Rigorous Learning,
Responsive Teaching
At Rodeph Sholom School, knowing each student deeply drives our approach to education. From early childhood through 8th Grade, we provide appropriately challenging and scaffolded learning experiences. Our pedagogy incorporates various research-based strategies and methodologies that help students master skills, think critically, analyze—and then apply this learning across diverse settings and disciplines. Developing students’ academic and social acumen is core to our program, as is supporting students in finding their voice, deepening their self-knowledge, and developing their ability to communicate their insights in various ways – through written and oral expression, creative and analytical work, performances, and presentations to their classmates, parents, and the broader community.
Personalized Academic Excellence
Our collaborative teaching model ensures differentiated instruction across all subjects and grade levels. Faculty work together—including learning specialists—to understand each student’s learning profile and adapt instruction accordingly. Built-in differentiation is woven throughout our curriculum and extends across all subjects, allowing students to develop at their own pace while learning from peers. For our youngest learners, buddy programs and interdisciplinary experiences create rich growth opportunities. As students progress, they benefit from structured lessons that make differentiation the norm, not the exception, ensuring every child is appropriately challenged and supported.
Real-World Learning & Leadership Development
Students engage in hands-on experiences that extend classroom learning—from farm visits and museum explorations to environmental programs and community service partnerships. These experiences build confidence, strengthen understanding, and connect academic concepts to the world beyond school.
Our middle school program focuses on developing independent learners. Students learn to advocate for themselves, respectfully challenge each other’s thinking, and explore interests both within and outside the classroom. The annual middle school “Teach-In” exemplifies how students synthesize their academic and personal growth through a day of student-driven workshops focused on areas of specific interest, ranging from civics to AI to social issues.
Through this multifaceted approach, Rodeph Sholom School ensures that every student receives the support and the challenge they need to thrive.
Social-Emotional Wellness
A strong social-emotional foundation enables students to take intellectual risks and thrive academically. Our two on-staff psychologists collaborate closely with teachers and advisors to provide both proactive and responsive support. This comprehensive approach helps all students develop essential life skills, including self-advocacy, confidence, and emotional resilience.
In addition, Health and Wellness classes from 4th through 8th Grade address age-appropriate topics, including social-emotional self-care, decision-making, mental health understanding, and physical wellness—all promoting students’ holistic development.