Frequently Asked Questions
FJA students and families are diverse, representing various economic and geographic backgrounds and a broad spectrum of Jewish belief and practice. Our students come from Reform, Conservative and Orthodox communities, while some students are unaffiliated.
In addition to an exceptionally strong college preparatory program in the arts, sciences, and humanities, FJA provides an unmatched opportunity for exploring the meaning of Jewish life. Students establish lasting relationships through a community of committed and involved teachers, small classes, a variety of leadership opportunities and unparalleled guidance through the college application process. In fact, 100% of FJA students are accepted into their first or second choice for college.
Students experience the richness of Jewish life in many ways at FJA, from morning minyan to special celebrations of holidays and off-campus activities. FJA’s teachers and staff guide students to explore their Jewish identity in ways that are individually meaningful.
Yes! We encourage prospective students, and require student applicants, to spend a day shadowing a current student to get a better sense of the school environment, teachers and student community. We offer shadow visits on specific days throughout the year. Please click here or contact the Admissions Office at 248-671-3248 to schedule your visit.
FJA is suited for students who are capable of thriving in, and contributing to, a stimulating college preparatory academic program that encompasses a rich array of academics and experiential learning. Applicants are required to submit an application, letters of recommendation, current transcripts, and participate in an admissions interview.
An applicant’s academic ability, preparation and potential for future success in the FJA curriculum; the applicant’s special interests and talents, and the prospects for the applicant contributing to FJA’s many extracurricular activities; the applicant’s strength of character and enthusiasm for school and learning are all taken into consideration during the admissions process.
No previous Hebrew background is required. FJA offers progressive levels of Hebrew classes, including an entry-level class in beginning Hebrew. Students learn how to read, write and speak modern Hebrew, as well as deepen their familiarity with Israeli culture. Individual consideration is given to each of our incoming students as they are placed in Hebrew courses.
In support of the school’s mission to educate students across the spectrum of the community, the Multi-Year Tuition Assistance Program makes it possible for qualified families who are unable to pay full tuition to send their children to the school.
Tuition assistance is determined for each family individually. For more information, visit our Tuition Assistance page.
FJA observes kashrut on campus and at all official school events off campus. Kosher lunch is available for purchase every day. If students bring food onto campus, it must be Kosher dairy or pareve.
All students participate in a variety of community service projects and initiatives designed to promote positive community awareness. We offer Shabbatonim (Shabbat overnight programs), field trips in the arts and sciences, and a variety of other educational trips. Our Senior trip is an exceptionally moving multi-week program that combines experiencing Holocaust history in Poland with the witnessing of Jewish rebirth and innovation in Israel.
FJA offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes in: Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics, English Language, English Literature, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics I, Physics C, Psychology, US Government, Human Geography, and US History to students who demonstrate the ability to succeed in college-level courses. (Additional AP courses may be added in the future.) Other AP courses are available online for individual students who wish to pursue them. Additionally, college-level honors courses are taught in Anatomy and Physiology, Rabbinics, Bible, Hebrew, and the arts. For more information about AP Courses, please contact Mrs. Erika Weiler, General Studies Principal [email protected].
FJA offers a full complement of leadership opportunities, athletics, and performing and visual arts programs. Student government provides a forum for students to exercise leadership by planning activities, initiating school projects, and organizing clubs. A variety of competitive sports teams allow students to participate in the Catholic league with similarly-sized schools. FJA’s Performing & Visual Arts program includes a wide array of opportunities for students to engage in musical and creative arts. Our theater program presents quality productions twice a year, in the fall and spring.
FJA is accredited by ISACS (Independent Schools Association of Central States), one of six regional associations that accredit public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the United States. The accreditation process validates the integrity of a school’s program and student transcripts, fosters excellence in the ongoing school improvement process and monitors change through regular assessment and planning.
Frankel Jewish Academy has an average student:teacher ratio of 11:1. Research indicates that student achievement increases with small class size. In a small school, no child becomes lost in the crowd because the staff knows each student. Students in small schools experience a comfort level and confidence to be more active and participatory in classrooms. The individualized attention ensures that the student’s special interests and talents are identified, supported and nurtured. Individual challenges can also be more easily identified and addressed as needed.
In addition, at a small school, there is greater opportunity for leadership and a stronger role in athletics, arts, and extracurricular activities. At FJA, each student is essential to our identity and success.
