One hallmark of CJDS is our dedication to programming across the grades of the school. We believe significant learning occurs when students have the opportunity to interact with other students, both younger and older. In addition to informal opportunities such as lunch and recess, two formal programs promote a mentoring and cooperative learning relationship between older and younger children: Mishpachot (families) and Reading Buddies.

At the beginning of each year students are assigned to a school mishpacha (family) with a faculty member and students from each grade. Students participate in school-wide Shabbat and holiday celebrations together as a mishpacha, along with other set learning times that are built into the school year.

Our Reading Buddies program is an incredible opportunity for our older children to practice reading, and for the younger children to experience being read to by an older child. Bonds develop between Reading Buddies across the grade levels that extend to recess, play and the celebration of life-cycle events.