Learning Philosophy
The Heilicher experience is built on nurturing intellectual curiosity, artistic expression, social responsibility, and rigorous problem solving.
We work closely with each family to ensure that their child receives a strong academic foundation upon which to build success in school and in life. We use a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and inquiry-based pedagogical approach. Through STEAM and inquiry, students think deeply, take risks, and become creative problem solvers and outstanding communicators who are actively engaged in their communities.
Our school is dedicated to educating the whole child.
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We offer intentional learning experiences while providing opportunities for discovery and creativity.
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We create learning opportunities that empower students to ask questions and think critically.
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We look through a Jewish lens to make connections between General and Jewish studies.
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We integrate our curriculum across subject areas.
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We promote self-advocacy and strong communication skills.
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We foster strong work habits and organizational skills.
"More important than the Pythagorean Theorem or any of the amazing facts we learned is the value of hard work. This is what I take away from HMJDS."
Provide extra support
At Heilicher we follow Harvard educator Howard Gardner's research on multiple intelligences. We appreciate diverse learning styles and can create personal education plans for our students implemented by their classroom teachers. With small class sizes and the support of our Resource Department, we can provide reinforcement and enrichment for our students.
Encourage a wide range of Jewish practice
Viewing the world through Jewish lenses, school life nurtures spiritual life. Our students grow to respect and cherish Jewish texts, rituals, prayers, and values in age-appropriate ways. Our vibrant Judaic Studies program empowers students to explore their faith and Jewish identity, acquire religious literacy, and nurture a connection with Israel.
Speak Hebrew
From the first day of kindergarten, Heilicher students begin hearing and speaking Hebrew, developing fluency over time. By graduation, many of our students are able to debate current events in the Hebrew language and appreciate the music and literature of modern Israel. Many are ready to earn college credit for advanced Hebrew during high school.
Learn social responsibility
National research tells us that day school graduates have a greater sense of responsibility toward addressing the needs of the larger society—by influencing social values, helping those in need, volunteering their time, and choosing careers that enable them to be of service to their community—than their public and private school peers.
Inspire creativity
At Heilicher we celebrate the arts. We offer classes in the visual arts, music composition, instrumental music, ceramics, theater, photography, filmmaking, and graphic design. Student work is visible in all parts of our school building, and we take enormous pride in the fact that our students have been winners in various art competitions in the Twin Cities. Our students and alumni have been featured in the Scholastic Arts Contest and the Keren Or awards each year for the past several years.
Core values
We foster core values at Heilicher which are based in Biblical text and are universal. They are integrated in all aspects of the curriculum and reflected in our commitment to community service and acts of loving kindness. We encourage awareness of others' needs and actively help.
Keep Exploring
Here are some other things to know when considering Heilicher.
