Learn more about JKHA - Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy

Defining the JKHA Difference
JOSEPH
KUSHNER
HEBREW
ACADEMY
“When our daughter speaks
about her teachers and adds,
‘Oh, I love her!’ with a huge smile,
we know she’s attending
the best school on earth.”
—JKHA parent
JOSEPH
KUSHNER
HEBREW
ACADEMY
What’s inside
About our school
3
Early Childhood
16
Lower School
20
Middle School
25
What our parents say
30
A message from our
Director of Admisions
31
Inspiring Excel l ence
ABOUT JOSEPH KUSHNER HEBREW ACADEMY
Pirkei Avot describes Torah study in a way that best characterizes
our yeshiva: ‫—הפך בה והפך בה דכלא בה‬Turn the Torah over, and
over again, for everything is within.
For more than 60 years, our Modern Orthodox, co-educational
Yeshiva has inspired children to embrace Torah study and ideals,
and strive for personal excellence, in a safe, supportive environment. Our Judaic and General Studies programs are designed to
teach students how to learn by challenging them to discover their
strengths, expand their understanding of the world, and deepen
their connection with the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
Graduates of the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and the Rae
Kushner Yeshiva High School are well prepared to take responsibility for themselves and their communities, because we encourage them to forge strong, healthy identities and to treasure their
priceless heritage.
About our school | 3
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL
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Inspiring...
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In our broader society, education today is associated with economic prosperity, and its main
utility is perceived by many as a way to sustain a competitive edge and gain social status. Jewish education, however, has a different purpose: to inspire children to embrace Torah study
and values; to motivate them to challenge themselves intellectually; to stimulate their independent thinking; and to help them develop critical thinking and social skills in a safe and
supportive environment. From Dewey to Rav Kook, wholesome and thoughtful educational philosophy emphasizes the need to teach
children how to learn, while they discover and explore realms of life that spark their curiosity and help strengthen their characters.
JKHA has deep historical roots. We are committed to academic excellence in our Judaic and General Studies programs, and value our
critical mission to partner with parents in the transmission of Torah ideals. We strive to inspire our students to discover their strengths
and to develop strong, healthy identities. We value the trust parents place in our school to impart knowledge and motivate our students,
your children, to embrace their heritage and history and assume responsibility for the world around them.
Enjoy this overview of the many wonderful facets of our school. You will find more detailed information in our Admissions package,
available when you schedule your tour of the school. We look forward to partnering with you to enhance your child’s learning experiences through our challenging and exciting school program.
Rabbi Eliezer E. Rubin
JKHA/RKYHS Head of School
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL OF JOSEPH KUSHNER HEBREW ACADEMY
At JKHA, we are passionate and proud of the high level of education that we provide in
both General and Judaic Studies. Our students are empowered to be informed and inspired American Jews. Our faculty, well-trained in differentiated instruction, guides our
students to become critical thinkers and independent learners. The faculty nurtures our
students’ spiritual growth through the study of Torah and the experiential programming
that occurs throughout N3-Grade 8. Students are challenged to reach their maximum
potential and, both in and out of the classroom, they are fully supported in developing
their strengths. Our students are encouraged to embrace Chesed opportunities and are
emboldened to think about the needs of others.
The nurturing and child-centered environment at JKHA allows us to focus on the needs of each and every student. Formal and informal assessments allow teachers to tailor their instruction, setting individual goals for each child and encouraging our students to be
comfortable taking risks. Upon entering our school, there is an immediate sense that we are a family. We create a culture of excellence
in which administrators, educators and families are all committed to the academic, emotional, religious and spiritual growth of each
child. We are at the forefront of 21st century learning and have created systems to allow our students to learn with the latest advancements in educational technology. Our students are inspired to think creatively and collaboratively through project-based learning,
critical reading, writing and STEM courses. JKHA’s Rebbeim and Morot develop strong relationships with their students and serve as
inspiring role models for religious growth in an environment that stresses excellence in learning and skill development. JKHA strives
to cultivate in our students a passion for Judaism that is manifest in a lifelong commitment to Torah study, Tefilla, respect for all people,
devotion to the State of Israel, and positive contributions to society. We look forward to welcoming you to our school family.
Debbie Finkelstein
JKHA Principal
4 | About our school
About our school | 5
What the
NJAIS Visiting
Accreditation Team
said about JKHA:
“The faculty, staff,
and administration...
are talented people
who make up a warm,
lively, and vibrant
community.”
“Students at JKHA/
RKYHS are motivated
to live and uphold the
values of the school.
They exemplify the
school’s cultivation
of individuals with a
secure sense of Jewish
identity and love of
Israel. Kushner students
handle the pressures of
a dual curriculum with
grace and aplomb.”
GENERAL INFORMATION
Accreditation Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and Rae Kushner Yeshiva High
School (JKHA/RKYHS), a Nursery 3 through twelfth grade yeshiva, is
fully accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools,
the gold standard of accreditations (www.njais.org). We are the only Orthodox school in New Jersey accredited and recognized by NJAIS, joining a respected community of elite, private New Jersey schools that meet
the standards of this national organization.
Professional Under the guidance of Dr. Rosemary Steinbaum, Dean of Instruction,
Development our faculty is continually engaged in professional growth, including staff
Our school nurse is a licensed RN, providing warm, professional care for ill
and injured students, emergency care and infection control.
At the Lower and Middle School levels, the Guidance Department gives
students the tools for success and independence. Our students enjoy the engaging interactive workshops and programs while acquiring new skills in
decision-making and social development. JKHA also staffs both a Lower
School psychologist and a Middle School psychologist.
Students have the option of bringing lunch or purchasing well-balanced and
nutritious meals, prepared by Shimtal Caterers in our mashgiach-supervised
school kitchens. Vegetarian options are always provided on days that meat is
served.
Health &
Guidance
Cafeteria &
Kashrut
JKHA has a peanut- and nut-aware policy; we do our utmost to keep the
school safe for children with peanut and tree nut allergies, but we recognize
that we cannot guarantee a completely peanut-free or tree nut-free environment. Lunches and snacks sent from home may not contain peanut butter,
peanuts or tree nuts.
development workshops, study groups, Teachers Teaching Teachers
In-Service days, and external professional growth programs. In addition,
our Mentoring and Teacher Induction program enables new staff members to benefit from the experience and expertise of veteran teachers.
