Admissions FAQ

CJDS provides an exceptional learning environment for children, featuring a dedicated faculty and a multi-sensory curriculum in both Judaic and General studies. By integrating subjects into thematic units, students gain a deeper understanding of their identity as Jews and Americans. The school culture values diverse Jewish philosophies and practices, ensuring a welcoming experience for all students.

At our multi-denominational day school, our families represent a wide range of Jewish backgrounds. While many of our students come from Reform, Conservative, or Modern Orthodox families, we also welcome those who do not identify with a specific denomination. What unites all of our families is their desire to instill a strong sense of Jewish identity and knowledge in their children. At CJDS, our students learn that there is not just one way to be Jewish; they celebrate and respect the various paths through which we all express our Jewish identity and practice.

Current Tuition Information

We take pride in the fact that our graduates have choices. Our 15 alumni classes have been accepted into the most prestigious private, Jewish, and public high schools in the Chicagoland area and beyond, where they become leaders in their schools and communities

Our student-teacher ratio is 6:1, allowing for personalized attention in each class. Typically, our classes consist of 12 to 16 students, and most grades have two separate classes. In Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten, classrooms are staffed with two to three teachers to provide ample support. For Grades One through Five, each class has one General Studies teacher and one Hebrew/Judaic Studies teacher. In Middle School, students rotate through different classes, allowing them to learn from specialized teachers in each academic discipline.

We prioritize our students’ individuality, asking, “What is best for the student?” Each student is unique, so we create flexible policies and expectations that cater to their specific needs, whether they require extra support or enrichment. Differentiation is incorporated into our curriculum and teaching across all subjects. We recognize the various developmental stages of learning and support each student's unique timeline for growth. Our Student Services department also provides additional assistance to meet a wide range of needs.

Chicago Jewish Day School offers bus transportation for our families to and from school. We currently offer bus routes that make a variety of stops throughout the city and suburbs to accommodate our families. Currently, about 65% of our students take the bus to and from Chicago Jewish Day School. Stops and routes are adjusted yearly to accommodate ridership. 

For your convenience, we offer Before Care, After Care, and After School Adventures.

• After Care at CJDS is available from Monday to Thursday, 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. The After Care staff guide children through engaging activities, assist with homework, and provide a nurturing and safe environment where kids can learn and grow.
• After School Adventures are offered Monday-Thursday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Students participate in various classes led by experts from top children's programs in Chicago, as well as our own CJDS teachers with specialized expertise.