Nitzanim B. Mitzvah Academy
Regional Parks throughout Sonoma County, Congregation Ner Shalom, 85 La Plaza, Cotati, CA 94931
The Nitzanim B. Mitzvah Academy
The B. Mitzvah journey is a significant rite of passage in Jewish life. At Nitzanim, it unfolds in redwood forests and Shabbat sanctuaries, through service and song, ancient text and honest conversation.
Who This Program Serves
The Academy is a two-year program for students entering 6th and 7th grades. No prior Jewish education or Hebrew experience is required. Our families come from all kinds of backgrounds — interfaith, queer, deeply rooted, or exploring Judaism for the first time. Congregation Ner Shalom membership is not required.
How the Program Works
The B. Mitzvah Academy meets monthly during the school year, with Fall and Spring retreats and a Winter Service Project or campfire. Four times a year, students and families gather for a Shabbat morning minyan at Ner Shalom — created for our B. Mitzvah learners and open to the wider congregation. Our curriculum moves across three areas: Torah study and interpretation, Tikkun Olam (acting for justice in the world), and Shabbat prayers and Jewish values.
Hebrew & B. Mitzvah Ceremony
There is no Hebrew requirement for participation. However, students who wish to read from the Torah at their B. Mitzvah ceremony will need to begin learning Hebrew by 6th grade — our Midweek Hebrew program is available to Academy families at a heavily discounted rate.
Completing the two-year program is itself a meaningful rite of passage, marked by a siyyum (completion ceremony). Families who wish to plan a more formal B. Mitzvah ceremony will be connected with qualified tutors. Ner Shalom members have the added benefit of Reb Irwin's officiation and use of the Ner Shalom sanctuary for their simchah.
B. Mitzvah Academy 26/27 Dates
Back to School Night: September 29
Classes: Eight Sundays, 10am–12:30pm: 10/11 · 11/15 · 12/13 · 1/17 · 2/7 · 3/7 · 4/4 · 5/2
Retreats: Fall Retreat - 11/7 · Winter service project - 1/23 · Spring Shabbaton - 4/16-18
Shabbat Minyanim: 12/5, 2/27, 3/27
Where: Sonoma County Regional Parks & Congregation Ner Shalom
Scholarships & Discount Information
We understand that every family’s situation is unique, and we want to make our programs as accessible as possible. A limited number of scholarships are available for families who need financial support, with priority given to Ner Shalom members.
Families registering for 2 of more programs may use the code MULTI to receive $150 off their total registration. To pay by check, please register online and use the discount code CHECK.
Then mail your payment to: Congregation Ner Shalom 85 La Plaza, Cotati, CA 94931
Safety Information
- Staff is First Aid Certified
- Employee Background Checks
- Carries Liability Insurance
This information is provided by the organization and has not been independently verified by Enrichment.kids.
Policies
If you notify us at least 2 weeks in advance, we can process a full refund, deducting a 15% cancellation fee. Refunds will not be possible with less than 2 weeks' notice.