Think Different, Think Jewish High School

The rise in antisemitic rhetoric in Seattle area public schools has become a real and undeniable factor for many among Seattle parents. Whether hidden under the guise of sympathy for Gaza, or manifested as overt hatred for the Jewish state, there is no doubt that Jewish students are being pressured to either renounce, feel ashamed of or even hide their Jewish identity in school. As a result, many parents are starting to explore options that were previously off the radar, including the search for schools outside their immediate district. Among the options, Northwest Yeshiva High School (NYHS) on Mercer Island is emerging as a serious contender for families seeking an alternative that aligns closely with their aspirations for academic excellence and an environment that fosters Jewish fluency and pride.

Prioritizing Academic Excellence and Future Success

Until now NYHS has not been well known outside the circles of parents who sent their kids to Seattle-area Jewish elementary schools. But in the post-October 7 world where casual bashing of Israel by faculty and students alike has become normalized across far too many schools, word is spreading fast about Seattle’s 50 year old Jewish high school. Established in 1974, NYHS has been known for decades as a small but academically excellent school, where an exceptionally high percentage of graduates go on to their first choice colleges. This is attributable to a combination of factors including a school-wide value emphasis on strong academics, smaller class sizes that allow for personalized instruction, and a hands-on approach to college admissions counseling that larger schools cannot match. This approach has consistently led to impressive outcomes not only in college but beyond: NYHS students outperform their peers in high school metrics, consistently thrive in highly competitive college environments and typically go on to highly successful careers.

Moreover, while far too many Jewish students have been sucked into the vortex of anti-Israel activism, NYHS alumni enter college armed with the Jewish knowledge, confidence and fluency to withstand the social pressure to conform, and many have even been at the forefront of advocacy for Israel in their college lives. This reflects the deep-rooted values instilled during their time at NYHS, where Jewish literacy and pride, as well as a deep understanding of the unbreakable connection between the Jewish people and the State of Israel are integral to daily learning.

A Sanctuary from the Storm

In a time when educational spaces are full of misinformation and gaslighting about Israel, and where Jewish students are often forced into either active or defensive positions they did not seek, NYHS offers a haven where Jewish teens from diverse backgrounds are free to pursue their social lives and educational goals in peace. At NYHS a harassment-free environment is a given, so every parent can feel confident that students can focus their energies on personal and academic growth.

Affordability through the Samis Foundation

Private school tuition can be a challenge even for families making quite good salaries. Fortunately, an NYHS education costs families far less than it normally should, thanks to significant support from the Samis Foundation. Day School Affordability grants are available for families that make up to $350,000 per year, making NYHS a more affordable option for Jewish families than almost any other type of private school. This means that tuition should never be a barrier to families who want to offer their students the full benefits of an NYHS education.

Open Invitation to Experience NYHS

Given the current environment, NYHS has extended its admission and transfer deadline this year to May 31, 2024, and encourages prospective students and their families to visit the campus. This open invitation is an opportunity for parents to witness first-hand the nurturing, stimulating environment that the school offers.

Come See for Yourself

For parents in the Seattle area considering school options, a visit to Northwest Yeshiva High School is the best way to observe first hand what is possible when you blend academic excellence with core Jewish values.

Learn more about NYHS and plan your visit today. Contact us at admissions@nyhs.org.