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Values and Strategy
Learning is Special Here
Since it first opened in 1990, MPJCDS, a community-based, egalitarian day
school, has served families of reform, reconstructionist, conservative, orthodox, and
unaffiliated backgrounds. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade learn to appreciate
the diversity of Jewish expression as a mark of our strength and vitality. A nurturing and
supportive environment, the school is devoted to individualized devlopment and instruction
according to each child's needs and abilities.
MPJCDS's goal has been to be an enduring and loved institution,
recognized for excellence in secular and Judaic education, inspiring our children to Tikkun
Olam (perfecting the world), the practice of Tzedakah (acts of charity) and Gmilut
Chassidim (compassion toward others). The School's strategy for success includes the
following elements:
 | Provide a nurturing and supportive environment. Emphasize individualized
instruction and development according to an individual's particular needs and abilities.
Promote respect for others. |
| Promote children's natural desire to learn; respect for the intellect and
love of learning are hallmark values of Jewish civilization and culture. Help children
develop the skills and intrinsic motivation that will make learning a rewarding activity.
Emphasize the process of learning ahead of the product. Promote learning through doing. |
| Develop in students the lifelong capacity for independent thinking,
ethical behavior, and academic achievement. Be good role models. Teach ethical behavior in
the classroom and on the playground. |
| Maintain small class sizes and low student:teacher ratios. Strive to
maintain student:teacher ratios of about 12:1. Provide each child with developmentally
appropriate challenges. Encourage parents and community members to participate in
curriculum activities. |
| Welcome the diversity of Jewish practice; Jewish diversity is not a
problem or a weakness, but a sign and source of strength and vitality. Teach students
about different approaches to Judaism and emphasize sensitivity, tolerance, and loving
acceptance of those whose practices are different from their own. |
| Provide all children with the same oportunities. Make no distinction on
the basis of gender or religious practice at home. |
| Provide a highly positive overall experience combining a deeper exposure
to Judaica with an excellent general education. Integrate curricular materials. Teach
Hebrew literacy as a means to give students direct access to the riches of Jewish
literature and to maximize their ability to communicate with Jews in Israel and elsewhere. |
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