History

Abraham Joshua Heschel Day School was founded in 1972 by a group of visionary families in the San Fernando Valley with the support of local Conservative and Reform rabbis who wanted to establish a community Jewish day school that would provide exemplary programs in both General and Judaic studies. The School started with a kindergarten, adding one grade level each year. Within a short time, the School began to gain recognition for its outstanding educational program developed under the leadership of its founding principal, Shirley Levine. In 1979, Abraham Joshua Heschel Day School’s three and one half acre campus was permanently established in Northridge—the evidence of the dedicated work of parents and faculty. After Shirley Levine’s retirement in 2003, Betty Winn was named as Head of School.

Every member of the Heschel family is essential to the life of our school. Students, staff, parents, and alumni generate the warmth and excitement that have defined Heschel since its founding. In classrooms from transitional kindergarten through 8th grade, our teachers skillfully nurture the natural curiosity of children, turning it into a lifelong love of learning.

Abraham Joshua Heschel Day School is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by Board of Directors.