Hillel and Shammai Elementary School

Teachers at Chabad Hebrew Academy have higher standards than those in many public and private schools, both academically and ethically. While our teachers follow the national and state standards as the platform to drive their curricula, students learn in exciting, tangible ways, with teachers pushing hard to integrate the material so that every subject dovetails into each grade's overall goals in history, language arts, math and science.

Done in a creative format, national, international, state and Jewish history are key for each grade's studies. Students research and perform vivid historical re-enactments to make the lessons of the past come to life. The preparation for these projects begins with the literature chosen paralleling the historical era of each grade. One example comes from the study of California in fourth grade. Students actually experience California's diverse history through enacting the trade markets at the missions when the state was under Spanish rule and by reliving the thrill and adventure of the Gold Rush.

Math and music also come in integrated units thanks to the creativity of our teachers. First grade students learn about basic math by using the piano. The progression of notes parallels the increase of numbers. This natural process is accomplished because the concept of mathematical formulas fits well with the reality of musical rhythms. The transition from gross motor skills is adapted with tactile movement to paper and pencil.

Science department chairwoman, Pat Paluso, is able to integrate her subject throughout every grade, thanks to weekly, hands-on science laboratories that increase in complexity. The wonder of the universe remains not only spiritual but is broadened through scientific exploration. The scientific method therefore begins in Kindergarten and is fully understood as a process for all exploration.

Critical thinking, while an integral part of all learning, is an essential tool in writing. Teachers stress journal writing and on-line research for papers to integrate with all subjects. The focus on writing is two-fold. One is to teach students to take risks, creatively. The second is to learn writing, not as an abstract skill, but as a tool used in context. Using both the creative and the concrete methods enables students to be effective, life-long communicators.