Why Choose Ramah
Sha’ar: A Hebrew Immersion Program
Boker Tov Machaneh Ramah Yomi!
(Good morning Ramah Day Camp!)
For decades, chanichim (campers) have been greeted with this iconic phrase each at d’galim – our flag raising morning ritual. Ramah Day Camp has a proud history of interweaving Hebrew language into the day’s activities through the use of activity names, songs, and stories.
This Hebrew learning and immersion is taken to another elevated level through our Sha'ar Program.
Sha’ar is a Hebrew language immersion program at Ramah Day Camp. All aspects of the camp day are conducted in Hebrew, giving the campers an opportunity to gain proficiency while they participate in the full Ramah Day Camp schedule of activities. Campers learn to understand and speak Hebrew naturally, by listening to and speaking with their counselors and peers.
Sha’ar is embedded in the following edot (age divisions): Gurim (rising pre-K), Shorashim (rising K), Cochavim (rising 1st graders), Nitzanim (rising 2nd graders), and Alonim (rising 3rd graders).
Registration
The Sha’ar program is open to full summer campers entering their last year of pre-K (Gurim division) through rising 3rd graders (Alonim division). Space will be limited to one group of chanichim (campers) per edah (age division).
Sha’ar has a higher tzevet/chanich (staff/camper) ratio and specialized training for the Sha’ar staff in order to ensure the most effective program. Therefore, there is an additional fee for participating in Sha’ar.
Sha’ar is part of the National Ramah Sha’ar Hebrew program. It is made possible with guidance from the Areivim Philanthropic Group and The Foundation for Jewish Camp.
Sha'ar FAQ's
Can my child attend for one session only?
In order to get the most from this immersive Hebrew experience, it is strongly recommended to attend the full camp season. Please call our office to discuss your specific situation further.
My child doesn't know any Hebrew. Can they participate?
Yes! The program welcomes children of all Hebrew levels—whether your child knows just a few words or has previous Hebrew speaking experience.
What does 'Sha'ar' mean?
The word Sha’ar serves as an acronym for the Hebrew words “Sfat Ivrit b’Ramah” (Hebrew language at Ramah) and means “gate” or “portal.” Talented Israeli and American counselors will be leading the way as these campers learn to speak this beautiful language.
Who will be running this program?
The program is run by our Rosh Sha’ar (Sha’ar Director). In addition to working at Ramah Day Camp, she has taught in numerous area preschools and religious schools, bringing Hebrew, Israel, and Judaism to life. Working closely with our Directors and with a network of camp professionals around the country, she nurtures the development of the Sha’ar program, bringing it to fruition each summer.
I still have some questions. How can I find out more information?
If you have further concerns or questions, please email or call us at (215) 885-8556.