In first grade at WTA, holistic learning takes many forms. Students learn through frontal lessons, individual work, song, dance and more. To bring some extra fun to lessons about the Alef Bet, the children got a chance to show off their creativity, creating letter shapes with their bodies.

In second grade, the children worked on their math skills using numerous different games; Set is a particularly fun game that helps students work on their pattern recognition skills.

Every week, WTA’s middle school students have a chance to explore extracurricular activities in their elective block. Options range from more traditional academic subjects such as Moot Court to more creative options like jewelry making. The students love taking some time out of their normal school routine to learn something different.

“I really like jewelry making because it brings out my creativity. It allows me to socialize while learning something new and also learn from a new teacher. I can’t wait for more classes!” said Leah Kessler, eighth grade.

In the Montessori early childhood program, students learn and practice tangible, practical skills using time-tested Montessori methods, while connecting the activities to theirJewish heritage. Especially in advance of the chagim, these Jewish-Montessori activities shine as an example of holistic day school education. Classic Montessori activities such as transferring items using spoons become a natural part of the students’ Jewish education as well, by swapping in Rosh Hashana themed apples in place of marbles.