First graders at Yeshiva at the Jersey Shore in Deal Park recently received their first siddurs in a special ceremony at the JCC's Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Each student's book cover was decorated and personalized by their parents, who were called up to the stage individually to present their child with their siddur under a white chuppah.

Family and friends in the audience were treated to a unique siddur ceremony that was led almost entirely by the first graders. Rather than a practiced, memorized performance, the play served as an authentic representation of what the students are learning every day in school.

The first graders took turns leading each lesson, demonstrating their progress with Tefillot, Hebrew reading and song.
The siddur is among the most widely circulated and best-known of Jewish books, and is the first book a religious Jew learns to read. “The YJS first graders are already making great strides with their siddurs, and are learning and praying with much excitement and curiosity,” said Rabbi Elie Tuchman, head of school.

Deal's best kept secret, Yeshiva at the Jersey Shore is a Modern Orthodox day school that offers a progressive, integrative Hebrew and English curriculum. The school's child-centered curriculum is designed to nurture every student's intellect and unique sense of self. YJS offers superior academics and an unparalleled teaching staff in a very warm and family oriented environment. The school is now accepting applications for 1st through 4th grades.