“The extracurricular
program is well
developed, offering
a plethora of
opportunities for
students, especially in
the arts and in physical
education.”
6 | About our school
About our school | 7
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8 | About our school
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to the people of Israel. From Pre-K through high school, students learn
through myriad activities that Israel is our homeland, as they begin to
forge a lifelong bond with the land and State of Israel. Zionism is integrated into the three major Judaic curriculum areas: Tanach, the chagim,
and Hebrew Language. Students learn about Israel’s past and present
through daily learning and interaction with Israeli youth ambassadors
(shlichim); they also raise tzedakah for Israeli causes. Older students
proudly march in the Salute to Israel Parade in New York. By creating
a Hebrew-speaking environment and studying our Jewish heritage, we
provide students with the background necessary to feel at home in Israel.
We are very proud that on average, nearly 90% of our high school graduates spend a year after high school studying in Israel.
od
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‫ ציונות‬identify their Jewish heritage with the land of Israel and feel connected
The
Learning
Center
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eg
Zionism As a Modern Orthodox Jewish day school, our goal is for students to
The JKHA Learning Center is a multi-faceted support program which
addresses the individual learning needs of children. It creates a warm
and secure environment in which students learn effective strategies to
achieve success in the classroom. The Learning Center is a partnership
between Learning Center specialists, classroom teachers, students and
parents. Students are taught to advocate for themselves, with consistent
encouragement, multiple modalities, and effective strategies. Students
develop the confidence and skills to grow into independent, successful
learners.
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Chesed
e s e d a c ti v i ti e s
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• In
Chesed is an integral part of how we instill the belief that we must treat
everyone with respect and loving-kindness. From Nursery 3 on, students
are encouraged to give tzedakah daily. They learn that even a penny a
day can make a difference. As the students grow, they are provided with
a variety of chesed opportunities including toy drives, clothing drives,
collections for veterans, tzedakah projects, and opportunities for Bikur
Cholim. Chesed projects are integral parts of both the Judaic Studies
and General Studies programs. Learning to be a kind and caring individual is of the utmost importance to us as a school community and as
part of Klal Yisrael.
About our school | 9
OUR FACILITIES
Conveniently located in Livingston, New Jersey, JKHA’s beautiful facility is the perfect setting for our mission of inspiring academic excellence
in a Torah-centered environment. Our campus is designed to nurture
the minds, bodies and spirits of our students in equal measure: bright,
spacious, and child-centered classrooms are equipped with SMART
Boards and other technological innovations that our trained teachers use
to engage their students in all subjects; our extensive indoor and outdoor
recreational facilities let youngsters expend their energy in healthy and
constructive games; and our three serene and inspiring Batei Midrashot
encourage a sense of reverence for Tefilla and Torah learning. A sampling of planned enhancements to our facility include; brand new outdoor fields and playgrounds, a library renovation and new middle school
science labs. We encourage you to tour our school and experience for
yourself its unique educational environment.
Movement Room Suitable for both small groups and whole class activ-
ities, our movement room is equipped with a variety of play structures
that develop students’ fine and gross motor skills.
Library The JKHA library houses an impressive and cultivated collec-
tion of children’s books. Through the guidance of our full-time librarian,
students learn key library and research skills. The warm, friendly ambiance sets the tone for developing a lifelong love of literature.
At JKHA, we incorporate STEM concepts across our curriculum. While STEM is an ongoing part of our science and math curriculum, this year we have also created the JKHA Makerspace to allow our
students to explore in an environment that is not connected to classes
or grades. In our Makerspace, students work together, solving problems
with guidance rather than detailed instruction, preparing them for the
future in a less structured environment than the typical classroom. Students use tools and materials including copper tape, LEDs, Snap Circuits, Little Bits and coin cell batteries to address electricity challenges;
tape, cardboard, plastic and scissors to build marble mazes; iPads and
computers to create stop motion animation and design 3D projects for
printing on our 3D printer, to mention just a few of our exciting materials and projects.
STEM
10 | About our school
Computer Labs To teach students the computer skills so crucial in the
digital age, JKHA offers two computer labs. In the CIJE Computer Lab,
under the guidance of our Educational Technologist, students use a variety of individualized self-monitoring programs including SuccessMaker, AriotCal and Waterford. Our second computer lab is equipped with
24 computers and a SMART Board, where students are provided with
hands-on experience in Microsoft Office software, including Word,
PowerPoint and Publisher.
Our auditorium, seating around 600, is equipped with a
state-of-the-art soundboard, lighting system and full-size screen. This
beautiful facility is the setting for school plays, assemblies, lectures and
special performances.
Auditorium
JKHA/RKYHS has two fully equipped gymnasiums,
an indoor floor hockey rink, exercise room, and outdoor sports courts,
where students of all levels learn game skills and the value of sportsmanship and teamwork. Equipment includes basketballs, footballs, parachutes, scooters, volleyballs, soccer balls, scoops, pins, rackets, and much
more. The Lower School playground offers younger children a variety of
play structures on a soft surface.
Recreational
The Klatt Beit Midrash is one of three Batei Midrash
located in our building. In addition to the daily Shacharit minyan for
Middle School students, Lower School students use this stunning space,
designed by an Israeli artist, for religious assemblies or gatherings, examine Sifrei Torah and learn to identify key aspects of a shul or place of
worship.
Beit Midrash
OUR PARENTS
We are proud to partner with parents in offering the best day school education possible. Our hard-working Parent-Teacher Council raises funds
to make possible many of our special programs, and our PTC members
welcome new parents to join their ranks. Many other volunteer opportunities are available, such as serving lunch in the cafeteria, donating
special artistic talents, heading up committees, or giving the students
glimpses of professions or avocations. The children are always very proud
to see their parents giving of their time to benefit the school.
