Elementary

General Studies

SHAS's general studies program aims to develop confident and successful students who are analytical and creative thinkers with sound reading, writing, mathematics and science skills.

The goal of our comprehensive and integrated reading/language arts program is to develop proficient, lifelong readers, writers, thinkers and learners. The key components of our balanced literacy program are: read-alouds, shared reading, guided reading and writing, paired/cooperative reading and writing, word study, independent reading and independent writing. Listening, and speaking skills, spelling strategies, grammar, punctuation, and usage are woven into daily instruction. The skills and strategies needed are modeled and practiced using quality literature and writing samples. Reading and writing skills are reinforced and applied in all curriculum content areas.   Integrating social studies with reading offers rich opportunities to explore self and community in the context of the American experience.

Twenty-first century math competency demands computational skills, math sense and the ability to demonstrate understanding through the math narrative. Our emphasis on differentiated instruction informs these math experiences as students work with pencil and paper exercises, manipulatives, structured experiences and discussions.

In SHAS's newly revised science course of study, students engage in hands-on investigations as they acquire an understanding of the methodology of scientific inquiry and are exposed to earth and space science, life science, physical sciences and engineering/technology. 

 

Judaic Studies

Judaic studies, and their integration into the whole of the child, is a distinguishing characteristic of SHAS.  Through the Tal Am curriculum our students learn Hebrew reading, writing and speaking, Chagim (Holidays), Parashat Hashavuah (weekly Torah portion), Tefillah, Be'ur Tefillah (Meaning of Prayer), and Shabbat.  The study of Chumash is added in the second grade and Navi (Prophets) in the fourth grade.  In grade six, we introduce this year the NETA program for Hebrew language.

"Responsive Classroom" sets the tone for our classrooms. The goal is to develop a cohesive Kehillah -community - where caring, respect and academic progress are accessible to each student.  One component of "Responsive Classroom" is our morning meetings (Rikuz Boker), which are conducted at least two times a week in Hebrew.  Each student is greeted by name in Hebrew and learns to respond in Hebrew.  The students participate in cooperative games and activities, learning skills such as listening, speaking, problem solving, and group participation. 

Last year we began an exciting new project, the Tzelem curriculum, in grades 3-6.  This is a Life Values and Intimacy Education curriculum with a Torah perspective, developed by Yeshiva University.    Some of the topics covered include values clarification, decision-making, communication, friendship, Tzni'ut (modesty), Torah values and diversity - all within the context that humanity  is created Be-Tzelem Elokim (in the image of G-d).

We teach Mishnah in the fifth and sixth grades using the Bonayich curriculum.  The overarching goals of Bonayich are to inculcate an enduring love of learning and Emunat Chachamim (the faith of our ancestors), by empowering the students toward independent learning of Mishnah.

 

Art and Music

Our art and music specialists bring their expertise to our elementary classrooms weekly. Each year, students participate in a one-semester music class and a one-semester art class.  The curricula are developmental and intended to promote authentic hands-on experiences in both art forms.

Music:  Our goal is to expose students to various genres of music and music theory, to familiarize them with Americana, and to teach songs that express our love for Israel, Shabbat, and Jewish holidays.

Art:  Children are encouraged to develop and express creativity and to learn to work with various artistic materials and media.  Children are exposed to various artists and some projects are designed to enhance general or Judaic studies curricula.

 

"SHAS means more than giving our children a solid Jewish education. It feels like we're part of an extended family and a larger community."

~ Dan, father of three SHAS students

My years at SHAS studying Chumash, Navi, Mishnah, and the principles of Hebrew, have provided me with an understanding of my Jewish heritage, and have instilled in me a love of Jewish learning.
- Eliana, Class of 2008