doris
doris
Find Schools
Events
Saved schools
My account
Parent Guide Parent testimonials Community Transparency Charter About For Schools
Currency
S

Solomon Schechter Academy

Canada, Montreal

Save school
Share
Navigate

· Reviewed by · Co-founder & CEO

Independently researched by doris.
Not yet claimed by the school
Claim your profile
The school at a glance
Instructs in English, French
Fees CA$9,500 - 16,040
Ages 3 - 12 years
Pupil numbers 400
Type Co-educational
Opened 1969
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum French Curriculum, British Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages French, Hebrew, English
Strengths Sport, STEM, Performing Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary
Introduction

Solomon Schechter Academy serves ages 3–12, with Amiel Early Childhood Centre on MacDonald Avenue for Junior Pre-K to Pre-K and the Main Campus on Côte St‑Luc Road for Grades 1–6. The school offers a bilingual program in English and French, with English and Français sections, and Judaic Studies taught in Hebrew (Ivrit B'Ivrit) using Tal Am and iTAL AM curricula. The curriculum blends French and British frameworks with a bespoke program, and English Language Arts totals about 3 hours 25 minutes per week in Cycle One and about 5 hours per week in Grades 3–6 in the English section. French reading uses a project-based approach with Livromagie. The Azrieli SMART Floor supports STEAM learning in Science, Music, Robotics, and Jewish Arts, with the Beverley and Harvey Greenberg Makerspace and 30,000-item library. Tikkun Olam and community involvement run through every grade, alongside theatre and arts programs such as the Mel Hoppenheim Theatre Centre.

5555 chemin de la Côte St‑Luc, Montréal, Québec H3X 2C9; Amiel Early Childhood Centre: 4940 avenue MacDonald, Montréal, Québec H3X 2V3

The Essentials

Solomon Schechter Academy has 400 pupils, instruction in English, French.

Location
Main Campus: 5555 Chemin de la Côte St‑Luc, Montréal, Québec H3X 2C9. Amiel Early Childhood Centre: 4940 Avenue MacDonald, Montréal, Québec H3X 2V3. Located in Montréal, Québec, the school serves the Montreal Jewish community.

Stages
Early childhood (Junior Pre-K and Pre-K) and Grades 1–6. The school operates two streams: an English Section and a Section Française.

Type
Jewish day school.

Additional learning support
Student Services provides individual and family support; social skills development; and collaboration with faculty to promote student success. The Resource Team offers one-on-one and small-group support with individualized education plans (IEPs) and psycho-educational assessments. STEP (Strategy Enrichment Program) meets specific learning needs in Hebrew and French for Grades 3–6 with accommodations; tutoring, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are available.

Religious affiliation
Jewish
Diving Deeper

Food Options
Hot Lunch is offered.

Governance and Ownership
Head of School: Steven Erdelyi; Principal: Maya Doughan. The Academy is governed by a Board of Directors led by a President (Joshua Fisher). Standing committees include Executive, Real Estate, Home and School Association, Finance & Audit, Legal & Human Resources, Strategic Planning, Development, Information Technology, Medical Advisory, and Risk & Safety.
Fees

Annual tuition at Solomon Schechter Academy ranges from CAD 9,500 to CAD 16,040 for 2026/27.

Application & enrollment fees

- CAD 250 non‑refundable total, comprising a CAD 50 application fee plus a CAD 200 enrollment fee. Paid online at the time of application.

Tuition fees (academic year 2025–2026)

- Junior Pre‑K & Pre‑K: CAD 9,500 per year.
- Kindergarten: CAD 14,400 per year.
- Grades 1–6: CAD 16,040 per year.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The Home and School Association's annual fee is collected with the general school fees; families are charged the Home and School fee as part of the school's fee collection. The Home and School annual fee is CAD 215 per child.
- The CAD 250 application/enrolment fee is non‑refundable and is paid online at the time of application.

Boarding fees

- Solomon Schechter Academy is a day school serving preschool and Grades 1–6; no boarding program applies and therefore no boarding fees are charged.

Other costs and recurring fees

- Home and School annual fee: CAD 215 per child (covers individual and class photos, school supplies, staff gifts, and field trips) and is collected with general school fees.
- Additional program costs (examples of programs and activities identified by the school that may carry separate charges include Extended Day Care, hot lunch, and the Grade 6 Israel trip); specific charges for these items are billed separately when applicable.

