JDS Philosophy

Our philosophy at the Jewish Day School is simple: A cohesive whole is always so much greater than the sum of the parts.

At the Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley our approach is holistic. We synthesize rather than separate all aspects of education. The result is a synergy of the soul - a child who is a proud American and a proud Jewish citizen and who emerges from the JDS a stronger, brighter and more fulfilled individual.

The journey on the road to a life of learning comes alive as you walk through the doors of the JDS. Here you are greeted by a magnificent mosaic of the Tree of Life adorning the lobby wall. Contained within it are shards of pottery from ancient Israel, pieces of porcelain and stone from around the world, hand-crafted tiles by a parent working with a team of students. Each piece is unique and vital to the work, and each brings its own story and meaning to form a living, vibrant picture.

The mosaic wall is a microcosm of our JDS family. Imagine the pieces on the wall as stepping-stones on a path to greater learning, and walk with us as we explore the world of the Jewish Day School. Our primary kindergarten to grade 8 dual-curriculum environment provides not just an outstanding, well-rounded secular education, not just a richly fortified Jewish foundation, but a fusion of all areas of learning. Step inside a science classroom and listen for a while. A lesson on a current controversial research technique will prompt a discussion not only of the inherent science, but also how it relates to ancient Jewish law and modern Constitutional law. Walk by a language classroom and take a moment to think about how wonderful and important this is for children. Studying Hebrew, as our students do at all grade levels, creates connections across all subject boundary lines, for it is well documented that learning a second language early in life strengthens and facilitates a child’s ability to learn math and science. Stroll through the corridors and observe the projects that adorn our halls. You’ll see dioramas, poetry written by our students, artwork created in the style of the masters, bas relief maps, mini-autobiographies and maps and depictions of the United States and Israel. A strong dedication to the land and the people of Israel permeates our curricula as we strive to connect our students to the land we can always call home. The highly qualified faculty and staff possess superior levels of expertise in their fields and provide constantly stimulating and thought-provoking life lessons. Throughout their day, students enjoy an accepting and warm environment - a true community school where students and staff from all walks of life learn together.

Come back to the lobby and take another look at the magnificent Tree of Life mosaic. Stand under the branches and feel the comfort and warmth that surrounds you. Know that - like every piece contained in the artwork - each child at the JDS is unique and important. Each teacher provides a fresh and vital component to the learning process. Each staff person supports and nurtures the children. The ingredients for success are at the Jewish Day School. Let us help put all the pieces together for you and your child.