CJHS History: Model of Educational Excellence

Chicagoland Jewish High School began with a dream…a new high school that would weave the very best of the humanities, sciences, and fine arts with the very best in Jewish studies. A place where students attending Solomon Schechter or other day schools could continue their Jewish education during the years that have the greatest impact on Jewish identity. And a place where public and private school students entering Jewish day school for the first time could deepen their understanding and appreciation of their Jewish heritage.

In 2001, with spiritual and philanthropic support from the Chicago Jewish community, the Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education, and other prominent institutions, that dream became a reality.

On Sunday, August 26, 2001, an inspirational dedication ceremony was held at the site of the new school: 7800 W. Lyons Road in Morton Grove, Illinois. Rabbi William H. Lebeau, Vice Chancellor of the Jewish Theological Seminary, delivered a moving address about CJHS' mission: “Our dedication today is not for a building or institution. It is to those who will learn and grow into inspired adults here. It is to the preservation of our collective self-worth as a people.”

 Today, CJHS is a model of educational excellence. The school offers students an exceptional college preparatory curriculum that includes honors and AP classes in all subject areas as well as an intensive, integrated, and comprehensive Jewish studies curriculum. The dual curriculum is supplemented by strong athletic and fine arts programs and numerous extracurricular, social, and leadership opportunities.

CJHS students benefit from an outstanding faculty that includes seasoned professionals as well as promising young educators and role models. Small class sizes ensure personal attention. The vibrant, supportive, and egalitarian community makes it possible for every student to discover his or her own unique strengths and truly make a difference. In addition, CJHS students receive comprehensive and personalized college counseling services from a team of professionals with years of experience in the field.

 In the years since CJHS opened its doors to 26 students, the response from the community has been overwhelming. During the 2008-2009 school year, total enrollment reached nearly 150 students drawn from Jewish day schools and public and private schools in numerous communities extending from Chicago and its suburbs to St Paul, MN. CJHS students represent every stream of Judaism and are affiliated with synagogues throughout metropolitan Chicago.

CJHS graduates are bright and articulate young men and women who have enrolled at the nation’s leading colleges and universities. They are well-rounded and confident, and possess a strong sense of values and a commitment to tikkun olam. They also have a profound sense of their identity as both Americans and Jews.

CJHS was so successful in attracting students that it quickly outgrew its original quarters in Morton Grove, IL. In September 2007, the school moved into its permanent home, a 72,000-square-foot state-of-the-art campus located on a 7.3-acre site in Deerfield. The new facility is able to serve 200 students in its first phase, and will ultimately accommodate 400 students.

As the school grows, the curriculum, athletic programs, and extracurricular activities will also expand to meet the needs of the school's diverse student body. What will not change, however, is the school's commitment to maintaining a culture of academic excellence that inspires students to think critically and achieve their full potential, while preparing them to live Judaism as responsible and involved citizens in the modern world.