As a young family, we were looking for a place that would give our kids a strong grounding in Judaism. Happily, we found the Deutsch Early Childhood Center a Reform Jewish pre-school.

It stresses a philosophy like our own, enhancing our daughter's self-esteem through play and positive discipline and social interaction. Everyone knows her there. The teachers are really involved, and she loves them. After Gabrielle was settled and happy in pre-school, we began considering temple membership. The location was good and the congregation was a perfect size. We decided to take an adult education program and quickly developed a relationship with Rabbi Shook. This relationship was important, knowing that we'd be having a bris for our son Charles. We didn't want to feel like strangers. Temple Israel gives us a sense of family and involvement. It's a great place for young families who want more than just education for their kids. We can share experiences that will create a lifetime of memories and instill life-long habits. We've participated in the Tot Shabbat for our little ones, holiday celebration and Casual Shabbat, which is relaxed, family-friendly worship. We feel like part of the family at Temple Israel. Karen, David, Gabrielle & Charles Smoller Find your place at Temple Israel