Do we need to be members of the JDC to enroll?
Enrollment

No membership is required. DHS is open to every Jewish child regardless of affiliation, observance, or background. We have students whose families belong to every kind of synagogue, and many whose families don’t belong to any.

What if my child has no Hebrew background at all?
Curriculum

Perfect, that’s exactly who Aleph Champ was designed for. Children start at the White level (recognizing letters) and progress at their own pace. There’s no shame, no falling behind, just steady, celebrated progress.

What if my child already reads Hebrew fluently?
Curriculum

They’ll love it. Aleph Champ has advanced levels (through Hebrew Champion, the “black belt”), and our curriculum focuses heavily on Jewish history, values, holidays, and identity, not just reading. Hebrew-fluent kids often become peer mentors.

What does a typical Sunday look like?
Schedule

Sunday mornings run 9:30–11:30 AM. A typical session includes breakfast club (yes, with food), an interactive Torah story or holiday activity, hands-on Hebrew reading time at each child’s level, and a craft, song, or game tying the lesson together. We end with everyone in good spirits.

What if we can’t afford the tuition?
Tuition

Reach out to Goldy at goldy@JDiscovery.com. No child is ever turned away due to lack of funds. We have sibling discounts, referral discounts, and scholarship support, and we’ll always find something that works.

How is DHS different from other Hebrew schools?
Curriculum

Three main differences: 1. Our hands-on, experiential approach, kids do Judaism, not just learn about it. 2. Aleph Champ’s motivational structure means real, visible progress. 3. Our inclusive philosophy, every Jewish child belongs, full stop.

What ages do you accept?
Enrollment

Ages 3 through 13. Younger children (3–5) participate in age-appropriate parallel programming, and our main Hebrew school program serves K through 7th/8th grade.

Are there make-up classes for missed Sundays?
Schedule

We don’t hold formal make-ups, but morahs are happy to share what was covered and provide materials for catching up. Aleph Champ in particular is self-paced, so missing a week doesn’t set a child back.

Can my child try a Sunday before committing?
Enrollment

Absolutely. Reach out and we’ll set up a visit. There’s no pressure and no charge for a try-out Sunday.

What’s included in the annual fee?
Tuition

Weekly DHS classes from September through May, snacks, Aleph Champ workbooks and materials, all special events (worth ~$60+ on their own), field trips, and the end-of-year celebration. See the Dates & Rates page for the full breakdown.

Is there programming for the whole family?
Curriculum

Yes. The JDC runs Hebrew School Family Programming throughout the year, Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, parent learning. The registration form lets you indicate your interest level.

Have a question we didn’t answer? Get in touch, we’ll respond personally.