FINE ART
The fine arts curriculum at JDS encourages student exploration and experimentation using a variety of media in a safe, nurturing environment. Our expert educators introduce students to the elements and principles of line, form, color, and texture and experiment with pattern, composition, structure, and size to develop an understanding of art processes and techniques.
Our students are also introduced to the art of diverse times and cultures. We understand the importance of integrating disciplines and seek to weave fine arts into both our general and Jewish Studies curricula. At JDS, students try on various lenses and ways of thinking.
Physical Education
JDS students receive 90 minutes per week of PE. We use sequentially developed skills that are appropriate to each student’s ability and confidence level. Our positive and supportive learning environment allows every child, regardless of ability and confidence level, to succeed and benefit from a physically active and healthy lifestyle.
JDS’ PE program is aligned with the National Association of Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) standards which state that a physically literate individual:
- Has learned the skills necessary to participate in a variety of physical activities.
- Knows the implications of and the benefits from involvement in various types of physical activities.
- Participates regularly in physical activity.
- Is physically fit.
- Values physical activity and its contributions to a healthful lifestyle.
Our curriculum follows the skilled themed approach, which encourages learning of basic movement concepts and skills: running, jumping, balancing, body awareness, kicking and punting, striking, throwing, catching, and more. Later, these fundamental skills are modified and applied in more complex settings: dance, games, sports, and gymnastics. We emphasize physical fitness in warm-up activities and purposeful games that encourage students to become active for a lifetime. Our positive and supportive learning environment allows students to feel free to risk giving their best as they strive for personal excellence. JDS students are assessed in the areas of movement competence, health-related fitness, safety, and social skills. We acknowledge their growth, success, and areas of exceptional accomplishments through positive and descriptive feedback.
Athletics Teams
JDS’ competitive sports allow all players the chance to improve in a sport while enjoying the benefits of playing on a team. Our coaches keep the players moving, helping them build strength and conditioning while learning sportsmanship skills.
We currently offer:
Coed Volleyball (5th-8th)
Coed Basketball (5th-8th)
Coed Track and Field (5th-8th)
Spanish
JDS students experience a weekly Spanish period in addition to daily Hebrew. Being exposed to multiple languages is a wonderful way to cultivate bilingualism—along with biliteracy, biculturalism, and a whole new lens on the world!
For students in Middle School, Spanish is an alternative second language in lieu of Hebrew.
Music
Our music program balances a deep appreciation for the cultural and historical aspects of music with technical skill development and the development of artistic expression. We cater to our students’ diverse interests and abilities while nurturing a lifelong love for music.
Students in grades K-8th experience comprehensive instruction in various instruments and vocal techniques. Learners have the chance to participate in musical and vocal ensembles that help develop teamwork, collaboration, and performance skills.