• Overview of SINAI Elementary School at JKHA
• What does the curriculum include?
• How are the classes formed?
• Mainstreaming into “Regular” JKHA Classes
• Extra-curricular activities and social mainstreaming

Overview of SINAI at JKHA

SINAI Elementary School at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy (JKHA) is located in Livingston, NJ. It is an elementary school and middle school for students in grades 1 – 8 with learning and developmental disabilities. It offers supportive, self-contained classes with a focus on skill development and challenging students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Part of the beauty of SINAI Elementary School at JKHA is how integrated many of our students become into the fabric of JKHA and how well many of our students are received as peers by the JKHA students.

What does the curriculum include?

Our core curriculum consists of language arts, math, science, and social studies.

In Judaic studies, areas of concentration include T'filla, Hebrew language, laws and customs, Chumash, Mishna, and Gemara.

In all subjects, teachers employ a multi-sensory approach which integrates the use of sight, sound, speech and touch. This approach reinforces meaningful learning. Skill based learning is woven into all content areas. Emphasis is also placed on building up confidence and social skills based in conversation, public speaking, games and recess.

How are the classes formed?

Classes range in size from six to nine students. Each class is divided into smaller educational groupings with the needed teacher:student ratio). Groupings are constructed by taking into account similarities in needs and learning styles, teacher recommendations, standardized testing, informal assessment, chronological age and maturity and skill level. Balance of level of student needs is another important factor. Each student receives an individualized educational program tailored for his or her needs.

Mainstreaming into “Regular” JKHA Classes

To the extent they are ready and able, SINAI middle school students are mainstreamed into regular classes at JKHA. Each placement into a mainstream class is made on a careful, individual basis, as appropriate for the particular student. We collaborate closely with the administration and staff of JKHA to help ensure the success of each mainstream placement.

Extra-curricular activities and social mainstreaming

Our students are integrated into the fabric of our host school, Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy. Students participate, together with the students of Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, in the many non-academic activities offered by Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, including recess, lunch, prayers, gym, sports teams, and clubs as appropriate. Our students have played significant roles in JKHA school plays and assemblies. Our graduation is part of the JKHA graduation, which is emblematic of the acceptance of our students as part of the overall JKHA community.