Escola ORT, Brazil
Founded on May 29th, 1943, Escola ORT is a private educational institution recognized for its strong academic foundation and forward-thinking educational approach. Consistently ranked among the top 20 schools in its state, the school is committed to preparing students for future challenges by blending academic rigor with a strong ethical framework. Its mission is to deliver a comprehensive and innovative education that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility.
Hands-on learning plays a central role in the school’s educational model, particularly through its emphasis on STEM and entrepreneurship. Maker Culture and project-based learning are integral to classroom experiences, encouraging students to collaborate, solve problems, and develop practical skills. This dynamic educational approach ensures that students graduate not only with strong academic knowledge, but also with real-world competencies that prepare them for higher education and beyond.
Name of School | Escola ORT |
Location | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
Age range | Junior High, High School |
Students | 430 |
Professionals | 140 |


Curriculum & Academic Life
The school follows the Brazilian national curriculum and enhances it with innovative academic and technical offerings. English is taught through a program accredited by the U.S. Consulate, which also facilitates access to international certification exams. Hebrew is also included in the curriculum, alongside instruction in Portuguese.
Students benefit from comprehensive vocational training in Biotechnology, Electronics, Entrepreneurship, Information Technology, Marketing, Mathematics and Multimedia. These programs are designed to deliver hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills. Additionally, the University Project supports students in navigating university applications and preparing for academic success beyond secondary school.
Specialist courses that are uncommon in local schools, strengthen Escola ORT’s emphasis on applied learning. Students also have access to a wide selection of optional enrichment classes, including Pop Rock Band and musicality, Board Games, Science Club, Israeli Dance, Jazz, Debate Group, Minecraft and Game Development, Comics and Manga, Robotics, and Theater. Arts and sports are fully integrated into student life, with participation in music and theater productions, school bands, dance ensembles, and athletic competitions across various sports.
Enrichment & Student Life
Escola ORT offers diverse extracurricular opportunities that support both academic and personal growth. Students participate in national and international Olympiads and competitions, which develop analytical, collaborative, and problem-solving abilities.
The school promotes leadership through democratic processes and civic engagement. Student representatives are elected by their peers, and the Student Council provides a forum for student involvement in school governance. Jewish Culture and Education classes include Mini Knesset simulations that engage students in public debate, while the Debate Club helps younger students strengthen their communication skills.


Innovation & Resource Sharing
Escola ORT’s curriculum is built on a foundation of STEM education and Maker Culture. Learning is hands-on, interdisciplinary, and focused on solving real-world problems. Well-equipped laboratories support project-based learning across all grade levels, enabling students to experiment, innovate, and apply technical skills in meaningful ways.
The school stands out in the ORT network for its integrated and applied teaching methodology, which combines academic rigor with real-world problem solving. These innovative practices offer valuable models that could benefit other schools in the network. The school excels in technological fields, including Biotechnology, Electronics & Automation, Information Technology, Marketing & Entrepreneurship, Multimedia and Mathematics.
Educating for Life
Escola ORT believes that academic success must be paired with life readiness. Entrepreneurial thinking is introduced from an early age and strengthened through high school via targeted professional tracks. This prepares students to approach challenges with creativity, initiative, and confidence.
Mental health and wellbeing are also central priorities. A dedicated team of psychologists and psycho-pedagogues supports students’ emotional and social development, promoting resilience, empathy, and self-awareness within a safe and supportive school environment.


Jewish Experience
All students participate in Jewish education and learning Hebrew is part of the curriculum. Escola ORT's educational proposal is based on a historical and cultural approach, where the ethical and moral values of Judaism are emphasized. Furthermore, they maintain a constant exchange with Research and Technology institutions in the State of Israel.
Global Citizenship
Escola ORT is committed to shaping globally responsible citizens through both academic programming and extracurricular initiatives. Environmental education is delivered through NEDEA, the school’s Experimental Center for Environmental Studies, where students engage in sustainability, conservation, and ecological learning through direct experiences.
Community involvement is encouraged through service projects. One notable initiative involved middle school students supporting the Lar Israelita de Cuidado ao Idoso, a local elder care facility. They collected supplies, exchanged letters, and established meaningful intergenerational relationships. Additionally, graduating students develop and present final projects with strong social impact, showcasing their ability to apply classroom knowledge to community challenges.


Last updated May 2025