Frequently Asked Questions

Is OHDS the right fit for our family?

OHDS is a Modern Orthodox day school that welcomes families from all Jewish backgrounds. Our families come from a variety of Jewish observances, practices and traditions, as well as synagogue affiliations (Conservative, Reform, Renewal, Modern Orthodox, non-affiliated). At OHDS we support children when accessing their Jewish heritage through a diverse and rich curriculum, and we reiterate that each family has their own customs and history as well.

Do boys and girls learn together?

Yes! Our school is fully integrated and all learning is done together as a community. Morning tefilah prayers are done together through our lower school, and in middle school girls lead their own services and do their own Torah reading.

How does OHDS prioritize general academics?

We place equal emphasis on general and Judaic studies. By design, they work together to provide an academic program that focuses on building strong critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills and collaboration skills in all areas of learning including math and science. OHDS subscribes to the highest level of academic curriculum that is available in education such as Bridges Math, SIPPS phonics instruction, and the Six Traits of Writing. In addition, the Common Core Standards permeate both the general and Judaic studies curriculum.

What are your hours? Are there after-school programs?

The school hours are 8:20am-3:30pm (or 4 p.m. by middle school). We offer supervised aftercare as well as after-school clubs – both go until 5:20pm. The clubs vary by year, but have included Chess Club, Art Club, Music, and more. Our athletic program offers middle school students the chance to participate in competitive intramural sports as well.

What high schools do OHDS alumni go on to attend?

Over the past several years, our students have enrolled in the following private high schools:

Bentley High, Jewish Community High School, Bishop O'Dowd, Oakland School of the Arts, College Preparatory School, Meira Academy, and Head Royce.

What colleges do OHDS alums go on to attend?

Amherst College, List College, Jewish Theological Seminary, Boston University, St. Lawrence University, Brandeis University, University of California-Berkeley, California Polytechnic State University, University of California-Davis, Chapman University, University of California-Los Angeles, Columbia University, University of Michigan, Cornell University, University of Washington, Emory University, Wesleyan University, Harvard University, Yeshiva University

How does OHDS help children who have not had any formal Hebrew or Jewish Studies instruction?

Our educational team works together to create a support plan for each child transitioning to OHDS. This includes support around Hebrew, Judaic Studies, and any other academic or social emotional support that can help a student to succeed. OHDS provides differentiated learning, such as small group instruction, to meet different students’ needs. We may also recommend that a student receive some additional support at home. The best chance for a student’s success comes from a strong school-parent partnership.

Does OHDS offer Flexible Tuition?

OHDS offers a Flexible Tuition Program designed to help make a Jewish education accessible to all families. The school knows that each family is doing everything possible to make a meaningful contribution towards tuition and appreciates that families often make significant sacrifices to do so. The FACTS flexible tuition evaluation is one form and it’s all online. If you think you can’t afford the cost of tuition, you should complete a flexible tuition evaluation.