our stories: learning about diversity

What do Native Americans and the Jewish people have in common?

Upon completing an intensive study of Native American culture, our third graders contemplated that question. A poster with their replies hangs on the wall outside their classroom:

• Both formed strong communities.
• Both have been misunderstood.
• Both were nomadic people.
• Both suffered great losses.
• Both have celebrations that are “nature related”.
• Both have strong traditions.
• Both have had to fight for their own land and way of life.
• Both used to have sacrifices.
• Both use lunar calendars.
• It is the duty of both to welcome the stranger.

Every day, students at The Saul Mirowitz Day School–Reform Jewish Academy build authentic connections between Judaism and the world around them. Their own Jewish identity sparks in them a desire to understand the traditions, religions and cultures of others.

Research shows that Jewish day school students enter the world with a confidence to engage with other peoples and places without losing their own identity. And at RJA, we see evidence of this all the time. “I felt very prepared to be a part of a diverse world,” says Gili, ’07 graduate. “I knew the importance of showing respect to every person, no matter their background, race, religion or level of intelligence.”

The RJA provides more than schooling. It fills students with a childhood rich in meaning. It develops in students a moral compass to guide them through every unfamiliar path they will encounter in their lives. And with this foundation, our students draw strength from their Jewish heritage and add to the diversity of the world.