Innovative Learning Preparing Students for High School and Beyond

As students progress through Middle School, they deepen their engagement with tefilla, reinforcing fluency and kavana. In 7th and 8th grade, students daven in a minyan, preparing them to participate at home and in their shul communities. Boys learn to lead as chazanim and baalei kriah, developing skills and confidence in their tefilla leadership.

Our kriah program continues in Middle School and strengthens Hebrew reading accuracy and fluency. Students gain confidence and clarity, preparing them for higher-level Torah study and active participation in tefilla beyond Hillel Torah.

Building on their earlier foundations, students refine skills in reading and analyzing Chumash and Rashi while exploring additional mefarshim to deepen their understanding of the Torah’s text and themes. Students learn Shemot (5th), Bamidbar (6th–7th), and Devarim (8th), developing critical thinking skills and preparing for advanced study in high school and beyond.

Our 7th and 8th graders can opt into a dedicated Chidon class, preparing them for the National Chidon HaTanach competition. Our Chidon students study an extensive curriculum covering more than 75 perakim from Torah, Navi, and Ketuvim, with a focus on breadth and mastery of detailed content.  In this rigorous, small-group setting,  Hillel Torah students consistently qualify for the national competition in New York, many placing in the top tier nationally.

Using B’Shvil Ha’Ivrit, middle school students continue learning Ivrit B’Ivrit. The digital platform supports individualized progress while building fluency and deepening their connection to Israeli history, language, and culture.

After building a strong base in Torah Shebichtav (Written Torah), Middle School students begin learning Torah She’bal Peh (Oral Torah). In 5th and 6th grade, they learn Mishna, and in 7th and 8th grade, students advance into Gemara learning, developing analytical skills and familiarity with the flow, structure, and logic of Torah She’bal Peh. By focusing on key words, concepts, and structures, students acquire the tools to learn Mishna and Gemara independently.

Students expand their Dinim studies to include key areas of Halacha, such as Hilchot Brachot and Hilchot Shabbat. Through an engaging approach, they combine learning the details of what to do with an understanding of why these mitzvot are essential to daily Jewish life.

Israel is at the heart of our Middle School experience, blended naturally throughout Judaic Studies and special programs. In addition to celebrating Israeli chagim, students engage in discussions and events that connect them to current events in Israel. Through guest speakers and special programs, they gain a deeper understanding of Medinat Yisrael, its history, and its significance. With many Judaic studies classes taught by our Israeli shlichim and daily interactions with our Bnot Sherut, Israel remains a central focus, fostering a strong sense of connection, identity, and commitment to Am Yisrael.

Through the Emuna Shir Weiss z”l Chesed Program, students take the lead in hands-on chesed projects that bring Torah values to life. These experiences foster responsibility, leadership, and real-world application of our values.

A highlight of the year is Maccabiah, a spirited competition that unites students and staff in learning, middot, and a celebration of teamwork, leadership, and school pride.