Curriculum Overview

At Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School, our dual and integrated curriculum exceeds Ontario Ministry of Education standards with a strong foundation in rich, progressive Judaic Studies. We empower JK to Grade 8 students to become critical thinkers, confident communicators, and compassionate community members. At Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School, Hebrew language is foundational, connecting students to the heritage of the Jewish people and to Israel.

Curriculum Highlights

The Arts: An exciting partnership with Suzuki music, delivering whole class and small-group instruction in violin and guitar.
Hebrew Language: Immersive Hebrew instruction connecting students to the heritage of the Jewish people and to Israel.
Dual Curriculum: An integrated Judaics program where core Jewish traditions and values naturally intersect with general academics, inspiring young learners to explore their world through inquiry, collaborative art, and hands-on social action.
Independent Skill Building: Explicit instruction and practice of routines, fostering and celebrating growing independence.

Curriculum Highlights

Language: Lower School students experience Sounds Write, a structured phonics program that systematically teaches students the skills and concepts needed to become fluent readers and writers.
Math: A math curriculum that balances deep exploration of mathematical concepts with the development of proficiency in fundamental skills.
Place: The city serves as an extension of the classroom as students visit local parks, attractions, theatres, and museums.

Curriculum Highlights

Academic Rigour: A curriculum that pushes students to rigorously engage with their learning driving past the provincial expectations with a focus on high school readiness. Grade 8 students are challenged to complete the Grade 9 math curriculum with almost half choosing to earn their high school credit in their Grade 8 year.
Jewish Life: Building and strengthening of Jewish identity and textual skills through individual and communal experiences, including Shabbat celebrations, communal prayer services and Torah and megillah reading.
The Arts: An arts program that builds community through collective creation, teamwork and resilience, culminating in the annual musical production.

Co-Curricular Highlights

Athletics: Over 20 teams, for students from Grade 3 through 8, participating in the JDSSL (Jewish Day School Sports League), developing athletic skill, sportsmanship and teamwork.
Clubs: Ranging from Choir to Debate, Student Council to STEM, there are opportunities to participate and engage in areas of personal and social interest.
Tikkun Olam: Partnerships with local social service organizations including hospitals, the Beverley School, and JCares at the MNjcc offering opportunities for meaningful social action.