High School Program

Kavana’s High School Program emerges 14 to 18 year olds in a wide array of Jewish-thought cultivation. From contemporary issues such as democracy and climate justice to historical Judaic themes - there are no off-limits topics for exploration. Using debate, theater, dialogue, and reflection this intimate cohort of young adults builds community, nourishes relationships and is never afraid to get silly. *Dinner provided by Kavana.

Partner Pricing: $363

Non-Partner Pricing: $544

Where: Rotating neighborhoods arranged prior to each session.

When: Once a month on Sunday, from 5:30pm - 7:30pm.

2024/2025 Program Dates:

September 22, November 3, December 8, January 12 2025, February 2, March 9, April 6, May 4, June 8


Rachel Osias

Rachel Lena Osias, or “RLO '' serves as Kavana’s Director of Education. RLO strives to build communities in which teaching, learning and the pursuit of educational equity are derived from challenging systemic norms and embracing the identities, experiences and stories of all individuals. Her exploration of Judaism and Jewish identity is cultivated through question-asking, relationship-building, story-telling, and play. RLO's professional and educational background has been an intentional interweaving of environmental sciences, educational equity, social and environmental justice, and experiential education. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Science, Technology, and Policy; a K-5th grade Teaching Credential; and a Master’s Degree in Urban Environmental Education.

Rabbi Rachel Nussbaum

Rachel Nussbaum co-founded Kavana in 2006 and serves as its Rabbi and Executive Director. Thanks to her leadership, Kavana has received lots of recognition for its innovative approach to building Jewish community, and Rachel’s responsibilities run the gamut… from teaching and counseling, to dynamic prayer leadership, to re-working the synagogue model for the 21st century. Originally from Charleston, South Carolina, Rachel holds degrees from Duke University and the Jewish Theological Seminary. She has been a recipient of the Bronfman Youth Fellowship, the Wexner Graduate Fellowship, the AVI CHAI Fellowship, and the Joshua Venture Group Fellowship; more recently she helped to found the Jewish Emergent Network and serves on its executive committee. Rachel resides in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood with her husband Noam Pianko and their three children, and the whole family enjoys the outdoorsy, low-key vibe of the Pacific Northwest.