Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Leaders with Jewish Values
Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton is a distinguished Jewish day school dedicated to providing a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for students in grades K-6. Rooted in Jewish values and traditions, the academy fosters a warm and supportive family atmosphere where each child is recognized and celebrated for their unique strengths and abilities.
General Info:
Address: 305 Sugar Camp Circle
Dayton, OH 45409
Phone: (937) 277-8966
Website: https://www.daytonhillel.org
Q&A with Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton:
What makes Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton unique?
Individualized Learning: At Hillel Academy, we understand that every child learns differently. Our approach embraces individualized learning, tailoring education to each student’s pace and style. This ensures that every child receives the attention and support they need to thrive academically.
Enriching Projects: We believe in hands-on learning experiences that go beyond traditional classrooms. Our curriculum incorporates enriching projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These projects inspire a love for learning and provide practical applications of academic concepts.
Emotional Intelligence: In addition to academic excellence, we prioritize the development of emotional intelligence. Our students are equipped with the skills to understand and manage their emotions, fostering resilience, empathy, and effective communication.
Strong Bonds and Nurturing Community: Hillel Academy prides itself on building strong bonds among students, teachers, and families. Our close-knit community collaborates to create a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and a sense of belonging.
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: We are dedicated to cultivating leadership qualities in our students. Through various leadership opportunities, extracurricular activities, and character development programs, we empower our students to become confident, compassionate leaders who make a positive impact on the world.
Tech-Savvy Education: Recognizing the importance of technology in today’s world, we provide a tech-savvy education that prepares students for the challenges of the future. Our classrooms are equipped with modern technology, and students learn to harness digital tools for effective learning.
Art as Cultural and Self-Expression: We celebrate the arts as an integral part of our curriculum. Through art education, students explore cultural diversity, creativity, and self-expression. This fosters an appreciation for the arts and encourages students to express themselves in unique ways.
Hebrew as a Foreign Language: Hillel Academy places a strong emphasis on Hebrew as a foreign language. Students not only learn the language but also gain an understanding of the rich cultural and historical context. This linguistic and cultural immersion deepens their connection to their Jewish heritage.
In summary, Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton is more than an educational institution; it is a community that values individuality, embraces diversity, and instills a strong sense of Jewish identity. Through a holistic approach to education, we strive to shape well-rounded, compassionate, and empowered individuals who are prepared to excel in the dynamic global landscape.
What is Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton’s age/grade range?
Kindergarten through sixth grade.
What is your enrollment policy? Are there any key dates parents should be aware of?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we take pride in our commitment to providing a nurturing educational environment rooted in Jewish values. Our enrollment policy reflects our dedication to fostering a strong Jewish community within our school.
Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton is pleased to welcome Jewish students (grades K-6) who share an interest in embracing and celebrating their Jewish heritage. Our school community is founded on the principles of Jewish values, traditions, and a commitment to providing a dynamic and enriching Jewish education.
Our specialized curriculum and cultural programs are designed to cultivate a strong sense of Jewish identity and community. We believe that a shared commitment to Jewish values enhances the educational experience for all our students.
Prospective families interested in joining our vibrant community are encouraged to reach out to our admissions team. We are dedicated to facilitating a seamless enrollment process and are available to address any questions or concerns that families may have.
At Hillel Academy, we celebrate the diversity within our Jewish community and strive to provide an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. Our commitment to fostering a rich Jewish experience is at the heart of our enrollment policy, and we look forward to welcoming families who share in our dedication to embracing Jewish heritage and values.
Do you offer financial assistance?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we are committed to making quality Jewish education accessible to all families. To facilitate this commitment, we proudly accept EdChoice Scholarships, as well as offering additional financial aid, providing families with additional avenues to support their child’s education.
We recognize the importance of empowering families to make choices that align with their educational preferences. Beyond EdChoice Scholarships, we understand that financial considerations can impact a family’s ability to provide a dynamic Jewish education for their children. To support families facing financial challenges, we offer a robust financial aid program. This program is designed to make our educational experience attainable for families seeking a strong, values-driven education for their children.
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we view financial considerations as a partnership with our families. Through EdChoice Scholarships and our financial aid program, we aim to break down barriers to education, making our vibrant Jewish learning community accessible. Our dedication to inclusivity reflects our belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of fostering a diverse and enriched academic environment.
What are the standard school day hours?
Our school day is 7:45 AM-3:15 PM.
Does your school offer before/after school care? Does your school offer afterschool activities?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we understand the diverse needs of our families, and as part of our commitment to providing comprehensive support, we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate both early mornings and after-school hours.
Morning Schedule:
Students are welcome to arrive as early as 7:30 AM, providing families with the convenience of an early drop-off time. This allows for a smooth transition into the school day, ensuring a relaxed and prepared start for students.
After-School Programs:
After-Care Program (Until 5:30 PM): For families seeking extended care beyond regular school hours, we provide a dedicated after-care program. This service offers a secure and supervised environment, allowing students to engage in various activities while ensuring their well-being until 5:30 PM.
