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?
SHA encourages comfort and individual expression, but asks that students dress respectfully. Boys are expected to wear nice pants (no sweatpants, but jeans are OK) and kippot. From third grade, boys must wear collared shirts. Girls should wear skirts that reach the knee and tops that cover the chest and shoulders. From third grade, girls must wear skirts. Leggings under skirts are allowed.
All students should wear closed-toe shoes they can run around in. Please note that many activities take place outside, and students should be prepared with adequate inclement weather gear and a change of clothes.
What’s your Covid-19 policy?
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?Sharon Mezistrano, Director of Admissions
(206) 323-5750, ext. 203
[email protected] 
