Rabbi Deborah Salomon, Director and FounderFor more than two decades, Hebrew Wizards has reimagined what Jewish education can look like—transforming it from a traditional classroom experience into a dynamic, inclusive, and deeply engaging journey rooted in community values.
Founded over 21 years ago by Rabbi Deborah Salomon, Hebrew Wizards was created with a clear and compelling vision; to build a welcoming space where all families—especially interfaith families and those from diverse backgrounds—could feel at home exploring Jewish life, learning, and spirituality.
At its core, Hebrew Wizards is both an experiential Jewish learning school and a vibrant congregation. Its unique model blends education with community, offering students and families opportunities to connect not only through study, but through shared experiences—Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, community service projects, and meaningful life cycle events.
“We believe everyone has the right to celebrate Judaism in their own unique way and to help make the world better through kindness and acts of service,” says Rabbi Deb.
A Life Rooted in Family and Community
How does Rabbi Deborah Salomon’s personal journey shape the culture and philosophy of Hebrew Wizards?
Rabbi Deb’s vision is deeply personal. Married for 32 years and the mother of three daughters—including her youngest, adopted from Vietnam—she has always been guided by the belief that every child deserves to feel seen, included, and confident participating in Jewish life.
That same philosophy extends into the culture of Hebrew Wizards. While Rabbi Deb founded the program, she is the first to say that its success is built on something much larger than one individual. Hebrew Wizards is powered by a devoted and passionate team of educators, teen leaders, and extraordinary musicians who bring energy, creativity, and heart to every aspect of the experience.
Together, they have created not just a school, but a joyful, collaborative environment—one rooted in deep respect, shared purpose, and a genuine love for the work they do. It is a place where relationships matter, where colleagues become family, and where the spirit of community is felt in every class, every song, and every gathering.
A New Model for Jewish Learning
Why does the Hebrew Wizards learning model emphasize hands-on, rotational, and visual teaching methods?
What sets Hebrew Wizards apart is its innovative, hands-on approach to education. Rather than sitting at desks, students move through a series of guided learning stations, engaging actively with material across four core areas: Torah and Bible, Hebrew language, Jewish holidays, and Israel—including Jews of the world.
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We believe everyone has the right to celebrate Judaism in their own unique way and to help make the world better through kindness and acts of service.
Central to this approach is Rabbi Deb’s proprietary curriculum; vibrant, large-format ‘Wizard Boards’ designed to make complex concepts accessible, memorable, and fun. These visual tools, combined with music, color, and interactive teaching methods, support a wide range of learning styles and help bring Jewish learning to life.
The program follows a Montessori-inspired rotation model, where students work in small groups and move between stations based on age and level. This structure keeps learners engaged while reinforcing knowledge through repetition and varied instruction.
Equally distinctive is Hebrew Wizards’ leadership model. Students who complete their Bar or Bat Mitzvah are invited to return as paid ‘Teen Wizards,’ taking on meaningful teaching roles. These teens mentor younger students, lead small groups, and support instruction—gaining confidence, leadership skills, and a deepened connection to their community.
Learning Through Kindness and Connection
Beyond academics, Hebrew Wizards places a strong emphasis on character development and social responsibility. Community service is woven into the fabric of the program through initiatives such as the ‘Better Together’ partnership, which connects students with seniors and local organizations, including pet rescue groups.
Acts of kindness and personal growth are recognized through a creative incentive system: students earn ‘gold coins’ for achievements and good deeds, which can be redeemed at the school’s annual Winter Carnival. This celebration includes a ‘give-a-gift, get-a-gift’ exchange that benefits Kids in Crisis, reinforcing the importance of giving back.
A Model with Growing Reach
In what ways has Hebrew Wizards expanded its reach through curriculum, digital platforms, and community programs?
What began as a local initiative has grown into a model with national—and even international—impact. The Hebrew Wizards curriculum has been adopted by hundreds of schools across the United States, with growing interest from institutions abroad, including Israel and South America.
The program has also expanded into digital and creative spaces through tools such as the ‘Wanna Be a Wizard’ app, the Hebwiz YouTube channel, and online learning modules.
Complementing these platforms is Hebrew Wizards’ vibrant musical component, with two albums available on Spotify and major streaming platforms. These albums have received Parent’s Choice Awards, and their song ‘Break Down the Walls’ was recently honored with a 2026 NAPPA Award, further extending the program’s reach through music that inspires connection, joy, and Jewish pride.
A Community That Lasts a Lifetime
As Hebrew Wizards grew, so did its sense of community. This led to the creation of Kehilat Shalom, its congregational arm, which extends the program’s values into shared spiritual life. Together, the school and congregation create a seamless environment where learning and belonging go hand in hand.
In 2017, Hebrew Wizards established a permanent home—transforming a once-mobile program into a warm, inviting space filled with books, colorful boards, rugs, and pillows instead of traditional desks. Classes meet twice weekly, fostering both consistency and flexibility for modern families.
Perhaps most telling is the lasting impact of the community itself. Over the past two decades, students have formed lifelong friendships, and families have built deep, enduring bonds—creating what many describe as a true extended family within the Hebrew Wizards community. Students often return years later—not just for learning, but to celebrate life’s milestones; weddings, baby namings, and beyond. Hebrew Wizards is not simply a school; it is a lifelong community.
Building the Next Generation
Today, Hebrew Wizards continues to stand as a model of experiential education—one that nurtures both intellectual growth and personal development. Students evolve from learners into leaders, gaining confidence, empathy, and a strong sense of identity along the way.
Through its innovative structure, commitment to inclusion, and deep-rooted values of kindness and service, Hebrew Wizards is shaping not only how Jewish education is taught—but how it is lived.
