1) Rochester has some of the best public schools in the country, why should I send my child to HCDS?

We understand that public education is an essential strength in our democracy and we all pay taxes that fund the public schools, whether or not our children attend them. We also support diversity and choice.

HCDS first opened its doors in 1947, and since then, Jewish day schools have proliferated across North America. For many Jewish families the opportunity to provide their children with an excellent general education within the context of Jewish culture, beliefs and language is a wonderful choice.

You want the best for your child. The Hillel Community Day School understands this and offers an exceptional education that enriches your child intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

At the core of our program is the integration of rigorous general studies with innovative Judaic studies. In addition to language arts, math, science and social studies, our students celebrate Jewish holidays and study Torah, Jewish history, and Hebrew language. Our challenging curriculum develops students not only to excel academically, but also to make positive choices in a complex society. Small classes, outstanding teachers, and age-appropriate creative programming add to the HCDS appeal. Our day school is a perfect fit for children who are intellectually curious and excited to learn and for families who want to see their children thrive in a nurturing Jewish community.

2) What are class compositions?

In all grades, HCDS students represent the full spectrum of Jewish philosophies and backgrounds, nursery schools, suburbs, etc.

3) Doesn’t going to a Jewish day school limit a child’s exposure to diversity?

Quite the opposite. The positive value of diversity means a respect for those whom we perceive as different from ourselves. Some of those differences might be skin color, country of origin, and spoken language. In fact, our curriculum includes issues of identity and diversity, including learning about Jews and their differences and similarities all around the world. We also celebrate the rich diversity among our school families: Ashkenazic and Sephardic; secular, Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and unaffiliated.

4) How does a community Jewish day school differ from other types of Jewish day schools, such as a Solomon Schechter school (Conservative) or a Torah U’Mesorah school (Orthodox)?

Unlike denominationally affiliated Jewish day schools, the curriculum of a community Jewish day school does not conform to any single perspective. As they study together, Jewish children of all backgrounds learn to respect and accept the different approaches to their common background. Although they are expected to adhere to their families’ religious practices and observance, the children understand and respect that other families may do things differently.

5) My Spouse and I do not know a lot of Hebrew. How will we be able to help our child with Hebrew homework?

You're not alone with this concern! Many, if not most, of our parents don't know all the Hebrew that the children are learning. Your child's teacher may help with creating study sheets for non-Hebrew reading parents. We have a wide variety of Jewish knowledge and observance among our families. Our job as a school is to inform and engage; not to judge.

6) Are teachers certified?

Yes. All of our general studies teachers hold New York State certifications and master’s degrees. Our Judaic studies teachers are certified by national accreditation agencies.

7) Is there tuition assistance?

Yes. With your Admissions Application, you will receive a Financial Aid form. You may then submit your request for financial assistance. Special discounts are available for new families who enroll their child within a certain period of time. Please contact the Hillel Community Day School office at 585-271-6877 or email the Director of Admissions, Marnie Buchsbaum at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information and an Admissions Application packet.

8) Won’t going to a small Jewish day school make for a difficult transition into a large public or private school later on?

Not at all. The low teacher-student ratio and the nurturing, intellectually stimulating environment inevitably result in a high level of self-esteem for students. This stands them in good stead when they graduate or transfer. In addition, we seek opportunities to connect with the larger Rochester community in order to provide diversity and enrichment (i.e. Boys and Girls Club Program, Hochstein School of Music Program). Also, the organizational and critical thinking skills cultivated in our students will make for a smooth transition into any new educational environment. Statistics from Jewish day schools across North America indicate that graduates transition to other systems easily and perform exceptionally well. Finally, consider that Hebrew language learning has crossover benefits in a student’s capacity for learning other languages and subjects — clearly an advantage when a child moves on to other educational settings.

The success of HCDS students and graduates can be seen in many arenas. Our students' standardized test scores are very high. They annually win honors and awards for science, writing, and art. Each year HCDS graduates rank among the leaders of their high school classes and go on to attend some of the finest colleges in the country.

9) How does a Day School education differ from a Hebrew and Sunday School Education?

Sunday and Hebrew school are important options for many families. However, a Jewish day school curriculum is a more comprehensive and academic program.

Furthermore, our students are engaged during the regular school day, when they are more energetic and receptive than they are in after-hours and Sunday programs.

10) How are parents informed as to their child’s progress?

A major advantage of the small class size at HCDS is the more personalized student attention and easier communication between teachers, students, and parents. Parents can expect to receive classroompdates from their child’s teacher every other week.

HCDS has landed itself on the Jewish Education “map” for organizational excellence in this regard. The Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education (PEJE) is currently showcasing the HCDS Parent Satisfaction Survey as an example of effective communication for other institutions.

11) What’s for lunch?

A delicious hot kosher lunch is included with your tuition. Options to regular selections are always available and menus are available on the website. You will be asked to send in kosher snacks for your child each day.

12) Is busing available?

Bus transportation is provided by your “home” school district. We will supply applications in the spring or you may contact your district directly for a Transportation Form. Forms must be submitted DIRECTLY to your district. Rules and deadlines may vary between districts. If you prefer, you may drive your child to and/or from school. School hours are 8:00am until 3:15 pm.

13) Is there a dress code for students?

The Hillel Community Day School dress code is the same as that of the Brighton-Pittsford school system.

14) What extra-curricular activities are offered?

Basketball and Sports club is offered after school 2-3 times a week. After-School Care is available Monday-Friday from 3:15-6:00. Starting in Spring 2007, Hillel Community Day School will begin a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club as well.

15) Once my child is enrolled, what happens?

Our new Kindergarten students are invited to "step up day" to spend time with their new teachers and classmates. At the same time, Kindergarten parents are invited to a meeting with the school administration to meet each other and learn more about HCDS. Once your child is enrolled, you can request to start receiving our weekly school newsletter to keep abreast of events in the school and provide a preview of some of the wonderful activities your child can look forward to. Your family will also be invited to attend our annual “End of the Year Picnic”.

All new families can expect two "mailers" from the school, one in May and one in August. The May ailer will include emergency contact forms, technology policy and other "housekeeping" forms. he August mailer will include information about hot lunch, after school activities, bus routes andnformation about the classroom teachers.