About our school | 11
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
JKHA is different than any other school you will consider for your child. Our students are participants in active,
inquiry-based learning that encourages curiosity, fosters both critical and creative thinking, and instills a lifelong love of learning. At JKHA, our core values drive our educational philosophy. We believe each child is entitled to a Jewish education that will be the basis for a love of Judaism; academic rigor that will lay a foundation
for high school, college, and beyond; the chance to develop individual interests; the satisfaction of achieving
personal goals; and rich, fulfilling friendships that promote healthy social development.
JKHA students come to school
excited to learn and grow. That’s
because every day, they’re actively
involved in an academic adventure
that cultivates curiosity, instills
self-confidence, and encourages creativity. Because
our faculty carefully balances traditional classroom
learning with hands-on activities and small-group
differentiated instruction, our students are constantly engaged. Classrooms are state-of-the-art,
with SMART Board lessons that make classwork
dynamic and interactive. But our most valuable asset is our teachers, who continuously oversee, observe assess and invest in each student, ensuring
that every child achieves success.
Throughout this book you will find more information on the benefits that JKHA offers in these areas:
TORAH VALUES
When children begin their day by
davening, and continue it immersed
in an environment rich with Torah values, they develop strong and
healthy Jewish identities. Our teachers model midot tovot while engaging young learners in lively activities, using multiple modalities, that
instill a lasting love for Judaism. The Ivrit immersion
program builds a solid Hebrew-language foundation
along with great pride in Israel. Parsha lessons, Chumash and Navi all come alive with special programs
that make the children active participants in their
learning, and Shabbat programs build a sense of excitement on a weekly basis. The cycle of chagim is
enhanced with activities that build anticipation and
encourage interaction at every level of learning.
12 | About our school
ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Experiential enrichment is a hallmark of JKHA. The use of creative
instruction that employs varied
modalities allows students multiple ways to absorb the subject matter. Our teachers ask questions that encourage our
youngest learners to go from concrete to abstract
thinking. As they grow and progress, they are challenged to think deeply and critically. Educational
technology is integrated into every grade for both
General and Judaic Studies. Our full-time librarian spends time with students of every age, whether
in an interactive story presentation to the Nursery 3
students, or teaching Middle School students how
to properly use and cite their sources for a research
paper.
About our school | 13
For the first grade Siddur play, students memorize lines and put on a show
to celebrate receiving their very first Siddurim.
PERSONAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
MARKING MILESTONES
At JKHA, we encourage each student
to find his or her own unique voice,
beginning in the earliest years, where
they learn to journal along with how
to write. As they grow, they channel
their experiences in creative and constructive outlets
for self-expression, whether through storytelling, art,
music, or a special academic talent such as debate or
math. From learning to press olives into oil at Chanukah, to participating in a drum circle, we seek out the
most innovative special programs available, and we
love seeing the students’ excitement as they partake.
We provide healthy releases for their boundless physical energy, with a wide variety of games in our fully
equipped gymnasium and the climbing structures on
our soft-surface playground, where they can stretch
their bodies as well as their minds. Special Bar and
Bat Mitzvah programs enhance this milestone in the
lives of the Middle Schoolers.
Lower School students celebrate milestones with
special performances. As they advance, they increase
their control over the content and presentation.
The Nursery 3 class will be presenting its first annual End-of-Year show to
mark the young learners’ year of new experiences and their move to Pre-K.
Students begin to learn Chumash in preparation for their milestone and
receiving their own Chumashim.
The Pre-K Chanukah Show and End-of-Year show demonstrate the social and
emotional growth of the children and showcase their emerging sense of self.
The third grade Chanukah play is performed for the entire school as well as
an audience of proud parents and grandparents.
The Kindergarten Purim Presentation and End-of-Year Show both give
families a glimpse of the Kindergarten learning process.
The fourth grade play, written and directed by the students themselves, is
an adaptation of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat.”
SOCIAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
School is not only a place to learn,
but also a social laboratory where
children learn how to be responsible
members of a community. Our students learn not only to express themselves freely, but to listen actively and respectfully to
the ideas and opinions of others. Our teachers serve
as role models for kindness and caring. We frequently offer multi-grade activities and programs so that
the children are engaged with the larger community,
rather than just their classroom. As they develop confidence and a sense of belonging to Klal Yisrael, they
find themselves empowered to lead, learn, and make
a difference in the world.
14 | About our school
About our school | 15
Nursery 3
Features and benefits
EARLY CHILDHOOD
The Early Education Program is enriched through a stimulating learning environment where children have the opportunity to explore, discover and cultivate new experiences. Students develop a love of Torah and Jewish values as
they begin their journey towards learning about the alphabet, numbers, colors,
shapes, language, vocabulary, and life skills. All of these support the students
as they evolve socially and emotionally.
UC
N
ATIO
NURSERY 3
EARLY
ED
first steps
JKHA’s youngest learners in Nursery 3 are guided and supported as they
reach critical academic and developmental milestones. Children are nurtured
through songs, listening and re-enacting stories, painting, shared group and
individual projects as well as the use of specifically designed hands-on centers
in the classroom. These centers foster opportunities for imagination and experimentation while enhancing receptive and auditory development, giving
our young learners the opportunity to practice and develop crucial social skills.
n Student interest-driven centers
H
TS
n Building a love of Israel
HIG H
LI G
n Participating in Jewish traditions
n Alphabet Show-and-Share
The prominent Mitzvah
Tree in the classroom
provides a constant
and concrete visual reminder of
the centrality of mitzvot for our
youngest students. When a student does a mitzvah, the whole
class participates in singing: “___
did a mitzvah today. Hooray!” The
visual and auditory reinforcement
combine to encourage positive
behavior by recognizing and
acknowledging mitzvot.
Each student looks forward to his/her turn to
be picked to update the
class calendar. The student tells
the class the month, day and year,
then points to each number, and
the class counts along to determine the date. This activity builds
language and counting skills as
well as comfort level with class
participation.
Our teachers use number games to create a
sense of fun while introducing basic math skills. The
teacher adjusts the “game” to appropriately meet and challenge
each child.
Our
class bulletin
boards reflect children’s
individual and/or group
artwork for holidays and/or specific units of study, instilling a sense
of pride and accomplishment
by seeing their artwork displayed.
