Message from the Head of School

We are thrilled that you are taking a look at Ann & Nate Levine Academy's inspiring and innovative program, taught by a dynamic and energetic faculty, and anchored in Jewish learning and values.

For over 40 years, Levine Academy has been preparing students to succeed in the area’s top high school programs—Yavneh, Greenhill, Hockaday, ESD, St. Mark’s, Parish, and the area’s top magnet programs, and more. Our students learn vital academic skills, cultivate a moral awareness, and understand the significance of collaboration, perseverance, and creativity—all designed to help them navigate this complex world of today and tomorrow. Critical thinking is highly valued: Our students get a lot of practice taking a question and examining its many angles and implications. They are unafraid to express a perspective and yet are open to learn more and consider something better. And they have loads of opportunity to lead, to perform, and to shine. At Levine, learning is infused with depth and purpose, chiefly because our core Jewish mission provides a superb grounding in traditions, celebrations, and identity. 

When you visit our school, you will see active, student-centered learning taking place everywhere; you will see technology being smartly deployed to enhance lessons and accelerate learning; you will also see spirited teachers who are working closely to meet individual needs and are encouraging their students to take that next step and reach a little farther. Above all, there is a welcoming warmth and positive tone everywhere, because we all know the goodness that our school’s mission is instilling in our students, giving them the best Jewish education available.

Whether you have children ready for our youngest level—three months old—or are looking beyond our Early Childhood Program to learn more about our Kindergarten through Eighth Grade program, we enthusiastically hope you will make your plans to visit with us. We know that you will feel our ruach (spirit!) and liveliness, and you will see what Levine can mean for your children.

When you visit, I will be happy to meet with you, learn more about your children, and respond to your questions.

Tom Elieff
Head of School
Ann & Nate Levine Academy

Tom Elieff has headed five private schools--covering early childhood, elementary, middle and upper schools--in Chicago (Lake Forest Academy), Seattle (The Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle), Houston (Beth Yeshurun Day School), and Dallas (St. Mark’s School of Texas’ Upper School and Levine Academy). He received his BA from Brown University and his MA from Northwestern University, earning the honor of valedictorian. In 2005, Tom was selected to participate in the first national cohort of Jewish day school leaders called Project Sulam, a multi-year learning and leadership program launched at Brandeis University. In 2019, the American Writer’s Museum in Chicago presented its first-ever Inspiration Award to Tom Elieff, recognizing his work in inspiring young students to write. Tom has served as Head of School at Levine Academy since 2014.