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Women's Schools

S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program

Program Information for Women's Schools

https://aishgesherwomen.com/

Hashkafa

Goals of Program

In a world which allows for unprecedented encounters and exchange on a global scale, and recognizing that students today enter a classroom with much broader exposure to information and appetite for knowledge than they did even a decade ago, the program at Amudim aims to:

  1. Introduce students to the extraordinary complexity and profundity of Torah study and Jewish life.
  2. Provide a modern framework for understanding, appreciating and finding oneself in the world of Judaism today. 
  3. Empower each student to bring her own voice to Torah learning, identify and hone a derekh ha-limmud, and think critically and creatively about the texts she encounters.
  4. Inspire steadfast Shmirat ha-Mitzvot and love of Torah, the State of Israel and the Jewish people.
  5. Inspire students to become community leaders and contributors to the conversation on Jewish texts and ideas.
  6. Address meta issues, looking beyond the “what” to explore the “whys” and "hows" of Torah, Jewish thought and culture.
  7. Address methodological issues (e.g. various approaches to Tanakh study, the halakhic process).
  8. Facilitate independent learning through discussions of method and skill-building.
  9. Introduce students to Jewish intellectual life in Israel and facilitate close interaction with a groundbreaking panoply of leading scholars and educators.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Amudim maintains a strongly Religious Zionist/Dati Leumi outlook and approach, inspiring students to value the Land of Israel’s spiritual dimensions, the roles it plays in Jewish history and the shaping of Jewish identity, and to truly experience contemporary life in Israel. A special course in Israel studies provides an in-depth understanding of the Zionist narrative and how it conflicts with the Palestinian narrative, and addresses complex issues head on, so that students gain the knowledge to effectively articulate an informed position regarding one of the longest running modern conflicts. In addition, many other shiurim, lectures, tiyulim, hagim, internships and activities at Amudim are designed to provoke thought and discussion regarding the religious significance of the land of Israel, Israeli politics, military service, and Israel advocacy, as well as deepen the physical and spiritual connection to our homeland.

Attitude Towards University Studies

With its highly academic approach and faculty drawn from universities and academic institutions across Israel, the Amudim classroom actually reflects that of the university, harnessing the tools of modern scholarship in the study of Torah. In order to introduce students to university life and ways that Torah study can be incorporated into it, Amudim students spend two days per week learning on university campuses and settings (including at Bar-Ilan University’s midrasha, the National Library of Israel and the Bible Lands Museum). As a result, it is a natural preliminary step towards attending university. After spending a year studying Torah at an advanced level at Amudim, students are fully expected and encouraged to pursue higher education and careers in other fields. While Amudim’s educational approach prepares students for ideological challenges they may face in a college classroom, special “College Prep” courses at Amudim address more practical and social challenges that may arise.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

With an eye towards developing an association between Torah learning, community and communal responsibility, Amudim features a unique internship/hitnadvut (volunteer) program which requires students to contribute to Israeli society through taking up internships or devote time and energy to the underprivileged or mentally or physically challenged. Pursuing internships just as they would a regular job (with cover letters, sometimes resumes and interviews), students have worked in the following fields, amongst others: Medicine, medical research, archaeology, the arts, animal care, writing, office management, nutrition, engineering, education, start-ups, curatorial/museum work, libraries and more. These internships have been foundational to students’ understanding of self and the roles they can play in the broader Jewish and Israeli community. In addition to individualized internships, Amudim arranges for the student body to engage in hesed activities together (e.g. Tomkhei Shabbat, pantry packing, medical clowning etc) throughout the year, mostly around yom tovim times, and solicits volunteers for regular bikur holim on a weekly basis.

Amudim also assists students looking to participate in competitions or events deemed beneficial to their spiritual or physical development, such as the YU Choir competition and the Jerusalem marathon.

The "Successful" Student

At Amudim, on an intellectual level, we consider it a success when our students learn to think critically about every text (defined broadly) they encounter and come specially to appreciate the profundity, complexity, brilliance and truth of Torah.

In terms of personal growth, the successful student is one who takes on the challenges placed before her, whether it is a difficult hike, all night learning, or performing a difficult hessed, such as bikur holim or nihum aveilim.

The greatest success occurs when students are empowered enough to contribute to the conversation on Jewish texts and ideas, become leaders of Klal Yisrael, and when the attachment to Torah learning leads to a deepened connection with God.

Dress

Halakhic attire must be worn in the Beit Midrash and all shiur rooms. This includes opaque shirts with sleeves to the elbow, skirt to the lower part of the knee and collar covering the greater part of the chest area. While all manner of dress that follow these standards (including sandals, nail polish and any fabric) is permitted in the Beit Midrash, is it fitting to take extra care to respect the Midrasha’s policies and the atmosphere of the beit midrash.

This being said, students take a class at Amudim called “Body, Beauty, Gender and Dress,” which considers the historical, psychological, social, political and halakhic ramifications of beauty and dress. Placing special emphasis on the Jewish context, the discussions in this class cover issues such as shomer negiah, women's leadership roles and kol isha, how they are connected to gender politics and "tzniut." Ultimately, this shiur aspires to facilitate students’ understanding of what the halakha aspires to and encourages them to effectively articulate their own stance on Jewish women’s dress practices and personal approach to dress. 

Guidance Personnel

Spiritual, intellectual and emotional maturity during the year in Israel is nurtured by and often depends upon the establishment of strong personal bonds between students and staff, including teachers, administrators, Ram’im, and madrikhot. While all teachers are available to discuss whatever is on students’ minds and welcome the chance to spend time with students outside of shiurim (including Shabbatot at their homes), several staff members maintain a regular presence on campus and purposefully remain accessible to lend a hand or an ear, and sometimes a shoulder to cry on, and address any and all student needs. Aside from the Rosh HaMidrasha, these include the:

  1. Ramim, who teach designated groups of students during morning sedarim, join students for various activities outside of the classroom setting, and are specially equipped to address religious-spiritual issues.
  2. Mashgiah Ruhani, who guides students in identifying specific areas of learning and navigating the Beit Midrash.
  3. Menahelet, who handles all logistics, helping students to organize, plan and make sound decisions.  
  4. Shoelet u-Meishiva, who maintains a regular presence in the beit midrash and is there to address any religious, personal or existential issue that may arise.
  5. Student Life Coordinator, a woman in her late twenties who oversees the madrikhot and helps students navigate life in Israel and independent living.
  6. Madrikhot, college-age women who serve as mentors, friends and “Big Sisters” to the students. 

In addition, faculty keep in touch with each student’s growth and development through following formalized scheduled events, such as havrutot, vaadim, sihot and “schmoozes.”

Supervision

The shana ba-Aretz at Amudim is a fully immersive experience that includes not only shiurim but also dorm life. The Midrasha uses apartments as dormitories. Students must sleep in their apartment every night when the Midrasha is in session, with the allowance of no more than one night out per week, with the permission of the Student Life Coordinator.

Each apartment is inhabited and supervised by a madrikha/dorm counselor, who operates under the supervision of the Student Life Coordinator, who also lives on campus. Students are required to follow their madrikha's instructions at all times.

Curriculum

Makeup

From its inception, Amudim has been at the forefront of advanced Torah education for women in taking an Amudim’s innovative approach to Talmud Torah which is:

  1. Meta: As opposed to simply comprehending texts, the learning at Amudim aspires to read them in historical context, compare and contrast them to other texts, ascertain how the ideas in them unfolded over time, analyze authorial decisions and, in general, dialogue with them.
  2. Expansive: In addition to traditional sedarim and shiurim, Amudim offers out-of-the-box courses and activities led by world renowned scholars and artists, geared toward in-depth exploration of fundamental questions of religion and Torah.
  3. Evidence-Based: Learning at Amudim is based on the premise that the Jewish religious experience begins and ends with text, that all conclusions must be textually-justified.
  4. Student-Centered: Amudim promotes independent thought and decision-making, asking students to interact personally with texts and even on tiyulim—observing, summarizing, inferring, critiquing, questioning and challenging. Teachers are facilitators rather than knowledge-dispensers and, with an eye towards experiential learning, students are asked to engage in peer-review, intellectual exchange and team-teaching.
Courses Offered

Amudim aims to offer young women the most complete, rigorous and ultimately meaningful Talmud Torah experience by offering the following traditional and unconventional courses:

  • Epistemology of Religion: Theories of God
  • Problems and Methods in Judaic Studies
  • Jewish Review of Books
  • Jewish-Christian Polemics
  • Introduction to the Siddur
  • Talmud for Thinkers
  • Masterclass: Jewish Literacy
  • Practical Jewish Law
  • College Prep
  • Laws of Family Purity
  • Laws of Kashruth
  • Contemporary Jewish Law
  • Nahmanidean Exegesis
  • Body, Beauty, Gender, and Dress
  • The Book of Exodus
  • Writings of S.Y. Agnon
  • The Thought of R. J.B. Soloveitchik
  • Introduction to the Ba’al Shem Tov
  • The Teachings and Thought of R. Tzadok of Lublin
  • The History of Halakha
  • Advanced Talmud
  • Texts in Context: Biblical Studies at the Museum
  • Gender and Halakhah
  • Jewish-Christian Polemics
  • Talmud 101
  • Talmud 102
  • Israel and the Mid-East Conflict
  • Introduction to Maimonidean Thought
  • Physical Fitness
  • Contemporary Jewish Responsa Literature
  • Homiletics and Hermeneutics
  • Build-A-Shiur
  • Safrut Seminar: The Art of Jewish Calligraphy
Daily Schedule
  • 9:00-10:00 Morning shiur with the Rosh HaMidrasha
  • 10:00 – 1:00 Morning Sedarim in Gemara, Halakhah and Intellectual Jewish History
  • 1:00 – 3:00 Break
  • 3:00-4:15 Afternoon Seder Tanakh
  • 4:15 – 7:00 Specialized classes and haburot
  • 7:00-8:00 Dinner
  • 8:00-10:00 Night Seder/Amudim Seminar

Monday afternoon classes take place at the Bible Lands Museum and National Library of Israel in Jerusalem. Wednesday classes take place at the Midrasha at Bar-Ilan University.

Tuesday afternoons are dedicated to internships/hitnadvut in the fields of medicine, medical research, archaeology, the arts, animal care, writing, office management, nutrition, engineering, education, start-ups, curatorial/museum work, libraries and more.

Language of Instruction

Primarily English but also Hebrew.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

Hebrew immersion via classes taken at the Midrasha at Bar-Ilan and Amudim offers Ulpan on an as-needed basis.

