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Graduation
The Bergen County High School of Jewish Studies
The Bergen County High School of Jewish Studies (BCHSJS) is not your traditional “old school” Hebrew school. We mix relevant Jewish studies with social and community service activities that foster lifelong friendships. For more than 40 years, through this combination of learning and doing, we’ve helped teens to explore their Jewish identity while furthering Jewish continuity.
BCHSJS Apple Picking Fall 2024
Welcome Rabbi Emily Cobert as Principal of BCHSJS
Rabbi Emily Cobert is excited and honored to join the Temple Israel – JCC community as Assistant Rabbi and Education Director. She will be responsible for youth education and programming for families of all ages, and serve as the director of Northern New Jersey Jewish Academy (grades K-7) and the Bergen County High School of Jewish Studies (grades 8-12).
Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Rabbi Cobert grew up in a home and community that greatly values Judaism, family, friends and southern hospitality. She received Bachelor of Arts degrees in Jewish Studies and Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. She then moved to New York City, earning her MA in Jewish Education with a concentration in Day School Education and then rabbinic ordination with a Certificate in Pastoral Care and Counseling from the Jewish Theological Seminary.
Prior to her new position at TIJCC, Rabbi Cobert served as Rabbi and Education Director of Temple Sinai in Middletown, NY. She led all matters of religious and ritual life within the community as Kol Bo, including leading all aspects Shabbat and holiday services, education and individual learning, and all lifecycle events. She led the Temple Sinai Hebrew School for students K-7 grades,overseeing curriculum development, supervising staff, and organizing programming. She served on the Orange County NY Klei Kodesh & Jewish Federation to plan and organize county-wide multi-denominational Jewish events for both children and adults. Rabbi Cobert was an active member of the Middletown Interfaith Council, inclusive of over 50 faith communities, representing the Temple Sinai community and Conservative Judaism in community-wide interfaith events.
Rabbi Cobert enjoys working within the framework of a traditional Jewish observance while finding innovative ways to weave it within modern society. Rabbi Cobert has been privileged to have mentors who have helped set her on the path to becoming a rabbi. She loves Torah study and she hopes to help others find their own voice within Torah by creating a warm and welcoming learning environment. Rabbi Cobert has a passion for education and deeply cares about each individual. She wants to make sure everyone feels welcomed in a safe and warm environment and that everyone has a chance to get heard, seen, and valued.
She is excited to move to Ridgewood with her husband, Andy Lewis, and their daughter, Sarah!
Testimonials
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Attending BCHSJS was something I did not want to do, but it turned out to be the changing moment for me.
- Benjamin N -
BCHSJS truly made a mark on my life. It showed me that continuing my Jewish education did not have to be boring. I made friends, participated in many interesting classes and, importantly, rekindled a Jewish identity I’d felt that I’d lost.
- Jerry V. -
BCHSJS helps keeps Jewish teens Jewish!
- Susan P. (parent) -
BCHSJS has changed all aspects of my life, my knowledge of Judaism, my friendships, and my overall confidence as a person.
- Cole C.