As Jewish parents raising Jewish children, it’s important to find a community that can help instill respect for and pride in Jewish heritage that the whole family can enjoy! Education is paramount to the Jewish experience, especially for young people. Whether it’s a private day school or a weekly Hebrew School, the right programming, instructors, and curriculum can make your child’s early Judaic learning journey a true joy. Here are some wonderful Hebrew schools in Seattle for your family to consider!
These 6 Hebrew Schools In Seattle Guide Your Little Ones As They Grow In Faith
Jewish Day School
15749 NE 4th St, Bellevue, WA 98008
Jewish Day School is more than just a Hebrew school; it’s a full-time private school that provides Seattle children from preschool through 8th grade with a comprehensive education grounded in Judaism. Their school “embraces and emphasizes Judaism’s deeply rooted tradition of loving learning.” Children of all ages are encouraged to think big and ask big questions, engage in respectful debate, reflect on themselves and their roles within our communities, and take ethical action on behalf of others. Children from all backgrounds, whether Jewish or not, are welcome, teaching students to share a beautiful, inviting space with all communities locally, nationally, and worldwide.
Students at the Jewish Day School will learn a second language (Hebrew or Spanish), as well as a Jewish perspective on history, culture, and society that promotes empathy, advocacy, and action. Their hands-on, student-driven approach to inquiry-based learning follows the lead of each individual student, guided by inspiring teachers who offer extensive one-on-one facilitation. The school also has a strong environmental commitment rooted in the Jewish principle of Tikkun Olam, or “repairing the world.” It’s a wonderful, supportive, and worldly environment for rich learning!
Seattle Hebrew Academy
1617 Interlaken Dr. E, Seattle, WA 98112
Seattle Hebrew Academy, or SHA, is a modern Orthodox Jewish day school for early childhood through 8th grade. Their school embraces an atmosphere of k’vod hatalmid, or student dignity, “developing students of character and integrity through the pursuit of Torah knowledge and secular studies, connection to the State of Israel, and commitment to the Ashkenazic and Sephardic heritage.” This historic school is Seattle’s longest-serving institution of primary Jewish education, and its legacy of excellence is well-known throughout the area.
Their early childhood program is for children as young as 1-year-old and includes multi-sensory activities and an age-appropriate curriculum that incorporates Jewish tradition and important developmental and social skills. The Lower School programming fosters creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning, blending core subjects, Hebrew and Judaics, and specialties like art, physical education, and coding. Their middle school students cultivate curiosity, work to find their passions, and become independent Torah scholars. Whatever age your child is, they’ll receive a thorough, compassionate education at SHA!
Yachdav
24121 SE Black Nugget Road, Issaquah, WA 98029-7609
Yachdav is a weekly club and school for Jewish children of Israeli and American families in the greater Seattle area. Through the study of the Hebrew language and celebration of Jewish history and heritage, they’ve created a youthful, vibrant community of Jewish learners. From celebrating holidays to learning all about Jewish values and ethics, children of all ages can socialize and bond through volunteer opportunities. It’s a wonderful environment for older children who may be preparing food Lifecycle Events and their Bar/Bat Mitzvah, too!
Yachdav has created an inclusive and nonjudgmental environment for families regardless of personal religious beliefs or backgrounds. Their goal is to help children in their community develop a better understanding and a personal connection to their Jewish heritage through engaging and fun opportunities to learn, share, and play. Their CKids Clubs participate in events like Sukkot Time Machine and Red Carpet Purim, while the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Club offers an in-depth learning experience that offers fulfillment and empowerment in this transformative time in your child’s life.
Frankel Religious School
3700 East Mercer Way, Mercer Island, WA 98040
Frankel Religious School is a part of Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation and Hebrew School in Seattle. They have created a vibrant learning community where students of all ages can lead Jewish lives as expressed through the actions and values of Judaism. All Jewish families are welcome, regardless of level of observation, to receive a solid foundation grounded in Torah, Hebrew, Israel, holidays, and Jewish values.
Their welcoming and enthusiastic community offers a variety of unique ways for families to connect with the congregation, including volunteer, learning, and social opportunities. Parents are seen as partners in this special spiritual journey, so Frankel Religious School offers something for everyone in the family. Their programs meet after school during weekdays as well as on the weekends.
Bridge Family Religion School
1441 16th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
The Bridge Family Religion School is the Hebrew educational branch of Temple De Hirsch Sinai Seattle. They offer Hebrew School programming for children in kindergarten through 12th grade that seeks to inspire, educate, and connect students to their Jewish heritage and the Jewish community at large. Their programs incorporate community-building activities, experiential education, and interactive programming. So, students become more confident with their Hebrew skills and see the world through a Jewish lens.
Their youngest students in kindergarten through 5th grade will spend their time at The Bridge Family Religion School, making friends, learning the foundational values and traditions of Judaism, and celebrating holidays together. As they get older and progress into the middle school program (while also approaching their Bar/Bat Mitzvah), your child will learn about the responsibilities of being a Jewish adult and making Judaism meaningful in a challenging time. As high schoolers, students will tackle complicated and relevant conversations that they’ll encounter in the real world throughout high school and beyond.
Chabad Hebrew School
Chabad Hebrew School has created a religious learning environment where kids want to participate and have fun! They’ll love learning Hebrew songs, embracing the spirit of Judaism, as well as learning to be proud of their beautiful heritage. Chabad Hebrew School is for children in kindergarten through 7th grade. Taught by exciting and dynamic staff that encourages engagement in learning, lively discussion, and friendship, children love gathering on Sunday mornings to be a part of such a fulfilling community.
In addition to their weekly Hebrew School, they also offer a two-year B’nei Mitzvah program to offer pre-teens a comprehensive review of all things Jewish. Through guest speakers, thought-provoking discussions, and fun interactive activities, your child will be able to prepare for their unique B’nei Mitzvah journey. Other ways to engage with Jewish heritage include events like The Shofar Factory, Olive Oil Press, Matzah Bakery, as well as Scribal Arts.
Your Little Ones Will Love Attending These Great Hebrew Schools In Seattle
Above all else, these Hebrew schools in Seattle all recognize the importance of Jewish education and have worked hard to provide warm and welcoming environments for children of all ages and backgrounds. Take a moment to think about what is important to your family when it comes to Jewish learning, and then begin exploring all of these incredible community resources right here in the Seattle area. You’ll find the right fit, I’m sure of it!
Once your little ones grow, you will need a photographer to capture their Mitzvah! That’s where I come in. The Mitzvah is a huge milestone in your kid’s life. So both you and them deserve to have them captured in detail with beautiful portraits. So reach out today to chat about your dream Mitzvah photos!
