Hebrew Academy

Investing in Futures The Hebrew Academy’s Profound Impact

“What truly sets the Hebrew Academy apart are the values it instilled in my kids,” recalls Don Kaiser “I’ve seen those values carry through into their adult lives.” This profound observation captures the essence of the Hebrew Academy's enduring influence on its students, highlighting why this Orange County inst itution has been a cornerstone of Jewish education for over five decades

Discovering the Hebrew Academy

In 1979, Don and Andrea Kaiser moved from the San Gabriel Valley to Long Beach with their family. As former educators, they sought a school that would offer their children a nurturing, value-driven educational environment The Hebrew Academy, with its small class sizes and dual focus on secular and Hebrew education, quickly stood out as the perfect choice Don and Andrea were impressed by how the Hebrew Academy combined academic excellence with Jewish teachings, creating an environment where values were instilled in their children. Witnessing this profound impact firsthand fueled their ongoing commitment and active involvement with the Hebrew Academy Don’s journey began as a parent and continued as a board member of the Jewish Federation of Long Beach. As the current president of the Hebrew Academy board, Don dedicates his time and expertise to support its mission and growth.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Don's drive to give back to the community is deeply rooted in the values his parents instilled in him. They taught him the importance of supporting the community, and he passionately continues this legacy As an investment manager, Don understands the value of long-term planning and investment, which aligns perfectly with his

commitment to the Hebrew Academy. His professional expertise enhances his ability to support and sustain the school’s mission, ensuring that future generations benefit from a high quality, values-driven education

Inspired by the Pew report highlighting that the best Jewish continuity is through Jewish education, Don and Andrea have dedicated themselves to supporting this mission. They believe a comprehensive education must include rigorous academic training and a deep connection to Jewish heritage and Israel. Their commitment is evident in the Kaiser Family Endowment through Jewish Long Beach, which provides scholarships for post high school student trips to Israel Additionally, Don and Andrea funded the Hebrew Academy’s STEM classroom and continue to provide annual funding for the program, demonstrating their unwavering support for the Jewish community.

Constantly evolving to meet the challenges of tomorrow, these programs equip students with the skills and knowledge they'll need in an ever-changing world “We are preparing the future leaders of our community,” Don explains, his pride evident in every word.

Financial accessibility is a common concern for many families. The Hebrew Academy is dedicated to providing a Jewish education to any child whose family desires it, regardless of their financial situation. Don reassures, “The board's mission is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent any child from receiving a Jewish education.”

Don has a simple invitation for parents worried about the social environment or cultural fit: “Come visit the school to see for yourself how happy the children are in the positive environment the dedicated teachers and administrators provide for the children.”

A Thank You to the Community

Estee Lovitch, this year’s graduating senior and recipient of the Kaiser Family Scholarship grant, shares her anticipation for her upcoming gap year in Israel: “As a Jewish woman, it is very important to me to spend a year learning and growing in my identity in the land of Israel I am excited to explore my Jewish identity, connect with my heritage, and grow as a young woman. ” Her words resonate with the core values instilled by the Hebrew Academy, demonstrating how the school's influence extends far beyond graduation

Rabbi Newman, Head of School, extends a heartfelt thank you to the Long Beach community for their unwavering support “The enduring generosity of families like the Kaisers, along with legacy gifts and endowment funds from Jewish Long Beach, allows the Hebrew Academy to continue to provide an education that blends academic excellence with Jewish values. This crucial support sustains and enhances our programs. The new Jewish Long Beach Scholarship Fund, which began in 2024, will make our strong value-based education accessible to even more families. Together, we are nurturing the next generation of Jewish leaders right here in Orange County.”