Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston

The "Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston" (SSDS) (http://www.ssdsboston.org) is an independent Jewish day school that offers a primary education in secular and Jewish studies for children in kindergarten through eighth grade. SSDS of Greater Boston is the largest K-8 New England Jewish day school with two campuses located in Newton, Massachusetts, less than 5 miles west of Boston. The school is affiliated with the Solomon Schechter Day School Association (http://www.ssdsa.org).

Statistics & Quick Facts:
* Three SSDS Boston faculty members selected as Presidential Award winners, recognized for excellence in math and science teaching.
* High scoring national test data for Grade 7 math.
* [http://www.erbtest.org Educational Record Bureau] (ERB) scores in the 99th percentile nationwide between 2001-2007.
* English ERB scores in the 95th percentile or higher for 11 consecutive years (1996-2007).
* 500 graduates since 1961.
* Average class size is 15 (Class size capped at 18).
* Teacher to student ratio is 1:8
* Founded in 1961

Curriculum:
The SSDS educational philosophy is based on providing fundamental skills and values, critical thinking and a love of learning. Named after the teachings of Jewish scholar, Solomon Schechter, the typical SSDS education is represented by students who are widely recognized as thoughtful, engaged and focused learners that have a desire to achieve coupled with concern for others. The curriculum encourages students to set and meet high goals in school and life by promoting analytical and critical thinking, sound moral judgement and high achievement. Concepts of tikkum olam (repairing the world), mitzvot (good deeds) and tzedakah (charitable giving) are all hallmarks of a Solomon Schechter education.

" Lower School Curriculum": SSDS curriculum includes a Hebrew language proficiency program beginning in kindergarten, a balanced literacy initiative and a focus on differentiated learning (e.g. meeting the unique needs of each child). Extensive after school enchrichment program includes arts, sciences and sports.

" Upper School Curriculum": A developmentally appropriate dual curriculum in secular and Judaic studies, as well as programming in the arts and in sports. Extensive after school enrichment program includes arts, sciences and sports.

History:
The Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston was established in 1961 and is named after Solomon Schechter. In 50 years, the school has grown to educate approximately 500 students per year, drawing from more than 35 communities in the greater Boston area. Classroom sizes are limited to 18 students. The school has a proven track record for success, with graduates who are well prepared for challenging high school programs by way of strong study skills and Hebrew proficiency.

Affiliations:
An egalitarian school affiliated with Conservative Judaism, SSDS serves a diverse and pluralistic Jewish community throughout Greater Boston. The school is nationally accredited by the Solomon Schechter Day School Association and the Association of Independent Schools of New England (AISNE). It is also affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

External links

* [http://www.ssdsa.org Solomon Schechter Day School Association]
* [http://www.ssdsboston.org/ Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston]

* [http://www.aisne.org/ Association of Independent Schools in New England]
* [http://www.uscj.org United Synagogue for Conservative Judaism]