Our Stories

Learning Hebrew as a second language is deeply meaningful, supports brain development, and connects our students to our shared history and identity. At the same time, acquiring Hebrew as a second language, especially in the early and foundational literacy years (Kindergarten through Grade 3), can present unique challenges for some students, particularly those with language-based learning differences.

At MILTON, we are committed to building strong Hebrew foundations for all students from the earliest grades. This commitment led us to partner with Hebrew at the Center and join the Pritzat Derech: Hebrew for All initiative.

According to Hebrew at the Center, Pritzat Derech is the first comprehensive, research-based approach designed to support students learning Hebrew as a second language, with a focus on foundational literacy in Kindergarten through Grade 3. As part of this work, members of MILTON’s Hebrew faculty participated in two full-day and one half-day professional development training focused on strengthening Hebrew reading instruction.

Through this professional learning, MILTON teachers deepened their understanding of the science of reading as it applies to Hebrew as a second language. They broadened their instructional strategies to better support reading comprehension, learned to identify and address common reading challenges, and collaborated with educators from other Jewish day schools in the DC area.

As a result of Pritzat Derech, MILTON students benefit from a more intentional, structured, and developmentally responsive approach to Hebrew reading instruction. Beginning in Kindergarten and continuing through Grade 3, students receive instruction designed to build strong literacy foundations and support continued growth as Hebrew readers. This initiative provides our school with ongoing support, including:

• Targeted Professional Learning: Ongoing training for MILTON’s Hebrew teachers focused on evidence-based Hebrew literacy practices.
• Expert Coaching in Classrooms: Regular observations and coaching support from Hebrew at the Center to strengthen instruction and respond to student needs.
• Communities of Practice: Collaboration among MILTON’s Hebrew educators and those at other DC-area Jewish day schools to share strategies and solve instructional challenges together.
• Sustained Support: Year-round access to expert consultation, instructional materials, and resources that directly inform classroom practice.

Through Pritzat Derech, MILTON continues to strengthen its Hebrew program by prioritizing foundational literacy and ensuring that students receive the support they need to grow as confident, capable Hebrew readers.

To learn more about Prizat Derech, you can view this resource from Hebrew at the Center.

MILTON staff at a Prizat Derech workshop.