Assessment and Grading

Amudim students receive grades for three components of the program: Coursework, oral presentation and written research. Amudim classes are predominantly structured as seminars, with a focus on discussion and cooperative learning, rather than as frontal lectures. As such, our classes are graded based upon mandatory attendance and participation, as reported by the instructor of each class. Each student is also required to develop and deliver an oral presentation [haburah] on a topic that she chooses and researches. The habura is graded based upon the extensiveness of its research, organization, clarity and the extent to which it demonstrates familiarity with major questions and approaches related to its subject matter. Similarly, the written paper is an independent research project, written on a topic of the students’ choosing, and meant to stimulate utilization of the vast resources of the National Library in Jerusalem. This too is graded upon research, organization, clarity and the familiarity that it demonstrates of its subject matter.

Shana Bet

Amudim aspires to basic, highly individualized Shana Bet program. The uniqueness of this program at Amudim can provide students who have already spent a year in Israel with the opportunity to build upon the foundation they have received, build skills for lifelong independent Torah study, and think higher and more deeply. Shana Bet students can interact closely with faculty, in special shiurim and private havrutot, as well as the illustrious scholars and artists who lead the weekly Amudim seminars. Shana Bet students can also serve as mentors to first-year students by delivering shiurim and helping them adjust to midrasha life. Throughout their Shana Bet, they can crystallize their own approaches to learning and Jewish life and inspire others with their ideas and passion.

Joint Program

Amudim is keenly attuned to the fact that Yeshiva University is the prime example of the fusion of tradition and modernity that Amudim strives to achieve. Amudim is proudly affiliated with the Joint Israel Program at Yeshiva University/Stern College.

Staff

  • Dr. Julie Goldstein, Rosh HaMidrasha/Director
  • R. Dr. Darrell Ginsberg, Director
  • R. Jonathan Duker, Mashgiah Ruhani
  • Ruth Hasin, Menahelet
  • Channah Lockshin Bob, Ram
  • Naomi Schrager, Ram
  • Leah Herzog, Shoelet u-Meishiva

Other faculty members include: R. Dr. Jeffrey Woolf, R. Jeffrey Saks, R. Yoni Rosensweig, R. Jonathan Ziring, Dr. Hannah Hashkes, R. Dr. Eliezer Shore, Shonny Solow, Aviva Sterman, Dr. Jennie Rosenfeld, R. Dr. Martin Lockshin, R. Joshua Yuter.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Amudim students spend one day a week at the Midrasha at Bar-Ilan University, where they attend classes conducted in Hebrew side by side with Israeli young women. I Modiin, each student is set up in the beginning of the year with an  “Adoptive Family” program, who host the students for meals (both weekday and shabbat) and carry out a number of informal programs with the students both inside the midrasha and within their own homes.  In addition, our internship/hitnadvut program entails either taking up a hesed-oriented position or a more formal internship, working as an unpaid employee in the Israeli sector, a facet of Amudim life which has been foundational to students’ understanding of self and the roles they can play in the broader Jewish and Israeli community. Our Madrikhot are all Israeli young women, acting as role models to our students, delivering haburot in Hebrew and English and teaching them about Israeli culture.

Special Informal Programs

At Amudim, we provide students with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interface and study with some of the most creative and dynamic thinkers in the incomparable world of Jewish intellectual life in Israel. In an effort to introduce our students to a realm of Jewish scholarship that exists only in Israel (Modern Orthodoxy at its best!), a central feature of our curriculum is The Amudim Seminar, a series of mini-courses in Tanakh, Talmud, Jewish history, Jewish thought and culture, Jewish philosophy, ethics and art, taught by leading scholars and artists. Some of the anticipated seminars for next year will allow students to explore Jewish food culture and the phenomenon of feasting and fasting in Judaism, plunge the depths of Jewish liturgical poetry (piyyut) and music (niggun) and give creative visual expression to the ideas and values acquired during their time in Israel. 

Amudim also holds weekly “week-in-review” sessions, a special hour geared toward reflection upon texts, concepts, arguments, and ideas that students have encountered over the course of their week. This time allows students to consider and articulate which ideas spoke to them, their personal positions on matters, and how the disparate aspects of their learning fit into the larger tapestry of their intellectual and spiritual Jewish identities.

Sports Facilities

Fostering healthy mind, body and spirit, weekly “Hilutz Atzamot” sessions take students out of the Beit Midrash and into the gym offering Boot camps and classes in Zumba, HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) and other combinations of exercise. In these classes, students are encouraged to actualize their potential in every aspect of the Amudim experience! 

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

At Amudim, many of the hagim— Yom Kippur, Hanukah, Purim, Yom Ha’atzmaut, Yom Yerushalayim, and Shavuot—are celebrated together, allowing students to experience beauty, flavor and intensity of hag in Israel while being joined by Rabbeim and teachers who deliver special shiurim, participate in panel discussions or lead student-centered activities and hagigot throughout the day. Yom Kippur, Purim, and Shavuot are all spent at the home of the Rosh HaMidrasha. Shavuot, specifically, serves as the culmination of months of hard work in our “Build-A-Shiur” workshop, as students themselves deliver shiurim all throughout the night.

Three different types of Shabbat schedules allow students to get the most out of Shabbat in Israel as well:

  1. In Shabbatot: Once every three weeks, the entire midrasha spends Shabbat together in Modi'in. Students are joined by faculty members and their families. This allows for more personal and unique discussions and for students to form close connections with their teachers.
  2. Out-Shabbatot:  Free Shabbatot where students are encouraged to visit friends and relatives or explore new places in Israel for Shabbat and to recharge their batteries. Of course, students always have the option to stay in their apartments. In this case, they are encouraged to join teachers and community members for Shabbat meals and are provided with assistance, if necessary, in making arrangements.
  3. Shabbatonim: A truly unforgettable experience in which the entire midrasha leaves Modi'in to experience Shabbat together in cities throughout Israel.
  4. Sharing Shabbat with communities around Israel inspires students to value the Land of Israel’s spiritual dimensions, the roles it plays in Jewish history and the shaping of Jewish identity, and to truly experience contemporary life in Israel.
Field Trips

Tiyulim at Amudim take students across the length and width of Israel and are well-orchestrated so that students get the most fun, excitement, exhilaration and meaning out of every step they take.

From the desert and beaches of Eilat to the lush mountains of the Golan to the subterranean archives at the Hebrew University, our Tiyulim are designed to provoke discussion of:

  • The religious significance of the land of Israel and the physical connection to our homeland.
  • The role of sacrifice in Jewish texts and within our contemporary experience.
  • Nature, beauty, science and religion.
  • How historical conditions impact jewish thought; past and present.
  • Jewish sects and denominations and living in a fractured world.
  • Ancient texts and their transmission through the ages.
  • Politics, military service, and Israel advocacy.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Intermediate and Advanced

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Intermediate

Religious Observance Required

Commitment to mitzvot.

Population

Type of American Student

Amudim attracts very bright, deep-thinking, highly motivated young women from mainstream Modern Orthodox high schools across the US, as well as from Canada and the UK. Students tend to be halakhically committed but critical thinkers looking to re-examine Torah concepts and texts in a sophisticated and intellectually-honest way. Amudim students have attended SAR, Frisch, Ma’ayanot, Midreshet Shalhevet, YUHSG, SKA, Kushner, Berman, AJA, Ida Crown, YULA, Shalhevet, Kohelet, Beren, Farber Akiba, Seattle, HHNE, CHAT, Hasmonean.

Overall Number of Students

24

Number of 1st Year American Students

24

Other Nationalities

Canada, England: 2.

Number of Students per Class

6-24

Accommodations

Living Quarters

The Midrasha uses apartments as dormitories. Each apartment has Wi-Fi, heat, A/C, laundry facilities and, of course, bedrooms with closet and storage space for each student. With staff on premises, students share a home and the experiences of daily living. At the end of a day, students can unwind with a ride on one of our bikes or on the couch with friends, playing games or sharing a cup of tea, or a laugh.

Students feel that they have a home during breaks, at night and on Shabbat. Having a home in Israel rather than a bunk in a dorm gives our students a sense of belonging and security.  

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Each apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, including full size refrigerator, oven (though students are not permitted to use gas stovetops), microwave, toaster oven and hot water urn.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

As the students’ home in Israel, apartments are accessible to them 24/7 throughout the year. Though we encourage students to spend their free time exploring the country and visiting their teachers for Shabbat, they are always welcome to sleep in their apartment on out-Shabbatot and vacations. Guests are welcome with certain restrictions.

Curfew

It is essential that each student get a healthy amount of sleep each day in order to have a successful year. Therefore, Amudim maintains a strict curfew, as follows:

  • Curfew on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and some Saturday nights is 12:30 AM.
  • Curfew on Thursday and on Saturday nights following an out-Shabbat is 1 AM.
Security Arrangements

With 24-hour city security, Modi'in is considered one of the safest cities in Israel. Students are furnished with either keys or codes in order to unlock apartment doors. They are forbidden from copying keys or distributing codes to non-Amudim students. When it comes to national security issues, Amudim strictly follows the guidelines of local police and homeland security. Tiyulim are coordinated with the moked ha-teva. Parents are urged to share personal guidelines with their daughters and students are required to request special permission from parents to travel to sensitive areas.

History

Amudim was founded in 2017 in response to the new expectations of the 21st century Jewish student and need for intellectual honesty, openness, and sophistication in the seminary world.

Initially housed in a small caravan, Amudim has currently established its beit midrash in Heikhal Nahum, a shul in the Giv’a C area of Modi’in.  

Accrediting Universities

Amudim is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2019-2020 academic year is $26,500 USD. Amudim offers merit and need-based financial assistance and has never turned a student way due to financial constraints.

Additional Information

In a world which allows for unprecedented encounters and exchange on a global scale and recognizing that students today enter a classroom with much broader exposure to information and appetite for knowledge than they did even a decade ago, the program at Amudim speaks to modern expectations and sensibilities and ultimately yields significant and sustainable growth in Torah by seamlessly harmonizing traditional Talmud Torah with academic scholarship. Taking into account the complex needs, desires and questions of a robust cadre of young, motivated, bright Jewish women seeking to look beyond the “what” to explore the “whys” and "hows" of Torah, Jewish thought and culture, Amudim stands at the forefront of post High School Torah education with an innovative curriculum and approach to learning that addresses meta and methodological issues, is expansive, evidence-based, and student centered. With a focus on creating independent Torah learners and future leaders who are contributors to the conversation on Jewish texts and ideas, Amudim facilitates close interaction with a groundbreaking panoply of leading scholars and educators, and empowers each student to bring her own voice to Torah learning, identify and hone a derekh ha-limmud, think critically and creatively about the texts she encounters, and share her ideas and interpretations through crafting shiurim and writing. With its breadth of classical and unconventional courses, innovative application of diverse methodologies to the study of Torah, and warm thoughtful environment that inspires steadfast Shmirat ha-Mitzvot and love of Torah and the Jewish people, Amudim provides a modern framework for understanding, appreciating and finding oneself in the world of Judaism today. 

