FAQs

What is Heller High, and how does it relate to Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI)?
Heller High is a semester-long immersive program in Israel for Reform Jewish high school students within the larger framework of AMHSI. Heller High students follow the same core curriculum as AMHSI but participate in Reform-focused programming, dorm living, and engagement with Reform Jewish communities.

What does it mean to be a Heller High student?
Heller High students are part of AMHSI, with a focus on Reform Jewish values, including exclusive seminars and interactions with Reform leaders in Israel. They live in dorms within the AMHSI campus, fostering a community of Heller High students, while still engaging with other AMHSI students through shared activities.

​How much contact do Heller High students have with the Alexander Muss High School in Israel?
Heller High students are fully integrated into the Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI) program. They participate in all general studies, social activities, field trips (Tiyulim), and weekend schedules alongside AMHSI students. This integration ensures that Heller High students are not isolated but are part of the larger AMHSI community, fostering a cohesive and inclusive environment.

​While Heller High students share many experiences with their AMHSI peers, they also benefit from additional, unique opportunities that focus on Reform Jewish values and leadership. These exclusive activities enhance their overall experience without separating them from the broader AMHSI community,

​What happens if there are less than 15 students? 
If fewer than 15 students are enrolled, Heller High participants integrate into the broader AMHSI experience while retaining key Heller High programming.

​Why should I choose Heller High’s program and not just do AMHSI?
Heller High offers a unique Reform Jewish experience that sets it apart from the standard AMHSI program. This includes exclusive seminars, Reform-focused Jewish history education, and additional opportunities to engage with Israeli Reform communities and leaders. Here are some of the distinctive features of the Heller High program:​

• Hineni Orientation Seminar: This orientation takes place in Israel four days before the beginning of the AMHSI program. During these days, students are introduced to core concepts and frameworks of the fellowship, engage in group building, and create a common language. On the fourth day, they meet the AMHSI students as they arrive in Israel and start the program together.

• IMPJ Seminar: Students learn about the work of the Reform Movement in Israel, join Women of the Wall, meet Hebrew Union College (HUC) students, and engage with the Israeli Religious Action Center and their team.

• Shared Existence Seminar: This seminar focuses on learning about and visiting spaces that address the complexities and tensions of shared existence within Israeli society.

• Sikum Seminar: At the end of the semester, students participate in a reflective seminar to process their experiences and think about ways to incorporate what they've learned into their lives back home.

• Advisory Sessions with Rabbi Orli Moss and Heller High Faculty: All AMHSI students have an advisory session once a week. Heller High students have this session with a member of the Heller High team, providing additional support and guidance.​

These unique elements of the Heller High program provide students with a deeper and more personalized engagement with Reform Jewish values and communities, making it a distinctive and enriching experience compared to the standard AMHSI program.

Will students be able to keep up with their regular high school coursework?
Yes, students can continue with their home-school curriculum with tailored General Studies instruction, including honors and AP options.

What makes the Heller High Jewish History course unique?
The Jewish History course is taught through a Reform lens, including on-site learning and special trips, with direct interactions with Reform Movement leaders in Israel.

Is Heller High accredited?
Yes, Heller High is accredited through its collaboration with Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI). AMHSI is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Heller High students participate in their general studies alongside AMHSI students, benefiting from a wide array of courses, including Regular, Honors, and Advanced Placement (AP) options. The AMHSI staff works closely with each student's home high school to tailor a curriculum that meets the participant’s academic requirements and ensures they stay on track with their studies.

Does Heller High offer a Poland Pilgrimage?
Yes, Heller High offers a deeply meaningful Poland Pilgrimage as an integral part of the Israel Studies course. This pilgrimage is one of the most significant and impactful experiences of the semester. Students undergo careful preparation before the trip, including learning about the historical context and significance of the sites they visit. During the pilgrimage, students travel to key historical locations such as Warsaw, Krakow, Lublin, Maidanek, and the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps. Upon returning, students have dedicated time to reflect on their experiences both individually and as a group, allowing them to process the emotional and educational impact of the journey.

What additional opportunities are available for Heller High students beyond what AMSHI offers?
Heller High students engage in exclusive activities like these:

• Hineni Orientation Seminar: This orientation takes place in Israel four days before the beginning of the AMHSI program. During these days, students are introduced to core concepts and frameworks of the fellowship, engage in group building, and create a common language. On the fourth day, they meet the AMHSI students as they arrive in Israel and start the program together.

• IMPJ Seminar: Students learn about the work of the Reform Movement in Israel, join Women of the Wall, meet Hebrew Union College (HUC) students, and engage with the Israeli Religious Action Center and their team.

• Shared Existence Seminar: This seminar focuses on learning about and visiting spaces that address the complexities and tensions of shared existence within Israeli society.

• Sikum Seminar: At the end of the semester, students participate in a reflective seminar to process their experiences and think about ways to incorporate what they've learned into their lives back home.

• Advisory Sessions with Rabbi Orli Moss and Heller High Faculty: All AMHSI students have an advisory session once a week. Heller High students have this session with a member of the Heller High team, providing additional support and guidance.

How physically challenging are the field trips (Tiyulim)?

Field trips vary in intensity, with some requiring light to moderate hiking. Students visit sites like Masada, Ein Gedi, the Dead Sea, and more.

How are Jewish traditions observed?
While AMHSI is a non-denominational campus, Heller High students actively celebrate Shabbat and Jewish holidays in a Reform Jewish style, with opportunities to lead services and engage with local Israeli Reform communities.

What does the tuition cover?

The tuition covers room and board at the AMHSI campus, health insurance, all field trips (tiyulim), and academic expenses while in Israel. Flights and personal expenses such as snacks, gifts, or nights out, as well as any off-campus purchases, are not included in the tuition. Check out AMHSI’s page for more info!

Is financial aid available?

Yes, financial aid is available.  URJ Heller High is a transformative experience. We're committed to making it accessible and will support families in overcoming financial barriers.The program provides need-based financial aid and scholarships.

In addition, students can utilize the Dream Israel grant, which offers up to $7,500 toward tuition. Check out the Dream Israel site.

Through spring 2026 semester students can also apply for the URJ Teen Israel Organizing Fellowship, offering $15,000 toward tuition for eligible participants.

Who is eligible to apply?
The program is open to high school students in grades 10–12 for either Fall or Spring semesters.

How do I apply?
The first step is to attend an information session. Register for an information session.

What makes Heller High a life-changing experience?
Heller High students build lifelong friendships, strengthen their Reform Jewish identity, and gain a profound understanding of Israel. Alumni often describe it as a pivotal moment in their personal and Jewish journeys.

Are there opportunities to hear from alumni?
Yes! Check out our Alumni Stories page for testimonials from past participants.

What health and safety measures are in place?
As part of the larger AMHSI program, supervision on site is through Madrichim (counselors), staff, and faculty provide supervision. Health insurance is included, and AMHSI ensures that students have access to care and support as needed. 

What about security?
Safety and security will always be our number one priority. Within the framework of AMHSI,  All field trips are approved by Israel’s oversight organizations for safety and security, and staff are updated regularly with any issues that arise. Plans and field trips will be revised as needed, while still maintaining the integrity of the program.