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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Florence Melton Program?
The Florence Melton Mini School is:
* A unique, pluralistic, informal education program that brings adults of all backgrounds together to study texts of Judaism. It is an educational approach that is non-denominational.
* The goal of the Melton Mini School is to provide Jewish adults with a class that enhances the students' Jewish identity and knowledge with an interactive, stimulating dialogue between the faculty and their fellow students.
* A class that will provide students the opportunity to obtain a basic - yet comprehensive and sophisticated - core of Jewish knowledge, regardless of their level of knowledge or practice. Melton participants gain Jewish literacy in an informal but challenging setting.
* A curriculum, based on Jewish texts read in English, which draws on both classical and modern Jewish texts to explore Jewish practices, history, theology and ethics.
I don't' have much background. How will I fit in? What's the makeup of the other students
There are no prerequisites; just a basic knowledge of Judaism is required. Students come from all backgrounds, Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, unaffiliated.
I'm a very busy person. How much time is required? Will the course require much preparation?
The classes meet either during the day or in the evening for only 2 hours per week. There are no tests, no homework, just show up!
Who teaches the course, and how do I know whether I will relate to the faculty?
Rabbis and teachers from our community from all different affiliations teach the Melton course. The methodology of the Florence Melton Course is to use faculty that are able and motivated to teach in a pluralistic environment.
What about the curriculum?
The curriculum is comprised of two years of the following, but students are only required to commit to one year at a time.
Year One
Rhythms of Jewish Living introduces students to the ideas, beliefs and practices that shape a Jewish life.
Purposes of Jewish Living provides an overview of the theological foundations of Jewish life and religious practice.
Year Two
Dramas of Jewish Living Throughout the Ages is an exploration of specific dramatic events, experiences, and issues from different periods of Jewish history.
Ethics of Jewish Living examines Jewish ethical issues, using case studies from Talmudic, rabbinic and contemporary literature.
Is there any kind of recognition or degree after the two years?
The Florence Melton Mini-School is part of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Students receive a Certificate of Jewish Studies from Hebrew University upon completion.
How much is tuition?
Tuition is $450 per year, including all curriculum materials. Students are asked to bring the JPS Tanach, the English version of the Jewish bible to use in class. Payment plans or partial scholarships may be available. Ask the director.
I'm sold!! How do I sign up?
Contact the director, Debbie Pesses at 507-897-0143 or by e-mail at debbie@nojcc.com or take one of the registration forms.
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