Frequently Asked
Questions

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What is a Brandeis Hillel Day School education? Hide

BHDS provides children with the educational and social tools they need to grow into curious lifelong learners, committed members of the community and ethically responsible human beings. Our school offers an engaging, integrated and rigorous program that includes a strong foundation in our basic academic disciplines: English, with an emphasis on writing, reading and public speaking, mathematics, science, social studies, Hebrew, and Judaic studies. Our students also benefit from an enriched program including performing and visual arts, athletics, music, technology, outdoor education, and community service . Throughout the year, students participate in activities, which help to strengthen personal, family and community relationships as well as build character, decision-making skills and integrity.

What is the educational philosophy of the school? Hide

Brandeis Hillel Day School is committed to providing equal opportunities for both boys and girls in the classroom as well as in Jewish ritual and learning. Each child learns and grows in a different way and has unique strengths. Teaching is tailored to the most effective approach for each student to maximize his/her potential. Faculty members, with their deep sense of dedication, high level of professionalism and long-term service to the school, are the keys to the success of our challenging program. Teachers focus on the development of critical thinking skills, hands-on learning and problem-solving. Current materials, technologies and teaching strategies are integral to our approach.

What if we are not very Jewish in our practices/observances? Hide

We do not require or even ask our families for any particular level of practice or observance. We do, however, ask that families are respectful of one another and that they are sensitive to the diversity of our school.

We are an interfaith couple or I/we are not Jewish. What will Brandeis Hillel be like for me/us? Hide

As a Jewish community day school, we have created an educational environment that welcomes children and their families from all the varied backgrounds which constitute modern Jewish life in America. This includes interfaith families and the many movements such as Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, Reconstructionist and Secular Humanist, among others. We also welcome non-Jewish students. Our school culture encourages a student’s religious search for meaning through dialogue, inquiry, knowledge and personal exploration. This comprehensive study exposes our students to a rich choice of Jewish practices and philosophies. Parents find Brandeis Hillel Day School to be a very welcoming community. We learn from each other and broaden our experiences by sharing with others.

What are the benefits of learning Hebrew and Judaic Studies? Hide

Since Hebrew is taught both as a modern language and a tool for reading the text, the cognitive skills that the students develop are the same as those for learning any foreign language and facilitate subsequent foreign language acquisition. Using age-appropriate content, a variety of teaching strategies and curricular integration, the Judaic Studies and general studies curriculum enhance students’ learning experience. Teachers collaborate to build bridges among disciplines, making learning relevant to students’ lives. Ethics and values stemming from Jewish tradition are part of the everyday experience at BHDS. In addition, our students participate in music, art and athletics, among other enrichment programs.

Why do we teach a second language? Hide

In addition to developing a lifelong ability to communicate in another language, children may derive other benefits from early language instruction, including improved overall school performance and superior problem-solving skills. Additionally, knowledge of Hebrew permits access to the Bible, prayer, history, and literature of a 5,000 year-old tradition, which influence the three revealed religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
There is statistical correlation between early second language study and improved overall school performance and superior problem-solving skills:

• Students of foreign languages score statistically higher on standardized tests conducted in English.
• The College Entrance Examination Board has indicated that the average math SAT scores for students who have taken four or more years of foreign languages are as high as for students who have taken four or more years of math courses.
• Evidence suggests that students who receive second language instruction are more creative and better at solving complex problems.

Students of Hebrew in particular learn a second set of cultural and linguistic structures that are identified with higher test scores and academic achievement later on in life.Hebrew language students have been found to have an increased life-long connection to Jewish life and culture, and to access source material directly.

How will my child fit in if he/she didn't start learning Hebrew in kindergarten? Hide

Students entering in the first grade or later have an opportunity to begin learning with their class. Over the summer, we provide students with an introductory book containing the basic vocabulary used in class and provide a list of potential tutors. In middle school, there are several levels of Hebrew classes. Students are placed in a class according to their ability.