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Ohr Zahava Classical school

a small, joyful Montessori inspired microschool in Houston emphasizing independence, deep Jewish learning and classical academics. We love small-group self-paced learning rooted in Torah and the classics, giving our scholars a deep and enriched education according to the way they learn.



What Makes Us Different

Self-Paced Mastery Self-paced, mastery-based Torah and academic learning that helps each child build confidence, depth, and lasting understanding.
Arts, Sciences & Classical Literature Deep engagement with the arts, sciences, and classical literature through rich ideas, thoughtful exploration, and joyful discovery.
Middos & Torah Values An emphasis on middos and Torah values that shapes character, strengthens kindness, and guides children in how they live and learn.
Montessori-Inspired Work Cycles Montessori-inspired work cycles that encourage focus, independence, purposeful movement, and meaningful hands-on learning.

A Founder-Led School

Ohr Zahava was founded by its Head of School, Megan Kluger, while serving as the head of Internal Audit and Enterprise Risk Management at H-E-B, following a career in management consulting and work bringing Torah to diverse communities.

“I dreamed of a school where children are active participants in their learning—where we build on their strengths and guide them to high standards. A place where Torah and mitzvos are lived with depth and authenticity, alongside a rich engagement with the arts, sciences, and the great classics.”
Megan Kluger, Head of School and Founder of Ohr Zahava
Megan Kluger Founder & Head of School

Mission & Vision

Ohr Zahava is a personalized, high-expectation microschool where children think deeply, create beautifully, and grow with Torah values and moral clarity. We are an inclusive community for diligent and curious learners, offering a rich blend of classical academics, Judaic studies, and the arts—so every child can reach high standards and real mastery.

Accreditation & Affiliation

Ohr Zahava School is a Jewish Day School in Houston, TX.

Ohr Zahava School is a 501(c)(3) organization in the State of Texas. We are a private school beginning the accreditation process in the 2024-2025 school year.

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Why Families Choose Ohr Zahava

Discover Ohr Zahava School

We are a Jewish day school in Houston, TX dedicated to providing a balanced education that nurtures the mind, body, and soul.

Academic Excellence

Through a rigorous curriculum grounded in the classical liberal arts, our scholars develop mastery in sciences, mathematics, literature, and history.

Academic learning

Jewish Values

Your child will grow in Torah and middos, fostering a deep connection to Jewish heritage through meaningful and engaging education.

Jewish Values

Caring Community

We provide a supportive, inclusive environment where each child is valued, promoting structure, kindness, and personal excellence.

Community
A Day In The Life

Daily Schedule & Curriculum

A blend of Montessori independence, deep Jewish learning, and classical academics tailored to how children learn best.

Morning Start: Hatikva & PE
7:55–8:25

Morning Start: Hatikva & PE

We begin each day with meaning and energy.

Students sing Hatikva, then move into PE—because starting with movement boosts focus, behavior, and readiness to learn.

Opening Circle, Tefilah & Halacha
8:25–9:05

Opening Circle, Tefilah & Halacha

We begin as a community.

Students gather for a unifying discussion, then move into tefilah—followed by Halacha Yomi, where they learn two daily halachos rooted in Chazal.

Kodesh Learning Block
9:10–10:30

Kodesh Learning Block

Torah learning that is active, personal, and alive.

Students engage in hands-on, impressionistic learning—building skills in kriyah, translation, grammar, Chumash, Navi, and Mishnayos, while exploring Taryag mitzvos and zemanim through meaningful, guided work. Using the Al Pi Darko approach of Rabbi Jonathan Rietti, each child learns at their level, internalizing Torah with clarity, confidence, and connection.

English & Literature
10:50–12:15

English & Literature

Language brought to life.

Students build strong reading, writing, and grammar through a blend of Montessori-inspired, hands-on work and rich, classical literature. With a focus on phonics, composition, discussion, and poetry memorization and quotation, students engage deeply with meaningful texts—developing clarity of thought, strong expression, and a lasting love of great books.

Lunch & Recess
12:15–1:10

Lunch & Recess

Time to connect, reset, and grow.

Students gather at small tables for a calm, social lunch, followed by an extended recess where they build independence, problem-solving skills, and healthy friendships through play.

Math

Math

Deep thinking, real understanding.

Students engage in hands-on, concept-driven math—building strong number sense, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Through guided practice and meaningful challenges, each child works toward true mastery at their level.

Science

Science

Curiosity in action.

Students explore science through hands-on experiments, observation, and discovery—bringing concepts to life. With a focus on questioning, investigation, and real understanding, students learn to think like scientists and engage deeply with the world around them.

History

History

Stories that shape understanding.

