Admissions FAQ
Does our child need to be Jewish to attend SHA?
Yes. SHA follows Halachic matrilineal descent. The mother must be born Jewish, or have undergone an Orthodox conversion, or currently in the conversion process being sponsored by a Seattle Va’ad-approved rabbi.
How old does my child need to be to start school?
Seattle Hebrew Academy follows the Washington State age parameters for kindergarten. Students must be 5 years old by August 31.
Early Childhood classes and age parameters are as follows:
• Eagles: 4 years old by August 31
• Robins: 3 years old by August 31
• Chickadees: 2 years old by August 31
• Hummingbirds: 1 year old and walking independently by August 31
What is the best time to apply?
We use a rolling admissions process, but we encourage you to apply as soon as you are ready to ensure placement. After applying, the admissions committee will review your application and follow up as soon as possible.
Does SHA offer financial aid?
Yes. SHA invites families to apply for need-based financial aid during the re-enrollment process every winter. Questions about the process can be directed to Mike Loebe at
[email protected].
What is the dress code?
Students must arrive at school appropriately attired in compliance with the SHA Dress Code. Parents will be notified of any infractions.
• K - 2 Boys - kippah, pants or tailored shorts, joggers, no sweatpants
• 3 - 8 Boys – kippah, collared shirts, pants; no sweatpants, jeans, khaki pants
• K - 2 Girls - modest to-the-knee length skirts & dresses · pants allowed, joggers, no sweatpants
• 3 - 8 Girls - modest to-the-knee length skirts, dresses and tops with modest sleeves & necklines, absolutely no low-cut tops or cap sleeves, leggings are permitted – but may not have cut outs or mesh.
• General: comfortable and safe closed-toe shoes, sneakers are required for gym, boys wear a kippah and tzitzit, hair color must be a naturally occurring color
What’s your food policy?
Students must bring a lunch, two snacks, and a water bottle to school every day. There is no lunch program. SHA requests that parents pack kosher lunches and refrain from mixing dairy and meat. Currently, students are permitted to bring either dairy or meat lunches. The school is entirely nut-free.
Do you offer after-school care?
Yes! In partnership with Kids Club, we now offer meaningful and fun after-school activities until 6 p.m. For more information and to register, visit the extended day information page [link to page].
Do you have an athletics program?
Yes! In addition to physical education classes several times a week, longtime athletic director Jed Davis and PE instructor Drew Artiaga coach girls’ and boys’ basketball and volleyball. Lower school students can sign up for after-school sessions, and middle school students participate in an interscholastic league.
Who should I contact with general admissions questions or to schedule a tour?Anat Zimmer, Director of Admissions
(206) 323-5750, ext. 203
[email protected] 
