The Jewish Student Union of St. Louis will launch the Senator John Danforth Israel Scholars Program on Feb. 4, which addresses the need for greater education and understanding about Israel from both a historical and modern perspective. The program was developed by Rabbi Mike Rovinsky, Director of JSU of St. Louis. 

 “Over the past few years, I have seen that Jewish teens were apathetic at best and anti-Israel at worst. We need to educate the next generation about our history and the history of Israel and explain to them what is really going on and why the land of Israel is critical to their Jewish identity,” said Rovinsky. 

Topics to be covered in the 12-week program include: An exploration of ancient Israel, the history of Zionism, Israel’s Rebirth, its wars, the peace process, and Israel’s political system. Students will also learn to understand and analyze media bias, Israel and Jewish stereotypes, Israel on the college campus, boycott and divestment, Israel’s shared values and her contributions around the world, along with developing their Israel advocacy skills.  Plans are being made for students to travel to both Jefferson City and Washington, D.C. to meet and speak with elected officials on behalf of Israel.  In addition, the curriculum is designed to engender a greater understanding of Israeli current affairs through lively, challenging, interactive programming.

The program welcomes applicants from grades 10-12. All students who satisfactorily complete the program will receive a stipend of $350 towards participation on a JSU summer Israel experience trip.

JSU is not-for-profit informal education program that serves over 700 teens in nine area high schools (Clayton, Crossroads, Ladue, Lafayette, MICDS, Parkway Central, Parkway North, Parkway West as well as Jewish Book Club).

For more information or to register, contact Rovinsky at the JSU office 314-498-6279 or email [email protected].