This fall, our 3rd grade students embarked on a meaningful and exciting journey through The Synagogue Project!

We began with a special field trip to three different synagogues in the Chicago area, exploring how Jewish communities express their faith and traditions in unique ways.

Our first stop was Am Shalom in Glencoe, a beautiful Reform synagogue filled with light, color, and inspiring design. We then visited Kehilat Chovevei Tzion in Skokie, where students discovered both Ashkenazi and Sephardic sanctuaries under one roof and learned how different traditions come together in prayer. Finally, we visited Agudath Jacob in Skokie, a Modern Orthodox synagogue.

Students noticed both similarities and differences among all the synagogues we saw—from the Aron HaKodesh (Holy Ark) and Ner Tamid (Eternal Light) that are always present, to the varying locations of the bimah (playform where the Torah is read) and the unique way a Sephardic Torah is displayed.

Back in the classroom, our students became young researchers and designers. Working in small groups, they investigated synagogues from different parts of the world, gathering information, photos, and stories that helped them understand how geography, culture, and tradition shape each community’s sacred space. Collaboration and teamwork were key—students planned together, divided roles, shared ideas, and supported one another throughout the process.

After researching, each group created a detailed blueprint of their synagogue and then brought their vision to life by building a model using cardboard, paper, paint, and a wonderful mix of creativity and problem-solving.

The project culminated in a joyful presentation for families, where students proudly shared their models and reflected on everything they learned. Through The Synagogue Project, our 3rd graders deepened their understanding of Jewish life, practiced collaboration and creativity, and celebrated the beauty of unity within our diverse global Jewish community.

Click here to view the full album!