Entering its fourth year of offering in-school educational experiences for Jewish teens, a new study released today demonstrates that Jewish Student Connection (JSC) is achieving positive outcomes as a catalyst for Jewish teens to take ownership of their Jewish future. The study, conducted by BTW informing change, looked specifically at the programmatic and organizational growth of JSC in Chicago, South Florida, Westchester/Connecticut and Denver from 2010 – 2012.

In each region, JSC’s network of Jewish culture clubs in public and private high schools are guided by full-time Jewish educator-advisors who focus their attention on building one-on-one relationships with participants. Unlike other Jewish education offerings for teens, JSC’s network of 65 school-based clubs meets on their high school campuses and require no membership or up front commitment.

While JSC clubs vary from school to school, the study found that in every region an effective club advisor is a key to creating a thriving club that builds upon teens’ existing friendships and desire for community.

Additional Key findings include:

Participants

• 60% report a positive change in their understanding of Judaism and Jewish life
• 67% have increased their interest in learning more about Israel
• 71% report an increase in wanting to learn more about Judaism or what it means to be Jewish

You can read the full study here.