By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–San Diego Jewish Academy (SDJA) is ushering in the 2026–2027 school year with significant investments in leadership, academics, technology, the arts, and student enrichment, reinforcing its commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience from early childhood through 12th grade.
From welcoming new educational leaders and expanding STEM opportunities to launching new arts partnerships and enriching after-school programming, SDJA continues to prepare students to thrive academically, creatively, and as compassionate Jewish leaders.
“This year represents an exciting new chapter for our school,” said Zvi Weiss, Head of School. “We are expanding opportunities for students across every division, and continuing to build a learning environment that prepares students for college, careers, and lives of purpose and meaningful contribution.”
Dr. David Weiner joins SDJA as Head of Maimonides Upper School (Grades 6–12). Following a national search, Dr. Weiner brings 17 years of independent school leadership experience, having served as a division head, academic dean, director of college counseling, admissions leader, and classroom teacher.
Sara Hansen has been appointed Middle School Principal. A longtime SDJA academic leader, Hansen will oversee academic programming, student life, and strategic initiatives for grades 6–8 while continuing to strengthen curriculum, faculty development, and student support.
SDJA is also expanding its academic leadership team with several key appointments, including Kevin Mulka as Math Department Chair and Ryan Newbauer as Science & Technology Department Chair.
As part of its commitment to preparing students for success, SDJA will establish the Technology & Design Studio, a dedicated 20-station computer lab that will serve as a hub for computer science, robotics, web design, engineering, scientific research, digital design, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary learning.
The new studio will support courses including AP Computer Science, Robotics, Web Design, and advanced science research while providing students with industry-standard Apple technology in a collaborative environment that promotes computational thinking, creativity, responsible use of emerging technologies, and real-world problem-solving.
The academy has launched a new partnership with J Fest, a San Diego nonprofit dedicated to bringing Jewish arts and culture to the region.
Students will have access to professional workshops in directing, playwriting, auditioning, and stage management, along with new middle school electives, optional high school programming, student-led Jewish holiday productions, and a full spring musical featuring upper school students.
The partnership will be led by Becca Myers, an accomplished theatre artist and Harvard University graduate.
SDJA is also expanding its participation in the Shinshinim program by welcoming two new young emissaries from Israel, who will join us for a year of service prior to their army service. They will support Jewish, Hebrew, and Israel education in the Early Childhood Center, Lower School, and Upper School. This program, which is subsidized by Jewish Federation of San Diego, helps bring Israel to life on campus and weaves Israeli culture into the fabric of students’ daily lives.
“The strongest way to build our students’ relationship with Israel is through personal connection,” added Weiss, “and the Shinshinim provide exactly that, a relationship with our historic homeland.”
The Golda Meir Lower School is expanding after-school enrichment with new Kayefet classes in sports, art, dance, science, cooking, Spanish, mathematics, LEGO engineering, and other academics. Students will also benefit from an expanded music and performing arts program, with new performing arts experiences for kindergarten through second grade and enhanced instrumental music instruction for grades three through five.
The Early Childhood Center is expanding its popular Kayefet K’tana enrichment program for preschool and transitional kindergarten students, offering after-school classes in playball, art, cooking, and science that foster creativity, exploration, and confidence.
Following SDJA’s hosting of the Swiss Men’s National Soccer Team during the FIFA World Cup, the school received a generous gift of professional training equipment from the Swiss Football Association. The donation includes Olympic lifting platforms, squat racks, medicine balls, resistance bands, agility hurdles, plyometric boxes, FIFA mini training and match goals, training mannequins, and other professional-grade equipment that will enhance athletic training opportunities for SDJA students for years to come.
Throughout the 2026–2027 school year, SDJA will continue emphasizing academic excellence, Jewish values, innovation, character development, and meaningful community connections.
“Our mission is to help every student discover their unique strengths while developing the knowledge, character, and confidence to make a meaningful difference in the world,” Weiss added.