Refund information

- The CAD 250 application/enrolment fee is explicitly non‑refundable.

Affordability and adjustments

- A Flex‑Able Affordability Program is available to eligible families; this program provides subsidies and tuition adjustments for qualifying households and may change the family's net tuition obligation. Application to the program follows published timelines and procedures.

Fee payment options and contacts

- The application/enrolment fee is paid online. For questions about tuition billing, payment methods, or affordability applications, contact the school's admissions or finance contacts listed for Solomon Schechter Academy.
Academics

Solomon Schechter Academy teaches French Curriculum, British Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 3 to 12.

Curriculum
The school teaches in English and French. English Language Arts is taught 3 hours 25 minutes per week in Cycle One and 5 hours per week for Grades 3-6 in the English section. The French language curriculum uses a project approach and teaches reading through the Livromagie program. Judaic Studies is conducted in Hebrew using the Tal Am and iTAL AM Hebrew language curricula, with annual Chagigot in each grade. The Azrieli SMART Floor supports STEAM learning, including Science, Music, Computer Animation, Jewish Arts, Robotics, Theatre and Technology, to foster critical thinking.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
SSA has a Student Services Department dedicated to supporting the social, emotional and intellectual growth of students. The team advocates for students in the classroom and provides professional guidance and resources to families and teachers. Individual and Family Support is available to address learning, behavior, and social-emotional well-being. Social Skills Development offers groups and conflict-resolution instruction and coordinates the Grade 6 mentorship program and other community-building activities. The department collaborates with faculty through classroom observations, meetings, and ongoing communication to promote student success. The Student Services team includes a Social Worker and a School Counselor who work with students across grades.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Resource Team provides one-on-one and small group support to students identified with specific learning needs. Resource teachers work with classroom teachers and assistants to implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Learning goals and strategies are established using results from academic screenings and psycho-educational assessments. The Strategy Enrichment Program (STEP) is designed to meet the specific learning needs of students by implementing recommendations from formal evaluations and providing accommodations and/or modifications. STEP is offered in Hebrew and French for Grades 3–6 during regular class time, with small-group instruction led by teachers with expertise in diverse learning needs; evaluations and grades reflect the student's IEP. Admission procedures require a teacher/administrator recommendation, classroom observations, results from formal evaluations, and an established IEP; STEP has limited enrolment.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The language of instruction is English and French. French is taught through a project-based approach and is integrated with other subjects. French is taught through research, projects, discoveries, theatre, exhibitions, computer science, the physical education program, the science program and the social, ethical and religious cultural programs. Livromagie is a program that inspires students to read and participate in French activities related to the program. Written and oral projects are used to verify students' grammatical skills, and reading, writing, communicating, and appreciating French literature are developed through daily classroom use of French.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through SSA's Student Services Department, which focuses on social, emotional and intellectual growth. The team provides individual and family support for students' social-emotional well-being and learning needs. Social skills groups and conflict-resolution strategies are offered to students across grades, complemented by programs like Grade 6 mentorship and other community-building initiatives. A School Counselor and a Social Worker are part of the Student Services team to assist students and families, with ongoing collaboration with teachers to promote well-being and positive learning experiences.

Safeguarding
SSA has an on-site Ombudsperson (the Principal) with contact details for reporting concerns, and a Regional Ombudsperson to assist with complaints. The National Student Ombudsman oversees the province-wide process for student and parent rights, with a formal three-step complaint process: Step 1 report to the person directly concerned, Step 2 escalate to the designated official, and Step 3 approach the Regional Student Ombudsman. Regional Ombudsmen examine complaints and provide conclusions and recommendations. SSA provides access to an Action Plan Against Bullying and School Violence and a Code of Ethics to guide safeguarding and student conduct.
Parent Experience

History
Solomon Schechter Academy is a dynamic Jewish Day School serving grades 1-6, with an English Section and a Section Française, uniting students as one Jewish family reflecting Montreal's mosaic. The school emphasizes developing lifelong learners who think critically in three languages and who engage with Jewish traditions and values. The Amiel Early Childhood Centre serves Junior Pre-K and Pre-K on the Dufferin Campus, while the Main Campus houses Grades 1-6 on Côte St-Luc Road, a site the academy has occupied since 1955. The academy's mission centers on partnerships among students, parents and educators, and it highlights community involvement and Tikkun Olam. The Solomon Schechter Academy Children's Foundation supports SSA education.

