Your Future Starts Here.

Mazel Day School (MDS) is proud to announce the launch of its High School division, opening its doors to its founding Grade 9 class in September 2025.

 

MDS High School: A Preparatory Jewish High School for Young Men and Women

 

Mission

The goals of an MDS High School education are that every student….

  • master fundamental academic skills across disciplines, equipping them for future professional and personal success,

  • build self-confidence through disciplined thought and action, developing essential life skills, preparing them to navigate challenges and opportunities beyond the classroom, 

  • cultivate personal integrity and respect for others as part of a supportive and inclusive community,

  • discover the joy of learning and the satisfaction of pursuing excellence, 

  • explore a diverse range of extracurricular activities, passions, and experiences,

  • and most importantly, deepen their commitment to Torah, Judaism, Israel and the Jewish community. 

We envision our students as empowered, confident individuals ready to engage thoughtfully with the world, contribute positively to their communities, and lead lives of purpose and integrity.

By choosing MDS High School, students and families will join a vibrant community committed to academic success and personal growth, grounded in Jewish values, literacy, and pride. Together, we will nurture tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers. 

 

 

 

Academic Program

 

At MDS High School, academic excellence will meet dynamic, personalized learning. Our college-preparatory program will empower students to excel academically, cultivate their unique talents, and prepare for future success in higher education and beyond.  

Our curriculum has been thoughtfully structured to ensure students are ready for the academic rigor of college and the demands of the modern 21st-century world. It will emphasize critical thinking, effective communication, and research skills, providing a robust foundation for advanced studies so that students graduate equipped to excel at top-tier colleges and universities while also pursuing their passions and interests.

Individualized Learning Through Tracked Levels 

We recognize that every student has unique strengths and learning styles. To foster growth and achievement, we will offer tracked courses in core subjects, allowing students to progress at a level that suits their abilities and challenges them to reach their potential. Whether exploring advanced topics in AP courses or building foundational skills, our program will ensure each learner is supported and stretched to grow.

A Dynamic Learning Environment

Our hands-on, inquiry-based approach will encourage students to ask big questions, engage in meaningful projects, and connect their studies to real-world applications. With innovative teaching methods, collaborative assignments, and diverse electives, students will actively shape their education in a vibrant and interactive environment.

Culture of Excellence

Excellence is more than a goal; it's a mindset.  From highly qualified and dedicated educators to ambitious academic goals, MDS High School will foster a culture that values high standards, perseverance, and continuous growth, inspiring students to aim high and embrace a lifelong love of learning.

21st Century Learning Skills

Today’s work environment places a high premium on innovative thinking and effective teamwork. Student-centered classrooms are designed to cultivate these essential skills, equipping students for future success in ways traditional classrooms often cannot. Traditional education models, rooted in the needs of the industrial age, typically emphasize linear thinking and individual work, encouraging a “check-the-box” mindset. In contrast, a student-centered approach prioritizes the development of the 4 C's of 21st-century learning: Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Creativity.

 

 

Our Curriculum  

 

MDS High School’s dual curriculum will nurture both the mind and the soul. Our rigorous academic program will combine Judaic Studies and General Studies, ensuring that students develop a deep connection to their heritage while excelling in essential skills for future success.  Our curriculum has been designed to produce well-rounded, thoughtful, and capable graduates who are deeply rooted in their Jewish identity and prepared to live a proud and committed Jewish life in a contemporary world.

Course catalog coming soon!

 

Judaic Studies  

Our Judaic Studies curriculum will inspire students to engage with the timeless wisdom of the Torah and Jewish tradition, fostering a profound connection to their Jewish identity and practice. Courses will include:  

Tanach (Chumash and Navi) In-depth study of the texts that shape our values and identity
Talmud Cultivating analytical thinking and critical discussion through classic rabbinic texts
Jewish History Exploring the rich tapestry of the Jewish experience across time and place, curating personal lessons for current times
Halacha Understanding Jewish law and its application to daily life in the 21st century
Jewish Philosophy & Ethics Tackling moral and philosophical questions through a Jewish lens
Hebrew Language Building fluency in modern Hebrew

 

General Studies

Our robust General Studies program will ensure students gain a strong foundation across core disciplines and explore their individual interests and passions.  Courses will include:  

Mathematics From foundational math skills to advanced topics, preparing students for college-level study
Science Studying Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and beyond, with hands-on lab experiences
History Understanding the events and forces that have shaped our world
Literature and Writing Cultivating critical thinking, communication skills, and a love for literature
STEM Encouraging innovation and problem-solving through technology and engineering
Arts Developing creativity through visual arts, music, and drama
Physical Education Promoting health, teamwork, and personal well-being through athletics
World Language (elective) Broadening horizons with global communication skills

 

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses  

Starting in Grade 10, students have access to a variety of AP courses that challenge them to excel at a college level and earn credit toward their future academic pursuits.  

