Because of You, Atlanta Day School Teachers Have Access to Meaningful Professional Development Opportunities

Written by Michele, Atlanta Day School Teacher

When people ask me what makes teaching at a Jewish day school so meaningful, I often talk about the students—their curiosity, their questions, their love for learning. But what I’ve come to realize this past year is that how we teach matters just as much as what we teach. And thanks to the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and the SEEDS Grant, I feel more equipped and inspired in my role than ever before.

The SEEDS Grant gave our school access to high-quality, targeted professional development that we simply wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise. We focused on emotional regulation and strategies for reaching diverse learners—topics that are deeply relevant to our students and essential to creating an inclusive, nurturing classroom environment.

What made it even more impactful was the collaborative nature of the training. It wasn’t just a one-time workshop that faded into the background.

It was ongoing, team-based, and actionable. We had space to reflect together, experiment with new techniques, and truly grow as a faculty. I’ve already seen the difference in how my students respond—in their confidence, their engagement, and their ability to express themselves.

As a teacher, it’s incredibly validating to know that our community sees us, values us, and is willing to invest in our growth. Your support through SEEDS is more than a grant—it’s a vote of confidence in our work and a powerful reminder that Jewish education is a shared priority.

So thank you. Thank you for helping us plant the seeds of better learning. Thank you for making it possible for us to grow as educators, and for ensuring that our students are given every opportunity to thrive.