Community
The Solomon Schechter Academy community centers on Jewish values and active involvement in Montreal Jewish life. Students participate in Tikkun Olam projects and community campaigns with Federation CJA, JNF, MADA, and other organizations, and each grade undertakes a project tied to a theme chosen by teachers. There is a close connection with Afik, a partner school in Be'er Sheva, providing students with a direct link to Israel. Parents are encouraged to participate through committees that work with SSA to build the school's future.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Parental involvement is encouraged through committees that partner with SSA to support programs and events. The Home and School area provides Volunteer Opportunities and a Volunteer Sign-Up for families. Parents participate by volunteering at events and activities throughout the year. This structure fosters collaboration between families and SSA staff. Participation is an ongoing part of SSA life and helps strengthen the overall student experience.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Solomon Schechter Academy operates on two campuses: the Main Campus on Côte St. Luc Road and the Amiel Early Childhood Centre on MacDonald Avenue. The Main Campus offers 28 bright, air‑conditioned classrooms, most about 750 sq ft, plus six tutorials rooms. The Azrieli SMART Floor houses Science, Instrumental Music, Art, and Robotics studios, and the Beverley and Harvey Greenberg Makerspace supports hands‑on projects. The library contains over 30,000 items and a bright, renovated lunch room provides space to socialize. Two playgrounds, outdoor spaces with basketball and soccer courts, an outdoor amphitheater and shaded areas, and a 4,000 sq ft gym support active learning; the Amiel Centre also includes satellite gyms and a full commercial kitchen for a hot lunch program five days a week. The Mel Hoppenheim Theatre Centre hosts performances and events across both campuses and the school is adjacent to Shaare Zion Beth-El Synagogue for services.

Sports Facilities
Solomon Schechter Academy's Physical Education and extracurricular sports programs are housed in a 4,000 sq ft well‑equipped gym, with additional satellite gyms in the Amiel Centre. Grade 5 and 6 students participate on school teams in soccer, hockey, basketball, ultimate frisbee and dodgeball in Montreal leagues (GMAA and Jewish leagues). Indoor physical education is offered to Grades 1‑6 twice weekly in French. Two playgrounds provide outdoor green space with basketball and soccer courts, an outdoor amphitheater and shaded areas for recess.

Academic Facilities
Azrieli SMART Floor houses Science, Instrumental Music, Art, and Robotics studios. The Beverley and Harvey Greenberg Makerspace provides materials for building computers, robots, and multimedia projects through video, welding, woodworking, and 3D printers. The library contains over 30,000 items and is used across English, French, and Hebrew classes. The Amiel Early Childhood Centre includes a full commercial kitchen for a hot lunch program five days a week, a preschool library, a gym, and a playground to support Junior Pre‑K through Kindergarten. The Mel Hoppenheim Family Foundation Theatre Centre provides a space for performances on both campuses.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Extracurricular offerings include physical education and school sports in the 4,000 sq ft gym, with Grade 5 and 6 teams competing in GMAA and Jewish leagues. Theatre is a core extracurricular, with Grades 1‑6 presenting in the Mel Hoppenheim Theatre Centre. Robotics and other STEAM activities are supported by the SMART Floor spaces and the Beverley and Harvey Greenberg Makerspace, enabling clubs and projects beyond class. Grade 5 and 6 students participate in the Junior Robotics Competition with schools across Montreal.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school has two streams: an English Section and a Section Française, enabling bilingual learning. Students think critically in three languages across the program. The Azrieli SMART Floor houses Science, Instrumental Music, Art, and Robotics studios to support hands-on learning. Robotics education starts in Grade 2 with Lego WeDo, and Grade 5–6 students participate in the Junior Robotics Competition with Montreal schools.

Arts & Creative
The Mel Hoppenheim Family Foundation Theatre Centre provides a performance space used for holidays and celebrations. SSA engages every student in animated theatrical performances and vibrant art exhibitions. Art is part of the SMART Floor program, with projects that fuse Jewish themes with artistic techniques. Judaic Arts projects, such as Grade 6 challah boards, illustrate the integration of art and Jewish culture.

