When we first considered Smith Jewish Academy, we were drawn by the community. For a couple of years, we found ourselves looking in from the outside, feeling that pull. Ultimately, what convinced us to make the switch was something deeper: Smith's commitment to helping children grow not only academically, but as thoughtful, confident Jews in the world.
As a family, we wanted our children to develop strong academic skills while also learning how to lead, care for others, and see themselves as part of something bigger. At Smith, those lessons happen every day. Students are given opportunities to participate, lead, and look up to older classmates as role models, creating a community where children learn as much from one another as they do from their teachers.
One moment early in Tani's kindergarten year captured everything we hoped Smith would be. We were getting ready for synagogue one weekend and I asked the kids to help clean up before we left. When I asked Tani to pick up some wrappers his sister had left behind, he smiled and replied, "Sure — that would be a mitzvah."
It was such a simple moment, but it spoke volumes. Jewish values weren't just something he was learning at school — they were becoming part of how he naturally saw the world.
We've also been incredibly impressed by the way Smith supports every child as an individual. When Iris, our older child, joined Smith as a lateral transfer, she immediately received extra support in Hebrew. Soon after, teachers recognized she needed a little additional help with reading as well. Because they identified the need so early and acted quickly, she was able to catch up to her classmates with confidence.
That personalized attention has been one of the greatest gifts of Smith. The teachers invest deeply in each student and build relationships that allow children to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
One of my biggest concerns as the parent of a wonderfully active, curious little boy was that a traditional classroom might dampen his love of learning. Instead, we've experienced just the opposite. His kindergarten teacher nurtured his curiosity, celebrated his energy, and helped channel it into meaningful learning. He finished the year more confident, more engaged, and even more excited to discover what's next.
Looking back, what stands out most isn't any single lesson or program — it's the people. The warmth of the Smith community, the care shown by teachers, and the everyday moments when our children demonstrate the values they're learning have affirmed that we made the right choice.
We’re so grateful to the Erickson family for sharing their “Why Smith” story and helping others see what makes this community so special. If you’d like to share your own Smith story, we’d love to hear from you.
Kate Erickson is an early intervention teacher with Bloomington Public Schools, and Matt Erickson is director of social media for the American Jewish Committee (AJC). They live in Eden Prairie with their children, Iris (8) and Tani (6), and their sweet dog, Flip. After making the decision to transfer to Smith, they found a community where their children are known, supported, and inspired to grow.