Academics
Hebrew
At Donna Klein Jewish Academy we recognize Hebrew as indispensable to our connection with Jewish tradition and the Jewish people. Hebrew is the language that unites us. A strong command of Hebrew empowers students to participate confidently and actively as full members of Klal Yisrael, enabling them to build a deeper relationship with the community and culture of modern Israel.
Overview of Principles and Approaches in Our Hebrew Language Program
❖ Students in Grades K–12 receive 45 minutes of daily Hebrew language instruction. They engage in meaningful interactions in the language, developing their skills through authentic and relevant communication. As students progress through the grade levels, reading and writing abilities are continuously developed and strengthened. Additionally, they build conversational proficiency by engaging in real-world situations and activities aligned with their interests, guided by communicative objectives.
❖ Our Hebrew Proficiency Guidelines are inspired by the standards of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
❖ The program provides frequent and consistent exposure to authentic materials in the classroom to build skills and foster the confidence needed to use Hebrew beyond the school setting. Through the process of acquiring a new language, students also develop accuracy, self-discipline, memory, and reasoning—skills that enhance their academic performance and support logical and analytical thinking across disciplines.
❖ Students gain cross-cultural communication skills and an appreciation for diverse perspectives.
❖ Modern Hebrew is taught by professional, experienced native-speaking educators.
❖ In addition to our leveled classes, we offer Honors Hebrew courses for fluent students. These Heritage Learner classes challenge students with advanced grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. Hebrew Honors students are also encouraged to take the International Hebrew Exam.
❖ Our goal is to emphasize the relevance of Hebrew in today’s world, maintain students’ enthusiasm for the language, and deepen their understanding of Israeli culture and society.
❖ Our Hebrew Proficiency Guidelines are inspired by the standards of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
❖ The program provides frequent and consistent exposure to authentic materials in the classroom to build skills and foster the confidence needed to use Hebrew beyond the school setting. Through the process of acquiring a new language, students also develop accuracy, self-discipline, memory, and reasoning—skills that enhance their academic performance and support logical and analytical thinking across disciplines.
❖ Students gain cross-cultural communication skills and an appreciation for diverse perspectives.
❖ Modern Hebrew is taught by professional, experienced native-speaking educators.
❖ In addition to our leveled classes, we offer Honors Hebrew courses for fluent students. These Heritage Learner classes challenge students with advanced grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. Hebrew Honors students are also encouraged to take the International Hebrew Exam.
❖ Our goal is to emphasize the relevance of Hebrew in today’s world, maintain students’ enthusiasm for the language, and deepen their understanding of Israeli culture and society.
Watch Rabbi Gedzelman talk about the history of the Hebrew language and the benefits of learning Modern Hebrew video
