Curious about Israel and Jewish identity but overwhelmed by the noise?
Everyone has something to say about politics, protests, Zionism, antisemitism, and identity. But how often do we actually stop to learn, listen, and understand?
The Unpacked Bergen County Fellowship is for local Jewish middle and high schoolers who want to go deeper. Not to take sides, but to ask big questions, explore complex stories, and become confident, curious leaders in the conversation.
Jewish students in grades 6-12 who want to explore Israel and Jewish identity through real learning and reflection are invited to apply. There are two tracks — one for middle schoolers (grades 6-8) and one for high schoolers (grades 9-12) — so students learn alongside peers at their own stage, while building community with teens across Bergen County.
When you understand the nuances of Jewish history, identity, and current events, your connection to who you are becomes more meaningful. And the more you know, the more you can teach and empower others.
Program includes
Learning
Throughout the year, fellows gather for guided discussions, text study, and conversations about history, identity, current events, and Jewish society.
Skill building
Every session is designed to build a different skill: critical thinking, public speaking, close reading, and the ability to hold nuance in conversations that usually demand simple answers.
Community & Connection
Fellows will connect with peers across Bergen County, build a network of friends who care about the same things they do, and hear from interesting speakers along the way.
Who we're looking for
This is a selective cohort. We’re looking for curious, thoughtful, driven students in grades 6-12 who want to be challenged, who’ll show up to the conversation, and grow into leaders worth listening to.
If you’re the kind of student who asks the harder question, who isn’t satisfied with the surface, and who wants to be part of a small group of peers doing the same, this is for you.
The year at a glance
OCT
17
Saturday Night
2026
Session 1
NOV
21
Saturday Night
2026
Session 2
DEC
19
Saturday Night
2026
Session 3
FEB
20
Saturday Night
2027
Session 4
MAR
20
Saturday Night
2027
Session 5
MAY
1
Saturday Night
2027
Session 6
A note on the schedule: All sessions will take place in NJ. The sessions above reflect our current plan and are subject to refinement.
Apply today
Applications are open to Jewish students in grades 6-12 at the start of the 26/27 school year.
Space is limited, so please sign up early. We're looking for kids who are curious and excited to learn new things
Please contact Keren Horn with any questions:
khorn@opendormedia.org