AMIT Tzemach HaSadeh Elementary School in Maaleh Adumim is implementing a unique elective program. Each member of the faculty selected a subject of interest and created a 14-lesson study unit on that topic. The new course offerings for students included personal coaching; creative theater script writing; humor and laughter as a way of life; good nutrition and sandwich design; Land of Israel Studies; fundamentals of radio broadcasting; the color spectrum; paper designs; choir; critical thinking; products made from recycled materials; learning to play the recorder and others. As a kickoff event, the school held an elective course fair, where students, accompanied by their parents, came to get acquainted with the new offerings and choose two courses they would like to take this year.
Tzemach HaSadeh Principal Ditza Cohen explained that the elective program will take place during the school day in mixed-age small groups. “The purpose is to give students the opportunity to develop their personal skills; engage in meaningful and independent learning; and raise self-esteem by experiencing success,” said Cohen.
Ma’ale Adumim Mayor Benny Kashriel attended the fair as well. He said that is his 24 years of heading the city’s education department, he had never heard of such a unique educational program. “A school that lets teachers choose what to teach and students choose what they want to learn is a few steps head,” said they mayor.
