About Us
Help Us Keep Downtown Jewish Education Thriving
Paul Penna DJDS is a vibrant JK to Grade 8 Jewish day school committed to exceptional academics in a dynamic downtown setting. The school's distinct program integrates Judaic and General Studies while encouraging artistic expression as a tool for learning. Committed to Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World), we nurture responsible citizens and compassionate, confident human beings. Embracing the value of diversity, the school welcomes students of all Jewish backgrounds.
Visit us and find out what makes our unique integrated curriculum so exceptional.
Mission
Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School provides children and their families an open door to diverse Jewish life and education in a unique downtown community. We strive to deliver an excellent Jewish and general education for students and further focus thoughts and actions on social justice and critical thinking.
Vision
Graduates of Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School will have a strong Jewish identity, deep sense of curiosity, and commitment to social justice that enables them to make a positive impact, not only on their Jewish community but also on their local, Canadian and global communities. Their families will actively engage in this journey, extending the impact our graduates create in repairing the world.
Values







Community (קהילה)
Our school is a community unto itself, built around shared values and a shared commitment to excellence.
Diversity (מגוון)
We believe in the intrinsic value of diversity both within and beyond the Jewish community. We welcome and honour Jewish children and their families from across the broad spectrum of practice and engagement.
Individuality (יחודיות)
We value each and every child as a one-of-a-kind member of our community and aspire to help all children reach their highest levels of academic, social, creative, spiritual and emotional achievement.
Israel (ישראל)
We build connections with and celebrate the ongoing relationship with the language, people, places, history and heritage of Israel.
Learning (לימוד)
We prize learning in both general and Jewish studies as a rigorous, integrated, artistic and collaborative process.
Place (מקום)
Our school is reflective of and energized by the special, vibrant character of Downtown Toronto.
Social Justice (תיקון עולם)
We believe that our students are the inheritors of Judaism’s ongoing commitment to social justice and social action.