Welcome to Yachdav
"Imagine a Hebrew School where kids don't want to miss a day. They come in with a smile and leave humming a Hebrew song."
Yachdav is an exciting and innovative educational program in Issaquah. Our program enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trend setter in creative Jewish education for children in Kindergarten through Grade 7, and for making every Jewish child feel welcome, regardless of knowledge or affiliation.
Yachdav is where Judaism and community come alive and children are encouraged to ask and explore. Our experienced staff, hands-on curriculum, and holiday workshops are sure to make this year both educational and enjoyable for our students.
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to instill our students with a basic yet thorough understanding of our traditions and values, a strong sense of Jewish pride, and a love of Jewish life.
Mavo L'Kriah Reading Program — Our exclusive Hebrew reading program has demonstrated exceptional success in guiding students toward Hebrew fluency. The program is thoughtfully structured with differentiated tracks for both Hebrew speakers and non-Hebrew speakers, ensuring that each child progresses with confidence at their own pace.
We are deeply committed to a holistic educational approach — integrating reading, comprehension, language development, and meaningful engagement with Jewish life. This methodology not only strengthens linguistic skills but also fosters a lasting and personal connection to our heritage.
A Day at Yachdav
Here's what a typical Wednesday looks like:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 4:30 – 4:40 PM | Line up, Hebrew School spirit, and Tzedakah |
| 4:40 – 5:30 PM | Hebrew reading literacy, writing & language (American and Israeli tracks) |
| 5:30 – 5:40 PM | Recess & snack |
| 5:40 – 6:30 PM | Individual class curriculum: holidays, history & Jewish values |
Policies & Information
Communication
Should you need to contact our staff during hours, please call our Director, Nechama Farkash, on her cell phone at 425-985-8996 or email Nechama@chabadissaquah.com.
You may also reach Rabbi Berry Farkash at 425-985-7639 or Rabbi@ChabadIssaquah.com.
Inclement Weather
In the event of inclement weather, parents will be notified via email and WhatsApp whether Yachdav has been canceled.
Attendance & Punctuality
Consistent and timely attendance is vital! There is a direct correlation between a student's attendance and his/her interest, achievement, and attitude. It is imperative that your child arrives on time and remains in school until the end of the session.
If for any reason your child must leave early, please send a note with an explanation and the time you will pick up your child. This note must be given to your child's teacher.
Dismissal
Parents are asked to park at the bottom of the driveway. Children will not be released to anyone other than a parent or regular carpool driver without permission from the parent. Please send a note or call us if someone other than the parent will be picking up your child.
Payment & Refund Policy
Tuition fees can be paid by check or credit card. Credit card payments incur a 3% service charge. Payments should be given to the Director only. Monthly and quarterly payment schedules are available upon request.
Tuition fees are non-refundable. Should you decide to withdraw your child, your refund will be prorated up to February 1. After that date, no refund will be allowed. There are no refunds or credits for days missed due to illness, holidays, or family vacations.
Personal Belongings
Students are not permitted to bring cell phones, iPads, or other electronic devices. In the event that a student brings these items, the teacher will hold it for safekeeping and return it at the end of the day. We respectfully request that parents take the lead in reinforcing this important rule.
Weekly Homework
Children will receive weekly Hebrew homework. Homework is not mandatory; however, we strongly encourage children to complete it by giving out tokens for raffles. Reviewing at home reinforces the material and helps them progress at a faster pace.
Workbooks & Supplies
All workbooks and supplies are provided by Yachdav. All books are to be treated with care and respect, and returned at the end of the year in good condition. Boys are encouraged to bring and wear a Kipah & Tzitzit. If you would like, Yachdav can provide one for you.
Tzedakah
Tzedakah (charity) is a concept that is basic to Judaism. Please send your child with some coins for Tzedakah to encourage them to perform this Mitzvah. Each class will have the opportunity to discuss and decide where to allocate the money they collect throughout the year.
How to Help Your Child Succeed
Our program is most effective when we work hand in hand. Here's how you can partner with us:
- Many of our students are involved in other extracurricular activities — sports, music lessons, etc. All these are important; however, please place priority on your child's Jewish education.
- Participation in synagogue services and celebration of Jewish holidays will greatly enhance your child's interest in Judaism and strengthen his/her Jewish identity. All Yachdav families are welcome at Chabad — no membership needed!
- Show your child that you are interested in his/her Jewish education. Make a habit of asking your child how their day was and what they learned. This greatly encourages a strong Jewish identity and positive attitude.
- Always remember that informal Jewish education is one of the best motivators for creating a positive Jewish identity!
Parental Involvement
When a parent is involved in their child's educational experience, the child's schooling is far more effective. By enrolling your child at Yachdav, you demonstrate that their Judaism is an integral part of your life — and you want it to be an integral part of theirs.
Yachdav Shabbat Services: We host a special Friday night service designed for families to come to Shul and enjoy a kid-friendly Kabbalat Shabbat, followed by a special celebration Kiddush.
Holiday Programs at Yachdav: Families are invited to participate in Hebrew School Holiday Activities — including a Sukkot party, Hakafot on Simchat Torah, Hamentash baking before Purim, our community Chanukah Celebration, and a Model Passover Seder.
