AGENCY SPOTLIGHT: Maimonides Jewish Day School

Each issue, the Jewish Review is featuring a profile of one of the 18 local beneficiary agencies of the Jewish
Federation of Greater Portland’s 2022 Annual Campaign.

MAIMONIDES JEWISH DAY SCHOOL

503-288-8919 | office@portlandjewishschool.com
 portlandjewishschool.com
AREA OF SERVICE: Jewish Education (early childhood, day school)
2022 ALLOCATION: $25,250
MISSION: At Maimonides Jewish Day School, education is personal, meaningful and empowering. The school provides a nurturing environment for Jewish students in early childhood through eighth grade, where they receive a stellar education in both Judaic and general studies. Maimonides’ mission is to instill a love of Judaism and foster a strong Jewish identity in each student.

Maimonides began the school year in its new building on Portland’s east side at 4635 NE 9th Ave. With the acquisition of a new, larger building, Maimonides now has ample space for art and music and is attracting more Jewish students from Portland’s east side.
Founded in 1985, Maimonides has remained committed to offering Portland’s Jewish children an authentic, quality education. The Montessori method of teaching is incorporated into the curriculum, with a focus on child-led learning and Torah values. The school prioritizes Middot Tovot, encouraging students to develop a connection to self and a curiosity about the world.
This school year, two Israeli interns joined the Maimonides staff, giving students the opportunity to improve their Hebrew-speaking skills.
“Here at Maimonides, our students are taught through project-based learning,” says Principal Karen DeNardo. “We believe that an interactive, hands-on approach provides real-life experience and helps students absorb and retain information.”
Maimonides is proud to have given out $150,000 in scholarships this past year, made possible in part with the support of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland. This allows more children access to a quality Jewish education.
“This is a big opportunity for more families on the east side,” says MJDS board member and parent, Rabbi Shmulik Greenberg of Clark County Chabad. “It’s a dream come true to have a day school and preschool in the area.”