Unless you have a teenager in your life, you may not be aware of an amazing program for Jewish teens that has been thriving for over 25 years. Hebrew High is a supplemental program for Jewish students in grades 8-12, sponsored by Temple Beth El, Temple Israel, and Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte. The program offers three different tracks to accommodate teens’ busy schedules: Hebrew for Credit, Hebrew High, and Moving Traditions.

The transformative learning experiences at Hebrew High are designed to help students grow both in and out of the classroom. Hebrew High reflects the vibrant energy of Jewish teens by giving them a voice to explore their Judaism in a safe, engaging environment with passionate and skilled teachers who encourage them to make an impact on the world.

Welcoming a New Director: Daniela Mickey

Daniela Mickey, Hebrew High’s new director, brings fresh leadership and a revitalized vision to the program.

Born and raised in Mexico City, Daniela moved to Charlotte as a teenager, where Hebrew High became a transformative part of her Jewish identity. She loved participating in classes, learning alongside her peers about what it truly means to be Jewish in the world, and understanding why Jewish pride and community matter. The friendships she made then remain a huge part of her life today.

Daniela’s Jewish-centric career began at Camp Mindy, where she worked as a counselor in high school. Her passion for teaching took her to San Diego, California. Later, she returned to Charlotte, working as “Coach D” in the Levine JCC’s sports department, where she taught youth sports classes and served as a coordinator. After moving to Jacksonville, Florida, she became director of sports and recreation at the Jewish Community Alliance, continuing her lifelong passion for working with children of all ages.

Now back in Charlotte with her family, Daniela is excited to lead Hebrew High into the future. When she’s not with her husband, Jonathan, and daughters, Cora (5) and Margot (3), she enjoys reading, cooking, practicing yoga, weightlifting,

crafting, and spending time with her 16-year-old “street terrier,” Flapjack.

A Fresh Look and New Initiatives

Daniela’s vision for Hebrew High comes with exciting updates, including a new logo and website that visually represent the collaboration between Temple Beth El, Temple Israel, and Hebrew High.

Along with the new branding, Hebrew High is also rolling out key program changes:

– Teen Advisory Board: A newly established board ensures that students’ voices are heard and that they feel ownership over the program.

– Curriculum Updates: A new curriculum for 11th and 12th graders is in development, ensuring meaningful engagement for upper-level students.

– Moving Traditions Evolves into “Kulam”: This program is transitioning from gender-specific groups to a fully inclusive format under the Hebrew name Kulam (“everyone”).

Join Us at Hebrew High’s Open House

Hebrew High invites all incoming 8th graders and new Jewish teens in the area to an Open House on May 7 to see the program in action. This event is a great opportunity to experience Hebrew High firsthand, meet the teachers, and connect with fellow students.

With a new director, a fresh look, and exciting program updates, Hebrew High continues to be a dynamic space for Jewish teens to grow, connect, and lead. For more information, visit www.HebrewHigh.org.