The Director of JPDS, Mrs. Susan Koss, was immediately beloved by this class, as she also served as kindergarten Judaics teacher during the initial years of the school. To this day, Mrs. Koss continues her tradition of baking challah with the kindergarten classes on Fridays. These students are confirmation of our educational philosophy. They have blossomed and thrived and are secure students as well as wonderful individuals. Not only is Mrs. Koss proud of the school's innovative, hands-on curriculum and the academic achievements of the students, but she is also pleased that JPDS's emphasis on ethics, and interpersonal relationships has had such a positive impact on their lives.
Students represent the diversity of the Jewish community.
By limiting class section sizes, JPDS is able to give the needed individualized attention to each child, which has helped the school earn its reputation for excellence. When asked what he found special about JPDS, sixth grade student Josh Nash, replied everyone gets individual attention and individual encouragement. I've been at JPDS for four years. In those four years I've learned to speak Hebrew, write good essays, and even not to lose my kippah. It has been my joy to watch these students grow, investigating the intricacies of Chumash, developing their critical thinking skills while exploring the Mishnah, communicating in Hebrew, and, all the while, deepening their understanding of, and commitment to, Jewish life and learning.