The Jewish Student Union’s Galia and Milton Movitz-Sen. John Danforth Israel Scholars Program, which educates high school students about Israel and develops their advocacy skills, will begin a new semester on Nov. 9.

The program is held in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, National Conferernce of Synagogue Youth (NCSY) and B’nai B’rith Youth Organization (BBYO). It was developed by JSU Director Rabbi Mike Rovinsky and David Iken (a 2013 graduate of Clayton High School). The latest edition of the curriculum was written in collaboration with Jerusalem U, a leader in Israel education for teens and adults and has become the template for quality Israel education.  

The Movitz-Danforth Program aims to provide Israel advocacy and leadership training to teens looking to develop their understanding of Israel from a historical, modern and political perspective. The 15-session series offers students a multimodal approach to learning, utilizing engaging speakers from leading Israel advocacy and education organizations around the country, community leaders and multimedia presentations. 

Topics include Israel and its Centrality to Jewish Identity, The History of Zionism, Wars and Peace, Legitimate Criticism vs. Delegitimization, Media Bias, Israel on the College Campus and Lobbying 101. The curriculum is designed to engender a greater understanding of Israeli current affairs and ethical issues through lively, challenging and interactive programming. Students also are provided with hands-on advocacy and mentoring opportunities on both local and national levels.

The program welcomes applicants from grades 10-12 (ninth graders will be considered on a case-by-case basis). All students who satisfactorily complete the program will receive a stipend of $350 towards participation on a JSU summer Israel experience trip.  Classes will meet for 15 consecutive Mondays from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m., beginning Nov. 9 in the Jewish Federation Building classrooms, 12 Millstone Campus Dr. Refreshments will be served. 

For more information or to register for the MJDIS program contact Rovinsky at 314-696-0578 or  [email protected].  Apply online at tinyurl.com/danforthisrael2015.