 

Life Skills

Preparing students for life beyond the classroom is a cornerstone of our program. Courses in this track will include:  

  • Israel Advocacy: Building a deep connection to and advocacy skills for Israel.  

  • Financial Literacy: Equipping students with practical knowledge to manage finances effectively.  

  • Communication Skills: Developing confident and effective verbal and written communication.  

 

 

Our Faculty

 

Our teachers are the heart of our school. We carefully select enthusiastic and dedicated subject experts, many of whom hold advanced degrees, with a solid grasp of students’ educational and developmental needs. 

Our faculty bring passion, experience, and expertise to the classroom, providing engaging instruction in their content area.  They do not merely teach skills and information; they convey to students directly and constantly their enduring passion for learning, personal growth, and positive character. 

In classes with low teacher-student ratios, our faculty can truly get to know each student, adapting their approach to match his or her unique learning style and needs. They build meaningful mentor relationships so that students feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving their best.

Beyond the classroom, our teachers actively pursue professional growth opportunities to stay current and attuned to the best methodologies of the educational field.  Their commitment to keep their teaching fresh, exciting, and impactful makes our school a special place for students to grow.

 

 

Co-Curricular Programs

 

At MDS High School, learning will extend far beyond the classroom. Our vibrant co-curricular programs will provide opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and create meaningful connections within the school and broader community.  

Electives and Clubs: Students will pursue their passions and discover new interests through various electives and clubs, including creative arts, STEM innovation, debate and public speaking, business, and other special interest clubs.  Whatever their interests, students will actively shape their co-curricular experiences.

Athletics and Competitions: Our athletics program will emphasize teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth, offering opportunities for students to compete in various sports. Additionally, students will engage in local and national competitions, such as math leagues, robotics challenges, and more, to inspire academic and extracurricular excellence.

Student-Led Initiatives: Students will take ownership of their high school experience through programs such as Student Council, developing leadership skills and representing the student body and School Newspaper, providing a platform for student voices and creativity while building skills in journalism and design.

Chesed (Community Service): Acts of kindness and giving back are integral to our Jewish values. We will foster a spirit of Chesed through Chesed Service Days, school-wide initiatives that engage students in meaningful projects, and After-School Chesed Hours through which students will have opportunities to contribute to the community in impactful ways.  In this way, students will see how they can make a difference in other people’s lives. It’s one thing to talk about making the right choices. Doing it is something else entirely. 

Leadership Development: Our programs will empower students to lead with integrity and purpose. Leadership opportunities will be woven throughout our co-curricular offerings, helping students develop confidence and a commitment to service.

Guest Speakers and Experiential Learning: We will bring learning to life through guest speakers, field trips, outdoor learning, and Shabbaton experiences that deepen students’ understanding of their studies and strengthen their bonds with peers and mentors. These experiences will inspire personal growth and a lifelong connection to Judaism, the community, and the broader world.

At MDS High School, co-curricular activities won’t just complement the academic experience—they will be a vital part of shaping well-rounded, confident, and inspired young leaders. When you live what you’re learning, knowledge is no longer an abstraction, and meaningful action becomes a lifetime habit.

 

 

Character Education

 

Adolescence is a pivotal time when students begin to solidify their identities and define their core values. At MDS, character education is not just a focus—it is the foundation of all learning. Central to our vision is the commitment to fostering Middot Tovot (positive character traits) and nurturing students to become true Mentches—individuals who embody kindness, integrity, and responsibility in every aspect of life.

Character education will be woven into the fabric of our students’ high school experience, guiding them to develop into thoughtful, confident, and responsible young Jewish adults. Our program will emphasize personal growth, moral development, and pro-social engagement through meaningful interactions with teachers, advisors, and peers. Open discussions about complex social, emotional, and ethical challenges will empower students to navigate the pressures of adolescence while staying true to their values. 

Regular student-advisor meetings will provide personalized feedback and goal-setting opportunities, fostering self-reflection and accountability. By cultivating leadership, resilience, and empathy, our students will grow not only as scholars but as thoughtful and upright individuals.  

This holistic approach to character education will equip our students with the inner strength, confidence, and clarity of purpose to excel both in school and in life, embodying the values that are at the heart of Jewish education.

