and understanding in our new Rabbinics course, guided by a vibrant and diverse group of Rabbis from our community. In each session, students will delve
into the Rabbis' "Favorite Text," engaging in thoughtful discussions that illuminate the rich tapestry of Jewish values rooted in the Torah. This unique opportunity allows you to not only
meet our community’s spiritual leaders but also to examine sacred texts through their distinct perspectives. Join us to deepen your understanding and connect with both the wisdom of
tradition and the insights of our clergy, as we study and reflect together in a welcoming and collaborative environment.
Fighting Against Antisemitism and Advocating For Our Community - Mrs. Dee Levy, Mrs. Simi Leifer and Mrs. Laura Weisblatt
In this discussion class, participants will investigate the history of Zionism, define Jewish identity, and learn to recognize and combat antisemitism. The course will also cover
strategies for advocating on behalf of the Jewish community and engaging with others, as well as seeking support in educational settings or other challenging circumstances. Furthermore, we
will provide an overview of the establishment of AMIDAH ALBANY, an organization dedicated to addressing antisemitism. Topics related to involvement opportunities and methods for engagement
will also be examined.
Jews And The News - 2025 Edition - Mr. Arnie Adler
Welcome to the Spring 2025 edition of “Jews and the News” at Mifgash! This semester, our discussion-based current events class will likely focus
on what both Israel and we in the American Jewish community might expect from the second presidential term of Donald Trump - including ramifications for Israel's multi-front conflict
against terror and the possibility of freedom for the surviving October 7th hostages still imprisoned in Gaza. As a profoundly divided American public prepares for
President-elect Trump's return, our class will consider how our perspective on politics and social issues here at home might be influenced by the President's anticipated support of Israel.
As always, student-initiated discussions and suggestions for topics are welcomed, as is input from our Mifgash parents! Teens, if you would like to discuss and
debate these and other current issues in a friendly, sometimes boisterous and always fun Jewish environment and school Arnie on an issue or two in the process, then
“Jews and the News- 2025 Edition” is the class for you!
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The Class Of Many Colors - Mrs. Amy Rosenstrauch
In this hands-on art class, students will create several unique and beautiful pieces of Judaica. Throughout the course students will have the opportunity to express their individuality by
using various media and styles. Materials used will include fabric, wood, mosaics, tiles, watercolors, gems, and more. They will begin the semester by designing and crafting table runners to
enhance their Shabbat tables and elevate their Shabbat experience. Additionally, students will create mosaic coasters and paint wooden blocks to form the words "Shalom" and "Ahava."
These artistic creations are sure to become cherished family heirlooms.
2024-2025 Registration Forms
2024-2025 Calendar
Contact Us
For more information, please contact Ruth Malka at ruthm@albanyjcc.org