Contact Information

Street Address:
German Colony, Jerusalem

Mailing Address in the US:
740 Crestwood Place
West Hempstead, NY 11552

Israel: +972.58.631.5217
U.S.: +1.201.218.6386

www.amudimisrael.org
info@amudimisrael.org

 

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Our educational philosophy is to provide you the opportunity to discover your heritage in a joyful student-centered atmosphere of open inquiry and mutual respect. As such, by spending a year engrossed in academic Torah study and values, as well as focusing on character enhancement and a love and respect for the Land of Israel, our students are able to realize and cultivate their true potential and live their life as a true Bnot Torah. 

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

 

The concept of Kedushat Eretz Yisrael is lived and taught throughout our classes, tiyulim, Shabbatonim and more. We have a special program for Yom Haatzmaut and encourage everyone to internalize what it means to live as a Jew in Eretz Yisrael. We offer you an unparalleled student-centered seminary experience. A predominant amount of our faculty lives right in your community. Enjoy an authentic Israel experience and become someone who forever evokes the inspiration of תורת ארץ ישראל. Feel the warmth! 

Attitude Towards University Studies

Bnot Torah/Sharfman’s has joint program status with SCW and Touro. Representatives regularly visit our campus in order to facilitate the application and registration process. Likewise, deans and faculty of these institutions visit and serve as guest lecturers to our students. Our students attend college after leaving seminary, many attending the above mentioned options as well as some of the most prestigious secular colleges and universities including, but not limited to: Harvard, Yale, USC, NYU, Penn, UCLA and many others. 

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

All of our students participate in a formal chesed program on a weekly basis. Placements include working with families, children with special needs, the elderly, Russian olim, and hospital visits. Additionally, our students partake in chesed-oriented clubs that allow them unique volunteer opportunities in Israel.  

 

Preparation for Post Israel

Various yemei iyun.

The "Successful" Student

 

For more than 40 years, Bnot Torah Institute—more popularly known as Sharfman’s—has educated and empowered smart, creative and confident young Orthodox Jewish women. We offer a nurturing community that encourages the development of the whole person: spiritually, academically and personally. Our students become driven by self-confidence, spiritual growth and a deep sense of commitment to making Judaism the center of their lives. Our 2,000+ alumni include: lawyers, authors, social workers, accountants, doctors, nurses, educators, kiruv professionals, Jewish leaders, speech, occupational and physical therapists, wives and mothers.

Dress

 

Dress in conformity with halacha.

Guidance Personnel

 

Students have access to their Mechanechet and Rakezet. Several staff members of a very high caliber have formal meeting hours with students on a regular basis. Sharfman’s is known for the exceptionally strong bond between faculty and students.

Supervision

 

We offer you an unparalleled student-centered seminary experience. A predominant amount of our faculty lives right in your community. Attendance is taken, curfew is enforced, and students are expected to maintain appropriate standards of behavior both in school and out.

Curriculum

Courses Offered and Daily Schedule. 

See here. 

Language of Instruction

Mixed Hebrew and English

Assessment and Grading

Grades based on tests, papers, and attendance. Attendance is taken in class.

Shana Bet

We have a full Shana Bet program.

Joint Program

SCW, Touro, TI

Staff

Meet the faculty here. 

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Students spend Shabbatot throughout the country.

Special Informal Programs

Special guest speakers, yemei iyun, chagigot, Rosh Chodesh activities.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

One required Shabbaton about once a month. A predominant amount of our faculty lives near the dorm apartments and are always available to host girls for Shabbos meals. Sharfman’s hosts a second seder on Pesach and a full learning and hospitality program on Shavuous.

Field Trips

Overnight tiyulim (North and South) scheduled about once a month.

Eligibility

Able to read Hebrew and translate. 

Religious Observance Required

Full Commitment to shmirat mitzvot

Population

Type of American Student

20% Tri-state area. 80% outside of the Tri-state. 

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

60

Foreign Student Percentage

No information provided

Number of 1st Year American Students

45

Number of 2nd Year American Students

15

Other Nationalities

Small percentage of overall student body

Number of Students per Class

Varies

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Average of 4 girls per room. Girls can choose their roommates if they wish to do so.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Private Kitchen facilities available. Full kitchen facilities in dorm apartments.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Dorm never closes on Shabbos or Yom Tov. 

Curfew

Curfew is strictly enforced. Sign out for Shabbos strictly enforced.

Security Arrangements

Dorms have fingerprint locks.

Security cameras monitor all entrances, and exits from buildings.

History

See here. 

Accrediting Universities

Darchei Binah is a recognized Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. There is also a joint program with Touro.

Tuition

$25,000.

For further information or to download an application go to:

https://bnottorah.com/join/application/

Contact Information for Darchei Binah

ISRAEL OFFICE

Bnot Torah Institute

27 Rechov Yam Suf Jerusalem, Israel

Tel: (972-2) 581-4382

Fax: (972-2) 582-2216

Email: info@bnottorah.com

 

NORTH AMERICAN OFFICE

American Friends of Bnot Torah Institute

P.O.B. 300596 Brooklyn, NY 11230-0596

Tel: 718 253-4579

Fax: 718 253-1423

Email: usa@bnottorah.com

 

 

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Darchei Binah was founded and is directed by noted educators Rabbi & Mrs. Shimon Kurland. Rabbi Nachman Bulman zt"l served as the inspiration behind the creation of the seminary based on his world outlook of the primacy of Torah in all aspects of life. Young Jewish women are encouraged to develop their intellectual and creative abilities to their fullest in the pursuit of this goal. We are located in Ramat Sharett, Jerusalem, adjacent to Bayit Vegan.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

The concept of Kedushat Eretz Yisrael is lived and taught in all its glory. Darchei Binah provides a Yediat Haaretz course, a full tiyul program, shabbatonim scheduled in the length and breadth of the country, and forums for the discussion of the political ramifications of the State of Israel. On Yom Haatzmaut Rav Zev Leff delivers a monumental shiur on inyana deyoma, and our students hear a first hand account from a soldier who fought in the Yom Kippur War. We visit Massada and Ein Gedi annually on Yom Hatzmaut.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Darchei Binah has joint program status with SCW, Touro, and TI in Chicago. Their representatives regularly visit our campus in order to facilitate the application and registration process. And, the deans from these institutions are invited to speak when they are visiting in Israel. All of our students attend college after leaving seminary, many attending the above mentioned options and others attending local secular universities.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

All of our students participate in a formal chesed program on a weekly basis. Placements include working with families, children with special needs, the elderly, Russian olim, and hospital visits. Additionally, our stdents have always chosen to exhibit their initiative and express their creativity through optional chesed projects in the course of the year.

Preparation for Post Israel

Various yemei iyun

The "Successful" Student

A "successful" Darchei Binah alumna in 5 or 10 years may be living in Eretz Yisrael or Chutz LeAretz. She may be a mother, a teacher, a physical therapist, a psychologist; but she will certainly be a Bat Yisrael in the fullest meaning of the words.

Dress

Dress in conformity with halacha

Guidance Personnel

Several staff members of a very high caliber have formal meeting hours with students on a regular basis. Additionally, our entire staff has always been available for counseling, discussion and advice on an informal basis. Students visit faculty regularly on Shabbatot, and each student has a mechanachet with whom she meets weekly on an individual basis. Darchei Binah is known for the exceptionally strong bond between faculty and students.

Supervision

The menahel and his family live on campus in addition to an Eym Bayit and madrichot. Attendance is taken, curfew is enforced, and students are expected to maintain appropriate standards of behavior both in school and out.

Curriculum

Makeup

Tanach, Halacha, Machshava, Oral Law, Pedagogy, History

Courses Offered

See our website: Darcheibinah.org

Daily Schedule

See our website: Darcheibinah.org

Language of Instruction

Mixed Hebrew and English

Assessment and Grading

Grades based on tests, papers, and attendance. Attendance is taken in class.

Shana Bet

We have a full shana bet program. Between 1/4 and 1/3 of student body stays.

Joint Program

SCW, Touro, TI

Staff

  • Rabbi and Mrs. Shimon Kurland
  • Rabbi Ephraim Oratz
  • Rabbi Zev Leff
  • Mrs. Shira Smiles
  • Rabbi M. Nissel
  • Mrs. Batya Gallant
  • Rabbi Reuvain Lauffer
  • Rabbi Bentzion Kermaier
  • Rabbi Jonathan Taub
  • Mrs. Chanie Shaw
  • Rabbi Hillel Horovitz
  • Rabbi Yosef Cohen
  • Rabbi Hadar Margolin
  • Mrs. Adela Buchsbaum
  • Mrs. Malki Fogel
  • Rabbi Yaakov Marcus
  • Mrs. Chana Rabinowitz
  • Rabbi Aharon Shadmi
  • Rabbi Feivel Shuster
  • Mrs. Chana Silver
  • Mrs. Daniella Teitz
  • Rabbi Hanoch Teller
  • Mrs. Karen Thaller
  • Rabbi Tzvi Weinsten
  • Rabbi and Mrs. Yehuda Werblowsky
  • Rabbi Shimon Heller
  • Ms. Sara Klotz
  • Mrs. Esther Leiberman

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Students spend Shabbatot throughout the country.

Special Informal Programs

Constant guest speakers, yemei iyun, chagigot, Rosh Chodesh activities.

Sports Facilities

Aerobics in seminary, full health club facilities on campus. new treadmills, eliptical trainers, free weights etc.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

One required Shabbaton a month scheduled throughout Israel - Kinar (on the Kinneret), Bnei Brak, Old City, Kibbutz Chofetz Chaim.

The Menahel lives near the dorms and is always available to host girls for Shabbos meals. Darchei Binah hosts a second seder on Pesach and full learning and hospitality program on Shavuous.

Field Trips

Overnight tiyulim (North and South) scheduled 4 times a year. Half and full day tiyulim scheduled monthly.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Advanced - able to independently learn Mefarshim on Chumash, Shulchan Arukh, etc.

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Intermediate- shiurim are in Hebrew and English Advanced- shiurim are mainly in Hebrew

Religious Observance Required

Full Commitment to shmirat mitzvot

Population

Type of American Student

40% New York. 60% outside of NY. Bruriah, Shevach, Prospect Park, Shulamis, Tag, SKA, Hanna Sachs, Hanc, Tiferes Beis Yaakov, BY Baltimore, BY Detroit, BY LA YULA, Yavneh, Haftr, Ida Crown, Temima

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

No information provided

Foreign Student Percentage

No information provided

Number of 1st Year American Students

100

Number of 2nd Year American Students

40

Other Nationalities

England, South Africa, Australia, Chile. small percentage of overall student body

Number of Students per Class

Varies

Accommodations

Living Quarters

2-3 girls per room. Girls can choose their roommates if they wish to do so. Girls have access to email from all dorm buildings, but no internet access. Frozen Yogurt is available in the lounge for purchase.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Private Kitchen facilities available. Full kitchen facilities in dorms.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Dorm never closes on Shabbos or Yom Tov. Kitchens koshered for Pesach.

