A study conducted by the United organization, which works in collaboration with the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and the Fight against Anti-Semitism, to strengthen Jewish schools in the Diaspora, shows that following an increase in anti-Semitism, there has been a change in the lifestyles of Jews around the world and in the role of the Jewish school in the community space.
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The study, conducted by Russov Consulting, indicates that the events of October 7 had a profound impact on the connection of Jews in the Diaspora to Israel and Jewish life, leading to an increase in interest in and enrollment in Jewish schools.
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Additionally, the study suggests that Jewish schools around the world are facing new pressures. For example, educators feel they are not equipped with the tools needed to teach about Israel, yet they are still on the front lines of addressing student and parent concerns.
Only 351% of educators reported that they feel prepared to face current educational challenges.
The rise in anti-Semitism and changes in Jewish identity have led to an increase in enrollment in Jewish schools. Significant growth has been observed mainly in France and North America.
However, in areas where enrollment rates in Jewish schools were previously high, no major changes were observed.
For example:
● France: The proportion of students in Jewish schools has jumped from 16% in 1986 to about 40% today, with a 27% increase in the number of applications to Jewish schools since October 7. About 1,200 students were left without a place in Jewish schools.
● Toronto: There has been a steady annual increase in enrollment. Since October 7th – a surge in transfer applications, with hundreds of applications for enrollment in Jewish schools for the upcoming school year.
● Netherlands: The number of students at the only Jewish school in Amsterdam has increased since October 7th, and today the school is at full capacity and cannot accommodate additional students.
● In North America: Following the events of October 7, approximately 60% of schools in North America reported an increase in interest in enrolling new students, in addition to the fact that 39% of parents in North America are considering transferring their children to a Jewish educational setting – indicating the growing concern of Jews in North America about rising anti-Semitism.
● A shortage of teachers is sometimes turned into an opportunity – Jewish teachers from public systems seek to transfer to Jewish schools out of a sense of mission.
● Educational infrastructure: In many areas, there is not enough physical space to accommodate the growing demand for Jewish schools.
United says that educators in Jewish schools in the Diaspora are experiencing pressure and a lack of relevant skills.
They have been on the educational frontline since the October 7 massacre - both in the context of Israel and in the context of
Local anti-Semitic incidents. In many countries, Jewish educators report that parents and students are asking them
Help explain the new expressions of anti-Semitism in their local communities, while the non-Jewish environment
Expect them to respond to the images of death and destruction in Gaza broadcast on social media and on television.
At the same time, the students' families expect them and the schools, among other things, to provide up-to-date information about Israel and the war, and to provide skills to combat anti-Semitism and to explain Israel from a Zionist perspective. Not surprisingly, Jewish educators note that they find it difficult to meet these needs, as they experience the emotional turmoil created by this period but at the same time must guide those who depend on them, mediate and explain the situation to them.
""The Jewish school has always been the anchor of the Jewish community and the key to preserving its continuity," says Hannah Dorsman, CEO of UNITAD. "And today, after 10/7, its role is even more important. If in the past Jewish educators were responsible for building and strengthening Jewish identity, today, in light of the rise of anti-Semitism and pro-Palestinian expressions, they are required to provide their students with an up-to-date set of tools, which also includes resilience and coping. Our role is to support educators and provide them with the infrastructure for this important work.".
""This is a moment of historic opportunity," says Dorsman. "In the coming years, we may see a sharp shift to Jewish schools, so it is critical that we act today. It is important for us to ensure that interested families are not deterred and to ensure that Jewish schools 'deliver the goods' with talented teaching staff and quality education that will provide an appropriate response.".
Amichai Shikli, Minister of Diaspora and the Fight against Anti-Semitism: "The horrors of October 7 led to a dramatic increase in manifestations of anti-Semitism and at the same time to a strengthening of the sense of connection and solidarity towards Israel. Our duty is to continue to strengthen Jewish and Zionist identity through investment in educational programs, in order to give impetus to a wave of Jewish awakening and connection to the State of Israel.".
