A Challenging Academic Program

The four-year curriculum and specific course offerings were developed with input from Jewish educators, university professors, and high school teachers. Writing is emphasized across the curriculum. Many courses are offered on different levels, with honors and Advanced Placement sections open to interested and qualified students.

The Arts and Humanities

The Arts and Humanities curriculum exposes students to the historical movements, philosophical concepts, and literary works that have shaped the modern world. Students take courses in literature and writing, history and philosophy, and a Romance language (optional). All students also study fine arts as part of the core curriculum. Offerings include drawing, art history, music history, music ensembles, composition, theater, and film. Jewish themes are integrated into arts and humanities courses.

Math and Science

All students complete a college preparatory mathematics program. We offer several mathematics sequences to accommodate the varied backgrounds and abilities of students. Courses include algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and advanced topics.

Laboratory sciences—physics, chemistry, and biology—are required during the first three years. In these courses, students acquire problem-solving skills and gain hands-on experience in addition to mastering the specific subject matter. Computer technology has been integrated into the math and sciences curriculum, and computer science is also offered as an elective.

Judaic Studies

The Judaic Studies curriculum revolves around the rich intellectual, cultural, and historical legacies of our Jewish heritage, while the approach to learning is based on the principle of intensive, text-based study. Working in hevruta (pairs), students develop the textual analysis skills to study Bible, Talmud, Midrash, codes, and commentaries. Students also receive a solid grounding in Hebrew language and basic concepts of Jewish law, philosophy, and ethics.

Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to explore ways in which the Jewish tradition can be applied to contemporary ethical, political, and social issues. In addition, they discuss the particular concerns of teenagers with reference to Jewish sources and values.

Because our students come from a wide variety of academic backgrounds, Judaic Studies courses are offered on several levels. A mechinah (preparatory) program is available for students who require an introduction to Hebrew and text study.

Electives

In their elective period, students are encouraged to develop and refine forms of creative self-expression. Electives are offered in many different areas. Recent electives have included studio art, drama, computer science, mock trial, yearbook, film production, Israeli dance, creative writing, cooking, and instrumental music.

Advising and Support Services

All students are assigned a faculty advisor to supervise their academic programs and provide general guidance. Students meet weekly with their advisor to discuss social and academic issues. In addition, the school has a support services team of learning specialists, tutors, and an adolescent psychologist who work with students individually. The rabbis on our faculty provide formal and informal religious guidance from a variety of religious perspectives.

Faculty

Our faculty comprises teachers and administrators with superior academic credentials and substantial classroom experience. Working as a team, our teachers are committed to a learning process that encourages creativity and critical thinking. Above all, they are characterized by the joy and fulfillment they derive from working with teenagers. Two learning specialists and a psychologist supplement the teaching staff.

Schedule

The school day runs from 8 AM to 5 PM (4 PM on Wednesdays), with early dismissal on Fridays and before Jewish holidays. The students begin each day with a period of spirituality and introspection through prayer or discussion. After school on Thursdays, many students participate in interscholastic athletics and/or extracurricular activities.