Curfew

Curfew is strictly enforced. Sign out for Shabbos strictly enforced.

Security Arrangements

Dorms have automatic locks.
Security cameras monitor all entrances, and exits from buildings.
Families live in dorm facilities.
All students are contacted by cell phone in event of a terrorist attack R.L. (Rachmana Litzlan, G-d forbid)

History

See website: Darcheibinah.org

Accrediting Universities

Darchei Binah is a recognized Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. There is a joint program with Touro and TI Chicago.

Tuition

$23,000. A trip to Poland is included in the tuition.

Additional Information

Darchei Binah offers an unbeatable combination of warmth and intellectual opportunity for growth. We have high standards of our students in their Shemiras hamitzvos combined with an openness and acceptance of individuals coming from various backgrounds. All questions are encouraged when looking for honest answers. We have very high caliber staff.

For further information or to download an application go to:
http://www.darcheibinah.org

Contact Information for Darchei Binah

U.S. Office

Rabbi Gil Freiman
1049 E. 13th St.
Brooklyn, NY 11230

Phone: (718) 252-6017
Fax: (718) 758-0281
Email: sf@infodbi.com  

Israel Office

Rabbi Shimon Kurland / Lisa Kermaier
(mailing address) P.O. Box 16432
Jerusalem 96428
22 Rechov Nezer David
Jerusalem 91164

Phone: (02) 641-0266
Fax: (02) 641-0759
Email: info1@darcheibinah.co.il
www.darcheibinah.org

Emunah V'Omanut dedicates itself to integrating Torah and Art into a single religious pursuit.

Contact Information

United States

Laurie Szenicer
315 West 36th Street 2nd floor
New York New York 10018

T: 212 564 9045
f: 212 643 9731
lauries@emunah.org

Israel

Rabbi David Debow
53 Rechov HaRakevet
Baka 9350252, Israel

(p) 077 433 0860
(f) 077 470 2023

Website: http://www.emunahtorahart.org

E-mail: Office@emunahvomanut.org

We aim to prepare a vibrant group of young Jewish leaders committed to their Judaism, the Land of Israel, their Jewish community and the Jewish people.We are dedicated to providing our students with an enjoyable and meaningful year of Torah study and Jewish experience in a warm and open spiritual environment.We encourage the acquisition of skills that enable students to understand the principles and practice of Torah and Mitzvot and their application in society. We aspire to train young Jewish leaders who can enthusiastically lead programs in youth groups, community synagogues, and university campuses, among other community endeavors. Their focus will be to enrich and invigorate Jewish life in locales throughout North America.

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

The pulse of Israel beats like no other place. Archeological relics and remains from thousands of years of struggle and triumph are tangibly felt at every corner. Complex dynamics of modern Israel, at the center of the world, creates challenges in every sector of society today. Fascinating seminars, meaningful internships, engaging classes and exhilarating tiyulim will offer opportunities to make a personal connection to the land and to the people. Israel's magic will draw you in, making an impression on you, while encouraging you to create your own lasting imprint for the future.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

We celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim and they become highlights of the students’ connection to Mediant Yisrael and Am Yisrael

Attitude Towards University Studies

Students are encouraged to attend University and to take advantage of all of the Jewish opportunities available on their Jewish or secular college campus. Machon Maayan students typically become leaders in their Hillels or in other Jewish campus groups.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Extra-curricular activities are strongly encouraged. In addition to community internships twice per week, Machon Maayan offers students a full range of chugim each week including Salsa dancing, hip-hop, baking, swimming, body toning, improv and other fun and exciting opportunities.

Preparation for Post Israel

While nothing can fully prepare a student to transition from seminary to university, Machon Maayan staff does the utmost in both formal and informal ways to prepare students to return to their respective environments.

The "Successful" Student

Machon Maayan is an innovative one-year program in Israel offering young women from diverse backgrounds a unique post-high school opportunity.

Students at Machon Maayan participate in thought-provoking courses, interactive seminars, challenging internships, and meaningful experiences - in a comfortable Torah observant atmosphere.

The successful student is committed to personal and religious development, leadership, community involvement, and a positive relationship with the land and people of Israel.

Dress

We appreciate that tzniut/modesty is more than sleeve length and hemlines and we hope that over the course of the year you will gain a greater perspective on this important aspect of our lives. The following laws of tzniut should be used as guidelines for dress at all times:

  • Skirts must cover the knee when sitting.
  • Shirt/blouse should reach the elbows.
  • Necklines should reach the collar bone.
  • Shirts should be long enough to cover the midriff.
  • All wording and designs on clothes should be appropriate.
  • Slits in skirts should cover the knee when sitting.
  • Clothing should not be tight fitting.
  • No body piercing.

Please help us avoid uncomfortable situations and only wear clothing that meets these standards.

Guidance Personnel

Machon Maayan’s warm and caring staff is available 24/7 to help students with all issues, from mundane questions about daily life in Israel to deep philosophical questions about life’s larger struggles. Our trained staff members pride themselves on developing personal relationships with each student and a coordinated effort is made to pair students and faculty members to ensure that no student “falls through the cracks.”

Supervision

Your safety and well-being are our primary concerns at Machon Maayan. Therefore, each dormitory house is staffed by a dorm counselor and the dorm parents live in an apartment nearby. All students are required to participate in a school cell-phone plan and must carry their cell phones with them at all times.

Curriculum

Makeup

Machon Maayan offers a unique curriculum of formal Jewish studies classes integrated with twice weekly community internships (service learning), weekly tiyulim and frequent informal educational opportunities.

Courses Offered

A full range of Tanach, Jewish law, Jewish philosophy, Jewish history courses are offered. Please check our website for a more detailed description.

Daily Schedule

Please refer to the Machon Maayan website.

Language of Instruction

English, while those who want to improve their Hebrew can learn a selection of classes in Ivrit.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

Five levels of ulpan are offered. Although ulpan is not required, it is strongly encouraged.

Assessment and Grading

Part of the growth process is developing ideas that were learnt in classroom and applying them to different situations and scenerios. Methodologies and skills have been acquired and need to be strengthened. At the end of each semester each student has the opportunity to continue their personal growth through evaluations. Projects, presentations, and term papers are assigned at the end of each semester to allow for maximum growth.

Shana Bet

Half or full year program available. In addition to having the full range of shana aleph teachers and administrators available to them, Shana bet students enjoy specially tailored classes and activities and a designated shana bet coordinator.

Joint Program

Machon Maayan participates in both the Touro Israel Option and Yeshiva University’s Joint Israel Program. Students can obtain a full year of American academic college credits for their studies at Machon Maayan.

Staff

Rav Ira Kosowsky (Director) is a dynamic and inspirational educator who believes in personal growth through open discussions, in-depth Torah study, and community involvement. He established Student Leadership Programs in many countries – including England, South Africa and the United States – that are characterized by practical leadership training, which has empowered the graduates to get involved in many meaningful challenges in the Jewish world. He has rabbinical ordination from Yeshiva University, and a Master's degree in Bible from Bernard Revel Graduate School.

Rav Ben Tzion Goldfischer (Mashgiach Ruchani) is a talented and popular educator both in the formal and non-formal realms. He has inspired and affected countless students at Midreshet Moriah, Birthright, Aish Hatorah, NCSY, Reishit Yerushalayim and Torat Shraga, among others. Rav Goldfischer founded and directs NCSY’s Jerusalem Journey and Ambassadors Programs (TJJ/TJJA), a month-long touring and learning program in Israel for public school students. He received his Rabbinical Ordination from Yeshiva University and holds a BA in Biology and History. He is also a licensed tour guide through the Ministry of Tourism of Israel. Rav Goldfischer grew up in West Orange, NJ. He made Aliya in 1999 and lives in Modiin with his wife and five children.

Mrs. Meryl-Lee Avraham (Assistant Director) has an ability to impart her passion for Torah and mitzvot in a manner that is truly unique. She is able to synthesize classroom curriculum into the terms of daily living, while building confidence and self-esteem in her students. Meryl-Lee was the director for many years of a vast network of outreach programs throughout New Jersey known as L.A.V.E. (Life And Values Education). She founded the Ari Kraut Friendship Circle, which provides community assistance to families with special needs children, by pairing the children with trained and eager teen volunteers.

Mrs. Dina Blank (Director of Finances) has been part of the Machon Maayan family since its inception. As a faculty member, Dina’s sense of humor and down-to-earth mannerisms have filled her classrooms and challenged our students. Over the years, Dina has also run Machon Maayan’s successful shana bet program and maintained close relationships with Machon Maayan alumni for years. In September 2012, Dina joined the Machon Maayan administration as Director of Finance, drawing on her vast experience managing educational institutions in Israel. Dina lives in Beit Shemesh with her husband and four children.

Mrs. Shulamith Baruch is originally from Lawrence, NY. She is a talented fine artist, graphic designer and illustrator. She has been involved in outreach with Partners in Torah. She is one of the founders of Kulanu, an organization that was conceived around her kitchen table along with a small group of mothers of children with special needs. She is dedicated to developing relationships with her students, while inspiring and encouraging them to recognize their own unique talents and creative styles.

Rav Michael Bramson is a warm and engaging teacher, who caters to the needs of each individual student. The influence of his talents have been felt during the summers by the Ethiopian community of Natzrat Elit in Israel, during Shavuot & Simchat Torah in the city of Newport News, Virginia, on Shabbatonim throughout New Jersey, and as one of the most successful teachers at the Berman Hebrew Academy of Greater Washington. Rav Bramson has Rabbinical Ordination from Yeshiva University and a BA in Psychology. His summer daily halacha is subscribed to by almost 60 of our alumni.

Mrs. Dina Etigson's students thrive on her rare combination of intellect and spirituality. After receiving her BA from State University of New York at Albany and working at Morgan Stanley, Mrs. Etigson moved to Israel and joined the Matmidot Program at Matan. In addition, Mrs. Etigson participated in the Machon Gevoha Program at Nishmat. 

Rav Uri Etigson received semicha from Yeshiva University and holds a Masters degree in Jewish Philosophy. He has guided students from various yeshivot and midrashot into the depths of Jewish thought and mystical teachings. Rav Etigson has also served in Tzahal as a hospital Chaplain. His warm smile, patience and understanding are only part of the reason that many students feel connected to him. 