At weekly Show and
Share time, students
have the opportunity to bring something in for the
featured letter of the week. They
share three characteristics of the
object with the class. This helps
students build their language
skills, learn to talk in front of a
group, and take ownership of
their learning.
16 | Early Childhood
Early Childhood | 17
Pre-Kindergarten
Features and benefits
PRE-KINDERGARTEN
n Exposure to Aleph-Bet using SMART Board games
LI G
Using food coloring,
the children experiment
with mixing primary
colors to create secondary colors, and then paint rainbows for
Parshat Noach. Art using different media is often used to add
a tactile and multi-sensory dimension to the subject matter.
Working in smaller
groups for calendar
and group projects, as
well as being the Leader for the
Week, enables children to feel
comfortable sharing their ideas
while building confidence and
self esteem.
18 | Early Childhood
UC
N
ATIO
KINDERGARTEN
n Balanced Literacy
EARLY
ED
HIG H
n Parsha projects
n Alphabet study
n English and Hebrew Word Wall
Kindergarten
Features and benefits
Each week students act out
the story of the Parshat
Hashavua and get a feel for
what it was like to live in the times of
the Torah. Through role-playing, the
children internalize the lessons
and the mitzvot taught by each Parsha, leading to a much deeper understanding of the material.
In each lesson, teachers ask
questions that elicit both
concrete and abstract
thinking, and encourage daily observations. Through small-group activities, whole-class lessons, and independent work, students are engaged
in active discovery and review.
When teaching Hebrew or
English, teachers vary their
instruction using differentiated methods and modalities
throughout the week. Whether it’s
using their bodies to make letters,
or working in pairs for extra practice,
each child is moving at his or her own
pace, and feeling a strong sense of
achievement. Working in small groups
each day affords the teachers the
chance to observe each child’s unique
learning style and cater to independent academic achievements.
n Me Museum
TS
TS
n Problem-solving
Judaic Studies immerses the Kindergarten students in emergent Hebrew
literacy and writing skills with the Migdalor program. The Hebrew program focuses not only on developing letter recognition but also on building Hebrew vocabulary. By learning in a Jewish environment, students
are engaged in activities connected to Bible stories, chagim and Shabbat observances. Weekly Shabbat activities and holiday projects partner
home and school celebrations. Our Kindergarten children learn foundational concepts in a dynamic Jewish environment.
H
N
ATIO
UC
H
Students are engaged
in iterative lessons incorporating visual, auditory, kinesthetic and tactile
methods to better understand
and apply pre-literacy skills in
English and Hebrew.
ED
With
center-based
learning, students get
hands-on experiences
by participating in various educational centers, developing gross
and fine motor skills and language. Teachers support students
in these centers and help them
navigate dialogue with their
peers and social interactions.
In Pre-Kindergarten, the classroom community focuses on the emotional, social and spiritual development of each child through Torah values
and modeling behavior. Our curriculum provides a full integration of
Judaic and General Studies, with an emphasis on pride in Jewish identity
and familiarity with rituals and traditions. Children in Pre-K begin to
identify letters of the Hebrew alphabet and use and understand Hebrew
words through a hands-on approach. In General Studies, students focus on pre-literacy skills such as letter recognition and corresponding
sounds and vocabulary. By using the Handwriting Without Tears program, children are able to develop their fine and gross motor skills while
also engaging in self and teacher directed writing opportunities. Children also focus on number concepts and patterns, and on the natural and
social environments.
EARLY
Mitzvah
Journaling
and singing Hatikvah reinforce positive
behaviors and build self-esteem. Students develop an enthusiasm for doing mitzvot that
will last a lifetime.
The Kindergarten program builds on a young learners foundational academic skills. The learning environment is enriched by students engaging
in whole-class lessons and differentiated groups. The literacy curriculum
emphasizes pre-reading skills, word recognition skills, oral and written
vocabulary, and writing skills. Exposure to leveled books, read-alouds
and nonfiction and fiction text provides emergent readers with a repertoire of ways to appreciate and understand literature. Through hands-on
experiences in mathematics, students solve simple word problems, learn
number concepts, and use the calendar to recognize patterns. Science is
a dynamic and interactive program exploring life cycles and the natural
world, while Social Studies focuses on values from home, school and
country.
HIG H
LI G
n Model Seder
n SMART Table
Each student’s opinion and
voice is valued through our
“All About Me” program.
As the “star” of the week, students
become comfortable sharing things
about themselves, while learning
how to be active listeners when it’s
someone else’s turn. They learn about
the members of their classroom community and build an appreciation
of their classmates while identifying similarities and differences.
School-wide
activities
such as Election Day, Veterans Day, 100th’s Day, Chanukah and Thanksgiving allow children to make deeper connections to
what has been taught in the classroom, generalize previously taught
skills, and build a connection to the
greater school community. Early Childhood | 19
First Grade
Features and benefits
LOWER SCHOOL
GRADES 1-4
Our first-grade Judaics curriculum uses the Tal Am program to introduce Hebrew reading, Tefillah, and parsha study. Students continuously
build upon reading skills, attaining basic fluency. Classes study the stories of the Parsha and the chagim, connecting students to fundamental
Torah values, Jewish ideas and practices.
R
SC
HOOL
FIRST GRADE
LO W
E
strong foundations
Students in first grade continue to develop their literacy skills while
using McGraw-Hill’s Treasure program. Rich instruction in phonics,
high-frequency words, deepening comprehension skills, and writing development enhance the language arts program. Our Math In Focus program develops their understanding of place value, addition and subtraction, with daily application in real-life word problems. In social studies,
students explore the concept of family through a multicultural study of
families around the world. Our science curriculum gives students the
opportunity for hands-on exploration and observation, leading them to
form hypotheses about weather, solids, and liquids.
n Election Day
H
TS
n Chanukah Extravaganza
HIG H
LI G
n Kabbalat Shabbat
Teachers model Torah values, and students are rewarded for displaying values of kindness and respect to their
classmates. Children internalize the
teachings of the Torah, and see themselves as links in our Mesorah. Our
teachers create a classroom community that reinforces the tenets of caring
for fellow Jews and being responsible for one another.
