Beged Kefet is offered in partnership with ICC: Israeli Cultural Connection at the Oshman Family JCC and operates as part of the PJCC Jewish Life Department in collaboration with Wornick Jewish Day School.

What is Beged Kefet?

Beged Kefet is a Hebrew language immersion program designed to strengthen reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Students experience a curriculum infused with Jewish and Israeli culture, learning through literature, movies, current events, and creative activities. Small class sizes and expert educators ensure personalized instruction in a supportive, engaging environment.

The Foster City Beged Kefet branch, established in 2017, is an integral part of PJCC’s commitment to fostering Jewish learning and community engagement.

Did you know? “Beged Kefet” is named after six Hebrew letters that receive special pronunciation emphasis when they appear at the beginning of a word.

Why Choose Beged Kefet?

  • Immersive Hebrew Language Learning – Gain fluency through reading, writing, speaking, and listening exercises.
  • Diverse Learning Approaches – Enjoy a mix of literature, films, cultural activities, and digital media.
  • Cultural & Social Connection – Celebrate Jewish holidays, participate in Israeli cultural events, and engage with the local Jewish community.
  • Small Class Sizes & Individualized Instruction – Our expert educators tailor lessons to each student’s level and progress.
  • A Strong Community for Families – Parents and siblings are invited to classroom celebrations and school-wide events.

Programs & Class Levels

Elementary School Classes (TK–5th Grade)

Beged Kefet’s elementary program builds strong foundational skills in Hebrew through experiential learning and hands-on activities.

  • Kindergarten (Kitat Gan) – For fluent Hebrew-speaking students, focusing on conversation, vocabulary, and creative expression through stories, songs, and play.
  • 1st–3rd Grade (Kita Alef, Bet, and Gimel) – Students learn to read and write in Hebrew, enrich vocabulary, and explore Jewish traditions and holidays.
  • 4th–6th Grade (Kita Dalet and Hey) – Advanced Hebrew learning through reading comprehension, creative writing, and structured grammar studies.

Each class meets once a week for 90 minutes.

Middle School Classes (6th–8th Grade)

Beged Kefet’s middle school program deepens Hebrew proficiency while incorporating cultural studies, Jewish values, and community projects.

  • Language Mastery – Students refine their reading, writing, and comprehension skills while engaging in discussions about Israeli society, current events, and Jewish history.
  • Identity & Heritage – A three-year program exploring personal and Jewish identity, Bar/Bat Mitzvah traditions, and intergenerational connections.
  • Community Engagement – Students participate in the My Family Story Project, an international initiative by the ANU Museum of the Jewish People, exploring family roots and Jewish heritage.

Classes meet once a week for 90 minutes.

High School Program (9th–12th Grade)

Beged Kefet’s high school curriculum is designed for students who wish to enhance their Hebrew proficiency while earning foreign language credit for high school and college applications.

  • Accredited Curriculum – Courses align with high school foreign language requirements and prepare students for the SAT Hebrew Subject Test.
  • Advanced Learning with NETA – Students use Bishvil Ha’Ivrit, a rigorous Hebrew language program incorporating literature, current events, and cultural studies.
  • Honors & College Preparation – Advanced students may qualify for honors courses, providing a competitive edge for college admissions.

Classes meet once a week for 3 hours.

Hebrew as a Second Language (Middle & High School)

New to Hebrew? This beginner-level program is perfect for students who want to learn Hebrew as a second language.

  • Conversational Skills – Develop practical speaking and listening abilities.
  • Reading & Writing – Master basic Hebrew literacy in a structured yet engaging way.
  • Cultural Connection – Explore Jewish traditions and Israeli society while learning the language.

Thursdays, 5:30–7:00 PM

Class Schedule & Tuition

Class Hours

All classes meet on Thursdays

  • Kinder & 1st Grade: 4:00–5:30 PM
  • 2nd & 3rd Grade: 4:00–5:30 PM
  • 4th & 5th Grade: 4:00–5:30 PM
  • Middle School: 5:30–7:00 PM
  • High School: 5:30–8:30 PM
  • Hebrew as a Second Language (Middle & High School): 5:30–7:00 PM

Classes require a minimum of five students to run. Grade groupings may be adjusted to maintain appropriate student-teacher ratios.

Tuition & Registration

Grade LevelRegistration FeeTuition (After Aug 1)Materials FeeAccreditation Fee
Kindergarten$50$1,389$80$0
Elementary (1st–5th Grade)$50$2,084$80$0
Middle School$50$2,259$80$0
High School$50$3,494$80$250
Hebrew as a Second Language$50$2,050$80$0

Early Bird Discount: Register by May 19 to receive 10% off tuition (automatically applied).

Late Registration Fee: Starting August 1, a 5% fee will be added to tuition.

Cancellation Policy

  • Before July 1: Full refund
  • Before August 1: Refund minus registration and book fees ($130)
  • Before September 1: Refund minus registration, book, and $100 tuition fees
  • Between Sept 2–Nov 30: Prorated refund based on sessions attended
  • After November 30: No refunds

Scholarships Available! Financial aid applications are available [here].

Meet Our Educators

The Beged Kefet team comprises highly trained Hebrew educators, each bringing extensive experience in language instruction and Israeli cultural studies. Our educators are passionate about fostering a love for Hebrew and creating a supportive learning environment.

Join Beged Kefet Today!

Questions? Contact us at jewishlife@pjcc.org.