From a 36-Student School to a Flourishing TK–12 College Preparatory Community of Over 800 Students
Our founder, Holocaust survivor Irving “Papa” Gelman (z"l), was a man of warmth, persistence, and character. His legacy continues on in each TVT student as they learn with curiosity and reach ambitious goals while remaining rooted in the integrity and compassion of a pluralistic Jewish community.
Mission
We are an inclusive Jewish school of inquiry and innovation where academics are important and character is paramount.
Vision
Cultivate compassion, curiosity, and courage to make a better world.
Values
Our shared Jewish values are for all, and they are instilled into classes, choices, and ultimately graduates whose high ambitions are fortified by deep purpose, meaning their achievements have real impact.
| Kindness Chesed |
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We know a smile, a helping hand, and a loving word can go a long way, so we practice kindness every day. |
| Truth Emet |
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Students discover who they are and how they can impact the world by speaking their truth with courage and empathy in Harkness discussions, makerspaces, and every moment in between. |
| Respect Kavod |
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Our pluralistic Jewish identity encourages us to open our minds to new perspectives and ways of learning and teaching, which leads to genuine respect for people with different backgrounds and experiences. |
| Community Klal Yisrael |
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Weekly Kabbalat Shabbat service, Jewish holidays, Lions’ Pride Day, and small, shared rituals unite us all and strengthen our resolve to repair the world together. |
| Repair the World Tikkun Olam |
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We harvest produce from campus gardens and organize food drives, participate in family beach cleanups, and spend less time on our phones because we know these actions contribute to a stronger, happier future. |
| Justice Tzedek |
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Lessons in the classroom, on the playground, and within our school gardens teach us the importance of fairness for all. We carry this sense of justice into our communities, forever. |
Academic Philosophy
Positive student-teacher relationships provide models for healthy relationships going forward.
Strong character development cultivates ethical values in concert with academics.
Individualized attention and teaching allow students to flourish.
Educational risk-taking provides the opportunity for growth.
Hands-on learning motivates students to see the practical applications of their education.
Independent decision-making encourages students to become more engaged and responsible citizens.
Service learning opportunities enhance students’ lives and engender compassion and meaning.
Partnerships with families strengthen our community and support our students’ growth.
Cutting-edge learning environment develops students who are well prepared to face the unknown future .
The celebration of Judaism unites us as humans with a shared vision to repair the world.
Through our actions, we can build a better world, starting right here at TVT.
Jill Quigley, Head of School
Pluralism and Diversity
We believe that our differences make us stronger, and we understand the importance of welcoming diverse perspectives. At TVT, we open ourselves to new ideas and carry the hearts and histories of our pluralistic community into reflection, conversations, endeavors, and everyday experiences. In doing so, we create a culture of inclusion and advocacy that bolsters us against prejudice and intolerance and inspires students to listen and learn how to create real, lasting impact.
Academics
We develop inquiry and innovation in each student and challenge them to reach their best self.
Learn More About TVT Academics
Everything at TVT has helped me develop my character—my teachers, classes, classmates, and campus. The desire to practice and uphold my integrity is ingrained in me thanks to my TVT experience.
Current Upper School Student
Our History
Every Child Deserves an Excellent Jewish Education
After surviving the Holocaust and arriving in the United States with $5.60 in his pocket, Irving Gelman started working toward a long-held vision: to provide children with an outstanding educational culture and a community that upholds Jewish values and learning. Since TVT’s opening in 1991, the school has known remarkable success. Irving, who earned the nickname “Papa” in response to his kind, joyful heart, lives on in every intellectual discovery made, every Kabbalat Shabbat shared, and every TVT graduate united in their drive to repair the world.
