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Milwaukee Jewish Day School at a Glance
If your family is exploring private and independent school options in Milwaukee, you may be researching academic programs, community atmosphere, and class sizes before scheduling a tour. Milwaukee Jewish Day School (MJDS), located in the North Shore, is a pluralistic Jewish school serving students from 3K through 8th grade. Families appreciate its values-driven approach, emphasis on empathy, strong academics, and a close-knit school community.
Quick Highlights
- Average class size: 16
- Grades served: 3K–8
- Location: 6401 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Milwaukee
- Accreditation: ISACS
- School motto: Moving from Me to We
- Languages: English + Hebrew
- Strong community traditions: Shabbat Sing, makerspace events, family gatherings
By the Numbers
Small Class Sizes
16 is the average class size, allowing for meaningful teacher-student relationships and personalized attention.
Academic Excellence
Half of MJDS’s eighth-grade students are recommended for high school honors classes.
Alumni Achievement
85% of MJDS alumni make their high school Dean’s List.
Cultural Diversity
Students represent 10 countries, contributing to a rich, inclusive environment.
The Rally Cry of MJDS: “Moving from Me to We“
The Milwaukee Jewish Day School has adopted a powerful and unifying motto: “Moving from Me to We.”
This rally cry is more than just a slogan; it’s a reflection of the school’s commitment to building a strong, interconnected community.
This concept is deeply embedded in every aspect of the school’s culture and curriculum, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility, cooperation, and the strength of community.
Core Pillars of MJDS
This guiding philosophy encourages students to think beyond themselves and consider their role in the broader community.
Empathy
Teachers model empathy in daily interactions, helping students understand different perspectives.
Wonder
Curiosity is nurtured everywhere—through the Maker Space, art gallery, outdoor learning, and hands-on projects.
Tikkun Olam
Students participate in service projects, environmental initiatives, and social action that support the Milwaukee community and beyond.
A Community-Centered Experience
Shabbat Sing
Every Friday morning, families and students gather for singing, dancing, and community connection.
Cross-Grade Mentorship
Older students support younger peers through programs like reading buddies and shared celebrations.
Family Engagement
From Torah Schmooze events to room-parent gatherings and makerspace activities, families have many opportunities to connect.
Personalized Care
Teachers know each child individually and provide a supportive, nurturing environment.
Hebrew Learning at MJDS
Hebrew enriches students’ cultural identity and offers cognitive benefits, while opening doors to future global experiences and study abroad opportunities. The 8th-grade trip to Israel is a highlight of the upper school experience.
The process of mastering this distinctive language not only enhances cognitive abilities like problem-solving and creativity but also opens doors to global opportunities, from studying abroad to engaging with international communities.
The Arts at MJDS
From Lower School art classes to Upper School Omanut programs, students explore woodworking, calligraphy, cooking, guitar, dance, sewing, and more.
Signature programs include woodworking, calligraphy, cooking, guitar, theater and dance, and sewing.
Athletics & Team Spirit
MJDS participates in the North Shore Conference, with a focus on teamwork, sportsmanship, and equal play time for all students.
Library & Literacy
The school library houses 18,000+ books and offers weekly checkout for younger grades, plus open access throughout the day..
Repairing Together Program
This initiative brings together students from diverse Milwaukee-area schools to build relationships, develop empathy, and work collaboratively on social and environmental projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Milwaukee Jewish Day Class
Yes. A large percentage of MJDS families received need-based aid.
MJDS welcomes families at all points in their Jewish journey.
3K through 8th grade.
Yes—accredited by ISACS.
On the Karl Jewish Campus at 6401 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Milwaukee.
Yes—arts, sports, music, theater, technology, and more.
How To Learn More or Schedule a Tour
Families can schedule a tour by filling out the admissions form or contacting the Director of Admissions, Michal Deskalo, at 414-967-8308.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
