With August more than half over, the school-supply shopping sprees, first-day fashion decisions and maybe even a little last-minute summer reading are underway. Even if some kids are less than excited about the end of their relative freedom, they have much to look forward to when it comes to new faces and revamped curriculums at their local Hebrew schools.

Temple Chai Religious School in Phoenix is rolling out the innovative Hebrew in Harmony curriculum, which integrates music, technology and prayer. The program was chosen after a two-year search. Designed by Behrman House, a leading publisher of Jewish educational materials, lessons or “individual modules” are built around a single prayer. Featuring prominent Jewish musicians, the program uses music to engage students emotionally, while teaching them Hebrew and other topics. The school is also adding a number of new electives, including Krav Maga, the Israeli martial art. The first day of classes is Sunday, Aug. 20.

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