I want to take a Hebrew class, but I'm not sure which level to enroll in. What should I do?
Choose the level you think is most likely the right one for you, and come to the first class session. If the level is wrong, you may switch to a different course without penalty. (If the new course is more expensive, we ask that you pay the additional tuition amount; if it is less expensive, your overpayment will be refunded.) Hebrew level placement is at the discretion of the instructor, not the Lehrhaus office staff.

What is the difference between Biblical Hebrew and Modern Hebrew?
Take Modern Hebrew if you plan to visit Israel, if you have Israeli friends, or if you are interested in modern Hebrew film and literature. Take prayerbook/ Biblical Hebrew if you want to follow along better at synagogue services, are considering conversion to Judaism, or would like to learn to translate Biblical texts.

If I enroll in Biblical Hebrew and then decide at the first class that I'd rather be in Modern Hebrew (or vice versa), can I change courses?
Yes. You may switch within any of the Hebrew courses without penalty. (If the new course is more expensive, we ask that you pay the additional tuition amount; if it is less expensive, your overpayment will be refunded.)

I registered for a course a few weeks ago, and I still haven't heard anything. Will I receive confirmation of enrollment?
Lehrhaus provides automatic confirmation only for online registration, via e-mail. If you require a confirmation via standard mail, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope or postcard with your registration, or request confirmation by e-mail (info@lehrhaus.org). Note: In the event of a course cancellation, all enrolled students will be notified by telephone.

How does Lehrhaus Judaica decide which courses to offer?
Some courses are proposed by current or potential instructors; others are suggested by our co-sponsors. Often students request that particular courses be offered in their area, and as much as possible we try to meet these requests.

Can I request that a course be added to the curriculum?
Yes! We rely on our students to let us know what they would like to take. If there's a subject that particularly interests you, please call (510) 845-6420 and tell us. If it fits our curriculum and seems like a course that many students would be interested in, we'll do our best to find the right instructor to teach it.

I want to teach a course for Lehrhaus. How do I apply?
We are always interested in hearing from experienced instructors. Currently, our faculty includes professors, doctoral students, rabbis, and leaders and educators in the community. Potential instructors are encouraged to submit course proposal(s) and a CV/resume to Erika Staiti, Curriculum Coordinator, at the Lehrhaus office (erika@lehrhaus.org.) Course topics should be academic in nature, have Jewish themes, and be appropriate for an educated adult audience.

Does Lehrhaus give scholarships?
Yes. Need-based scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis, without regard to religion, race, age, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. For more information, call Niki Whiting at (510) 845-6420 x 15 or write to niki@lehrhaus.org.

Can I donate to the scholarship fund?
We are delighted to receive contributions from the community. All donations are tax-deductible, and will be directed to our scholarship fund, library fund, or course program fund as needed. Donors may choose to earmark their gift for an existing program or underwrite a new program or course series.