Charlotte Jewish Preschool

Federation Impact: Beneficiary Agency Spotlight

As a means of bettering our greater Charlotte Jewish community, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte allocates donation funds to local Jewish organizations who embody Jewish values and overall better our community. In recognition of their work, we at Federation wish to bring attention to these organizations and the good that they do.

Charlotte Jewish Preschool (CJP) is a cornerstone of early childhood education within the greater Charlotte Jewish community, providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for young learners from infancy to pre-kindergarten. It is a nonprofit organization that offers both high-quality half and fullday programs designed to instill a love for lifelong learning and Judaic values.

CJP and Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte share a dedication to creating an inclusive environment where Jewish traditions are celebrated and passed down to future generations. This shared vision ensures that young children receive a strong foundation in Jewish education, equipping them with the knowledge, values, and sense of community needed to thrive in their personal and academic lives.

CJP began in the 1950s as Temple Israel’s nursery school.

In 1988, a new partnership between Temple Beth El and Temple Israel formally established Charlotte Jewish Preschool, making it one of the first preschools in the country to be jointly owned by two differently affiliated synagogues.

By 2002, the Levine JCC joined as a partner, and in 2012, CJP became its own nonprofit organization, reflecting its growth and independence.

CJP executive director, Becca Green commented, “At Charlotte Jewish Preschool, we are dedicated to providing young children with a secure and loving atmosphere in which to grow, develop a positive self-image, and learn the joy of Jewish life. Our enriching programs are designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a sense of community among our students. Through the generous support of our donors and the Jewish community, we are able to offer enriching experiences that honor our traditions while embracing modern educational practices. We are grateful for the partnership with our community, which helps us cultivate the next generation of compassionate, knowledgeable, and engaged Jewish leaders.”

The impact of a CJP education extends far beyond the preschool years. Students leave CJP with a strong foundation that sets them up for success in their subsequent educational journeys. They move on to the next level of education with confidence and a deep-seated understanding of the importance of family and community, lessons first learned at CJP.