Students explore history through rich narratives, discussion, and meaningful connections—bringing the past to life. With a focus on great people, big ideas, and cause and effect, students develop strong knowledge, thoughtful perspective, and a deep understanding of the world.

Art & Practical Life

Art & Practical Life

Beauty, skill, and purposeful work.

Students study the great classical artists while creating through drawing, painting, crafts, practical life work, and needlepoint. With a focus on technique, care, and appreciation of beauty, students develop creativity, fine motor skill, and pride in their work.

Music & Dramatic Arts

Music & Dramatic Arts

Expression, confidence, and joy.

Students engage in singing, rhythm, and performance, exploring both music and dramatic arts. With two performances each year, children showcase song, theater, and projects—building confidence, communication skills, and a love for the performing arts.

Field Trips & Guest Experiences

Field Trips & Guest Experiences

Learning beyond the classroom.

We believe in impressionistic, real-world learning—enriched by guest speakers and meaningful field trips that deepen our studies. Students explore their city with purpose, practicing curiosity, grace, and courtesy while bringing their learning to life.


School Policies & Information

We are a kosher campus and a strictly kosher kitchen. Scholars bring a dairy lunch and snack each day as well as enough water to drink. All cooking projects in Ohr Zahava School are cholov yisroel or pareve.
Boys: Black pants or shorts with a white, light blue, royal blue or navy blue polo shirt and white athletic shoes (no lights/distractions). Tzitzis and yarmulkes required. Girls: Black skirt (under the knee or below), white, light blue, royal blue, or navy long sleeve polo shirt, and white athletic shoes. Black leggings/shorts required underneath for physical activity.
We are committed to a safe, respectful environment with zero tolerance for physical harm. Hurtful language is addressed strictly: 1st time - reflect and reset; 2nd time - sent home for the day; 3rd time - may remain home for one week. We emphasize "clipping up" to reinforce that mistakes can be repaired.
Scholars must attend when healthy. If a scholar has a temperature over 100°, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash, they must be picked up within 30 minutes. All children must have appropriate immunizations. Written permission is required for all medications.
Tuition at Ohr Zahava School is $8,850 per year paid over 11 monthly installments, unless an alternative plan is approved by the Head of School. While we do not have a formal tuition assistance program, Ohr Zahava tries to work with families who request. Requests are handled directly through the Head of School. Early starts/late pick ups (any time after your regular scheduled pick up time) will be charged a fee of $20 for every 15 minutes you are early/late. This fee is expected to be paid promptly on the day you are early/late.

Parent Involvement

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child's journey at Ohr Zahava School. We rely on parent support through time, talent, and treasure to build a strong community.

Time: Volunteerism is strongly encouraged. We ask parents to assist on campus regularly.

Talent: Your unique talents and professional expertise are a vital addition to the success of our school.

Treasure: Support through donations and fundraising is welcomed and tax-deductible.

Supply List

QtyItemNotes / Brand
2 packsColored PencilsPentel Arts / Crayola
2 boxesCrayola Crayons (24 count)Crayola
30 ctTiconderoga pencilsTiconderoga
1 packFine Tip & Broad MarkersCrayola
5Wide-Ruled Comp. booksBlue, Green, Red, Yellow, Black
6Folders (pockets and brads)Heavy duty plastic (Assorted)
1Ream of copy paperMulti-purpose (500 sheets)
MiscWipes, Tissues, Hand SoapVarious
MiscPaper Towels, Paper PlatesVarious
MiscIndex Cards, Glue SticksVarious
Connect With Us

Take the Next Step

Whether you are interested in joining our team or visiting Ohr Zahava School, we would love to hear from you.

We welcome educators and professionals who are passionate about children, Torah values, and meaningful learning. Please complete the form below and attach your resume.
We would love to welcome you to campus. Select an available time below to schedule your visit.
Admissions & Family Onboarding

Required Family Forms

Please review and digitally sign the following required forms for the 2025-2026 school year.

Please ensure all information is accurate as it will be used to create your scholar's official school record.
On occasion, we may go on field trips in the car. No child will be taken without your written permission. Parents or teachers volunteer to drive for many of our field trips. No child will be left unattended in the car.

This signed statement includes emergency transport, field trips, errands, etc. at the discretion of the child care provider. Should travel take place by vehicle, the driver shall hold a current driver's license, and the vehicle will be registered and insured according to state law.
Ohr Zahava School frequently takes photos and videos of our scholars engaging in academic and extracurricular activities. These may be used in our newsletters, website, and promotional materials.
Ohr Zahava School provides technology to enhance learning. Scholars are expected to use these tools responsibly. Parents are financially responsible for any deliberate or negligent damage to school-issued devices.