Mrs. Pesha Fischer has worked as the Campus Torah Educator at the University of Maryland. Previously she was the Judaic Studies Coordinator at Yavneh Academy in Dallas. Mrs. Fischer has studied in the Bruriah Scholars program at Midreshet Lindenbaum and Matan. She holds a Master's Degree in Jewish Education from Yeshiva University. She has taught at MMY and Michlelet Neve Daniel and is also currently teaching at Tiferet.

Mrs. Esther Grossman originally from Elizabeth, New Jersey, received her Teacher's Certificate from Michlalah Jerusalem College for Women. She graduated with a BA in Judaic Studies from Stern College for Women, and received her Masters in Secondary Jewish Education from the Azrieli Graduate School. She has taught and/or lectured in numerous seminaries including Midreshet Moriah, B'not Chayil, Nishmat, & Shalavim for Women. Additionally, back in the United States, she was a full-time teacher of Judaic Studies at the Weinbaum Yeshiva High School in Boca Raton for nine years.

Rav Simcha Hochbaum is a resident of Chevron's Avraham Avinu neighborhood. His song-filled and soul-stirring shiurim in Chassidut, Tefila, and other various topics have inspired thousands of students. A long time student and musmach of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt"l,  Rav Simcha graduated Yeshiva University with a B.S. in accounting and studied at the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education. He was the Rabbi of The Eldridge Street Synagogue in New York City, a Judaic studies instructor at Bi-Cultural Day School in Stamford CT, and has taught at a number of Israeli yeshivot and midrashot. In addition, Rav Simcha has founded a number of "Carlebach Minyanim" throughout Israel. He is the Director of Tourism in the Holy City of Chevron and delivers tours of Chevron, The Old City of Jerusalem, Kotel Tunnels as well as neighborhoods throughout Yehuda and Shomron.

Dr. Dodi Tobin is a graduate of the Matan Advanced Tanach program, and is completing an M.A. in Tanach at Bar Ilan University. Dr. Tobin holds a B.A. in Psychology from Barnard College and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. In addition to teaching at Machon Ma’ayan, she is the Director of Matan Bet Shemesh, and lectures at Matan branches throughout Israel. Dr. Tobin's inspirational lectures combine literary analysis, classical commentary, modern scholarship and psychological expertise to facilitate a rich understanding of biblical texts while underscoring their message for contemporary society. Dr. Tobin has worked as a psychologist and researcher, and has published studies on the post-high school Israel experience and aliya absorption issues. She is the former Director of Social Services for Nefesh B'Nefesh and has served on the administrations of Nishmat and Pardes. Dr. Tobin made aliya in 1998, and resides in Beit Shemesh with her husband Marc and four children.

Rav Aharon Wexler made aliya after high school and studied in Yeshivat HaKotel. After Yeshiva, he studied for his BA in Archeology and then went back to Yeshivat HaKotel for his Rabbinic Ordination. Rav Wexler went on to earn an MA in Jewish History and is now a Doctoral Candidate. Rav Wexler teaches in many post-high school Yeshiva programs and during the summers leads Birthright-Israel tours, and other educational touring programs.

Mrs. Rachel Moore (Director of Communications) moved back to Israel after a 12-year hiatus in the United States in July 2012. While there, she worked as Machon Maayan's US Representative three years. Rachel has been working in the Jewish non-profit world in Israel and the US in public relations, communications and management for fifteen years, including Jerusalem City Hall, Milah, Ramah Programs in Israel, Lamdeni, and the Shalom Heritage Center. Rachel blogs regularly about living in Neve Daniel, Gush Etzion, and her seven children.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Living in Israel and interacting with Israelis is a cornerstone of the Machon Maayan experience.We have moved to a beautiful campus in Givat Washington which hosts several women's study programs for Israelis. The Beit Midrash is a meeting place for young women form around Israel - and the world - for Torah study.

Special Informal Programs

As part of our commitment to experiential learning Machon Maayan offers monthly shabbatonim around Israel, weekly seminars and tiyulim, twice-weekly community internships, weekly chugim (extra-curricular activities) and Wednesday night “out of the box” programs such as inspiring speakers and fun leisure activities.

Our New Campus

The beautiful Givat Washington campus includes state-of-the-art sports facilities including a fitness center indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, dance classes (in a gorgeous dance studio), track and field. There are also computer rooms, a performing arts studio, and several music rooms.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

Machon Maayan sponsors one mandatory off-campus shabbaton per month, giving students the opportunity to visit a variety of different communities across the country and enjoy some of Israel’s most beautiful vacation destinations. Additionally, Machon Maayan sponsors one optional on-campus shabbaton per month. Students who choose to stay in for Shabbat work together to create a personally meaningful and spiritually uplifting Shabbat experience.

Although the dormitories are open and students are permitted to stay in the dormitories whenever they choose, an important element of the Israel experience includes spending Shabbat with families and friends in various communities throughout Israel. We encourage you to make the most of your Free Shabbatot. The Eim bayit (dorm mother) and madrichot (dorm counselors) will set you up with families for Shabbat hospitality.

Field Trips

The Golan, the Galil, the Negev, Eilat, the Dead Sea, and the Judean Mountains are just some of the major regions in Israel that Machon Maayan experiences on several four-day long Tiyulim adventures. Additionally, as part of our commitment to using Israel as our classroom, students enjoy one-day tiyulim and field trips every Thursday.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

From beginner -- advanced

Hebrew Knowledge Required

None

Religious Observance Required

Machon Maayan offers a unique opportunity - regardless of one's background - to participate in the process that has engaged and sustained our people for thousands of years: the study of our living Torah. In Machon Maayan, the Torah comes to life through fascinating presentations and interactive discussions. Stimulating classes encourage students to contribute to the classroom setting by questioning, challenging, and sharing ideas in the pursuit of acquiring a much deeper understanding of Torah.

At Machon Maayan, we believe that Torah Judaism must be lived in order for it to be truly appreciated. Much of the classroom learning is reinforced by experiences that are shared by the group as a whole and internalized on the individual level. Throughout the year in Israel, Machon Maayan's experiential methodology will guide the students through the relevant texts as they discover the beauty of life as a Jew.

Population

Type of American Student

Machon Maayan is an innovative one-year program in Israel offering young women from diverse backgrounds a unique post-high school opportunity.

Our students come from a wide variety of types of high schools, and from across the United States.

Machon Maayan provides a nurturing environment for students committed to personal and religious development, leadership, community involvement, and a positive relationship with the land and people of Israel.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

55-60

Foreign Student Percentage

No information provided

Number of 1st Year American Students

55-60

Number of 2nd Year American Students

3

Other Nationalities

1 -Germany, 1/2 - Colombia 

Number of Students per Class

4-40

Accommodations

Living Quarters

The dorms in our beautiful new campus are newly renovated. There are 3 students in a room, with an en suite bathroom, air conditioning in each room, and 3 lounge areas in the dorm building.

The Machon Maayan educational facility includes a comprehensive Jewish library that the students and staff utilize to prepare for classes, internships, special programs, and Shabbatonim.

The Eim Bayit and Madrichot are talented, spirited young women who are always available to assist in program planning, aid in community internships, help prepare for classes, or just to have fun with. The Madrichot live with the students in the dormitories and the Eim Bayit, who is accessible to the students at all times, lives nearby. This informal team is committed to helping the student create and enjoy a wonderful and unforgettable year in Israel.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

A delicious lunch and dinner are provided each day by a local caterer and special care is taken to meet particular dietary needs. Should students wish to self-cater, the dormitories are equipped with modern, dairy kitchens. The kitchen in each house includes a refrigerator, toaster oven, microwave, sandwich maker, kettle, toaster, pots, pans and cutlery.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Machon Maayan wants your dorm to become your home. We do our best to provide comfortable, home-like accommodations and we keep the dorms open during vacation periods and every Shabbat. One Shabbat per month is a "Shabbaton” on which we provide all Shabbat meals. (On other Shabbatot, you are welcome to stay home, and you can wither eat in the dining room or cook and eat in the dorms. When the Eim and Av Bayit are in for Shabbat, you are welcome to eat with them.

The dorm is closed for the Yom Tov of Sukkot and Pesach. Machon Maayan’s staff will be available to help arrange home hospitality for students during these holidays. The dorms re-open during chol hamo’ed Sukkot and Pesach. There is always a staff member available, on a rotating basis, during the vacation time.

Curfew

Curfew is at 11:30p.m. on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. On Monday, Thursday and Saturday night, curfew is at 12:45a.m. Everyone must check into their dorm by this time. Madrichot check to ensure that everyone is in their respective dorm.

Security Arrangements

In addition to a code lock on every house, each dormitory house is alarmed and has 24-hour video surveillance. Periodically, during vacation periods, guards patrol as deemed necessary. Machon Maayan is in constant contact with the Sochnut and follows Israeli government and army security precautions on tiyulim.

History

Begun four years ago under the auspices of the Orthodox Union, Machon Maayan is now a fully independent institution that enjoys partnerships with YU, Touro College, the OU, MASA, the Jewish Agency and other Jewish community initiatives.

Accrediting Universities

Yeshiva University, Touro College, TI - Theological Institute in Chicago

Tuition

Tuition is $26,000.

Additional Information

Contact Information for Machon Maayan

United States

Meryl-Lee Avraham
PO BOX 15
Hightstown, NJ 08520

Phone: (908) 344-5860 
Fax: 224-441-9266 
Email: rachel@machonmaayan.org

Israel

Rabbi Ira Kosowsky
Machon Maayan
Givat Washington Educational Institutions
DN Evtah 79239

Phone: (052) 456-4744
Email: office@machonmaayan.org

www.machonmaayan.org

Michlalah in the Corona Era

The 5781 academic year is marked by Michlalah’s careful and precise adherence to the directives and guidelines of Israel’s Ministry of Health.  The campus has been divided into subgroups, ‘capsules’ and the emotional and physical health of our students is of paramount concern.  Never more lenient than the rules and sometimes stricter, Michlalah has initiated and introduced new social programming to reduce the challenges that mandated physical distancing present.  

At the cutting age of educational and extracurricular progress, Michlalah’s exceptional leadership provides for the need of each individual student together with the entire Machal student body.

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Michlalah provides a high-level, text-based, Torah educational program that provides the knowledge basis for a commitment to a Torah life based on full acceptance of Torah min Hashamayim and Dikduk B’mitzvos.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Michlalah is proud of its students who make Aliya. It is estimated that between 25-30% make Aliya within 10 years of completing their Seminary year in Israel. The centrality of Eretz |Yisroel is an important message that is given throughout the year. The importance of Medinat Yisrael is an ongoing theme. Specifically, Yom HaAtzmaut is celebrated with a Seudat Hodaya, a tiyul and discussions that focus on its meaning.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Almost all of our students attend university. Students are not encouraged to be in a dormitory in a non-Jewish university. Many students go to commuter universities in their home area. About one-third of the Machal students continue at Stern College for Women.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

One afternoon a week is set aside for voluntary Chessed activities. Students are presented with many options from which to choose as well as guided towards their responsibility towards their “clients”, be it organizations or individuals.

Preparation for Post Israel

A number of sichot and discussion towards the year’s end focus on helping students make the transition from seminary to the rest of the world. Dealing with family and friends is certainly an important part of such a transition together with guidance on maintaining personal religious achievement and growth in different environment.

The "Successful" Student

The “successful” student will have a family and professional life, if she so chooses, that will bring her and hers happiness, within a framework of a Torah family in which Torah values and learning are part and parcel of the fabric of their life.

Dress

Student dress is expected to conform with the Halachos of Tzniyus and be tasteful and respectful.

Guidance Personnel

Every student has a Rav Mechanech, a Rakezet and a madricha assigned to her. In addition, the Rosh Machal, the Director of Academics and the Director of Student Affairs are available for her at all times. Machal has a Guidance Center with professional psychologists and social workers to provide counseling.

Supervision

The eim bayis, madrichot, Director and Rosh Machal are responsible for overall supervision. There is an on-campus curfew every night of the week. In keeping with the school’s philosophy, students are allowed to leave campus without checking-out.

Michlalah has a no-tolerance policy.

Curriculum

Makeup

A major segment of the program is the Tanach Core Program as well as a significant emphasis on guided independent study Bekius. A full gamut of Judaic Studies including Tanach, Halacha, Jewish Philosophy, Jewish History, Midrash, Jewish Education, Mishna, and Ivrit are part of the curriculum.

Courses Offered

Michlalah offers over 40 courses, most of which are electives and not necessarily offered annually. Included are a number of books in Torah, Neviim, Ktuvim, as well as Halacha, and Machshevet Yisroel. Contemporary Jewish thinkers studied include Rav Dessler, Rav Hutner, Slonimer Rebbe, Rav Kook, Rav Soloveitchik, and the last Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Students may opt for advanced classes as well as choosing studies which have additional guided-preparation / chavruta components.

Machal Deromi-Michlalah offers Southern Hemisphere students the opportunity to join its program in December and continue their studies with Machal Bet in the Fall.

Daily Schedule

Students are responsible for their own davening. The school days begins at 8:30 AM and continues to 9:30PM or later on some nights. The typical student has a full morning of studies and chooses electives throughout the week.

Language of Instruction

About two-thirds of the classes are in English. Qualified students are eligible to participate in the shiurim in the Israeli Department which are conducted in Ivrit.

Assessment and Grading

Attendance is taken in all classes. Grades are issued as part of an evaluation that includes tests and papers.

Shana Bet

There is an independent Machal Bet program. About 30 students participate.

Joint Program

Joint programs are with Stern College, Touro College and Hebrew Theological College.

Staff

Michlalah is led by Dr. Devorah Rosenwasser, Rosh Machal. The faculty consists of 40 staff members, many of whom being acknowledged scholars and authors in addition to being outstanding lecturers and instructors.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Michlalah is primarily an Israeli College. Everday students are in contact with the Israeli students who comprise the overall Michlalah student body. Students who are capable participate in the Limudei Kodesh courses of the Israeli program. Students visit various religious communities in Israel as part of their Shabbos programs, and in Shabbatot with staff members. Students are apprised of major aspects of Israeli political events.

Special Informal Programs

Guest speakers, almost always on Torah subjects, speak in Michlalah throughout the year. There are Melave Malkas, Yom Tov celebration and “fun-activities” scheduled, and improvised, throughout the year. Students have special events in the homes of staff members, particularly their Mechanchim and Rakazot.

Sports Facilities

Michlalah’s campus has a swimming pool, basketball court and an exercise room.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students are required to participate in the 8-10 scheduled Shabbatonim that are held on campus and throughout Israel. During Chol Hamoed and prior to Yom Tov, special classes and excursions are held. A staff member is in charge of placement for Shabbos and Yom Tov.

Field Trips

About 14 days a year are field trips throughout Israel that allow visiting the country from North to South, learning about Israel, its history, its Biblical and historical significance, present communities as well providing a pleasant opportunity for camaraderie and change of pace.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

The foundational level of learning is advanced. Students are expected to be on a high level in consonance with a superior Yeshiva High School education and be capable of reading Rashi well and be able to read Ramban on a level that identifies questions, answers and introduction of new ideas.

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Intermediate - shiurim are in Hebrew and English.  Texts are in the original, not English translations.

Religious Observance Required

Students who attend Michlalah have a full commitment to shmirat Torah U’mitzvot with a desire for increased observance which will be concomitant with increased knowledge.

Population

Michlalah students are graduates of the finest girls' Yeshiva High Schools throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. A number of students come from Brazil, South Africa, and Australia. 

Overall Number of Students (Israeli, Foreign)

2400. 100 Students on the first year program, 30 on "Machal Bet". The Israel College has about 900 students in its undergraduate program and over 1000 students in advanced certificate studies and graduate programs. Its Tochnit Ramim numbers about 400; there is a one-year Machal Tzorfati for students from France.

Foreign Student Percentage

225/14%

Number of 1st Year Machal Students

100

Number of 2nd Year Machal Students

30

Other Nationalities

England, Canada, France, Brazil, Mexico, Switzerland, Austria Belgium, Russia, Australia, South Africa

Number of Students per Class

The average number of students per class is about 30-35. There are some classes given to the entire student body. Many elective classes have 10 or 15 students.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Students live in cottages of various sizes that house between 8-12 women. They can request their own roommates in rooms of 2-3. Israeli students live in cottages in the same area.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Each cottage has a kitchenette with its own stove top and refrigerator. Students are provided with dairy pots, pans and dishes.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Michlalah is open from when the students arrive in Elul until they depart in June, without exception. Meals are provided whenever school is in session. Students can receive Shabbos meals when school is in session.

Curfew

There is a nightly curfew for which students sign in. Students must sign out for Shabbos, with family name, address and land-line telephone number of their hosts.

Security Arrangements

Michlalah’s campus is walled and fenced with around-the-clock security guards. Students are given appropriate direction regarding travel and off-limit areas according to the situation. Text messaging keeps them informed of any emergencies. Parents are e-mailed according to need.

History

Michlalah was founded 56 years ago by Rav Dr. Yehudah Copperman zT”L, a pioneer in women’s Torah education and a noted Biblical scholar. Its campus is located in the Bayit Vagan neighborhood of Jerusalem. The College has over 2400 students, mainly Israeli, studying in its accredited degree-granting programs.

Accrediting Universities

Michlalah is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. Michlalah is accredited by the Council of Higher Education of the State of Israel. It also participates in joint programs with Touro College and the Hebrew Theological College, among others.

Additional Information

Candidates for Michlalah should be interested in a Torah environment that emphasizes Emunas Chachamim and Dikduk B’mitzvos in a warm and open atmosphere that welcomes questioning, discussion and searching for one’s particular derech in Torah through the mentoring that its faculty provides. The candidate will be a woman who feels that an intensive program of Torah study will facilitate her growth as above.

Contact Information for Michlalah

United States

Friends of Michlalah Yerushalayim

Mrs. Judy Steinberger
9 Sutton Rd.
Monsey, NY 10952 USA

Phone: (845)356-0664
Fax: (845) 356-0787
Email: michlalahusa@aol.com 

Israel

Dr. Devorah Rosenwasser
6 Rechov Duvdevani
(mailing address) P.O. Box 16078
Jerusalem 9116002 ISRAEL

Phone: (02) 675-0907
Fax: (02) 675-0917
Email: machal@michlalah.edu

www.machal.michlalah.edu

https://gomeorot.com/

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

At MMY, it is our conviction that Torah study, for women as for men, must be conducted seriously, intellectually and analytically. This is accomplished through intensive textual study; each major shiur in Tanach and Halacha/Torah Sheb'al Peh is preceded by approximately an hour of bet midrash preparation. It is also our firm conviction that the purpose of all learning must be to inspire and develop genuine religious growth within our students.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

We are a Religious Zionist school in every sense of the term, emphasizing the absolute centrality of both Eretz Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael. We stress Aliya as well as involvement in the many needs of Am Yisrael as essential components of Avodat Hashem. We celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut with a Seudat Hodaah and Chagiga.

Attitude Towards University Studies

MMY values secular education as an important complement to Torah study, and as essential preparation for life in today's society. Virtually all of our students go on to university studies after their time in Israel. We believe that the choice of a university must be an individual one, taking into account a student's particular goals and aspirations, spiritual and educational needs, and numerous other factors. Therefore, the 'correct' choice of university must of necessity vary from student to student. Nevertheless, there are major advantages to conducting university studies in a Torah environment. A large number of our students continue in Stern College. We also have students in many other colleges and universities.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

At least one hour of Chessed is built into the weekly schedule. Students volunteer in a variety of frameworks, including working with handicapped children, elderly people, disadvantaged families and new immigrants.

Preparation for Post Israel

These topics are dealt with in a variety of shiurim and sichot, some in the context of regular classes and some as specific preparation for 'life outside of yeshiva'.

The "Successful" Student

A 'successful' student will continue to study Torah as circumstances allow throughout her life, and will be living her life in dedication to Torah and Am Yisrael. This will be reflected in her devotion to her family, in her professional life and in her involvement in community. In a word, she will constantly attempt to fulfill the command to love Hashem b'chol levavcha, uv'chol nafshecha, uv'chol meodecha.

Dress

There is a formal dress code.

Guidance Personnel

Developing relationships and having conversations with students is of paramount significance to us. All staff members, including madrichot, teachers, and directors make this a major priority.

Supervision

We take issues of supervision, safety and security very seriously. There is a curfew which is strictly monitored every night. We also take attendance at each class; students are allowed a certain number of absences in accordance with our academic policies. Students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a matter befitting yeshiva students. We have a 'zero tolerance' policy regarding entering bars or pubs and drinking alcohol.

Curriculum

Makeup

The primary areas of focus are Tanach, Halacha and Torah She'B'al Peh. We also have many classes devoted to Machshava. Gemara is an option several days a week in the afternoons, and we offer two different classes on two different levels.

Courses Offered

A fuller sample weekly schedule is available on our website: http://www.mevaseret.org/mmy

Daily Schedule

A fuller sample weekly schedule is available on our website: http://www.mevaseret.org/mmy

Language of Instruction

We offer some classes in Hebrew but most of our classes are in English.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

If there is interest, we attempt to arrange a special classroom opportunity to learn Hebrew. Also, many of the Chesed opportunities are in Hebrew. With the proper motivation, a student can learn to speak Hebrew during her year in MMY.

Assessment and Grading

Each course has either a final exam or a project at the end of each semester. Students receive transcripts at the end of the semester.

Shana Bet

We have a Shana Bet program, which typically numbers approximately 10-15 students per year. Some stay for one semester, some for the full year.

Joint Program

We have joint programs with Yeshiva University, Touro College and the Hebrew Theological College of Skokie, IL.

Staff

Full faculty list is available on our website: http://www.mevaseret.org/mmy
Our Em Bayit lives in the neighborhhood. She visits the dormitory on a daily basis, and her home is always open to MMY students.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

We encourage our students to visit different communities, and take them to as many different communities (and different types of communities) as possible during the year. We strongly emphasize the importance of remaining informed of current events and the latest political/diplomatic developments; these affect the future of Am Yisrael!

Special Informal Programs

We have guest speakers periodically, and various special events to mark special occasions.

Sports Facilities

We have an exercise room on campus as well as bicycles that can be borrowed. There are basketball courts in the neighborhood as well as a jogging path.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

We have 'in' shabbatot or shabbatonim approximately once every three weeks. Optional programming is available during Sukkot and Pesach vacations, according to interest. On Rosh Hashana, the entire Seminary is together in MMY and for Yom Kippur we offer those that want to go to Shaarei Mevaseret. We make sure that students have suitable places for all shabbatot and chagim. In addition, our dormitory does not close at all during the school year.

Field Trips

We have three major multi-day tiyulim throughout the school year, and half- or full-day tiyulim every few weeks. We view these as integral parts of our educational program.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Advanced - able to independently learn Mefarshim on Chumash, Shulchan Arukh, etc.

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Advanced - as we study primary texts in their original.

Religious Observance Required

A full commitment to shmirat Torah U'mitzvot is a prerequisite.

Population

Type of Student

Our students come from over twenty communities across the United States and Canada, England, Europe, Australia and South Africa.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

90-100

Foreign Student Percentage

100% (we do not have an Israeli program)

Number of 1st Year American Students

80

Number of 2nd Year American Students

Generally 10-20

Other Nationalities

Yes

Number of Students per Class

Average class size is 15 students, but it varies widely as students are allowed to choose their own classes.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

The dormitories for Shana Aleph students are in the same building as the bet midrash and the classrooms. They are set up as apartments housing 8-15 students each (3-4 in each room). Each room has its own full bathroom(most are en suite) and each apartment has a full (dairy) kitchen. A meat kitchen is available downstairs in our dining room.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Each apartment has a full (dairy) kitchen. A meat kitchen is available in the main Chadar Ochel which is also in the building.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

The dormitory never closes. We are all together for Rosh Hashana and Shavout.

Curfew

We have a curfew which is strictly monitored. Students must provide us with the name and phone numbers of the family they are with when they leave for a free Shabbat, or at any other time.

Security Arrangements

Our dormitory is always kept locked, and has a security guard at night. All school trips follow standard security procedures as we are part of MASA and adhere to the guidelines of Moked Teva. All trips are approved by them in advance and staffed with security and medical teams as per their requirements. We constantly monitor changing developments in the country and provide detailed guidance to both students and parents in real-time. We are in close email contact with parents and WhatsApp communication with students.

History

Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim (MMY) is an institution of advanced women's Torah education with a unique approach that has made it one of the foremost options for English-speaking post-high school students in Israel. MMY students are a small, select and diverse group of Bnot Torah from across the United States, Canada, England and other countries. They come to MMY to study Torah on the highest academic level in an environment uniquely suited to growth in Yirat Shamayim, intellectual stimulation and an intense Eretz Yisrael experience. MMY is a branch of Mevaseret Institutions, and is located in the Jerusalem neighborhood of Baka.

Accrediting Universities

Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. There is a joint program with Touro College and the Hebrew Theological College of Skokie, IL.

Tuition

Our tuition is 102,500 shekels.

Contact Information for Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim

United States

500 West Burr Blvd.
Suite #47
Teaneck, NJ 07666

To call US direct:
Phone: (212) 372-7226
Fax: (917) 793-1047

Israel

Rabbi David Katz
Derech Chevron 60
Baka, Jerusalem 9351308

Phone: (02) 652-7257
Fax: (02) 652-7162
Email: office@mmy.org.il

www.mevaseret.org/mmy

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Midreshet AMIT seeks to imbue its participants with challenging Torah learning and a commitment to Am Yisrael and to Eretz Yisrael. With a great variety of courses and daily volunteering at Beit Hayeled, our students' days are packed with a combination of exciting learning and intense chesed. It is through these experiences that our students can achieve great heights and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Midreshet AMIT is part of the network of AMIT schools and is founded upon the ideals of Tzionut. In the classroom, we offer courses on Zionism, Issues in Modern Israel and a workshop in Israel Advocacy. Out of the classroom, we take trips across the country to expose the students to the variety of communities in Israel. Some of the highlights of the year include the celebration and commemoration of Yom Hashoa, Yom Hazikaron, Yom Haatzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Our students will be encouraged to broaden their horizons by pursuing a university education. We will encourage our students to be “Kovea Itim l'Torah" and as such find a campus where opportunities for learning can coexist with opportunities for higher education. In the New York area, our alumni attend Stern College for Women, Barnard College, Columbia University, Rutgers University, Queens College, Binghamton University, Touro College, NYU, Hunter and FIT. Out of New York, our alumni attend schools across the country such as University of Maryland, University of Pennsylvania, Emory University, Cornell University, University of Michigan, Brandeis University, Boston University, UCLA and more.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

An integral part of the program at Midreshet AMIT is serving as a mentor to children at Beit Hayeled. There are one to two hours of required daily volunteering with the foster children in the building. Additional opportunities are available to the students as they live on campus at Beit Hayeled and as such can elect to spend their free time with their foster families. Each student is also required to choose an "out of the building" chesed opportunity. There is a wide variety of options to choose from and students are placed according to their interests.

Preparation for Post Israel

At Midreshet AMIT, the students will participate in seminars dealing with religious issues confronted on the college campus. The goal of these programs is to fortify the student with a strong Torah background that also encompasses a respect for the secular world. Additionally, in conjunction with the "Jerusalem U" Israel Advocacy course, the students will learn how to respond to Anti Israel and Anti Semitic challenges that they may encounter on the campus.

The "Successful" Student

A successful alumna will take her place in the world committed to Torah learning and active participation in the Jewish community. Through the AMIT experience, our alumni develop a lifelong connection to the Land of Israel.

Dress

The students are expected to conform to the school dress code. For details, please consult our website – www.midreshetamit.org.

Guidance Personnel

Students and faculty have a warm and close relationship. Our Coordinator of Student Activities is available around the clock to assist the students in any way. Our caring Mechanchot meet each student weekly to talk or learn b'chavruta. Our staff opens their homes to the students regularly for Shabbatot and Chagim.

Supervision

As the home of over a hundred children under the care of the Israeli government, Beit Hayeled is in close and direct contact with the proper security apparatus at all times. Our building is monitored 24 hours a day by closed circuit cameras with an armed guard present. The building has a "safe area" on the lower level that can accommodate all of the residents at Beit Hayeled. The safety of our students is of paramount important to us while she is out of the building as well. Therefore, students need to sign out each "Off Shabbat" and provide us with the name and phone number of hosts to use in case of emergency. Each student has a cell phone which enable us to text her easily in case of emergency.

Curriculum

Makeup

Our curriculum is designed to allow each student to pursue her own goals on her own level. Every class period offers a choice of classes in Tanach, Talmud, Halacha and Jewish Thought. Likewise, there are advanced text based classes along side discussion based classes so that each student can create a schedule that meets her own needs. Along side class, each student can choose to pursue her own interest and goals in the Beit Midrash which is supervised by a member of the faculty. It is quite common for our students to pursue, in their free time, one-on-one chavrutot with the warm and encouraging members of faculty. The wide range of levels, topics, and learning opportunities allows Midreshet AMIT to become a uniquely open and welcoming community of young women who want to embrace the challenge of transformative chesed and transformative learning.

Courses Offered

Please consult our website www.midreshetamit.org for a complete listing of all of our courses offered.

Daily Schedule

Our morning begins with Tefilla and breakfast, followed by Morning Seder. Morning classes are from 9:15am-12:30pm. The afternoon schedule consists of two class periods and one hour of chesed with the Beit Hayeled children. Actual times vary day to day. Dinner is at 6:00 pm, and Night Seder is from 8:00-9:15 pm on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Language of Instruction

Classes are in English. It is recommended that the student has some background in Hebrew to facilitate communication with the Beit Hayeled children and families.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

An integral part of our program is daily interaction with the children at Beit Hayeled. A basic working knowledge of Hebrew is a necessity and language improvement will take place through language immersion, contact with the children and an elective Ulpan. We offer both an intermediate and an advanced Ulpan.

Assessment and Grading

Attendance is mandatory and will be monitored. Grades will be assigned on basis of attendance and participation.

Shana Bet

We currently have 2 students in our Shana Bet program.

Joint Program

Midreshet AMIT is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. We offer an official transcript to all colleges that accept overseas credits.

Staff

Director: Mrs. Ilana Gottlieb

Rosh Midrasha: Rabbi Daniel Goldstein

Our faculty reflects a broad spectrum of educators trained in many different Torah institutions and universities. For a complete listing of our current faculty, please consult our website.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

As part of the AMIT network of schools we will visit different communities and schools which reflect Israeli society. Our students will interact daily with the children at Beit Hayeled and their Israeli foster parents. Additionally, there are 25 Bnot Sherut Leumi, Israeli girls who are doing their national service at Beit Hayeled.

Special Informal Programs

Special "Yimei Iyun" are planned throughout the year on topics such as Modern Orthodoxy, religious Zionism, the college campus, Torah and Science and modern halachic issues. Our students will be exposed to Rabbanim, female scholars, and talent from abroad who will engage the minds and hearts of our students. Our program is enhanced by special celebrations on Rosh Chodesh, Chagim, Yom Ha’atzmaut, and Yom Yerushalayim. Our staff includes program coordinators who plan meaningful and relevant activities.

Sports Facilities

On our premises there is a basketball court and soccer field. There are gyms and swimming pools in close proximity.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

Monthly Shabbatonim will be held in different cities or on campus. Our dorm is always open and as such, students may host friends for Shabbat. Home hospitality will always be available from faculty and AMIT friends.

Field Trips

We will enjoy a variety of tiyulim which incorporate Jewish history, past and present, and serve as educational, inspirational, and fun bonding experiences. Three times during the year we go on exciting overnight tiyulim to different parts of Eretz Yisrael.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Intermediate and Advanced

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Most shiurim are in English.

Religious Observance Required

An orthodox woman who exhibits a positive attitude toward Torah and Mitzvot and who is motivated to learn and grow in all areas.

Population

American, Australian, British, Canadian and South African students.