Rotating After-School Clubs: In addition to after-care, we offer a dynamic range of after-school clubs that change throughout the year. These clubs provide students with exciting opportunities to explore their interests, discover new talents, and engage in enriching activities beyond the standard curriculum. Whether it’s arts and crafts, STEM projects, or sports, our diverse clubs cater to a wide range of interests.
Our extended hours and after-school programs are designed to support the needs of busy families and provide students with opportunities for both structured and creative activities. At Hillel Academy, we believe in creating a well-rounded educational experience that extends beyond the traditional school day, enriching the lives of our students and accommodating the diverse schedules of our families.
Is there a uniform or dress code?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we celebrate the uniqueness of each student and recognize the role that personal expression plays in their development. With this philosophy in mind, we have opted for a dress code that promotes individuality while maintaining an atmosphere of respect and appropriateness.
Key Features of Our Dress Code:
No Uniform Requirement: We believe in fostering an environment that allows students to express their individuality through clothing. Therefore, Hillel Academy has chosen not to enforce a uniform. Instead, we encourage students to wear clothing that reflects their personal style while adhering to guidelines that ensure a positive and respectful atmosphere.
Appropriate Coverage: Our dress code emphasizes the importance of attire that covers the body appropriately. This ensures a comfortable and focused learning environment while respecting the diverse cultural and personal preferences of our student body.
No Inappropriate Content: While we celebrate individual expression, we also maintain guidelines to ensure that clothing choices are free of inappropriate content. This includes messages, symbols, or images that may be deemed offensive, disruptive, or inconsistent with our values of respect and inclusivity.
Closed Toe Shoes: For physical education classes and recess, students are required to wear closed toe shoes. This safety measure is in place to protect the well-being of our students during active play, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.
At Hillel Academy, we believe that a dress code should reflect our commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. By allowing for individual expression within the boundaries of appropriateness, we aim to empower our students to embrace their unique identities while fostering a sense of respect and unity within our diverse community.
Does your school have a homework policy?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between academic rigor and family life. Our homework policy is designed with this balance in mind, aiming to foster a supportive learning environment without overwhelming students with excessive after-school commitments.
Key Features of Our Homework Policy:
Minimal Assignments: We believe that meaningful learning can occur during school hours, and homework should serve as a supplementary tool for reinforcement. Consequently, we assign minimal homework to ensure that students have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, spend quality time with family, and pursue personal interests.
Purposeful Practice: When homework is assigned, it is purposeful and directly tied to reinforcing key concepts covered in class. We prioritize quality over quantity, allowing students to focus on mastering core skills and concepts through targeted practice.
Communication and Collaboration: We encourage open communication between teachers, students, and parents regarding homework expectations. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is on the same page and enables adjustments to be made when needed.
Respecting Family Time: Family time is precious, and we believe it plays a crucial role in a child’s overall development. Our homework policy respects the importance of family time by striking a balance that allows students to thrive academically while enjoying a well-rounded and fulfilling family life.
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we are dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. Our thoughtful homework policy reflects our commitment to the holistic development of each student, recognizing the value of both academic achievement and a balanced, family-centric lifestyle.
How many children attend Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton? How many students are in the average classroom?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we take pride in our commitment to providing an exceptional and personalized educational experience. With an average enrollment of 40 students, we intentionally maintain an intimate learning environment, ensuring a maximum of 13 students per classroom. This deliberate choice is not just a matter of numbers; it’s a fundamental aspect of our educational philosophy designed to enhance the academic and social development of each child.
Does Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton offer support for students with special needs?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we are committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for all our students. While we strive to accommodate a diverse range of needs, it is important to note that our current resources and facilities may not be fully equipped to address the specific requirements of students with special needs. We believe in transparency and want to ensure that all families make informed decisions about their child’s education.
What specialty classes / extracurricular activities does Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton offer (gym, art, language, sports etc.)?
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we believe in providing a comprehensive education that extends beyond traditional academics. Our special classes are carefully curated to foster holistic development and offer a diverse range of learning experiences that enrich the lives of our students.
Special Classes:
Art: Our art classes go beyond traditional techniques; they serve as a canvas for self-expression and cultural exploration. Students delve into various forms of artistic expression, cultivating creativity and an appreciation for the arts.
Physical Education (PE): Physical well-being is integral to a child’s overall development. In our PE classes, students engage in activities that promote fitness, teamwork, and a positive attitude towards a healthy lifestyle.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL): Recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence, our SEL classes provide students with essential life skills. Through these classes, students develop self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and resilience, laying the foundation for social and emotional well-being.
Coding: In a world driven by technology, our coding classes equip students with essential skills for the future. Through engaging coding projects, students not only learn the language of computers but also enhance problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
Hebrew: As part of our commitment to preserving Jewish heritage, Hebrew classes offer students the opportunity to explore the language, culture, and traditions. Learning Hebrew fosters a connection to our roots and promotes a deeper understanding of Jewish identity.
