The Heart of the Mission

At Bais Rochel Leah High School (BRLHS) in Huntington Beach, education extends beyond the classroom hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Our focus is on cultivating ‘Bitachon’ (trust) and the confidence essential for a Bas Chabad to navigate contemporary challenges.

Recently, this mission was realized through a three-part chessed campaign dedicated to Leibel Lazaroff’s recovery. Upon learning that Yehuda had been seriously wounded in the Sydney shooting on Chanukah, our students responded with empathy and action. His mother, Mrs. Manya Lazaroff, had recently led a transformative retreat for our students in Palomar, emphasizing that a Bas Chabad’s inner strength is her most effective tool against adversity. In a meaningful demonstration of these teachings, the students applied the lessons of ‘action and light’ to support her family, channeling their concern into a campaign of merit for Leibel’s complete and speedy refuah sheleima.

Light on the Front Lines: UCI and the Power of Identity

While media coverage often highlights the rise of antisemitism on university campuses, BRLHS students responded by meeting adversity on our local UCI campus through Mivtza Neshek, organized by senior student Chaya Weinbaum.

“You do not realize the impact you have simply by standing there in our tznius clothing as a Chabad girl on a campus with contrasting values,” Chaya shared. Even when confronted with a Palestinian flag, the students remained steadfast, offering Shabbos candles and demonstrating that Jewish light endures.

Empathy Without Borders: From Ukraine to the JCC

The students’ commitment to Ahavas Yisroel extended to supporting local Ukrainian refugees. During a school workshop, language barriers were overcome as students and refugees collaborated to create handmade pillows. “Beyond a service hour,” shared Mrs. Coen, school principal, “it was a lesson in emotional maturity and communal responsibility.” This spirit was also evident at a JCC luncheon, where students engaged with over 60 seniors, bridging generational gaps through music, games, and meaningful conversation.

A Specialized Academic Landscape

The ‘BRLHS Way’ is guided by a dedicated staff of local Shluchos who make history and Chassidus accessible and relevant. Mrs. Esther Harlig presents Jewish History through a Chassidic perspective, connecting the Chabad experience to global events. Mrs. Rivky Lehrer engages students in discussions on Shaar HaBitachon, observing how they apply these concepts to contemporary teenage life. She notes, “I am continually impressed by the girls at BRLHS. They have a genuine desire to grow, to deepen their understanding, and to reach their full potential.”

This internal growth is complemented by a rigorous General Studies program that equips students for life beyond BRLHS. Mrs. Jahanafard, Dean of Students, highlights that the distinguishing feature of BRLHS is the way students discover their purpose: “It’s not forced, but rather a constant stream of opportunities to connect. Our students graduate more than prepared; they have a clear direction and a sense of self that they never believed they could find in a classroom.”

Within our history and science labs, the ‘growth mindset’ is actively practiced. Ms. Zahorian, a General Studies history teacher, observes that the school’s culture of mutual respect is a key strength. Through our three-tiered academic tracks and the ‘silent smiles of support’ exchanged during even the challenging exams, BRLHS integrates high academic standards with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). “We don’t just teach them what to learn; we teach them how to aspire, ensuring they see themselves as part of a much bigger picture.”

A Home Away From Home

For out-of-town families, the dormitory often raises important questions. At BRLHS, the dormitory is more than a place to sleep; it is an environment where students from outside the area are quickly integrated into the school community. Conveniently located for travel, BRLHS provides a seamless ‘Home Away From Home.’ The campus is just 20 minutes from SNA (John Wayne) and Long Beach airports, and a short drive from LAX.

Alumna and mother of two high school students, Rochel Zahabian, who recently considered a move to Los Angeles, shares:

“My daughters never hesitated. They wanted to stay here at Bais Rochel Leah High School. Knowing they have the option to board in the dorm and remain in the environment they love gives me complete peace of mind.“

Partnering with Your Family

We believe that every qualified student deserves a robust and grounded Chabad High School experience. The BRLHS administrative team is dedicated to collaborating with families to ensure that tuition does not become a barrier to enrollment. For a limited time, eligible incoming 9th-grade students may access an exclusive grant that provides all-inclusive tuition for under $10,000.

This opportunity allows families to invest in their daughter’s education, values, and future, while maintaining the warmth, support, and high standards expected at BRLHS. 

Spaces are limited.

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