Message from the Head of School

Welcome to Solomon Schechter Day School (SSDS) of Albuquerque. Walking through the halls of the school each day I am amazed with the wonder and excitement encountered in every classroom. Students are focused on their lessons, eager to learn, and happy to be here. More than one parent reported to me after the first day of school that their children came home and said, “I love first grade!” Our goal for Schechter students is to become joyous learners who love to learn.

SSDS has much to offer your child and your family. Schechter students develop strong Jewish identities and pride in their American heritage. Students are encouraged to become reflective problem-solvers who contribute positively to their community and who appreciate the diverse cultures shaping this beautiful and historically rich region.

Schechter’s emphasis on academic excellence is demonstrated through a beautiful, well-equipped library with thousands of books for reading and research. In addition, the technology center boasts 16 computers that are used for technology instruction as well as for entire classroom use. The science program, headed by the Science Resource Teacher, emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning about the world from microscopic organisms to the universe around us. The literacy approach used at Schechter is “Four Block” which balances the instruction of reading through literature, phonics, writing, and selected reading textbooks. Staff spent an entire year searching for a math textbook that balances teaching through critical thinking skills with teaching basic computational skills. This math program enables students to learn math skills through the most recent, research-based methods. The approach to teaching Social Studies is based on using content to answer a set of “Big Questions” that help students better understand the histories, cultures and geographies of their community, state, country, continent, and world.

Each day at Schechter is filled with moments of celebration and blessing. Students are encouraged to form personal connections with Jewish traditions and texts, and to implement Jewish values in their daily lives through the “Ariot’s Midot” program. Creativity and innovation characterize the teaching of Hebrew language and Jewish studies.
 

The strength of the Schechter program comes from many sources; the high standards established by the Schechter organization for its member schools; nationally recognized curriculum guidelines; a dedicated Board of Trustees and an involved parent community; the generous participation of Jewish leaders throughout the community; and a highly trained professional teaching staff. Add to this mix a wonderfully diverse group of students and Schechter vibrates with excitement daily.
Solomon Schechter Day School of Albuquerque looks forward to continued growth in the next few years. I sincerely hope that you and your child will become partners with us in this exciting learning adventure.
 

B’Shalom,
 

Kathryn Weil

Head of School