School Profile

Head of School: Alyson Horwitz, Ed.D.
Grades served: Nursery through eight
Number of students: 526
Primary school colors: Red, blue, gray
School mascot: Eagle
What we stand for: Learning, Identity, Community

Located on Chicago’s near north side, Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School is an independent, community Jewish day school that combines the best of Jewish learning and traditions and the best of innovative educational practices in a rigorous and nurturing learning environment. Dedicated educators partner with Jewish families to fulfill the goal of raising children to be their best selves and good citizens of their communities.

The school features a multidisciplinary, layered curriculum of general studies and Jewish studies that builds on each previous year’s learning, and an approach that cultivates confidence, creativity, leadership and empathy. Our graduates possess a strong foundation, an intrinsic curiosity for continued learning and are exceedingly well-prepared for high school and life beyond.

Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School has been fully accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools and the Independent Schools Association of the Central States since 1961. The school also is a member of RAVSAK: The Jewish Community Day School Network.

History
In 1940, Rabbi Solomon Goldman of Anshe Emet Synagogue envisioned a progressive independent Jewish day school. The school opened in 1946, with 31 students and a curriculum combining general education with Jewish values and culture, as well as Hebrew language. The school was renamed Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School in 1988 after receiving generous support from the Zell family in memory of Bernard Zell, a noted Chicago philanthropist and strong advocate of Jewish education.