Why Choose
Bernard Zell?
The Bernard Zell Preschool program lays the foundation for lifelong learning in a nurturing, play-based, Reggio-inspired environment through a Jewish lens. Our focus on developmentally-appropriate practice offers children the opportunity to develop their creativity and critical thinking in an engaging and joyful setting.
Our program is meant to inspire and to be an extension of each student’s home with an emphasis on natural materials, a sense of tranquility and calm, and the ongoing involvement of the family of every child.
Why choose a jewisH education?
A Jewish early childhood program allows teachers to draw on student’s natural curiosity to be a compass for learning. Teachers “follow the child” as they celebrate Jewish holidays, learn their first Hebrew words through games and songs and feel the quiet warmth of helping a new friend.
Students in a Jewish preschool are introduced to spoken Hebrew in a natural, organic way. Through games and songs, teachers pave the foundation for daily Hebrew classes in later years. They build a positive identity through the threading of Jewish values, lessons and spoken word. These include the ideas of Gemilut Chasadim (acts of kindness) and Kavod (respect and appreciation for others and gratitude for what we have).
The study of Judaism – history, language and culture – is seamlessly woven into the day. With every step children take throughout their education, students at a Jewish preschool come to recognize essential Mitzvot, the guidelines that shape a Jewish life. They learn to take care of the earth, honor their parents, observe Shabbat (the Sabbath), and maintain an honest and just community.
The respectful and diverse exploration of Jewish studies is not just for students. This is a journey for the entire family. It allows all families—however they define their Judaism—to feel the unmistakable welcome of an extraordinary Jewish community.
Why choose Bernard Zell
for your child?
For more than 76 years, Bernard Zell has united Jewish learning and traditions with the most innovative and beneficial educational practices. We challenge our students to excel in academic subjects, athletics and the arts by encouraging their interest in ideas and their enthusiasm for discovery. Our students are problem-solvers, learning ethical behavior and self-advocacy, recognizing how actions impact those around us.
Our classrooms are complex, challenging, and exciting—just like the real world. We teach students to ask the tough questions, the ones that are often uncomfortable to answer. At a time when educators are pushing to build curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and character, Bernard Zell has shaped generations who understand the measure of their success will be if and how they make the world a better place.
We embrace our differences and support each other in academics and daily lives. We honor and celebrate meaningful Jewish occasions and personal milestones. We’re just as much a community as a school, and new community members are always welcome.
Dedicated educators partner with Jewish families with the common goal of raising children to be their best selves. We strive to cultivate curiosity, creativity, character, citizenship, responsibility and empathy. Our graduates are exceedingly well prepared for high school and life beyond, while always possessing the sense of wonder that makes each future not merely successful, but joyful.
What to expect from a Jewish Education
An education at a private Jewish day school is one that integrates critical and creative thinking, independent learning, and a thorough knowledge of Jewish practices, beliefs, and values.
From play-based Early Childhood learning, to the fundamentals and self-discovery of the Lower School, to the social, emotional and academic growth of Middle School, each year's curriculum builds on the previous year's learning, allowing students an opportunity to grow in their education and to apply what they learn in their everyday lives.
Classrooms create an exhilarating challenge of academic study and cultural immersion that changes the game for elementary school. 5,000 year-old traditions intersect with tomorrow’s technology to create extraordinary opportunities for learning. By the time students reach Middle School, the depth of service learning creates hands-on, all-in experiences. At this intersection of learning and life, students create their own Jewish identities.
It’s these daily experiences, the shared journey of parenting, and the profound commitment to children, education and Jewish values that connects our families, creates lifelong friendships and helps define the spirit of a Jewish day school.
