WINGS: Students Entering
Grades 1-8
The WINGS Program at OHDS provides thoughtful entry point for new students entering grades 1-8. We welcome students who have not attended a Jewish Day School, and those who come without any Hebrew or Jewish studies experience. We do this because we believe that the Jewish tradition belongs to every Jewish child.
Our approach ensures our new students feel comfortable, supported, and confident from day one.
[Our boys] were in a Jewish preschool and then for elementary in a public school. And then, we decided very intentionally to put them into OHDS for middle school and we are so happy with our decision. It's been really life-changing for us in our family. Our boys, and us, have become part of a really strong, beautiful Jewish community. Now we have a freshman at Berkeley High and he knows who he is, and he loves who he is, and he loves his community.”
Mikelle, OHDS parent
We would love to share OHDS with you and your family.
FAQ about WINGS
My child has no Hebrew or Jewish learning. Won’t they be behind?
That’s okay! With individualized support and a welcoming community, your child will soar in our Hebrew and Jewish programming. No prior Hebrew is required. Our beloved instructors meet every student where they are, helping them to gain the skills they need, build confidence quickly, and supporting them every step of the way.
Our child doesn’t know many (or any) OHDS students! Will OHDS help them get connected to their peers?
Absolutely. Whether it be during class meetings, facilitated play at recess, advisory groups in older grades, cross-grade Tribe programming or through group learning inside the classroom, our team are constantly thinking about the social emotional health of every student, ensuring that everyone, especially our newest students are connected with others and actively building and strengthening friendships.
We are not an Orthodox family. Will we fit in?
OHDS serves families with a very wide range of beliefs, practices, customs and backgrounds, including Modern Orthodox families. We are proud to be a community that is deeply rooted in its core values and who simultaneously reflects and celebrates the diverse Jewish landscape of the Bay Area.
We aren’t close with any families at OHDS. How will we be able to integrate into an established class community?
OHDS is a community that welcomes EVERY family. We have a strong parent committee that works thoughtfully and efficiently to welcome new families to our school in all grades every year. This happens through phone call check-ins, Shabbat meal invitations, WhatsApp group chats, playdates at the park and regular OHDS family and parent events.
What Students Experience
Individualized support in Hebrew and Jewish studies
Small-group instruction and differentiated learning
A warm, inclusive classroom environment
Teachers experienced in welcoming new learners
A strong sense of belonging from the very beginning