Youth Groups
Our youth groups are an important part of our educational program at Congregation Beth Shalom. Youth groups provide an opportunity for socialization within a Jewish context. We are members of the Pinwheel (Pacific Northwest) Region of United Synagogue Youth, encompassing Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Alberta, and British Columbia. Youth Group Membership is included in Religious School and Prozdor for grades 2nd-7th.
We offer four youth groups based on grade. Youth group membership is required to participate in any youth group event.
Matanot – For youth grades 2nd and 3rd. This group holds one event per month. Events include activities such as Shabbat dinners, a Chocolate Seder, and mini-golf.
Chaverim – For youth grades 4th and 5th. This group holds one event per month. Events include improv, laser tag, board games, ice cream parties, and volunteering.
Kadima – For youth grades 6th-8th. This group holds 1-2 events per month and participates in the Regional Shabbaton at Camp Solomon Schechter. Post B’nai Mitzvah students may also attend the monthly USY Youth Minyan. Events include Masterchef Jewnior, Israeli Movie Nights, and Kadima only Shabbat dinners.
USY (United Synagogue Youth) – For youth grades 9th-12th. Regular events for this group include a monthly youth minyan, board meetings, participation in Regional and International programs, and other social and religious events. Popular events include: Into the Night, Havdallah, Movie Nights, and more! Follow our USY Chapter, Seattle Nimratz, on Instagram.
Registration & Fees
Register online on Shulcloud to participate in our 2023-2024 youth groups!
Click here for detailed registration instructions!
*Note that non-members will need to contact Beth Shalom to have an account created for them before they will be able to register.
Beth Shalom Youth Groups require a yearly registration and membership fee. Here are the prices for each of the youth groups 2023-2024.
| Youth Group | Standard Membership Fee (for CBS members) | Unsubsidized Rate (for nonmembers) |
| Matanot (2nd & 3rd Grade) | $55 | $68 |
| Chaverim (4th & 5th Grade) | $55 | $68 |
| Kadima (6th-8th Grade) | $65 | $80 |
| USY (9th-12th# Grade) | $115 | $150 |
For overall youth department questions, please contact Rachel Wachtel, Director of Education by email.
Meet Abby Ward, 2023-2024 USY Advisor!
Abby Ward is a driven and enthusiastic senior at the University of Washington, eagerly anticipating her graduation with a BA in Communication and B2B Sales this spring. Embracing her Jewish heritage and community values, Abby's lifelong commitment to the Jewish community began in Spokane. From Camp Solomon Schechter to active involvement in USY and religious schooling, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for fostering meaningful connections and personal growth. With prior experience as a first-grade teacher at Congregation Beth Shalom, Abby has honed her teaching skills and discovered her excitement for guiding young minds. Now, she eagerly looks forward to taking on the role of USY advisor, where she will have the opportunity to provide invaluable mentorship and support to high schoolers. Outside of her professional pursuits, Abby enjoys schmoozing at UW Hillel, cherishing the opportunities for reflection and connection with like-minded individuals. A true advocate for an active lifestyle, you can often find her engaging in various fitness activities, including running.