Greater Portland is home to a number of excellent public and private elementary schools.  If you are looking for the school that is the best fit for your child and your family, I hope you will consider Levey Day School.   Maybe Levey hasn’t made it onto your list yet because you think it costs too much for you to afford, or you think it’s “too Jewish” for your family, or you simply don’t know much about it.  Levey, the region’s only Jewish day school, might surprise you with its ethnic and religious diversity.  Our families are Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and unaffiliated Jews, as well as non-Jews.  Perhaps you don’t know that we offer immersion foreign language.  You might be surprised that our program spans pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, with a creative and challenging secular program taught in small classes that allow for individualization.  Levey is also committed to making its education affordable, and with the generous support of the Jewish community our tuition is a fraction of other private schools, with financial aid available for kindergarten through fifth grade.

My husband and I have been so pleased with our seventh-grade daughter’s success in a large public middle school, which we credit in large measure to her excellent preparation at Levey.  We are enjoying watching our fourth-grade daughter blossoming into an impressive student at Levey, and we look forward to sending our two-year-old son, who already says he’s going to Levey Day School “when I’m big.”  Look below for what some other parents have to say about what a special school and community Levey is, then come visit us and consider applying for admission.
—-Carol Eisenberg, Peaks island

There isn’t just one reason our son Alex is at Levey, there are many, and together they form a perfect learning environment.  First, all of the teachers, both secular and Judaic, are fabulous.  They are not only extremely able at teaching the fundamentals and encouraging creativity, they can tailor curriculum to the individual student’s abilities because of the small class size.  Second, the children in Alex’s class are lovely, well-behaved (usually), and always eager to learn.  We believe that no matter how terrific the teacher is, his or her efforts will not be fruitful if the class is not enthusiastic and focused.  Finally, the whole environment is nurturing.   As you would expect, the teachers and administrators are kind and helpful, but so are the children to each other.  We believe this is a result of the children learning important ethical lessons in their Judaica classes, and the parents at Levey viewing these lessons as important.   Levey is not only equipping our child with an excellent education, it is also giving him an understanding of what it means to be a mensch.
–Eva & Halsey Frank,
parents of Alex, 5th grade

As the parent of one highly successful Levey graduate, as well as a current fourth grader, I cannot sing the Day School’s praises loudly enough.  My sixth grader has made a wonderful transition to a public middle school this year.  She is succeeding academically, socially, as well as in extra-curricular activities.  As much as she is enjoying Wescott Junior High and its faculty, she still mentions Levey Day School as her favorite school, and the teachers as her favorites, also.  My children have not only received the benefits of an extensive and solid secular curriculum, but also a terrific Judaic experience as well.  Congregants at our synagogue are constantly amazed by their knowledge of Hebrew, and of the service, and my answer is always “the Day School.”  Even more importantly, I feel that because of the smaller class sizes, the teachers at Levey have done so much to nurture their neshama, their soul.  All of the faculty and staff at Levey truly care about the students, and always go the extra mile to give them the individual attention and help that they need.  I cannot encourage you enough to consider Levey Day School for your children, it is truly an excellent opportunity not just for the kids, but for your entire family.
–Melissa Montefel,
mother of Isabel and Brianna, graduates

The school has helped grow a strong sense of Jewish heritage and pride in our children, which was a primary goal.  Sam loves his  kindergarten class, and is thriving.  He is equally comfortable with secular and Judaic studies, thanks to Morah Debbie’s loving guidance.   Caitlin adores her teachers, and revels in the new discoveries she makes with Morah Marissa and Morah Kristen.  Her yiddishkheit is getting stronger and more deeply ingrained through her time with Morah Camille and Moreh Steve.  We hoped to find a nurturing learning environment which could challenge our kids, and Levey provides it.
–Lliam Harrison & Carol Nemeroff,
parents of Caitlin, graduate and Sam,  kindergarten, 4th grade

To really appreciate the magic at Levey, you should watch a science class and see third-graders building electric circuits, sing morning prayers with our enthusiastic group, or visit around the snack table with Morah Debbie Kanter and the kindergarten.  Call us at 774-7676 to schedule a visit.