Beit Rabban

I've had three kids at Beit Rabban, and they've all had a great experience. When it was time for my oldest to move on (to another really good NYC day school), he was with or ahead of the class in every subject, even though he was middle of the pack for some things at Beit Rabban. I love that the same teachers teach both Judaic and secular studies, although it wasn't something I even thought about when I applied to schools. All schools say that they integrate the Judaics and secular studies, but now that I have a child in a standard (really good) day school, where the Hebrew teacher is just a big afraid of math and the English teacher isn't so comfortable with a chumash, I see what a difference it makes. If you visit Beit Rabban, ask them about why they do it this way. They explain it better than I can.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has just started her 5th year at Beit Rabban -- and she wants to go there until college! My husband and I are consistently impressed by how the kids love to learn! They are encouraged to think critically, solve problems creatively, respect different perspectives, and develop core skills beginning in preschool. The teachers are innovative in their approach, and give each child personalized attention to progress at the right pace. Thoughtful Torah study and Hebrew language are an integral part of the interdisciplinary curriculum. From a young age, kids are empowered to think for themselves, ask the right questions, and believe that they can make a difference in the world around them. It's also a great community of parents, and very diverse.
--Submitted by a parent

Beit Rabban is a gem. I never imagined I d find such a place on the Upper West Side. It s truly child-centered, with each child s needs coming first, without compromising learning that s both rigorous and exciting. The classrooms are alive with enthusiastic, energetic children engaged in challenging work. The school s graduates are deeply versed in Jewish and secular learning, but are also confident, thoughtful, and compassionate. I couldn t be happier.
--Submitted by a parent

Our son is completing kindergarten at Beit Rabban and we are thrilled with the school. It's a truly unique Jewish day school, combining rigorous secular and Judaic curricula with an emphasis on critical thinking, intellectual creativity and genuine tolerance for diverse level of religious observance. Families range from secular to Orthodox and everything in between; everyone is treated with respect. Students learn traditional primary Jewish texts in Hebrew beginning in kindergarten. Fully integrated curriculum includes Hebrew immersion. Small class sizes, amazing degree of individual attention: we receive a lengthy note each week detailing our son's progress and suggesting ways we can reinforce his studies at home. As professional math-types, my husband and I are particularly impressed with the strong math curriculum. Our son loves his school and has actually asked for more homework, which he gets. School is growing rapidly and plans to open a middle school soon.
--Submitted by a parent