Our Ivrit immersion environment engages children with different modalities. With AriotCal, an
internet-based adaptive program,
children work at their own pace, and
the program automatically adds
enrichment and modifications to
strengthen student understanding.
In one project-based learning experience, students
construct models of both
a modern-day shelter and a pilgrim
shelter. The children work collaboratively in a group, build problem-solving skills, and apply their knowledge
in practical ways. The variety of skills
required allows each type of learner
to shine, and the self-directed experience gives students the chance to
think outside the box.
n Grade-Wide Thanksgiving Feast and Celebration
While studying the elements of a story, students
create a class Mandala to
represent the different components.
This activity requires that children first
synthesize the information, and then
think creatively about how to organize and present it in a new way.
During journal writing,
children are able to freely
express their ideas and
feelings. Once their work is
completed, the author (student) sits
in the “Author’s Chair” and classmates
give feedback. Students work hard
to build a classroom community that
encourages diverse opinions and
facilitates the respectful exchange
of ideas.
20 | Lower School
Lower School | 21
Second Grade
Third Grade
Features and benefits
HOOL
SECOND GRADE
n Thanksgiving Fair
n Field Trip to Colonial Museum
While engaging in a unit on
personal narratives, children craft a paragraph, working through the mechanical stages
of the writing process while developing their own unique voices. As they
present their story to their classmates,
each child is empowered to express
thoughts and feelings in an individual way.
22 | Lower School
LI G
HOOL
THIRD GRADE
n English and Hebrew Learning Buddies
n Veterans Day
n Chanukah iPad Puppet Pals
TS
HIG H
n Model Seder
R
SC
H
H
In preparation for Pesach,
students make an interactive Haggadah. Each section
provides opportunities for
children and parents to ask questions
and give answers as they hold up signs
labeled “shailah” and “teshuvah.” Parents and children partner together
to share in this learning experience created by the teachers.
The third grade Judaic Studies curriculum focuses on developing Chumash
and Ivrit skills while equipping students with the tools to become independent learners. As students progress in their study of Chumash, they further
their comprehension skills and identify the differences between dialogue and
narratives. They begin studying Rashi’s commentaries and learn to read Rashi
script. Lessons in Hebrew grammar are stressed and woven into both Chumash and Ivrit units. Units dealing with the weekly Parsha emphasize real-life
applications of our religious ideals, while each Rosh Chodesh serves as a model for the practical and spiritual events in the Jewish calendar.
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Third graders become increasingly more autonomous learners, while simultaneously learning to work collaboratively with peers. In language arts, students
expand their understanding of fiction and non fiction by investigating texts
as well as the introduction of novel studies appropriate to their level. Through
daily writing, they hone their skills in expanding and editing their work. Singapore math methodology in the Math in Focus curriculum is used to explore
arithmetic operations, new number concepts and fractions; students solve
problems using a variety of strategies. In science, children use the scientific
process and laboratory sessions to explore animal habitats, states of matter and
sound. The social studies curriculum is an in-depth investigation of different
types of communities, including the social, economic and geographical features of rural, urban and suburban communities.
LO W
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Every curriculum is designed
with resources that reflect
a diverse community of
learners. Leveled reading and math
groups and homework, as well as an
online leveled reading and math program called SuccessMaker, all combine
to ensure that every child’s academic
needs are met.
In Judaic Studies, second grade students continue to build their Ivrit skills
and begin a formal introduction to Torah study. Students learn to navigate the
Chumash, recognize new words and extrapolate meaning through contextual
clues. They encounter the morals exhibited by our forefathers and foremothers
so that they may learn from their life stories. In addition, Shabbat serves as a
starting point for teaching Jewish practices as it relates to the Jewish calendar.
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Students are assessed in
multiple ways that demonstrate conceptual understanding. At the end of a science unit
on balance, for example, students use
their acquired knowledge to build a
balanced mobile out of straw, paper
clips and pieces of paper. Through trial
and error, they learn that mistakes
are simply a part of the learning
process.
Second graders build on earlier foundations in a nurturing, collaborative
learning environment. They increase their literacy skills and fluency with a
focus on phonics, vocabulary and comprehension skills, and collaborate in
small groups on more complex writing pieces. The Math in Focus program
builds understanding of numbers, expanding their addition/subtraction skills
and introducing multiplication. Students construct scientific knowledge and
skills about balancing and weighing and changes in matter through hands-on,
inquiry based experimentation. The social studies curriculum centers around
using informational texts to better understand concepts of long ago. Students
learn map skills and compare Native Americans, Colonial life and the life of
children living during Colonial times with present day. LO W
After reading the book The
Hundred Dresses, students
organize a drive to provide
clothing to those who can’t afford to
buy their own. By bringing the concept
embodied in the story to a real-world
chesed project, children experience
the joy of giving to others in need.
Features and benefits
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HIG H
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n Community Study
n Cities in Israel
Class Dojo encourages
children to participate by
offering them points for
their involvement. In addition, teachers continually offer
warm reassurance and support,
so that all children feel comfortable being active members of
the classroom community. Children see themselves as extensions
of our Avot and try to emulate the
behaviors they learn about in the
Torah.
Our Ivrit immersion
program employs flashcards, posters, stories,
and songs. Children enjoy conversational Hebrew opportunities and collaborative writing
assignments. The SMART Board
facilitates the reinforcement of
concepts and ideas and allows
teachers to continuously assess
student growth.
Formative Assessment
allows students to have
diverse means of expressing understanding,
while giving the teacher the opportunity to assess their gains.
During daily writing prompts,
students work independently on
applying new writing strategies,
while teachers review their
practice and make any necessary adjustments to their curriculum, based on student need.
Every year, a Shaliach
comes from Israel to inspire additional passion
and excitement about
the Jewish state. Third graders
welcome the prospect of bringing Israeli culture and Hebrew language into their classroom. In the unit on Communities, children work in
small groups where each
member plays a critical role. This
assignment fosters independence
and accountability, and facilitates
appropriate and collaborative
communication among peers.
