Education Lights the Path
Academic Programs at BDY School
Customized Learning
At Bnos Derech Yisroel, we offer customized education tailored specifically for each student. We use various teaching methods so that while each student learns the same subjects, each student can learn in their preferred way. As a result, our students more engaged in the learning process. Our approach to teaching gives students the best chance to succeed, and builds confidence. Here are two of the methods we use in the academic programs at BDY School.
Project-Based Learning
Our approach to project-based learning gives each student a voice and a choice in what and how to learn. Guided by teachers, students independently research subjects. Then students can use their unique gifts, whether it’s written or oral communications skills, to present their newly-learned knowledge.
Collaboration with faculty and individual decision-making is critically important. It gives the students a strong foundation from which to address real-world situations that they will face as they mature.
Inquiry-Based Learning
Inquiry-based learning presents real-world connections through exploration and high-level questioning. At BDY, we use Inquiry-based learning to spark curiosity. Our teacher-guided programs promote inquiry, wonder, and discovery. Then students draw conclusions and form hypotheses. This leads to testing hypotheses in creative and engaging ways. Often the results steer to rediscovery, and the learning process starts again.
In the process, students figure out that learning never ends and feel the satisfaction that comes from leading a curious life.
Communication between the faculty, students, and parents is a key to academic success. At BDY School, we engage with parents regularly. Our interactions prove our dedication to each girl’s success and strengthen our bonds with the community. We listen to parents and value their input. After all, they trust us to help develop and prepare their daughters for life ahead. Today’s daughters will be tomorrow’s mothers who could one day trust their daughters to BDY.
Academic Programs at BDY School
Students at BDY School evenly split their time between Judaic and Secular studies.
Judaic Studies
Judaic studies programs at Bnos Derech Yisroel teach Jewish languages, history, theology, philosophy, and mysticism. Each student establishes a clear Jewish identity that she takes proudly into the world.
Hebrew and Yiddish language skills are taught by teachers specially trained in speech pathology and phonological skills. This helps our students acquire reading fluency in two languages simultaneously.
Teachers are trained in Hebrew by the Toras Picha Institute in Israel. We test students three times per year in Hebrew language skills.
Our students learn how to read and analyze religious texts. Plus, they learn how to apply lessons they’ve learned to understand their life path. This helps students understand the world around them better.
At BDY School, we teach the skills needed to lead meaningful Jewish lives.
Secular Studies
At Bnos Derech Yisroel, the elementary and middle school curriculum follows New York State’s common core standards. In addition, organized field trips help students connect classroom learning with real-world experiences. Students learning about plants recently visited botanical gardens, and a class learning the history of immigration toured Ellis Island. A trip to the Bronx Zoo provides an up-close observation of animals studied in class.
High School Students follow the New York State Regents track. Additionally, a TTI program is available for students who want to get a jump start on college. Up to 60 credits can be earned towards a Bachelor’s degree while still enrolled at BDY.
Life Skills Courses provide real-world skills needed in today’s world. They include subjects like safe internet practices and social media skills. Additionally, we offer a wide range of art classes, home economics, computer skills, and physical education.
At BDY School, we teach the skills need to be fully functioning members of society.
Additional Programs
Additional programs provide opportunities for our girls to work together and form lasting friendships.
Academic programs at BDY School are broad-ranging and robust, deeply rooted in spiritual identity and experiences. They meet or exceed all New York State standards for a quality education. When young ladies graduate from Bnos Derech Yisroel, they are smart, confident, and ready to spread their light. Above all, they are prepared to take their place in the world on whatever path they choose.