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Gesher2Gann

8th Grade Bridge to High School

2026–2027 School Year

Gesher2Gann is a program for the 2026–2027 academic school year designed for incoming 8th grade students seeking an accelerated path into high school. With small class sizes and access to many of the benefits of the Gann Academy high school experience, Gesher2Gann offers a bridge year for motivated learners looking for more challenge, connection, and ownership over their learning.

 

The Gesher2Gann program is designed for curious and engaged students coming from public and independent schools who are looking for a hands-on, academically rigorous experience. It is ideal for students seeking more individualized attention, and the opportunity to enter high school prepared to excel at Gann Academy.

Gesher2Gann is especially structured to support students who are a year or more advanced in math; where appropriate, students will be placed on an accelerated trajectory that sets them up for advanced math, science and engineering coursework in high school.

Students coming from public schools are eligible for our Pioneer Program, which provides $20,000 off tuition in Year 1, and $10,000 off tuition in Year 2.

Why Gesher2Gann?

This program is built for incoming 8th grade students who are ready to move ahead.

Students in Gesher2Gann benefit from a thoughtfully designed balance: a close-knit cohort experience combined with meaningful integration into Gann’s high school academics, electives, and community.

Students learn in a dedicated 8th-grade cohort while also taking select courses alongside Gann high school students.

Like the Gann Academy high school program, Gesher2Gann is a pluralistic program that welcomes Jewish families from all backgrounds and levels of observance. 

An Academic Program That Challenges and Supports

Humanities

Students engage in a combined 8th grade English and history program focused on close reading, analytical writing, and thoughtful discussion, learning and reflection - skills that prepare them for high-level high school work.

STEM and Inquiry

Students experience science not just as content, but as exploration:

  • Hands-on scientific experimentation
  • Independent research projects
  • Participation in local and state-level science fairs

Math at the Right Level - Including Advanced Pathways

Many middle school students are seeking greater academic challenges and inspiration. As part of the Gesher2Gann program, students will receive math instruction at a level that is appropriating challenging and be able to move on once they master the content.

8th grade students will have the opportunity to take Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus AB or Precaculus BC, or even more advanced classes, should they demonstrate mastery.

Jewish Learning and Identity

No prior Hebrew or Jewish day school background is required. Gesher2Gann is designed for students coming from public and independent schools, including those with little or no formal Jewish education. Students with prior Hebrew instruction will be placed in appropriate Hebrew language and Hebrew culture classes. 8th grade students will engage in Gann’s Jewish life and learning programs through:

  • Hebrew Language
  • Jewish Studies
  • Israel Education

    It’s important for parents to build community too, and being part of Gesher2Gann not only makes your family a part of the Gesher2Gann parent community, but also the larger Gann Jewish community, where you will be invited to community-wide events and experience our signature sense of belonging. We also have an active GPA, the Gann Parents Association, and we warmly invite you to be a part of all our activities and learning opportunities.

  • The Best of Both Worlds: Cohort + High School Experience

    Students in Gesher2Gann have a dedicated space to build community while also accessing the full Gann experience.  

    • Participate in differentiated 8th grade humanities program subjects together as a cohort  
    • Create and own individualized science project, under the tutelage of experience science instructors  
    • Take math, world languages and electives with high school students  
    • Participate in clubs, arts, athletics, and wellness programs  
    • Build relationships with older student mentors  

    The Best of Both Worlds: Cohort + High School Experience

    Students in Gesher2Gann have a dedicated space to build community while also accessing the full Gann experience.  

    Participate in differentiated 8th grade humanities program subjects together as a cohort  

    Take math, world languages and electives with high school students  

    Create and own individualized science project, under the tutelage of experience science instructors  

    Participate in clubs, arts, athletics, and wellness programs  

    Build relationships with older student mentors  

    A Personalized and Supportive Experience

    Every student in Gesher2Gann is known.

    A dedicated, experienced middle school educator will serve as a central point of connection for students and families

    Regular 1:1 check-ins to ensure academic and social progress

    Built-in learning support helps students develop strong habits early

    A warm, value-driven environment fosters confidence and belonging

    Learning Beyond the Classroom

    Gesher2Gann extends beyond traditional academics. Students participate in: 

    Daily physical activity that is built into each day whether on our Gann Farm, in the high school gym, or exploring Gann’ 14 acres of outdoors.

    Field trips and experiential learning

    Athletics, fitness, and creative arts

    Volunteer and Tikkun Olam opportunities

    Science exploration and outdoor learning

    Who This Program Is For

    Gesher2Gann is especially strong for:

    Students who are ready for greater academic challenges

    Students who benefit from individualized attention and small classes

    Students coming from public or independent schools looking for something more engaging and rigorous

    Families planning to continue on to Gann Academy for high school

    Tuition and Financial Access

    We are committed to making Gesher2Gann accessible.

    Students coming from public schools are eligible for our Pioneer Program, which provides significant tuition savings.

    Additional financial aid options are available, including need-based support and partnership programs.

    Students coming from public schools are eligible for our Pioneer Program, which provides $20,000 off tuition in Year 1, and $10,000 off tuition in Year 2.

    Admissions Timeline

    Gesher2Gann will operate on rolling admissions in the spring of 2026.

    Inquire today and set up a tour! Contact:

    Eli Gurock 
    Chief Admissions & Advancement Officer 
    egurock@gannacademy.org 

    Sara Brown 
    Admissions Associate, Gesher2Gann 
    sriednerbrown@gannacademy.org 

    Dr. Dalia Hochman 
    Head of School 
    dhochman@gannacademy.orgÂ