Lower School | 23
Fourth Grade
Features and benefits
Fourth grade at JKHA is a transitional year, in which students are encouraged to become increasingly self-directed in their learning. In literacy, students continue to use a balanced literacy approach as well as novel
studies. Richer text allows for differentiated instruction to be developed,
focusing on vocabulary and more sophisticated comprehension strategies. Students delve into informational texts in order to study content
areas. The Math in Focus program provides the students with extensive real-world problem-solving opportunities using the skills attained
in their study of whole numbers, fractions and decimals. They explore
geometric concepts including lines, angles, perimeter and symmetry, and
analyze data. In social studies, students explore geographic, political,
historical and social concepts related to their study of the State of New
Jersey. The science curriculum provides the students with an in-depth
study of topics related to electricity and circuits as well as microorganisms and microscopes.
Whether visiting Avraham’s Tent to learn about
hachnasat orchim or trekking through the hallways to escape
Pharaoh in a re-enactment of Yetziat Mitzrayim, students are engaged
in multisensory and participatory
experiences to internalize Torah
lessons in exciting and memorable
ways.
The Navi curriculum is composed of text-based learning
and innovative “Lego PowerPoint presentations.” Fourth graders
use outlines to write Hebrew summaries on the chapters of the Navi. The
creative curriculum fosters a love for
the Hebrew language, connection to
the land of Israel, and a strong connection with Biblical texts.
The fourth-grade Judaics curriculum focuses on adding new Ivrit and
Chumash skills while furthering the development of the independent
learner. Hebrew composition is an important part of the Ivrit curriculum. Students work in their Hebrew “album,” composing creative
writing pieces on a weekly basis. The Chumash curriculum emphasizes
higher-order thinking, asking students to make inferences, predictions,
and connections between events as they study the text along with the
commentaries of Rashi. In addition, they begin the study of Navi focusing specifically on Sefer Yehoshua, as well as an introduction to Nach as
a whole.
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HOOL
FOURTH GRADE
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n Math Olympiad
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n Native American Research Report
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In the unit on Native Americans, students flex their
higher-order thinking skills.
After honing their research skills with
a number of library modules, fourth
graders are equipped to summarize, quote and cite resources for
their presentations, which comprise
both a written report and an artistic
presentation on Native American life.
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In both General and Judaic Studies, children learn in
small groups which require active engagement. Tests
and worksheets are differentiated to
engage students with enough support or enrichment so that each child
can successfully master material and
demonstrate knowledge on his or
her own level.
moving towards maturity
HIG H
LI G
n Kosher Sukkah Project
n Midah Lunch and Learn Program
With “Kitah Daled Parshanim” (fourth grade commentators), students share
their own opinions in a stressfree and positive way. Students learn
that just as there are hundreds of commentators who share their thoughts
on the same pasuk, they too can share
their thoughts. Children appreciate
that their voice is heard and that
their opinions matter.
24 | Lower School
Middle School | 25
Middle School
Features and benefits
Our students go above and
beyond in Torah learning
with programs such as Midot, Mishna & Marshmallows, Parsha
& Popcorn, Mishmar, Mishna Club,
and Torah Bowl. Our programs are
overwhelmingly popular: 90% of
the fifth graders came to learn extra
Mishna to prepare for further study of
Torah Sheba’al Peh, and all students
in grades 6-8 voluntarily participated in last year’s Parsha & Popcorn
program.
Our math classes regularly
incorporate problem-solving activities which develop
essential critical thinking skills. We
use projects and open-ended problem solving to demonstrate how the
math learned in class connects to real
life. Nothing makes our math teachers
happier than when students come in
and tell them how they applied classroom concepts to solve a problem
they encountered the real world.
Our Debate team consistently places in the top third
in competitions. Members
learn logical fallacies and rhetorical
techniques for the reasoned exchange of ideas.
Our annual Anti-Lashon
Hara campaign kicks off
each year with students
wearing yellow to signify
slowing down to think about their
speech. They sign up on giant yellow posters for hours in which they
commit to not speaking lashon hara;
Judaic Studies faculty complement
the campaign by covering the Chofetz
Chaim’s laws of proper speech.
The Second Steps program
for fifth graders focuses
on developing empathy.
The students learn how responding appropriately to parents,
peers and teachers enhance and improves their interactions. They also
learn specific stress management
techniques to deal with anxiety
and emotions.
26 | Middle School
GRADE 5
GRADES 6-8: JUDAIC STUDIES
Building on the formative learning years of the Lower School, the JKHA
Middle School faculty is dedicated to their roles as both academic instructors
and mentors. They nurture students’ commitment to a life of Torah and a
love for the land of Israel. In addition to our rigorous departmentalized dual
curriculum, we have informal educational programming designed to stimulate students’ emotional and religious growth while fostering their increased
independence and responsibility. In every learning scenario, we create opportunities for students to work together collaboratively and to take on leadership
roles. Upon graduation, our students are ready to meet the demanding challenges of high school and soar to greater academic heights.
The sixth through eighth grade Judaic studies classes are separated by gender.
Seventh and eighth graders have combined Judaic studies classes which allows
the school to offer three or four levels of study.
Fifth grade at the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy serves as the transitional
bridge between the Lower School and Middle School. The dynamic and interactive learning environment, which integrates technological resources, is
designed to pique students’ curiosity about the world. Our balanced literacy
curriculum includes both fiction and nonfiction texts, as well as creative, persuasive and expository writing. In math, fifth graders solve problems related
to fractions, decimals, and percentages; they also explore measurement as well
as geometric concepts. Social Studies includes an in-depth research project
into the legacy of a historical person discussed within the context of the year’s
curriculum pertaining to ancient civilizations of Greece and the Near East.
Within the project, students employ research, technology and critical thinking skills. In science, students use the scientific method to explore human
body systems, nutrition and the properties of matter.
The Judaic Studies curriculum enables students to engage in independent
study. Fifth graders delve into the story of the Shemot to understand its crucial role in our formation as a nation. They begin to learn Mishna Masechet
Brachot. In Ivrit, Hebrew conversation and writing are emphasized to increase
student independence, including preparation of the weekly Parsha. The students use the skills acquired in fourth grade as they work alone and in chevruta, empowering themselves as active learners.