At Hillel Academy, our special classes are not just subjects; they are gateways to a well-rounded education. Each class is thoughtfully designed to contribute to the development of our students, ensuring they graduate with a diverse skill set and a passion for lifelong learning. Through art, physical activity, social-emotional growth, coding, and Hebrew studies, we aim to inspire our students to explore, create, and embrace the world around them.
What are your safety policies?
Ensuring a Secure and Nurturing Educational Environment
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and visitors are paramount. Our safety policy is designed to create a secure and nurturing educational environment, outlining comprehensive measures to address various aspects of safety within our school community.
1. Physical Security Measures:
Access Control: Restricted access points and controlled entry ensure a secure campus environment. Visitors are required to check in at the main office, and all exterior doors are monitored during school hours.
Emergency Exits: Clearly marked and regularly maintained emergency exits are strategically placed throughout the facility, allowing for efficient evacuation in the event of an emergency.
Crisis Management Plan: We maintain a comprehensive crisis management plan that includes procedures for various emergencies, such as fire drills, lockdowns, and evacuation drills. Staff and students are regularly trained on these protocols.
2. Personnel Training:
Emergency Response Training: All staff members are trained in emergency response procedures, ensuring a swift and coordinated reaction to any potential safety concerns.
CPR and First Aid Certification: Designated personnel are trained and certified in CPR and first aid to respond effectively to medical emergencies.
3. Student Supervision:
Adult Presence: Adequate adult supervision is maintained at all times during school hours, including during transitions between classes, recess, and other activities.
Buddy System: For field trips and other outings, a buddy system is implemented to ensure that students are accounted for at all times.
4. Communication Protocols:
Communication Systems: Efficient communication systems, including intercoms and walkie-talkies, are in place to facilitate prompt communication between staff members during emergencies.
Parental Communication: Parents are promptly informed of any safety-related incidents or emergency drills through our established communication channels.
5. Health and Wellness:
Health Protocols: We maintain health and wellness protocols, including regular sanitation practices, to minimize the risk of illness and ensure a clean and safe learning environment.
Allergen Awareness: Staff is trained to be aware of and accommodate students with allergies, and information about allergies is communicated to relevant personnel.
6. Continuous Improvement:
Regular Safety Audits: Regular safety audits are conducted to assess and improve safety measures throughout the school.
Feedback and Reporting: We encourage open communication for reporting safety concerns. Students, staff, and parents are encouraged to promptly report any safety-related issues to the appropriate authorities.
Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton is committed to maintaining a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and open communication. By upholding these safety policies and procedures, we strive to create an environment where every member of our school community can learn, grow, and thrive with confidence.
Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton Anti-Bullying Policy
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment
At Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton, we are dedicated to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students. Our anti-bullying policy is a fundamental aspect of our commitment to ensuring that every member of our school community is treated with dignity and respect.
Definition of Bullying:
Bullying is defined as any intentional, repeated, and harmful behavior, whether verbal, physical, or relational, that creates an imbalance of power and causes distress to the targeted individual. This includes actions such as teasing, name-calling, intimidation, exclusion, physical aggression, cyberbullying, or any other form of behavior that undermines the well-being of others.
Preventative Measures:
Education and Awareness: We are committed to educating students, staff, and parents about the various forms of bullying and the impact it can have on individuals and the community. This awareness is cultivated through school-wide initiatives, assemblies, and ongoing education.
Promotion of Positive Behavior: Our school promotes a positive and inclusive atmosphere where kindness, empathy, and respect are valued. We encourage positive behaviors through rewards, recognition, and the celebration of acts of kindness.
Reporting Procedures:
Open Communication Channels: We maintain open communication channels for reporting incidents of bullying. Students, staff, parents, and community members are encouraged to report any observed or experienced incidents promptly.
Anonymous Reporting: To ensure a safe and confidential reporting process, an anonymous reporting mechanism is available for those who may be uncomfortable disclosing their identity.
Investigation and Intervention:
Prompt Investigation: All reported incidents of bullying are promptly and thoroughly investigated by designated staff members. The investigation includes interviews with involved parties, witnesses, and a review of any available evidence.
Intervention and Support: When bullying is substantiated, immediate intervention measures are taken to cease the behavior. Support is provided to both the targeted individual and the individual engaging in bullying behavior, focusing on education, counseling, and restorative practices.
Consequences for Bullying:
Consequences for bullying behavior may include, but are not limited to, counseling, behavioral contracts, educational programs, parent conferences, and disciplinary actions in accordance with school policies.
Preventing Retaliation:
Hillel Academy is committed to preventing any form of retaliation against individuals who report bullying incidents. Retaliatory behavior is strictly prohibited, and appropriate measures are taken to address and prevent such actions.
Review and Continuous Improvement:
Our anti-bullying policy is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure its effectiveness in addressing the evolving needs of our school community. We actively seek feedback from stakeholders to make ongoing improvements.
By implementing and upholding this anti-bullying policy, Hillel Academy aims to create a secure and nurturing learning environment where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Who should parents contact for more information about Hillel Academy?
For more information, please contact Dr. Anna Smith at [email protected] or 937-277-8966.
