A Community of Support
Success at JCHS isn't built on a single program or department—it's built on relationships. Every student learns differently, and from the moment they arrive on campus, they are surrounded by educators who know them, encourage them, and help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our student support model is centered on four key pillars—Freshman Transition, Academic Advising, Learning Support, and Counseling & Wellness—providing personalized guidance throughout every stage of the high school experience.
Rooted in the Jewish value that learning should be accessible to all, we celebrate the unique strengths, perspectives, and learning styles each student brings to our community, creating an environment where every student can thrive.
Freshman Transition
Every ninth-grade student begins their JCHS journey with FreshSem, a program designed to build confidence, strengthen executive functioning, and help students develop meaningful relationships.
One-on-One Advising
Every student is paired with a faculty advisor who provides personalized guidance, academic planning, and ongoing support throughout their high school experience.
Learning Support
Our Learning Support team partners with students, teachers, and families to provide individualized strategies, accommodations, and resources that help every student succeed.
Counseling & Wellness
Our School Counselor provides confidential emotional, social, and mental health support while helping students build resilience and navigate the challenges of adolescence.
MEET THE STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM
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Julie Beck
School Counselor; Director of Advising
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Rabbi Joshua Buchin
Co-Dean of Students; Jewish Studies Teacher
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Ellen Castillo
Co-Dean of Learning Support
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Michelle Matz
Co-Dean of Students
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Dr. David Neufeld
Co-Dean of Learning Support
Built for Student Success
The 9th Grade Experience
FreshSem helps students make a confident transition into high school by developing study skills, executive functioning, healthy decision-making, and strong relationships with classmates and faculty.
The course also introduces every ninth-grade student to the Student Support team, creating lasting relationships with the professionals who will support them throughout their JCHS experience.
Ongoing Educational Support
Academic success begins with understanding how each student learns best. Through collaboration between teachers, learning specialists, advisors, and families, JCHS provides personalized support that helps students develop confidence, independence, and lifelong learning skills.
Our faculty receive ongoing professional development in differentiated instruction, ensuring classrooms are welcoming, engaging, and supportive for a wide range of learners.
Learning Support
Students who benefit from additional academic support have access to experienced Learning Specialists who provide individualized guidance in organization, executive functioning, study strategies, and self-advocacy.
Students may also use The Study, a supervised space for homework, studying, and testing accommodations.
One-on-One Academic Advising
Every JCHS student is paired with a faculty advisor who serves as a trusted mentor throughout high school. Advisors help students set goals, select courses, navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and maintain strong communication between school and home.
Formal Learning Plans
Students with documented learning needs work with our Learning Support team to develop individualized learning plans and classroom accommodations. Support may include:
Classroom accommodations and modifications
Executive functioning support
Self-advocacy coaching
Parent and teacher collaboration
Referrals for tutors and educational specialists
ACT and College Board accommodation requests
Counseling
Our School Counselor provides confidential support for students' emotional, social, and mental well-being while partnering with families, advisors, and teachers to help students navigate challenges and build resilience.
Students have access to short-term counseling, referrals for outside resources when appropriate, and dedicated support during the important transition into ninth grade.