The sixth grade Chumash and Navi curricula encompass the study of Bamidbar and Shmuel Alef, respectively. The seventh/eighth grade Chumash
curriculum alternates between the study of the second half of Bamidbar and
Devarim, while the Navi curriculum alternates yearly between the books of
Shmuel Bet and Melachim Alef. In each class, analysis of the structure of
the Hebrew text increases linguistic proficiency. Students also reflect on the
characters’ actions and resulting events, discussing what lessons can be derived
and applied to their own lives.
Students also have classes that focus on the Torah Sheb’al Peh or the Oral
Law. Sixth grade students review the concepts of Torah Sheb’al Peh and the
Mesorah, the tradition that has been passed from generation to generation.
Concepts include detailed law as well as core Jewish values. Students focus on
daily mitzvot as well as the moadim and life-cycle events. They also focus on
the study of mishnayot in Masechet Berachot which relates to blessings and
prayer.
In seventh and eighth grade, a two-year Talmud program introduces the requisite skills for understanding Talmud. Students are introduced to the layout
of a daf of the Vilna Shas, the standard for the Talmudic text. They gain introductory Talmudic tools and vocabulary words that enable their development
as self-sufficient learners. During the first year in this cycle, students learn the
fourth chapter of Masechet Berachot, which discusses Shacharit, Mincha and
Maariv. In the second year, students focus on the second chapter of Masechet
Bava Metzia, which deals with the laws of returning lost items.
Middle School
Features and benefits
We offer a weekly Tefillah exploration class that
deepens Middle Schoolers’
understanding of and appreciation for davening. Students
who participate demonstrate enhanced sincerity in davening as a
result. Students actively participate as
leaders in davening.
Cross-disciplinary projects
abound as students are encouraged to make connections across their fields of
study. Teachers routinely partner to
create projects that use the skills and
information gained in one class to
support their academic inquiry in another. For example, while exploring
the topic of slavery in a Judaic Studies class, students pen a newspaper
in a Language Arts class from the
firsthand perspective of those who
were once enslaved. Our students consistently
perform well in the annual
Scholastic Writing Competition, which is integrated
into the language arts curriculum. A
large percentage of our students
receive high-ranking placement
certificates.
Our interactive Bar Mitzvah program prepares
students who are about to
reach this important milestone with
an up-close look at tefillin production, hands-on tzitzit making, hagbah training, and a conversation
with an inspiring local chazzan.
Our BRAVE program
teaches students in grades
6-8 that the entire community shares responsibility for combating bullying, and gives students
specific strategies for responding
to bullying. The Digital Citizenship
program trains students in grades
5-8 on internet safety, including social media, safety precautions in sharing private information online, and
the permanency of what they post
online.
Middle School | 27
Middle School
Features and benefits
Students participate in
chesed activities throughout the year. From giving a
local shul a thorough cleaning to making Tomchei Shabbat
packages for needy families, innovative opportunities engage our students in Tikun Olam.
Our Chumash Vocabulary
League competition generates great excitement
each year. As students vie to demonstrate fluency in 250+ shorashim
commonly found in the Tanach, their
comprehension of the text improves
dramatically. At the end of the “season,” division winners compete onstage for the titles of League Champions and League Leaders. Students
develop team accountability and
establish a strong foundation for
Chumash learning.
Eighth graders participate in
the Names Not Numbers©
oral history project. They
film interviews with local Holocaust
survivors, then edit the footage into
a professional documentary. They
make personal connections with
the survivors and gain profound insights into how the Holocaust affected real people.
STUDENT LIFE
GRADES 6-8: GENERAL STUDIES
The language arts curriculum for sixth through eighth grades is a literature-based program designed to encourage reading comprehension and mastery of the writing process. Students read works of increasing complexity in a
variety of genres, and teachers use project-based learning activities, technology, journal projects, and creative writing projects to enhance student engagement. In addition, newspaper and magazine articles are used to improve the
reading comprehension skills necessary for success on standardized tests.
Middle School math teachers build on previous concepts to ensure in-depth
understanding, and model real-world applications. Students learn to integrate
both new and previous skills in problem-solving. Upon graduation from Middle
School, students will have a strong foundation in algebra as well as competency
in using a variety of problem-solving techniques, including using strategic solutions for word problems and estimating the reasonableness and effectiveness of
solutions, for proficiency in standardized exams and other kinds of tests.
Eighth graders with a local Holocaust survivor whose story they filmed for the Names Not Numbers©
oral history project (see sidebar at left).
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The science curriculum at the Middle School introduces students to the scientific principles of the world we live in. Sixth graders focus on Earth Science, while seventh graders examine all forms of life—from single-celled life
to complex systems—to determine the relationship of each organism to its
ecosystem. Eighth graders explore the scientific principles underpinning the
physical world. The role of science in society is emphasized, as is the importance of critical thinking and experimentation to all branches of knowledge.
Engaged by a rich variety of science experiments, both individual and collaborative, students also develop critical social and communication skills.
Our social studies program illuminates the connections between personal identity and the history of humankind. In sixth grade, students investigate the civilizations of the Indus River Valley, China, and Rome, in addition to a survey
of the Byzantine Empire, Islam, and the early civilizations of the Americas.
Students examine simultaneously the role of the Jewish people during those
eras. Seventh graders examine American history from the colonial era to the
Civil War, learning how historical events both influence and impact the social
landscape. In the eighth grade, students investigate United States history from
the post-Civil War era to the period after World War II, including specific units
of study concerning: industrialization, World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the
Great Depression and the New Deal, World War II, and the Cold War.
