ABOUT US:

History
The seed for the Jewish High School of Connecticut (JHSCT) was planted two and half years ago by a group of dedicated parents and community professionals with a vision and passion for Jewish education for high school students that would embrace all Jewish students. Over the last number of years, the group has developed into a Board, committee structure and has engaged professionals to develop a strategic plan for creating a school that is outstanding. The Jewish High School of Connecticut is a member school of the Jewish Community Day School Network (RAVSAK.) The school utilizes resources from national educational organizations, educators, community Rabbis and leaders, and the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools.

Philosophy
Central to the school's philosophy is the creation of an environment where students become independent thinkers with a moral and ethical grounding in Jewish values and practice. 

During their years at JHSCT, students will be encouraged to attain the full measure of their talents and aspirations. At the core of the academic program will be an innovative curriculum through which knowledge and skills are acquired by interdisciplinary study, experiential learning, celebration and community involvement. Citizenship, and in particular community responsibility and participation in the local community and beyond, will be integrated into the curriculum. The approach to learning will be guided by an open-minded spirit of creative and intellectual inquiry encouraging students to think critically, work collaboratively and achieve their highest potential. Students will have an opportunity to develop their whole being - mind, body and soul.

Pluralism
The principle of pluralism will guide the realm of Jewish studies courses, religious services, and personal practice. For example, some students may be interested in developing their interests in Jewish history, holidays, and culture, whereas others may want in-depth study of Jewish texts. The school will endeavor to offer programs to accommodate diverse interests and needs. Moreover, the school will offer a variety of minyanim (prayer services) so as to accommodate our diverse community through multi-denominational options for prayer and ritual observance.

Spiritual Environment
The school will teach ethical decency (derekh eretz), creating a community that respects each person's uniqueness and the responsibility for others. It will nurture a Jewish community characterized by a shared tradition, a common dedication to social justice, and a love for learning. We will live and work by the Jewish calendar, following the daily, weekly and yearly cycle of Jewish life.  Israel will be central to the educational experience. Students will be challenged to understand and interpret Judaism as a source of religious obligation, spiritual opportunity and joyous celebration.

PROJECT PLANNING AND COMMUNITY

Location and Community to be Served
The opening of the school is anticipated for the fall of 2009. When fully developed the school will accommodate approximately 300 day students in grades nine through twelve. The goal is to locate the school on a state-of-the-art campus in the Fairfield County area of Connecticut in order to be accessible to the entire region.

Community Benefits
The creation of the Jewish High School of Connecticut has benefits to the community that extend far beyond offering a superb academic experience for teens. A serious Jewish community requires a K-12 day school system. Jewish high school is a key source of developing engaged, knowledgeable and passionate Jewish teens. Research has shown a strong correlation between Jewish high school experiences and commitment to community, Jewish life and practices.

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