Our goal is to clarify who we are and how we align with the Jewish values that shape every aspect of our program. The data considered by Kehillah’s Board and the decision itself are explained at length in the Webinar and the research report. 

It’s important to note that in a survey of NAIS high schools, we found that the other independent schools with Jewish in their names were only accepting students who identified as Jewish. Since 2010, Kehillah has been publicly open to all families. Our rebranding helps ensure that Kehillah is publicly understood to be accessible to all Jewish families and any family that aligns with our mission and values. 

Your old apparel is now vintage! While there won’t be a trade-in, new apparel will be available for purchase.

The new branding emphasizes the word "kehillah" (Hebrew for community) which is distinctly Jewish and reflects our commitment to inclusivity, pluralism, and dialogue. Kehillah’s identity will remain focused on fostering a diverse, welcoming community grounded in Jewish values.

We look to foster a nuanced and personal understanding of Israel, grounded in principles of open dialogue, democratic values, and pluralism. Our approach encourages students to explore the multifaceted connections between Israel and Jewish heritage, recognizing its significance across history, liturgy, and culture. This connection also informs experiential programs, educational travel, and courses that address history, politics, current events, language, Israeli law, and more. For a full list of courses and programs, please consult our curriculum guide.

We are engaging Jewish day schools and community leaders through events, visits, and targeted outreach. For example, we host full-day experiences for 8th graders from local Jewish schools and maintain active relationships with institutions like Yavneh, Hausner, and Wornick. Our rebranding efforts will further support these enrollment initiatives.

We paid critical attention to findings and recommendations from admission directors at feeder schools, along with enrollment trends from peer schools and the broader market. We also reviewed data which revealed that many families misunderstood Kehillah’s identity. We believe our rebranding clarifies our values, positions us more effectively in the marketplace, and helps us attract more mission-aligned families. Our Board of Trustees approached the mission and name change process through a strategic lens, with the school’s long term success and sustainability top of mind.

Faculty have been engaging with students as needed and are prepared to continue supporting them during this transition.

Yes, we will continue to observe major Jewish holidays, Israeli holidays, and Kabbalat Shabbat. No homework will be assigned or due during these observances.

Yes.

This is a transition year, so the class of 2025 will have the choice of either “Kehillah Jewish High School” or “The Kehillah School” on their diplomas. Transcripts will say “The Kehillah School”.

For students graduating in 2026 and beyond, both diplomas and transcripts will say “The Kehillah School”.

We are currently developing a curricular pathway, proposed initially in 2021, focused on Jewish studies, civil discourse, and leadership. This concentration will require advanced research, service, coursework, and independent study, while leading to a special commendation on the diploma. Now that we are able to clearly communicate our welcoming, inclusive identity, we are excited to develop this opportunity for eligible students who are passionate about deepening their Jewish education.