 

 

Guidance Programs

 

At MDS High School, we are dedicated to preparing students for their next steps after high school, ensuring they are equipped to make thoughtful and informed decisions about their future. Our comprehensive guidance program will begin from the very first year of high school, providing personalized support every step of the way.  In this way, we will empower students to navigate their futures with confidence, ensuring they are ready to achieve their academic, personal, and spiritual goals.  

College Guidance

Beginning in Grade 9, our college guidance program will help students build a strong academic and extracurricular profile. Key components include:  

  • On-Staff College Consultants: Expert advisors will provide personalized guidance, helping students identify their strengths and goals to find the best-fit colleges and universities.  

  • Strategic Planning: Students will receive assistance with course selection, standardized testing, extracurricular involvement, and application strategies.  

  • Workshops and Seminars: Sessions on essay writing, interview preparation, and financial aid will ensure students are well-prepared for the college admissions process.  

Gap Year / Israel Guidance

For students considering a gap year in Israel or elsewhere, we will offer tailored support to help them explore meaningful opportunities.  This will include:

  • Personalized Recommendations: Guidance on a wide range of programs, from Yeshivot and seminaries to leadership and service initiatives.  

  • Community Connection: Helping students deepen their connection to the Torah, Israel, and the Jewish community while planning for this transformative experience.  

Career Guidance  

At MDS High School, our career guidance program will help students discover their passions, explore potential career paths, and develop the skills needed for success in the professional world. Through self-discovery workshops, students will identify their unique strengths and interests, laying the foundation for future planning. Internship opportunities will provide hands-on experiences in industries of their interest, allowing students to gain practical skills, workplace knowledge, and valuable mentorship. Guest speakers from diverse fields will inspire and educate through career panels, focused talks, and interactive Q&A sessions. Together, these initiatives will empower students to envision a fulfilling future and graduate with the tools and confidence to thrive in a dynamic and evolving professional landscape.

 

 

High School Leadership Team

 

Under the leadership of our Head of School, Chani Okonov, our High School Leadership Team will lead the administration of our new high school division.

Shabina Saundh

Currently a beloved MDS middle school humanities teacher with over 16 years in education, Mrs. Saundh brings extensive experience in high school administration and school leadership from her time abroad before moving to the United States. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Arts in English Pedagogy from Murray State University. She also holds a Master of Education in Advanced Teaching from the University of the People and a School Management and Leadership Certificate from Harvard Business School Online.

Mark Birnbaum

A valued member of Mazel’s middle school math department, Mr. Birnbaum brings vast experience in high school administration.   With nearly two decades of experience in education, he has taught mathematics, language arts, social studies, and science to both middle school and high school students. He holds a Master’s degree in School Building Leadership from Brooklyn College and currently serves as the General Studies Principal at Yeshivat Shaare Torah High School in addition to his role at Mazel. 

Rabbi Yaakov Jelen

As a beloved Mazel middle school Judaic Studies teacher, Rabbi Jelen is deeply committed to building meaningful and impactful relationships with each of his students. In this vein, at MDS High School, we believe that every student can benefit from a rabbi’s support, insight, and guidance during their formative years. In his new role as High School “Student Rabbi,” Rabbi Jelen will provide students with spiritual and religious support as they navigate their teen years, helping them strengthen their personal connection to Torah and Judaism. Additionally, Rabbi Jelen will serve as the Judaic Curriculum Advisor, ensuring that the high school’s Judaic program is both inspiring and rigorous.

Lisa Birnbaum

We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Birnbaum as the head of our new College Guidance Department. Lisa brings over 18 years of expertise in college counseling and education. Since 2006, she has served as the Associate Director of College Counseling at SAR High School in Riverdale, NY, where her dedication and personalized approach have guided countless students and families through the college admissions process. Lisa holds an M.A. in School Counseling from New York University’s Steinhardt School of Education (2009) and dual undergraduate degrees from Yeshiva University: a B.S. in Marketing from the Sy Syms School of Business and an A.A. in Judaic Studies from Stern College for Women (2004). Her mentorship and expertise will play a pivotal role in building Mazel High School’s College Guidance Department, supporting students and families as they plan for bright futures post-high school.

Stay tuned as our faculty team continues to grow!

 

 

MDS High School will be more than a place of learning; it will be a vibrant community where young men and women flourish academically, spiritually, and personally, becoming the leaders of tomorrow.  Join us in shaping the future.

To submit a Grade 9 High School application for the 2025-2026 school year, visit our Online Application Portal here.