Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor

Description

The Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor (HDS) is a private elementary school with a full day Kindergarten. It serves children from the entire spectrum of religious and cultural Jewish expressions, and is the only Jewish day school in Ann Arbor. The school serves many children of University of Michigan faculty and staff. Its academic curriculum follows the state and national standards. The school scores in the 90th percentile and above on standardized tests in language arts and math. HDS offers a state-of the art computer lab, superb instruction in the arts, physical education that stresses skill development and team work, and a music program that includes instrumental training (recorder and string) in the upper grades. In addition to the secular curriculum, students enjoy both the texts and texture of Judaism -- .navigating primary classical texts in Biblical Hebrew, and experiencing a rich culture through plays, musical productions, and joyous holiday celebrations. Beginning in first grade, students learn a second language in an immersion environment; they speak only modern Hebrew in the classrooms for half the day. Value education is also important to the school. Monthly themes relate to ethical behavior, civic responsibility, and tolerance, and are supported by community service projects. The teaching staff differentiate to meet the needs of each and every student. The staff is enhanced with learning and behavioral specialists. The school atmosphere is warm, caring, and family oriented; all staff know all the children by their first name. Students love coming to school, and alumni love returning to help out. Gary Court, Principal of the Tappan Ann Arbor Middle School talks about the HDS graduates that are in his school: "They distinguish themselves academically, through community service, and through the involvement of their parents,"Â Â he said. For more information, please contact the school at 734-971-4633 or check our website at www.hdsaa.org .