'Spirituality for Kids' class draws fire

'Spirituality for Kids' class draws fire

The program, created by a leader of the L.A.-based Kabbalah Centre International, is promoted as a way to teach children how to make wise choices. Critics say it brings religion into public schools.

By Seema Mehta
April 14, 2009

In a light-filled classroom in Sherman Oaks, gregarious teacher Jenna Zucker dons a straw hat and, in an exaggerated Southern drawl, invites the gathered first- and second-graders to an imaginary picnic.

The children, taking part in an after-school program at Kester Avenue Elementary, must tell Zucker what they plan to bring; she will then decide if they can join her. Alex wants to bring apples; he gets the nod. But Athena and her offer of brownies are turned down, as are Samantha and her macaroni and cheese. Elijah suggests eels and Matthew melons; both are accepted. The students soon realize they must bring something that starts with the first letter of their name.

Zucker, 28, tells them that once they figured out the rules of the game, the reward was "greater satisfaction."

"What does greater satisfaction bring?" she asks. Matthew replies: "Spiritual power!"

Zucker asks him where the power comes from? "Your inner light," the boy answers.

And where is that light found? "In your heart," he says.

The exchange is part of "Spirituality for Kids," a class offered in several Los Angeles public elementary schools during the day or after school. Created by a leader of the Los Angeles-based Kabbalah Centre International, a spiritual and educational organization, the program is promoted as a nondenominational effort to teach children to make wise choices.

But it is drawing fire from parents and others who say it is illegally bringing religion into public schools under the guise of ethics training.

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