Admissions Frequently Asked Questions

The mission of the Jewish High School of Connecticut, a new Jewish pluralistic day school, is to educate Jewish youth for whom Jewish values and traditions shape and guide their lives and for whom learning and responsible action are the foundation for achievement.

1) Where is JHSC located?

The JHSC campus is located at 2710 Park Avenue in Bridgeport, CT 06604, directly adjacent to the Town of Fairfield at the beautiful, newly renovated educational facilities of Congregation B'nai Israel.

2) What is a “pluralistic” Jewish high school?

JHSC is an independent Jewish high school, unaffiliated with any one synagogue or Jewish movement, yet embracing them all. Students at JHSC will reflect a diversity of religious and cultural backgrounds, beliefs and practices within the Jewish community of Southern Connecticut. The goals of JHSC are educational, reflecting the hope that students will deepen their commitment to Jewish learning, strengthen their personal sense of Jewish identity, and build a relationship with the broader Jewish community in Connecticut, the United States, and Israel. JHSC is strengthened by the variety of beliefs and practices expressed by our students, parents and members of the faculty.

3) How does the general studies curriculum at JHSC compare to that presented in other high schools?

Students at JHSC will receive a rigorous and stimulating education designed to prepare them for college and beyond. The core courses of the general studies curriculum include Math, Science, English Literature, History and the Social Sciences and Hebrew Language. A text-based curriculum in Jewish studies includes courses in Biblical and Rabbinic Text, Jewish History and Philosophy. To meet the needs of different learners, JHSC will offer courses ranging from standard college preparatory to advanced placement. Through the academic curriculum, students will build knowledge and enhance skills in textual analysis, logic and critical thinking, written communication and public speaking that will impact all aspects of their intellectual and academic development.

4) What academic electives and co-curricular programs are offered at JHSC?

JHSC will offer academic electives including a number of world languages, as well as courses and programs in the fine and performing arts. Working with local leagues, JHSC will field competitive athletic teams. Right from the start, the faculty of JHSC will work to design elective courses and co-curricular programming that reflects the interests, initiative, creativity and ambitions of the pioneer students.

5) Does a student need prior Jewish education or background to apply to JHSC?

Previous Jewish education is not required, yet a variety of class sections and levels will seek to stimulate and challenge students with all levels of Jewish learning.

6) What transportation options are available for JHSC students?

JHSC will work to arrange the most convenient, cost-effective transportation options from various locations throughout Fairfield and New Haven counties. JHSC staff will meet with parents of its pioneer students in order to determine the best possible transportation options from the various locales represented in our high school community.

7) Where will JHSC hold athletic practices and games as well as performing arts events?

The staff at JHSC is currently finalizing arrangements with local athletic facilities and leagues to accommodate its athletic program. JHSC is also planning partnerships with major institutions in music and the performing arts that will offer a variety of settings for artistic study, preparation and performance.

8) Who is the typical JHSC student?

There is no one word or characteristic that defines a JHSC student. JHSC students reflect a large variety of Jewish backgrounds and practices. Some of our students are members of synagogues and Jewish community centers and have attended Jewish day schools. For others, Jewish education is a new experience. All JHSC students share a common motivation towards learning and a desire to participate in a vigorous Jewish high school community. Our students bring a variety of interests and passions, and seek to participate in some area of our co-curricular programs including athletics, music, art, drama, dance, technology, community service, student government, and the literary magazine. Our students live in a wide geographic area in Southern Connecticut, reflecting the diversity of our region.

9) What are the advantages of submitting an early application to JHSC?

Submitting an application to JHSC by the priority application deadline of January 22, 2010 brings a number of advantages such as eligibility for the Leo Nevas Pioneer Tuition Grant and priority consideration for tuition assistance.  Most importantly, the faculty and staff at JHSC can offer an enhanced level of personal attention as a student prepares for high school.

10) How can I learn more about and visit JHSC?

JHSC will hold its next Open House on Sunday, December 13, 2009.

Students and parents are also invited to make a personal appointment to visit JHSC’s campus and meet with Rabbi Edward Harwitz, Head of School, and other faculty and staff. JHSC will offer a number of regional parlor meetings where students and parents can learn more about the 2010-2011 academic year and meet other families in our community. For more information or to request an application for the 2010-2011 academic year, please contact JHSC at 203.275.8448 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .