JLA Ba’Aretz
בארץ
JLA Ba'aretz Mission Statement
JLA Ba’aretz is a transformative, month-long journey in Israel, designed to welcome every Upper School student, regardless of their religious background or familiarity with Judaism, into a deep exploration of Jewish identity, history, Zionism, and the modern State of Israel.
Program Overview
Every year, JLA Upper School students kick off their academic journey with an extraordinary adventure in Israel, spanning from the middle of August until right before Rosh Hashanah. At JLA Ba’aretz, our students dive headfirst into an immersive learning experience that not only deepens their understanding of Judaism but also forges powerful connections—with each other, their Jewish heritage, and the captivating Land of Israel.
Through a unique blend of academic study, experiential learning, and volunteer opportunities, our program fosters a lasting connection to the land and people of Israel.
At the heart of the JLA Ba’aretz experience is a rigorous and inspiring classroom curriculum complemented by an array of field trips thoughtfully designed to bring the classroom learning to life.
The curriculum has six core components:
- Jewish History
- Start-Up Nation
- Ulpan
- Torah Studies
- Modern Israel
- Art
Jewish History
A survey of Jewish History that leads students from the era of Abraham through the establishment of the modern State of Israel, creating an unbroken narrative that brings classroom learning to life by traveling and learning in and about the very places where history took place.
Start-Up Nation
An experiential program that connects students to Israel’s flourishing innovation ecosystem by introducing them to leading Israeli entrepreneurs, scientists, and philanthropists.
Ulpan
Hebrew language immersion, leveled by ability, and taught by professional Israeli language instructors.
Torah Studies
Topical explorations of inspiring Jewish texts and ideas taught by some of Jerusalem’s preeminent Torah educators.
Modern Israel
A four part course that equips students with the knowledge and tools they need to understand, appreciate, and engage in a sophisticated manner with the geo-political realities and societal debates that dominate public discourse about the contemporary State of Israel.
Art
A hands-on exploration of the way in which Israel blends modernity and tradition to create its own unique brands of visual art, music, theatre, or cinematography.
Beyond the program’s formal learning component, students also deepen their engagement and understanding of Israel by exploring its diversity and by giving of themselves to help others in need. They visit and interact with a broad spectrum of Jewish communities, embracing Israel’s rich cultural, spiritual, and economic landscape; and they volunteer weekly with organizations focused on individuals with disabilities, soldiers in need, or families battling poverty.
Through these varied academic, cultural, and service experiences, JLA Ba’aretz ignites a lifelong passion and love for Israel, strengthens their Jewish identity and pride, and cultivates a deep understanding of the beauty, complexity, and indispensability of the Jewish State.
An Essential Part of Your Academic Journey
JLA Ba’aretz seamlessly integrates into our comprehensive Judaic Academic curriculum, making it an essential component of your education. This 3.5 – 4 week immersive program is a mandatory part of the educational experience for every 9th through 12th grade student and all costs are included in tuition. At JLA Upper School, we believe that the journey of self-discovery and connection to one’s heritage begins with experiences that resonate for a lifetime. JLA Ba’aretz is an unforgettable adventure that plays an important role in shaping the academic, cultural, and personal growth of our students and community.
Sample Schedule
During JLA Ba’aretz, students have the opportunity to experience and explore Israel and its rich history through a series of trips and activities, all seamlessly integrated with our Judaic Academic curriculum. Each day brings a new and unforgettable adventure. Click below to view a sample schedule and get a taste for the excitement of JLA Ba’aretz.
“I believe the most memorable trip was definitely when we went to the Kotel and learned about its history. Being so close to the places we’ve learned about and listening to all these amazing stories truly helped me to fully comprehend these concepts. Either that or hiking up Masada. It was very fun and challenging, and very rewarding when we reached the top.”
Andre A. ‘26
What Was the Most Memorable Part of the Trip for You?
“The Jerusalem Shabbat trip was the most memorable for me because I just felt so connected to the environment and people around me. This was when I started to feel like Israel was becoming my home.”
Sasha R. ‘27
“One of the most memorable trips was Tel Gezer. This was our first trip and I learned many things about that place and the history there. I was also able to connect symbolic things in Judaism to the history we were learning about Tel Gezer. An example of something I connected to Tel Gezer were the “Sheva Minim” which can be found around the mountain.”
Julia J. ‘27
Parent Testimonials
“Rabbi, I have no words to thank you and the school enough for this….we are beyond happy and touched to be a part of this…hopefully our children will become true Jewish and Zionist examples and be a key part of tikun olam.”
Gina E.
“I have no words to express how much this was not only delivered but way over our expectations. Everything from the moment we left him in your hands to the first hug when he met my wife back in the airport. Really amazing. It helped build the man we want him to be, and the man he can be. And surely now the man he wants to be.”
Fernando A.
“Wanted to thank you for all that you have done for the kids in Israel. We are very appreciative and thankful. We feel that our son found a home with a neshama that fits him and that he is in a good place. “
