Hillel Community Day School, Rochester, NY

Community is stronger when we work together. 💙
We're grateful for our partnership with PJ Library, which helps bring meaningful experiences to our students, families, and the wider community. Every program is bursting with stories, smiles, creativity, and the kind of Jewish joy that brings families together. ⭐

Healthy choices are more fun when there’s plenty to pick from! Our full salad bar gives students colorful, fresh options to build a lunch they’ll enjoy. From crunchy cucumbers to juicy tomatoes, lunchtime at Hillel is about helping children try new foods, make thoughtful choices, and smile along the way.

Meet Keith Newman, our Chief Operating Officer! As he begins his third school year at Hillel, Keith brings 30 years of operational experience—and more than 20 years as a Hillel parent, volunteer, and champion of our community. He's passionate about making Hillel a place where every student and family feels right at home.

Re’eh reminds us to see clearly and choose responsibly.
At Hillel, responsibility reaches every part of school life—even the kitchen. Our COO, Keith Newman, is helping ensure that our lunch program reflects the care, safety, and attention our students deserve.
Every system matters. Every child matters. Every thoughtful choice helps build a Jewish community of purpose.

One Moment. One Lesson.
A moment from the week that leads to a broader insight.
This week, I found myself noticing the people and details that quietly shape the feeling of a school.
Our leadership team was planning for the year ahead. Mr. McDonald was caring for our campus so it feels safe, beautiful, and ready. Moreh Elior brought the warmth, taste, and spirit of Israel to our students. Families stopped by as we prepare to welcome everyone back home.
Each moment was different, but together they reminded me of one lesson:
A school is built before the first day begins.
It is built through preparation, care, relationships, safety, culture, and the small choices that help children feel they belong.
Parshat Eikev reminds us that what grows over time is shaped by what we do consistently.
At Hillel, building a Jewish community of purpose means paying attention to the whole child and the whole school experience.
This week reminded me that the small things are not small at all.
They are how a school begins to feel like home.
Wishing our Hillel families a peaceful and meaningful Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom,
Sonia

The countdown to a new school year is even sweeter when familiar faces stop by! 💙 Families are continuing to visit campus to prepare for another year of friendships, discovery, and joyful Jewish learning. We can't wait to welcome our students back home!

The smell of fresh pita, the warmth of the saj, and the joy of celebrating together made Yom HaAtzmaut unforgettable. Thank you to our Shaliach, Moreh Elior Dahan, for bringing a taste of Israel to campus and helping our students build a lifelong connection to the people, culture, and spirit of Israel.

Meet Jay McDonald, the caring hands behind Hillel's beautiful campus. 🌸
As our Head Custodian, Jay brings an impressive range of experience, including managing the Safe & Lock Division at Doyle Security Systems, certifications as a master locksmith and security consultant, and a background in construction, renovations, and technology. What he loves most is creating a safe, welcoming environment where our students can learn, grow, and feel at home.

Behind the scenes, our leadership team is strengthening programs, planning for the year ahead, and preparing a school where every child feels known, challenged, supported, and inspired.
Together, we're building a Jewish Community of Purpose.