Specialties
Specialties
The OHDS educational program is built on the principle of reaching and teaching the “whole child”. Our students thrive when they are able to develop every aspect of themselves and to engage with a wide range of learning modalities. OHDS students are offered a variety of specialty classes aimed at deepening their personal growth, their creative expression, their physical health and their innate curiosity. From Bridge K through 8th grade students benefit from regular specialty classes in physical education, visual art and library. Through a mix of regular classroom programming, electives and after-school programs, students have access to exploring the world of music, drama and design-based learning.
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Physical Education
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Art
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Library
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Music and Drama
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Design Lab
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Nature
First Grade
First Grade at OHDS is a year of so much growth as students build skills, confidence and excitement about all there is to learn in the world! Students solidify their skills in both general and Judaic studies, moving to much greater levels of independence and thriving with each opportunity to use these skills to discover, build and create. First Graders deepen their sense of being part of a community, taking part in weekly class meetings, exploring different character traits and learning strategies for solving age-appropriate social challenges. It’s a fabulous year of learning and growing!
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First Grade General Studies
In general studies first graders master the many essentials that build a foundation for future learning. From reading and writing to math, science and social studies, students engage with both basic skills and the big ideas that make learning come to life. Students’ natural curiosity is nurtured through exposure to interesting literature, humorous poetry, hands-on math exploration and many opportunities to design and discover!
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First Grade Jewish Studies
In Jewish studies first grade students dive into the study of the Hebrew language through visuals, music and movement. The study of the weekly Torah portion (parashat hashavuah) is usually based on a couple of psukim (verses) from the weekly Torah reading. While at the beginning of the year students use Tefillah charts as their guide, by January students proudly hold their own siddurim. The goal of first grade is to create a connection between all aspects of Jewish life through Hebrew: Jewish holidays; the Land of Israel; prayer service; and Torah study.
Second Grade
Second Grade at OHDS brings many opportunities for students to apply what they know, while continuing to build essential academic and social skills. In both general and Judaic studies, students begin to explore topics in greater depth, completing their first research reports, stretching their math skills to solve more complex problems, writing in both Hebrew and English with much more independence and building their confidence with public presentation. Socially and emotionally, second graders are supported to engage in self-reflective practices that help them navigate their relationships and their internal world with increasing awareness and sensitivity.
Second Grade
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Second Grade General Studies
Second graders apply their skills and tackle more complex materials in all subject areas: from reading and writing to math, science and social studies, students extend beyond the basics, becoming aware of multiple ways to solve problems, interpret text and express ideas. Students’ natural curiosity is nurtured through exposure to thought-provoking literature, hands-on math exploration and many opportunities to research and present what they learn!
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Second Grade Jewish Studies
From reading and writing in Hebrew, to daily prayer and Torah study, to exploration of Jewish holidays and traditions, second graders apply their increasing Hebrew fluency and their budding critical thinking skills to deepen all aspects of their Jewish learning. Instruction is almost exclusively in Hebrew for all Judaic studies subjects and students practice the ability to participate in discussions and share their written ideas in Hebrew. Songs, games, stories, computer work and arts integration give second graders a wide variety of access points for learning and support a high level of engagement for all. Second grade is also the time students receive their very first Chumash (Torah book) at a meaningful all-school ceremony.