The Times of Israel recently published this article on the importance of Jewish Day Schools for middle-schoolers. The author, Dr. Daniel Weiss, facilitates a PRIZMAH weekly discussion with heads of small Jewish day schools – and he has an excellent perspective:

Parents often ask me why I believe the Middle School years in a Jewish Day School are so important. Years ago, when I taught Jewish history and Jewish text to Middle Schoolers, I saw firsthand how powerful those years can be. I watched students grow in confidence, identity, and community. Those experiences built deep, long-lasting relationships with many of my former students that I still have today. That’s why I’ve devoted my career to schools that include Middle School—it’s a truly transformative time.