I don't usually speak to specific
grades, but this time I've got a problem that I want to share with
you.
The school year started in Israel and
schools opened as usual – that is, most schools. Many parents of
children attending the Ner Etzion school in the city of Petach Tikva
refused to let the school doors open. Why? Because this school is
located in a neighborhood where everybody comes from Ethiopia and a
lot of these parents want their children to be integrated into
schools outside their neighborhood, attended by all types of
Israelis.
Here's the thing – not all parents
sending their children to Ner Etzion agree to send them to other
schools. There are some who want their children to stay together in
this school because they feel it is easier to learn in a place where
everyone is alike – physically, financially and with the same
educational background.
What should an Ethiopian parent in
Israel do? What should the schools do? It's a tough choice with no
simple answers, but maybe you can find some creative solutions.
Here's what I want you to do. First of all, learn all about Ethiopian Jews -- their history and how they came to Israel. Teachers, you can use this link to help you.
Next, I want you to divide up into
groups with some of you pretending you are Ethiopians and the rest of
you being you, Jews living in the United States, Canada, England and
Australia. The Ethiopian children want to be part of your class but
they are so different from you. Be honest. Would you accept them as
equals? Invite them to your house? Go paint-balling with them? Help
them with their school work? How can you help them feel that they're
just like you? Because I'm going to be honest with you – I feel
that all of us have to stick to the principal Kohl Yisrael Areivim
Zeh La'Zeh – All Jews must help and care for each other.
Once you come up with some ideas, write
and tell me so that I can pass them on to friends over here in
Israel.
Toda Raba...Zvuvi
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