Mishpacha Family Alternative Learning Program

Mishpacha Family Alternative Learning Program includes hands-on activities such as creating Abraham and Sarah’s tents so participants can learn how to welcome classmates with juice and Nutella, transforming teachers into biblical characters, and creating art pieces around values. Participants also engage in Tikkun Olam projects, build a model home to explore the shiva rituals, and build a chuppah for a wedding. Parents attend the program alongside their children and are empowered to own the material and teach their children alongside teachers and educators.

• Ages: 8–18 years old

The program’s curriculum includes the topic “Henaynu: Caring Community,” which draws from Torah, philosophy, life cycle, and Jewish values. The curriculum is described as experiential, active, and fun while maintaining high expectations for the level of content. Snack time is considered as important as learning time, with an emphasis on abundant healthy food. The program is part of Congregation Or Ami, which was established in 1997 as a Reform synagogue serving the west San Fernando and Conejo Valleys and describes itself as a welcoming, inclusive, musical, innovative Jewish community. The Mishpacha Family Alternative Learning Program is led by Rabbi Paul Kipnes, Rabbi at Congregation Or Ami, and Sarah Lauing, who served as intern and Mishpacha Coordinator at Congregation Or Ami in 2011–2012 and graduated from HUC-JIR’s Rhea Hirsch School of Education. Congregation Or Ami states that it is a sanctuary of kindness, a safe Jewish community for today, and a second home, and it is devoted to the enhancement of Jewish life and partners with others who seek justice to change the world. Congregation Or Ami has won 14 national awards for social justice, inclusion, use of social media, creative worship, lifelong learning, outreach and more.

Last updated April 29, 2026.