Cultural & Language
The school operates English and French sections, with the largest portion of the week spent in French. Judaic Studies are taught in Hebrew (Ivrit B'Ivrit), and Jewish heritage and Israel are integrated across subjects. French language and Quebec culture are explored through exploratory projects, theme exhibits, song, and theatrical presentations. Hebrew language and Jewish culture are central to the Judaic studies offering.

Social & Hobbies
Special activities and theme days populate the Theatre Centre, creating engaging social experiences and celebrations. The school provides ongoing performing arts opportunities, including theatre productions and the Grade 4 Zimria choir experience. Music education begins in Grade 1 with recorder and xylophone, expanding to a school band in Grades 5–6. Art projects mix Jewish themes with artistic techniques as part of the creative curriculum.

Community & Service
Tikkun Olam is a core part of SSA's education, with students learning to contribute to their community. Students visit Federation CJA and other sites in Jewish Montreal and participate in campaigns supporting Federation CJA, JNF, MADA, and other organizations. Each grade undertakes a Tikkun Olam project, focusing on a charitable theme chosen by teachers.

Leadership & Professional
The school's vision aims to prepare students to become leaders in Quebec and beyond. Animators, Shinshinim, and a dedicated social services team support student engagement, development, and community initiatives. Parents are invited to take part through committees working together for SSA's future, fostering leadership within the school community.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Physical Education and extra-curricular sports are offered in a 4,000 sq ft gym, with Grades 5–6 teams in Montreal leagues playing soccer, hockey, basketball, ultimate frisbee, and dodgeball. Grades 1–6 have physical education twice per week in French. The Body Break Room provides a safe space for students to pause, calm down, and practice coping strategies under supervision. The lunch program offers nutritious daily meals and the lunch room also hosts social activities and events, including recess and celebrations.
Languages

Language Provision
The language of instruction is English and French. The French curriculum uses a project-based approach and includes Livromagie to promote reading in French. Judaic Studies are conducted in Hebrew (Ivrit b'Ivrit), using the Tal Am and iTAL AM Hebrew Language Curricula.

Bilingual Teaching
The school has two streams: an English Section and a Section Française. The language of instruction is English and French. It educates students in grades 1-6.

Immersion Programs
Livromagie is used to inspire students to read and participate in French-language activities. French instruction is integrated across subjects from the early levels with a project-based approach. French theatre and related exhibitions reinforce language use and reading in French.
Admissions

Admissions
Solomon Schechter Academy welcomes students from the Montreal Jewish community and abroad. The admissions process requires submission of documents in the digital application. Priority for Kindergarten admission goes to students from the Academy's own Pre-Kindergarten program, followed by siblings of current students, and then children of graduates. The school also accepts transfer students into Grades 1–6 after reviewing report cards and receiving a favorable evaluation by department heads. After submitting the application, families are contacted to schedule a visit or meeting. Documents include the child's original birth certificate showing both parents' names, copies of both parents' passports, proof of residency, and, for English-section registration, a parent's Certificate of Eligibility or birth certificate. A $250 non-refundable fee ($50 application and $200 enrollment) is required. For Preschool, applications are accepted on a rolling basis for 2027 and 2028 with limited spaces; for Kindergarten, the 2027 class has a waitlist, and 2028 applications are being accepted; official acceptance for 2028 occurs the week of December 7, 2026; intent to enroll is due January 15, 2027. For more information, the Coordinator of Admissions and Development can be consulted.

Scholarships
The Flex-Able Affordability Program was created to ensure that all members of the Montreal Jewish community have access to an excellent education at Solomon Schechter Academy.

Waitlist
Kindergarten 2027 has a waitlist available; Kindergarten 2028 is currently accepting applications. If no space is available, a child will be automatically placed on the waitlist. Preschool 2027 and 2028 applications are accepted on a rolling basis; if no space is available, a child will be placed on the waitlist.
School Events
The school has not added events
Compare Solomon Schechter Academy with
vs Collège Stanislas
Search for more schools
Search schools in Canada View all schools in Montreal View all schools in Canada British curriculum schools in Canada Open days & tours in Montreal What is the British curriculum? View all schools Search all schools