High Level Academics

At Mesivta Lev Tmimim Lubavitch we do not accept or reject Talmidim based on their academic level. In order to achieve this, we divide our Iyun clases not by Shiur (not by grade), but by level. This allows us to have three Shiurim catered to

• Advanced* Gemara Shiur (גמרא, רש”י, תוספות, מפרשים)
• Basic Gemara level (Gemara and strengthening basic skills)
• Beginner Level (for those struggling or just starting out with Gemara) for Talmidim coming from Chabad day schools with little background in Gemara skills

*For those not desiring Limudei Chol, but seeking to benefit from the Lev Tmimim approach, we offer a track for Girsa and extended Halacha in the afternoon.

שיעור גמרא לעיון focuses mostly on Gemara skills and  the goal is very clearly the acquisition of those skills and not the coverage of more Blatt (although the higher level Shiur is pushed at a faster pace and with higher expectations, the goal is not the amount of learning but the quality).  Progress through the Maseches is determined strictly by the ability of the Talmidim to grasp the content, and more importantly to learn the Gemara “inside”.  Focus is placed on vocabulary, reading, and understanding of the logic of the Gemara followed by the ability to “Lein” the Gemara.

Regular weekly testing in every class is a requirement and Talmidim are held accountable to their progress.  Parents can log in to their son’s online reports at any time to see where their son is holding and monitor his progress.

In order to help our Talmidim achieve academic success, we follow the Rebbe’s guidelines and try to see each Bochur’s unique needs and strengths.

• Right from the beginning of the year, we try to recognize the unique talents and challenges of each Talmid and begin to develop a personal strategy for him.
• We work closely with parents to understand the child’s strengths and weaknesses.
• We try to understand key factors in the child’s life that may have an impact on his ability to progress.
• Setting clear goals for each Bochur individually is a priority.
• We encourage and highlight progress; even the smallest step must be acknowledged and this in turn motivates him to try harder and continue to progress.

Additionally, we are very aware of the fact that much of the success of the Talmid comes, not just from his efforts, but also from the devotion and commitment of the teachers.  All teachers are required to be punctual with keeping of Sedarim, just as are the Talmidim.  Teachers are expected to assess students’ progress regularly and provide progress reports to the Hanhola and parents.

During periodic staff meetings each student’s progress is evaluated and staff works together for the success of each Bochur.