■■ Writing Club
■■ Torah Bowl
■■ Debate Team
■■ Choir
■■ E2K Club
■■ Math Lunch & Learn
■■ Mishmar
■■ Parsha & Popcorn
■■ Mishna Club
■■ Drama Club
■■ Art Club
ATHLETICS
■■ Girls Hockey
■■ Boys Hockey
■■ Girls Basketball
■■ Boys Basketball
■■ Girls Track
■■ Boys Track
■■ Girls Swimming
■■ Boys Swimming
CURRICULAR ENHANCEMENTS
■■ 5th Grade Curriculum Based Trip
■■ 5th Grade Legacy Project
■■ 6th Grade Curriculum Based Trip
■■ 7th Grade Philadelphia Trip
■■ 8th Grade Washington, D.C. Trip
Our Bat Mitzvah program
helps sixth grade girls understand the significance
of becoming a Bat Mitzvah and their
enhanced role in the larger Jewish
community. The program includes
inspirational female speakers who
discuss balancing their professional,
family, and communal roles. The Judaic Studies faculty conducts an indepth study of women in Tanach,
and the lessons that can be gleaned
from each of these role models.
■■ Toy Car Project
■■ Election Day Mitzvah Mania
■■ Israeli Pen Pals
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
■■ Student Council
■■ Yamim Noraim Inspiration
■■ Engaging Chol Hamoed Sukkot
Programming
■■ Grade-Wide Shabbatonim with Rebbeim and Morot
The DARE (Drug Abuse
Resistance Education) program not only teaches our
eighth graders critical life skills in resisting peer pressure, but also provides a valuable personal connection
to members of the Livingston Police
Department.
■■ 8th Grade Yachad Shabbaton
■■ 7th Grade Boys/Girls Shabbaton
■■ Chanukah Chesed Trips
■■ Color War
■■ Israel Celebrations
■■ Purim Carnival
■■ Kochavei Kushner Talent Show
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Sandra Blank
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I look forward to welcoming your family.
•••
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Please contact the Admissions Office to schedule a tour of our
school and receive our Admissions packet with more detailed
information. Of course, we are always available to answer any
additional questions you may have.
JKHA/RKYHS Director of Admissions
& Community Relations
•
30 | What our parents say
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We would like to thank you for taking the time to
meet us this morning. We feel confident that our
daughter is in great hands at your school.
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I just want to thank you all for the Shabbat
celebrations that you had in school today;
watching the video and seeing the excitement
in the children was so wonderful. I believe that
special activities like these will have a genuine
and lasting effect on our kids as they get older
and we try to make sure they keep Shabbat.
Love of learning is a hallmark of Judaism, and parents have a
right to expect the highest standards of academic excellence for
their children. Providing value for your investment in your family’s education is a priority for our school. To that end, we have
assembled an innovative and comprehensive affordability and
growth program. Our commitment to achieving excellence in
an affordable environment is evident in our parents’ satisfaction
with our school and our enrollment growth. Choosing a school
for your child is one of the most important decisions you will
ever make, and we are confident that JKHA will be that school.
It would be our privilege to partner with you in shaping the next
generation of young Jewish leaders.
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We were so delighted to hear this description of our
daughter’s work. Both her academic achievement, as well
as her leadership skills make us so proud, so thank you
for sharing. I know you were absolutely instrumental in
inspiring her interest in science last year, something I am so
glad to see continue into this year. Thank you so much
for all you do to make the class room an exciting and
creative environment. You are truly a remarkable teacher.
I just had to write to let you know how happy we are
with JKHA. Our children started Pre-K and N3 this fall. Both
sets of teachers have been incredible and our children are
coming home singing new songs, saying brachot and are
happy to share what they’ve done and learned in school!
We are so pleased with the Morot. Our son was under the
weather today and had to stay home; by 9am, his class was
on the phone singing “refuah shlema” to him. It was so
sweet.
JKHA/RKYHS creates a safe space for each child to develop a
strong foundation in our traditions while acquiring the skill sets
needed to succeed in the modern world. Whether in a science
class or a model Seder, on field trips spanning apple farms to
the local zoo, creating and performing their own scripts for a
class play or competing in Math Olympiad, the JKHA student
is continually learning and constantly discovering.
•••
Emails such as yours have led us to conclude that
moving our son from his previous school
to JKHA was the right move.
I love getting photos from school
to see what’s going on and
to share with her grandparents.
I am collecting them
all for a scrapbook one day!
Each day, I have the privilege of witnessing a completely committed and dedicated faculty infusing our students with an inspiring education. I see children’s faces that are illuminated and
engaged by an atmosphere of inquiry-based learning and stimulating lessons. The classes are designed to meet each child where
he or she is, and enhance their own learning opportunities. Our
teachers get to know each child as a cherished individual, and
tailor learning, both in and out of the classroom, to enable each
student to achieve his or her personal best.
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Thank you so much as always for the
beautiful newsletter, and for the extraspecial cards we received from our
daughter’s friends. She could hardly wait
to show us the cards and looked over
them many times, beaming. Creating
community is one of the many wonderful
things that happens in JKHA classrooms;
these kids are so lucky to be gaining from
more than just the standard curriculum.
When our daughter speaks about her teachers and adds, “Oh, I
love her” with a huge smile, we know she’s attending the best
school on earth. We are forever grateful for JKHA!
A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR OF
ADMISSIONS & COMMUNITY RELATIONS
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On Friday night my family attended the Machon
Hamikdash presentation at our shul.
Our son had his hand raised for every question
posed and was able to answer accurately.
At one point the presenter looked at him and
asked “How do you know all the answers?”
He responded, “I heard you speak at
Kushner on Thursday.” The presenter smiled
and, in front of all in attendance, he said “ You
have made my whole trip worthwhile.” I am sharing this nachat with you to let you
know that the kids listen and learn from the
extra programming that you provide.
A message from our Director of Admissions | 31
Our Mission
As a Modern Orthodox co-educational yeshiva,
JKHA/RKYHS seeks to inspire students to live lives of Torah and mitzvot;
to embrace secular knowledge and
American democratic values; to love
and serve the Jewish People; and to forge a lifelong bond with
the Land and State of Israel.
We aim to empower students
to achieve personal excellence by
teaching them how to learn,
and by encouraging them to analyze,
to create, and to pursue
new intellectual challenges. We lead students to recognize that because we were all created in the
image of God, we must treat everyone with respect and loving-kindness. We help students form strong,
healthy identities, and we prepare
them to take responsibility for
themselves and their communities.
© Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy
110 South Orange Avenue
Livingston, NJ 07039
(862) 437-8000 • www. jkha.org