Guided Independence
& Student Agency
At Kehillah, we understand that preparing students for college – and for life – doesn’t just happen.
Our intentional scaffolding ensures that by the time they graduate, students can navigate independence, self-advocacy, time management, and choice with confidence and purpose. This growth unfolds over four years through increasing levels of agency and responsibility. Ninth graders begin with guided independence that gradually expands into full open-campus privileges by eleventh grade.
Freedom with Purpose
Starting in 9th grade, students have built-in open blocks in their schedules, giving them time to complete assignments, meet with teachers, take wellness breaks, or engage in enrichment opportunities.
Every student has at least one three-hour free block each week and learns how to manage that time effectively – building the judgment and accountability essential for success in college and beyond.
For those seeking additional support, our Learning Center offers individualized coaching in time management, and learning strategies, helping students strengthen self-management skills and confidence as learners. Choice is built into our course offerings, and each student works closely with academic leadership to design a schedule that reflects their goals and interests.
Your Time, Your Choice
Students have free blocks built into their schedules each week, giving them real practice in managing time, making choices, and balancing work, rest, and connection.
Our campus mirrors this balance of freedom and structure. Students have the agency to choose from a variety of environments that support their diverse needs – from lively social areas and outdoor spaces to quiet corners for study, reflection, or wellness. Every space is a student space, intentionally designed to foster belonging, balance, and independence. |
Beyond the classroom, students can visit the OFJCC fitness center, pool, outdoor areas, and café during breaks, lunch, or after school – extending their learning environment into the broader community.
A Community of Mentors Who Know Each Student Well
Throughout this journey, students are surrounded by caring adults who know them well: teachers with flexible time for extra help and exploration; advisors, counselors, and our Rabbi; and academic leaders who maintain open-door policies. These connections, grounded in trust and care, provide a strong foundation for growth. Students also have the ability to create their own clubs with faculty mentorship, participate in educational travel opportunities, and engage in dialogue across differences – experiences that expand perspective and develop the confidence to navigate the world with empathy and purpose.
Mentorship That Matters
Our faculty don’t just teach – they coach, listen, and guide each student toward confidence, purpose, and belonging.
Guided by research on adolescent development, our program intentionally cultivates increasing levels of independence. Students enter Kehillah as middle schoolers and graduate as confident young adults ready to take on the academic, social, and personal challenges of college and beyond.
