Because of You, Lisa’s Children Found Lifelong Friends in Atlanta’s Jewish Day Schools

“When we moved here from Miami in 2016, I knew very few people. My kids, Rachel and Adam, were six and eight, and I was worried about how we’d build community in a brand-new city. I had heard about The Davis Academy from old friends and extended family—even before we knew we’d end up in Atlanta. So we decided to visit. Before we had even made it to orientation, the Director of Admissions had already connected us other Davis families whose kids were the same age as mine. We are still close friends with many of those families today.

From the moment we arrived, we were wrapped in community—welcomed with Shabbat dinner invitations, thoughtful gifts, and open arms. My kids found friends before school even started. That’s the magic of Davis—and that’s the magic your generosity helps make possible.

As my children grew, the decision to continue their Jewish education at The Weber School came naturally. For my son, the smaller class sizes, opportunity to play sports, and the supportive, values-driven environment helped him thrive. Now he’s looking at big state schools for college, and I know he’s ready—not just academically, but as a grounded, thoughtful young adult. My daughter, now a Weber sophomore, has found her footing there too, growing socially and academically.

A big part of my kids attending Weber was made possible thanks to the Jewish Community Professional Tuition Grant.

I was working part-time before joining Federation. But when I learned about this grant—and how it supported Jewish professionals like me in making day school more affordable—it was truly life-changing. Not only was the job a great fit anyway, but knowing that the grant was available was also an additional benefit I was so excited about. I was ready to work full-time again, and the grant was a huge help in sending both of my children to Weber. I am so grateful to be here, doing work that matters, while also receiving support that makes a difference for my family.

Because of you, my kids didn’t fall through the cracks in a new city. Because of you, they grew up surrounded by Jewish values, learning, and lifelong friendships. Because of you, I get to do meaningful work and give my family a community they love.

Thank you for making stories like mine possible—for investing in Jewish education, in community, and in families like mine.” – Written by Lisa Jacobson, Director of the Executive Office at Federation.