JAMS is intended to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of students in class, in extracurricular activities, and in other pursuits and to empower them to continue to excel while strengthening their connection to their Jewish identity.
JAMS is open to any student who meets these requirements:
Current eighth grader at any school OR a high school student not currently attending a Jewish high school in the greater Atlanta area during the 2024-25 school year.
Complete an application for admission to, or registration to enroll in, at least one Jewish high school.
Has achieved notable accomplishments or demonstrated excellence in school, during school-sponsored extracurricular activities and/or in activities outside school. JAMS encourages students who have achieved excellence in any area of interest to apply.
Has a desire to build or strengthen their connection to the Jewish community and its values and culture by joining a vibrant and supportive Jewish high school community. No prior connection to the Jewish community is required.
Is not the child of an individual who is employed by a JAMS partner or sponsor, including the Marcus Foundation, the Zalik Foundation, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta.
JAMS recognizes students for their academic and extracurricular excellence, providing support throughout their high school journey to help them continue to thrive. Scholarship recipients are eligible to receive $20,000 in tuition assistance, capped at 55% of tuition, along with a stipend of up to $5,000 for school-sponsored extracurricular activities or school travel. JAMS recipients may apply for financial assistance from other sources.
“Access to a world-class education is one of the most powerful investments in a young person’s future,” said Helen and David Zalik. “The Jewish Atlanta Merit Scholarship is designed to recognize and support outstanding students, empowering them to excel academically and grow into future leaders within the Jewish community and beyond."
“JAMS is an invitation for students to take charge of their future, stand out, and seize new opportunities,” said Renee Kutner, President/CEO of Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. “High school is not just a stepping stone—it is a chance for students to discover their passions, refine their talents, and build leadership skills that will shape their future. Through JAMS, students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally while connecting with like-minded peers who share their values and aspirations.”
JAMS is designed to support top-performing rising freshmen and transfer students seeking to attend a Jewish high school. The scholarship provides an opportunity for outstanding Jewish students in Atlanta to receive a top-tier high school education at The Weber School, Atlanta Jewish Academy (AJA) or Temima, The Richard and Jean Katz High School for Girls.
For the 2025-2026 school year, the JAMS application will be available on February 7th, 2025, and submissions are due by March 5th, 2025. Students and families interested in applying can visit www.zalik.org/jams to learn more about the scholarship, eligibility, and application requirements. For more information, please email JAMS@zalik.org.
Founded in 2018, the Zalik Foundation is a private foundation in Atlanta, GA. Informed by Jewish values and education, the Zalik Foundation principals Helen and David Zalik envision a world where people enjoy meaningful, joyous, purpose-driven lives and positively impact their families, communities and the world. The foundation works toward its mission to create knowledgeable Jews, ensure children and seniors live with promise and dignity, empower women and girls, promote entrepreneurship, and ensure a sovereign and thriving Israel.
Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta cares for, connects, and strengthens our Jewish community throughout Greater Atlanta, Israel, and the world. Our vision is a thriving and connected 21st Century Jewish Atlanta where every Jew and their loved ones can access warm and caring Jewish community, timeless Jewish wisdom, global Jewish peoplehood, and Jewish ways to do good in the world.
Founded in 1989, The Marcus Foundation fulfills the philanthropic vision of Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot. The Foundation’s grantmaking philosophy is derived from Bernie Marcus’ personal life experiences as a businessman and entrepreneur. Upholding Bernie’s beliefs and values in entrepreneurial philanthropy, the Foundation has five key areas of giving – all with the goal to transform lives through innovative problem solving. The five focus areas are: medical research and healthcare; Jewish causes; free enterprise, including veteran initiatives and national security; the health and welfare of children, with an emphasis on civics education; and targeted community support.
The Weber School, a Jewish Community high school serving students from all Jewish backgrounds, prepares students for success in college and in life with comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs that inspire student exploration, leadership, and Jewish social consciousness. Many of our programs and academies are unique to Weber and can't be found at any other Atlanta-area high schools.
The Felicia Penzell Weber Jewish Community High School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.