As our eighth graders prepared to depart on their annual trips to the East Coast or to Israel, we asked them what they wanted to take away from the experience. The students told us they were looking for “the experience of a lifetime.” What does that mean? How do we live up to such high expectations?
We believe the key is connectedness: building meaningful connections to teachers, to content, to history, to memorials, connections to Israel, to Judaism, to friends. Connecting the heart to the deed. Students seek an emotional link, one which requires a human connection. Is this not what we want in life?
At Heschel, students relate their learning to their lives. We strive to present relevant, challenging ideas that impact the way students approach their thinking and learning, as well as broaden their world view. Ultimately, we want our students to connect to their own total selves.
How does this promise look on our campus? Our teachers are role models who believe in collaboration. Their first priority is to know their students and to share a relationship with them. They not only learn along with students both in and out of the classroom, they also share adventures, wisdom, and insights. They accompany their students as they transition to adulthood, creating a wholesome, positive environment where freedom and responsibility go hand in hand.
Our enthusiastic teachers are content experts with high academic expectations. They infuse their teaching with current events, relevant life lessons, the personalities who made history happen, the words and languages that reveal cultures, and novels that develop personal character, as well as literary characters.
The unique Middle School experience at Heschel is made possible by:
- a high-level academic program that encompasses English, history, math, science, Judaic studies, Hebrew, visual and performing arts, Spanish, and technology
- a comprehensive advisory program that uses small, personalized groups to learn about one’s self, reflect, and track progress
- a weekly mosaic schedule that allows daily variety and time for minyans, spirit rallies, guest speakers, services, town hall meetings, teacher office hours, and student-led events
- exciting grade level field trips that expose students to other worlds and ideas
- a trusting atmosphere where students are able to take risks, try new roles, and emerge into thoughtful and involved adults
- a broad array of elective and extra-curricular activities that build leadership, fitness, technological skills, and new interests
At Heschel, the educational program is multidimensional. Our graduates routinely thrive in the most competitive independent, Jewish, and public schools. But what we take most pride in is who our students become as individuals: ethical, compassionate, independent thinkers who seek purpose and connectedness in their lives.
It is not enough for the pupil to appropriate the subject matter; the pupil and the teacher must go through significant moments, sharing insight and appreciation. I know it is not easy.
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel
