Dear Rising 10th Grade Students and Parents,

I’m excited to welcome you to the 2025–2026 Confirmation program at Park Synagogue! As the Confirmation coordinator, it’s my honor to guide our 10th grade students through a meaningful year of learning, connection, and Jewish growth!

We live in a difficult and complicated world for Jewish students. Our Confirmation experience is designed to deepen friendships, strengthen Jewish identity, and help teens feel a real sense of belonging within our Park Synagogue community. It will also give students tools to carry their Jewish values and knowledge with them into college and beyond.

Our program includes many different types of activities that will cater to our students’ different interests: in-person classes, community service projects, a half-day retreat day at Camp Wise, and an exciting 3-day Jewish Heritage Trip to New York City. In class, we’ll explore relevant and thought-provoking topics such as antisemitism, the history of the State of Israel, the Israeli- Palestinian conflict, Jewish identity, and what it means to live a values-driven Jewish life today. Confirmation is also a great opportunity to connect with other Jewish teens in a fun and supportive environment.

In addition, Confirmation students are invited to join our Madrich Program (teen leadership) on Sunday mornings—an optional but highly rewarding way to give back and grow as a role model in our community.

I understand that teens are busy and value their time. That’s why I work hard to make this experience engaging, flexible, and meaningful. Past students have told us they were glad they participated—they found it fun, inspiring, and well worth the commitment.

If you have any questions or would like to talk more about the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m looking forward to a fantastic year ahead!

Warmly,
Rabbi Sharon Marcus