Our Upper School

From fifth grade on, the Upper School students are assigned home rooms, but they leave these rooms for classes in their subject matters: English, math, science, social studies, and various areas of Judaics.

A wide-ranging curriculum…

At Ezra Academy, our Middle School combines history and literature into a single, integrated Humanities program. These courses go far beyond the study of history, literature, philosophy, art, and culture - they are an exploration of what it means to be human.

Through the lens of anthropology and personal identity, students learn to analyze evidence, think critically, communicate effectively, and understand the diverse experiences that have shaped our world. By examining the triumphs and failures of individuals and societies, they develop empathy, ethical reasoning, and the ability to consider multiple perspectives before making informed decisions.

In an age of constant information and rapid change, these skills are more essential than ever. Our Humanities program prepares students not only for academic success, but for thoughtful citizenship — helping them become compassionate leaders who appreciate cultural diversity, value democratic principles, and recognize the power of ideas to shape the future.

…a passionate engagement with the world

Ezra Academy is part of a consortium of six Jewish day schools who all follow a curriculum that brings together civics, justice, and Jewish values. Our upper-school students learn about the history of the Civil Rights Movement and travel to Selma, Ala., and Washington, D.C., to see historic sites, visit landmarks, and explore sites of governance, including Congress.

In all of this work, we practice differentiated instruction, to meet students where they are, and always parallel our work with Jewish texts that illuminate the beauty and purpose in our secular subjects.

“My years at Ezra let me not only explore my academic interests, but helped me expand my understanding of my own Jewish identity and my love for Israel.”

- Hannah Herbst, class of 2019