In Seventh through Twelfth Grades, students move from personal exploration to embodying Jewish values and leadership. These years are designed to empower students to live out their Judaism in meaningful, authentic ways—through learning, action, reflection, and community. With a wide range of program options and learning pathways, students are given more choices, ownership, and responsibility in how they engage. Whether deepening their knowledge, mentoring younger students, or taking on leadership roles, our teens continue their Jewish journey by putting their values into practice and making Judaism their own. 

 

Elective-style Jewish learning featuring rotating three-week experiences and social events.

Madrichim is the Hebrew word for “guides” or “leaders.”

  • Led by Danny Glassman- includes Leadership Development
  • 8th-12th Grade Students may receive a stipend or community service hours (7th only eligible for service hours)
  • Variety of areas for Madrichim including Classroom, Photographers, Tech Support, Office Support, and more!
  • MUSIC MADRICHIM PROGRAM – Cantor Lianna Mendelson is looking for singers, musicians, and anyone interested in song-leading to join a special program, where students learn with Cantor Lianna and help to lead music sessions during morning J-Quest sessions.

“While being a madrich was great on its own, something that made it so much more fun were the people I was doing it with. The other music madrichim were some of the nicest people I think I’ve met in my entire life and they elevated the experience from just another activity into something that I looked forward to each week. Five out of five, would recommend.” – Julian G., J-Quest Student and Music Madrich

Earn transferable college credit through American Jewish University.

10th-12th Graders are invited to participate in this meaningful exploration of Jewish identity led by Rabbi Heaps. 

Our goal is to nurture a strong sense of belonging in J‑Quest, while also helping teens see themselves as active participants in the wider Jewish community. We are proud to partner with BBYO, a leading national Jewish teen movement. Through this partnership, our teens gain access to broader Jewish experiences, leadership opportunities, and regional events with peers from across Chicagoland and beyond. 

BBYO offers dynamic programming where Jewish teens can: 1. Build meaningful friendships within a welcoming community 2. Explore their Jewish identity in a pluralistic setting and 3. Develop leadership skills through teen-led initiatives. 

BBYO staff and teen leaders will have a regular presence at Temple Jeremiah, offering informational sessions, hosting chapter events, and helping our teens connect with the larger BBYO community. Families will be able to find information about local and national BBYO programs through our Temple calendar, weekly e-news, and website. 

As of Fall 2025, every teen who becomes a B'nai Mitzvah at Temple Jeremiah will receive a $125 voucher from our congregation toward a one-time BBYO membership. With a cost of $250, this membership provides access to BBYO programming for all of 8th grade and throughout high school. Together with BBYO, we are excited to help our teens continue their Jewish journey with joy, purpose, and community.