Stephen S. Wise Temple Day Schools are Reform Jewish Day
Schools dedicated to the continuity of the Jewish people and to the
intellectual, emotional, social, creative, physical, and spiritual growth of
each child. As part of a Reform Temple, the Schools are committed to individual
autonomy in Jewish life, responsibility to the covenant between God and the
Jewish people, and tikkun olam (the betterment of the
world).
We believe that active involvement in
Jewish life adds meaning to the life of the individual and vibrancy to the
Jewish community. Judaism is thus a core component of School life. We emphasize
a liberal Jewish approach to holidays, rituals and communal worship, the
important role of the Hebrew language in Jewish life, a knowledge and
appreciation of Jewish texts, and a commitment to Israel. We also stress the
importance of learning and living the Jewish ethical values we hold dear,
particularly tzedakah (the obligation to give charity), gemilut
hasadim (doing good deeds for others) and social action.
We believe that the interplay between
Judaism and contemporary American life requires that students become comfortable
with their identity as American Jews. The Schools, therefore, endeavor to help
students recognize where American and Jewish cultures are harmonious and where
they are not, so that they can integrate values and ideas from both cultures in
making decisions for their lives. We strive to strengthen children's Jewish and
American identities, enhance their human sensitivity, and foster their
self-esteem.
We believe that children should acquire
the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for enlightened participation and
leadership in society. The Schools, therefore, provide an academic curriculum
that develops skills needed for proficiency in the secular curriculum areas of
language, math, social studies, science, computer technology, fine arts, and
physical education. The emphasis throughout is to help children stretch beyond
the basics to develop critical thinking and creative expression in all areas.
Our central purpose is to awaken in each child a love for learning.
We believe that each child is a unique
individual with unique strengths and weaknesses. The School, therefore, provides
a program that challenges each child while maximizing his/her opportunities for
success. We seek to nurture the social, intellectual, physical, and spiritual
essence of each child by providing a warm, loving environment.
We believe that the teacher is the key
to achieving the educational excellence to which we aspire. Teachers are the
cornerstone of the Schools' efforts to stimulate Jewish identity, to inspire a
love for learning, and to encourage students to become concerned and caring
human beings. In partnership with parents and the School administration,
teachers accomplish these goals through their teaching, through the open
communication they establish with students and their families, and through their
actions as role models.