Pardes Jewish Day School: Where rigorous academics meet values-based character development

Empowering students to succeed through living their values

Pardes Jewish Day School, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers a unique educational experience by combining rigorous secular and Jewish studies with a focus on character development. Led by Head of School Dr. Michelle Bernat, the K-8 institution prioritizes relationships, small class sizes and project-based learning to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the world.

“We teach children how to think, not what to think, and emphasize that strong character can make a real difference in the world,” says Dr. Bernat, who has a doctorate in educational leadership from California State University, Fullerton. “For us, this is critically important. We want kids to understand how to collaborate, think through problems and solve them.”

The school’s emphasis on both academic achievement and moral development is what sets Pardes apart. Using state-of-the-art makerspaces and other facilities, students engage in dynamic real-world problem-solving projects that align with their personal interests, from exploring the rich history of Jewish cooking to learning about heart disease prevention or protecting the environment.

Students are taught that the world does not revolve around them. Instead, they live for the world, with the responsibility to lead, contribute and solve global challenges. Dr. Bernat highlights the importance of teaching grit, values and leadership, which are woven into every aspect of the school’s curriculum.

At the heart of Pardes’ success is the close relationship between teachers and students. Its Learning Support Team, which allows it to tailor the educational experience to meet individual student needs sets the school apart. This personalized approach ensures that each student thrives academically and socially. The school’s collaborative environment further enhances the rigorous learning experience, encouraging students to be curious and innovative.

With about 80 percent of students participating in athletics, Pardes also fosters teamwork and personal growth through sports. Such initiatives allow children to experience being part of a team while also striving to achieve their personal best.

“With what is happening with our world politically and economically today, our kids need to have skills to think through things and problems that do not even exist yet,” says Dr. Bernat, who is a published author of books in education. “We are creating the future leaders of the world who will not only be able to solve problems but also bring people together.”

Learn more about Pardes Jewish Day School at www.pardesschool.org.