Frequently Asked Questions

What are the goals of the Hebrew Academy?
Bet Shraga Hebrew Academy offers an integrated and balanced curriculum in general and Judaic studies.  In addition to stressing academic excellence in both our curricula, we strive to help our students develop into ethical young men and women who understand, cherish and live by Jewish traditions and values, and who will possess a sense of responsibility to the communities - American and Jewish - in which they will participate.

How does your general studies curriculum compare with other schools?
Bet Shraga Hebrew Academy is chartered by the New York State Department of Education. Our students fulfill all the requirements mandated by the state Board of Regents. Students are most frequenty enriched or accelerated in many subjects.  We are very highly ranked among both private and public schools in the Capital Region.  We offer an outstanding general studies program plus a full Judaic studies curriculum.  Students leaving the school at the end of eighth grade often have completed at least one, and sometimes two, Math Regents credits for high school as well as a science Regents credit.  In addition, our students take the Hebrew Regents exam and are given credit for as many as three years of the foreign language requirement.  In past years, valedictorians and other top ranked students at area high schools have been Bet Shraga Hebrew Academy graduates.

How will my child learn all he or she needs to know if you have general studies for only half a day?
Coupled with our small classes, our students come from homes where learning is very important, and therefore they are highly motivated to learn.  The daily schedule is structured so that time is utilized very efficiently and an effort is made to create links across the curriculum between general and Judaic subjects.  In addition, the Judaic studies program reinforces and enriches the general studies program through the development of enhanced language skills and the ability to think critically.

What is the educational background of the teachers?
All of our teachers are highly qualified in their own subject matter.  Most of our teachers, in addition to State certification, have advanced degrees such as masters degrees or rabbinical degrees.  Bet Shraga conducts faculty workshop days for in-service training and teachers take courses at local universities.  A number of teachers have studied and taught at the annual CAJE (Conference on Alternatives in Jewish Education) conference.  Teachers pursue further training in such subjects as technology, differentiated instruction, cutting edge early childhood curriculum including project learning , environmental education, inclusion education, and integrated curriculum.

What about financial aid?
No child will be denied admission because of the inability to pay the full tuition.  Scholarships are available through a tuition adjustment process, which is strictly confidential.

Do you have a library?
The library of the Hebrew Academy is a large, pleasant room containing about 10,000 volumes and a computer lab.  It is staffed by a professional teacher librarian and supported by parent volunteers.  There are extensive Judaic and general studies collections, including reference books in both Hebrew and English.  We are fortunate that our library has been endowed by a fund established by the late Sidney and Bea Albert, ensuring the ongoing excellence of our collections.  The children have library and computer classes during the week, at which time, they may borrow books, are introduced to fine literature, are taught research skills, and expand their knowledge of the computer as a learning and research tool. 

Do children have exercise during the day?
Our physical education teacher meets with each class twice per week.  We have a well equipped gym and the children have recess after lunch in our extensive outdoor play-yard which includes separate fields for baseball, basketball, and soccer.  In addition, children receive Israeli dance instruction, culminating in our annual Dance Festival. 

Do you provide transportation?
We are fortunate that suburban school districts provide bus transportation to our school.  Parents in the Albany School District have developed an efficient car pool program, overseen by the school, to meet their children’s needs.

What is the role of parents in the school?
Our Board of Trustees is comprised of parents of current students and alumni as well as respected members of our local community.  This board is involved in all major administrative and educational policy matters at the school.  We also have a very active Parent Organization, which runs activities such as athletic events, holiday celebrations, after school activities and clubs, and cultural enrichment programs.  In addition, the Parent Organization sponsors social and educational programs for adults.

Will I be asked to change my Jewish lifestyle?
Our common denominator is an interest in a high quality of education as well as a strong grounding in the richness of Jewish life.  Therefore, we attract students from Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and unaffiliated Jewish homes. Hebrew Academy was founded 45 years ago as a community school, which reflects families’ individual choices of religious affiliation.  Similarly, our Judaic staff reflects a cross-section of the Jewish community.  Teachers teach about tradition and heritage, but do not impose their orientations on the children or their families. 

Enrollment in Bet Shraga Hebrew Academy is a journey - for your child and your family. 
Come join us for the ride!