Soille San Diego Hebrew Bay School

Amazing school. The academic program focuses on understanding and analysis skills, not rote repetition. Based on discussions with local parents with children at other schools and local school teachers SSDHDS students seem about a year ahead of San Diego public school students in many subjects and are more rigorously learning in all subjects. Religious studies cover scripture and interpretive analysis of scripture as done by scholars in the ancient past through present day analysis. Hebrew language instruction includes both modern and biblical Hebrew with strong emphasis on the building blocks of the language. The school has a strong formal morals and personal development based curriculum integrated with both secular and religious studies referred to as their “successful me” program. Programs starting in sixth grade require the student take action to make a positive difference for others and in the community. I am very excited by what my sixth grader is planning.

The school is accredited through both the California Association of Independent Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It is a member of the Torah Umesorah – National Society for Hebrew Day Schools and the Yeshiva University School Partnership program.

Unlike many small schools, Hebrew Day maintains a substantial after school sports program. Its’ afterschool taekwondo program, with a short interruption, has been running strong for nine years and has graduated students to black belt level. Although many of the after school sport activities are run by outside organizations, the majority of their middle school after school athletic activities are coached by faculty and staff. The school also hosts a variety of afterschool enrichment programs including art classes and girl scouts. Unfortunately, the school does not have an instrumental music program.

Most importantly, the school is a warm, welcoming and caring place. My three children feel warmth towards the faculty and staff as if they were their own family. The level of care and commitment to the success of each child shown by the Hebrew Day team is incredible. This sense of connection extends beyond the students and also encompasses the families at the school. There is a great bond between current and past Hebrew Day students and families. The school has been going strong since 1963.

There is an amazing acceptance for diversity in levels of Jewish observance. There is never criticism as to what standard of observance one student’s family may observe versus that of another. Students' families range from secular to the very high levels of Orthodox practice. The kids don't let it get in the way of their friendships.

Lunches from home must be dairy or parve, and may also need to be peanut free depending on the allergies in any particular grade group. Year by year, it seems my twins will never get a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in their school lunches. Hot lunches are available for purchase in advance and are reasonably priced.