Jewish Day School Admissions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Jewish Day School Admissions: A Step-by-Step Guide

At Schechter, we understand that choosing the right school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you may make as a parent.

Our admissions process is designed to be as transparent and supportive as possible, ensuring that families feel confident and well-informed every step of the way. Whether you are considering kindergarten or a higher grade, this guide will walk you through the admissions process at Schechter, highlighting our commitment to academic excellence and a nurturing, community-oriented environment.

Kindergarten Admissions

1. Complete the Online Inquiry Form: Begin your journey by expressing your interest through our online form. This helps us provide you with tailored information and support.
2. Schedule a Personal Tour: Experience Schechter firsthand. A personal tour gives your family an insight into our dynamic learning environment and community.
3. Submit the Admission Application: Complete your application online to officially start the admissions process.
4. Complete the Online Release Form: This form allows us to communicate with your child’s current educational providers, ensuring we understand their educational background completely.
5. Explore Flexible Tuition (Optional): We believe financial constraints should not bar quality education. Our Flexible Tuition program is designed to fit your financial situation.
6. Educator’s Insight: Your child’s preschool teacher will fill out a Teacher Evaluation Form, giving us additional perspective on your child’s readiness and needs.
7. Observation at Preschool: We coordinate an observation to see your child in their current learning environment, helping us better understand their learning style and needs.
8. Morning of Kindergarten: Your child will participate in activities at Schechter, giving them a taste of our educational approach and allowing us to assess their engagement and comfort.
9. Documentation Submission: Provide all necessary documents, including early intervention/support services records, a birth certificate, and required medical forms.
10. Admissions Decision: Once all steps are completed, we will inform you of our admissions decision, paving the way for your child’s educational journey at Schechter.
11. Continuous Enrollment: Complete your online registration to ensure your child’s place is secure for the years to come at Schechter.

Admissions for Grades 1-8

The process for grades 1-8 mirrors the kindergarten admissions with a few additions tailored to older students:

• Student Visit and Assessment: Prospective students will spend a day at Schechter, participating in classes and assessments to ensure a good fit both academically and socially.
• Current Teacher Evaluations: Teachers provide insights into the student’s capabilities in core academic areas.
• Observation at Current School: Similar to kindergarten, this step involves observing the student in their current educational setting.

Understanding Our Tuition

2024-2025 Tuition Rates:

• K – 4th Grade: $26,400
• 5th – 8th Grade: $27,500

Tuition is annually set by our Board of Directors based on the actual cost of educating each child. We encourage families for whom tuition might be a barrier to explore our Flexible Tuition options. More than 75% of our students benefit from this program, supported by the generosity of our community and foundations like the Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago and the Crown Family Philanthropies.

Schechter’s New Tuition Affordability Model

*Available tuition support is subject to a minimum tuition commitment of $7,200 per student, and the Family Financial Obligation (FFO) of $1,200 per family. **Additional documentation may be requested.

• Tuition Accessibility Partnership (TAP) Fund: For families with an annual adjusted gross income between $200,000 and $350,000, capping tuition at 12% of AGI.
• AGI Tuition Cap Program: For families earning above $350,000, capping tuition at 14% of AGI, expanded support from the Elm Family Foundation.

These programs are part of our commitment to make Schechter accessible to a diverse range of families, recognizing the importance of economic diversity within our community.

Begin Your Journey Today

I invite you to visit our website, explore our Admissions Calendar, and schedule a personal tour to truly understand what makes Schechter a unique place for your child to learn and grow. For any questions, feel free to reach out to me directly. Embarking on your educational journey with Schechter is not just about schooling—it’s about becoming part of a community that values academic excellence, ethical growth, and the nurturing of confident, compassionate individuals. Warmly, Hillary Levitt Dunn Director of Admissions and Enrollment admissions@schechter.org 847.498.2100 This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with all the necessary information to navigate the admissions process smoothly and confidently, ensuring your family becomes an integral part of our thriving community.