5 Reasons to Choose a Community Jewish Day School

Choosing a school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you, as a parent or guardian, will face. No doubt, your hope is to find a school that will appropriately challenge and support your child, will foster a love of learning, and will help your child become their best self. For families seeking all of that plus a well-rounded education that offers academic excellence, is rooted in values that align with your own, and is a safe place where your child will explore their identity, Portland Jewish Academy offers an exceptional choice. 

Interested in learning more about PJA? Visit PJAPROUD.ORG.

5 Reasons to Choose a Community Jewish Day School

• Values-Based Education 
  Community Jewish day schools emphasize a values-based education. 

At PJA, our six middot (core values) infuse everything we do from academic programs to communications, from administrative decisions to recess time. We teach kindness, compassion, gratitude, respect, and social responsibility. From an early age, students are encouraged to engage in community service, practice kavod (respect) for themselves and others, and develop empathy for others, laying the foundation for responsible citizenship. 

• Academic Excellence
  Community Jewish day schools are known for their commitment to academic excellence. 

At PJA, our comprehensive curriculum integrates core subjects of math, science, and language arts with Jewish Studies, Hebrew language, music, arts, and wellness. Social and emotional skill development is intentionally woven into the fabric of the curriculum, helping students become capable and eager learners. 

• Forming and Building Identity
  One of the key advantages of community Jewish day schools is the integration of Jewish Studies into the curriculum and the celebration of Jewish life into the daily rhythm of the school. 

At PJA, we explore who we are, what we stand for, and what we believe. As students wrestle with ideas from ancient and modern sources, they begin to shape their own identity, identify their personal values, and discover how Jewish learning can help them find their unique voice. 

• Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention
  Community Jewish day schools typically maintain small class sizes, a significant advantage for Kindergarten to 8th grade students. 

At PJA, the average class size is 18 students in K-8 and our student to teacher ratio is 10 to 1 in the early elementary grades. Smaller classes allow teachers to provide personalized attention, differentiated instruction, and a supportive learning environment. Close teacher-student relationships are fostered, ensuring that each child receives the guidance and support they need for both academic and personal growth. 

• Inclusive Community
  Contrary to common misconceptions, many community Jewish day schools are not exclusive to Jewish students. 

At PJA, our students come from Jewish homes, multi-faith homes, secular homes, and non-Jewish homes. This diversity enriches the educational experience, teaching students the value of tolerance, respect, and appreciation for different perspectives. 

Accepting admission applications now for all grades for the 2024-25 school year. Inquire now at PJAPROUD.ORG.