Type of American Student

We currently have 66 young women from all over the US, Canada, Australia, England and South Africa. Students arrive from cities throughout New York and New Jersey as well as cities such as Stamford, Chicago, Baltimore, Silver Spring, Los Angeles, Hollywood, Boca Raton, Miami, Cleveland, Atlanta, Houston, Boston, Philadelphia.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

60

Foreign Student Percentage

15%

Number of 1st Year American Students

55 - 60

Number of 2nd Year American Students

3

Other Nationalities

British, Canadian, Australian, South African

Number of Students per Class

Class size ranges from 5-25. Students register for their classes of choice and therefore class size spans the range.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Our dorm is made up of suites that can accommodate between 2-5 students. The rooms each have comfortable American beds and spacious quality furniture to store clothing. Each apartment is equipped with a full kitchen facility. The common room is equipped with couches for relaxing, treadmills for exercising and wireless internet connection. Our laundry room has multiple large American Style washer dryers for unlimited use. Housekeeping is provided daily.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Each apartment has a full kitchen facility with a stove, refrigerator, toaster, microwave, and a hot tray and urn for Shabbat.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

The dorm is always open with 24 hour security. Students can eat with friends or with the Beit Hayeled families.

Curfew

Curfew is at 12:30 pm.

Security Arrangements

Midreshet AMIT is secured by 24 hour armed guard and closed circuit security cameras. Security drills are conducted regularly and students are instructed on how to respond in an emergency situation. Our building has a "safe floor" that can accommodate all of the students in case of emergency. All students are required to be part of a central texting system so that the administration can contact them easily.

History

Midreshet AMIT opened its doors in 2006.  Its students body has expanded from 15 students to its current maximum of 65 students.

Accrediting Universities

Midreshet AMIT is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. In addition, credits earned at Midreshet AMIT are accepted by many other colleges and universities in North America.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2019-2020 academic year is 100,000 Israeli shekel ($28,000). Midreshet AMIT offers need-based financial aid.

Additional Information

Midreshet AMIT is a program which combines a love of Torah, commitment to chesed and pride in Eretz Yisrael. The outstanding and unique feature of Midreshet AMIT is the synthesis of "Living Torah" and "Living Chesed". This delicate balance of learning and action in Eretz Yisrael allow our students to achieve great heights and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Contact Information

Mrs. Ilana Gottlieb, Director
9 Rechov Hashayish
Gilo, Jerusalem 93841

Phone: (02) 645-0435
Fax: (02) 676-7822
Email: midrasha@amit.org.il

Website: www.midreshetamit.org

US Line: 646-484-8982

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

The mission of the Sephardic Educational Center's Eshel program is to provide students with the opportunity to explore their rich Sephardic heritage in an exciting and innovative way. Through their learning they will experience personal, spiritual, intellectual, and religious growth that will give them a solid foundation for the future.

The environment is small and nurturing, with skillful teachers and mentors, that dedicate themselves to addressing the specific needs of their students. Making the Torah come alive through traversing the ancient as well as modern sites in Israel will enhance their understanding and appreciation for their eternal homeland.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

The midrasha is pro-Zionist . Classes such as “Ahavat Ha-aretz” reflect a positive connection towards Eretz Yisrael, and we hope to foster a relationship between the students and Israel also through educational and fun field trips and Shabbatons throughout the land.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Students are encouraged to continue university studies after learning with us, and may in fact receive college credit for their studies here.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Students are encouraged to always be involved in activities, especially hesed, during their free time.

Preparation for Post Israel

We help prepare students to integrate Torah life in their future worldly pursuits.

The "Successful" Student

The student is constantly working on her midot, and has the desire to grow. She sees Torah study as a primary part of life.

Dress

Skirts up to the knees, shirts up to the collarbone and past the elbow. Dress must be tznua in and out of the campus.

Guidance Personnel

Students are encouraged to choose faculty with whom they can speak to regarding educational and personal matters, and to form relationships with these faculty by going to their house for activities such as baking challah, and being hosted for Shabbat. Students are also encouraged to speak with our head rabbi and director about any relevant issues.

Supervision

Students are supervised personally by our director and rabbi, and have the additional guidance of an on site madricha from 5 pm – 9am.

Curriculum

Besides regular Torah studies, course such as Dance, Sephardic Cooking, Yoga, and other Sephardic studies are offered at least once a week, as well as special guest shiurim, hesed projects, and tours weekly.

Makeup

Students must attend all day and night classes, from 9:15 AM – 9 PM, with the exception of one free night per week, and an hour of free time after lunch. Within the schedule are times for hesed projects, touring the old city, ulpan, and weekly guest shiurim.

Courses Offered

Halacha, Jewish Philosophy, Group Dynamics, Shmuel Bet, Hagim, Dance, Chumash, Sephardic Communities and Sages, Cooking, Ulpan, Hasnea Lechet, Mesilat Yesharim, Yoga, Kohelet, Psychology, Judaism-Then and Now, Nashim BeTanach, Ahavat Ha-aretz, Parashat Hashavua, 13 Ikarim, Hevruta.

Daily Schedule

The schedule varies daily.

Language of Instruction

English

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

Ulpan is taught weekly for 2 hours.

Assessment and Grading

Teachers are given the opportunity to decide how students will be assessed through projects and written or oral exams.

Shana Bet

Students are first year, but are encouraged to stay for shana bet.

Joint Program

No information provided

Staff

  • Rabbi Haim Levy: Head Rabbi
  • Miriam Tawil: Director

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

No information provided

Special Informal Programs

No information provided

Sports Facilities

No information provided

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

No information provided

Field Trips

Students enjoy weekly field trips around the Jerusalem area, as well as occasional “Tanach Tiyulim,” which combine exciting destinations with Tanach studies. Students also enjoy organized group Shabbatonim throughout the country, from north to south.

Eligibility

Students are selected based on level of motivation, academic ability, and aptitude. Sephardi and Ashkenazi students are welcome to apply.

Level of Learning Offered

Multi-leveled capabilities (depending on the student).

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Basic Hebrew knowledge required to understand text studies, although extra help is available if needed.

Religious Observance Required

Complete adherence to Halacha as directed by Midrasha

Population

Type of American Student

New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles residents from both private and public schools, and strong background in Jewish education.

Total Student Population

40 students

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

13 students

Foreign Student Percentage

6%

Number of 1st Year American Students

Students are mainly all first year.

Number of 2nd Year American Students

Students are mainly all first year, but are encouraged to stay for shana bet.

Other Nationalities

The midrasha is open to receiving students of all nationalities.

Number of Students per Class

Varies in size

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Students reside on campus in the Sephardic Educational Center, located in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem.

The student’s rooms are newly renovated, with furnishings, individually controlled air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Two students reside in one room.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

A microwave, refrigerator and stove top are available in the dormitory.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students are allowed to stay on campus during Shabbat and holidays, with monthly Shabbatonim to all parts of the country.

Curfew

The curfew is 12 pm, which is imposed by an on site madricha.

Security Arrangements

The dormitory building is always locked, as well as the separate wing of the students’ dorms. There are 24 hr security cameras and alarms on all buildings.

Accrediting Universities

  • Yeshiva University
  • Touro College
  • Brooklyn College
  • Queens College

Tuition

$27,000 per year

Contact Information for Midreshet Eshel

Director Miriam Tawil:
mtawil@midresheteshel.org
011-972-50-709-5286 (Israel) 
718-376-0717 (USA)

Secretary:
office@midresheteshel.org
011-972-2-966 6621 tel (Israel)
011-972-2-966 6625 fax (Israel)

Location:
Old City, Jerusalem (54 Batey Machasseh Square)

The information below is accurate for non-Covid years.  Given the current pandemic, many of the described extra curricular activities have been significantly modified or curtailed.

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Midreshet HaRova focuses on students as individuals. We strive to provide an educational environment that enables each student to maximize her potential. This is accomplished through a program which, while dedicated to academic excellence, also believes that Torah study as an intellectual exercise which does not impact one's personality is incomplete.

The goal of the program is to teach our students not what to think but rather how to think, preparing them to make decisions throughout life through the prism of Torah and Mitzvot.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Midreshet HaRova is a strongly Zionistic program. Students are exposed to an environment that stresses the centrality of Am Yisrael B'Eretz Yisrael. Both Yom HaAtmaut and Yom Yerushalayim are celebrated as holidays and important milestones toward the ultimate Geulah.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Students are in no way discouraged from continuing their university studies after they complete their studies at the Midrasha. While a number of students choose to continue their studies in Israeli universities, the great majority of students opt to return to their home countries to complete their education. While the Midrasha encourages students to continue in a religious framework such as Stern College, students in fact opt for a wide range of schools.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Chesed is an integral element of the program at the Midrasha. Students participate in a wide range of volunteer activities on a regular basis. Students are also able to pursue their own outside interests in the (limited) free time that the weekly schedule provides. In this context, student organized activities such as art, choir and music are supported.

Preparation for Post Israel

Throughout the year, the Midrasha gives a year long Israel advocacy course.  Students also have the option to participate in the Jerusalem U fellowship program.

The Midrasha organizes a two day seminar at the end of the year dedicated to preparing students for their return to Chutz LaAretz. Topics addressed include life on college campus, maintaining and strengthening family relationships, and applying values and educational messages in a less supportive environment.

The "Successful" Student

In the Midrasha we believe that all of our students are individuals, and therefore there is no single template that defines a 'successful' student. In the Midrasha we attempt to give our students the tools to live as a shomeret Mitzvot in modern society. We hope that our graduates will see Israel as the natural place to build their lives.

Dress

At the Midrasha, Tzniut is approached as an internalized value for both men and women. This value is reflected in a number of external behaviors, including but not limited to dress. Nonetheless, students are expected to comply with the Midrasha dress code. Students are expected to wear skirts which cover the knee at all times, shirts that meet the skirt and cover the elbow, have appropriate necklines and are not overly tight. Body piercings (other than ear) are not allowed.

Guidance Personnel

At the Midrasha we are committed to maintaining a small school environment even as we have grown to our maximum size. This means that there is a wide range of faculty members available for guidance and consultation at any time. The formal guidance staff is led by our Dean of Students/Head Mashgicha, who is assisted by five mashgichot, two Imahot Bayit and a proactive group of seven madrichot.

Each Mashgicha is responsible for a group of roughly 20-25 students. The Mashgicha sits regularly with each student in her group on an individual basis, helping her to identify both her personal and educational goals and then helps guide the student towards achieving those goals. Each group spends informal time with their mashgichot as well, creating a warm and nurturing environment for the entire group.

Supervision

Students are expected to participate in all aspects of the program. Attendance is taken and small class sizes mean that students who are not participating fully in the program do not 'slip through the cracks', allowing us to work with them to ensure that the program is meeting their needs.

Students are expected to uphold Midrasha standards at all times. Drinking, smoking and going to pubs or other inappropriate places of entertainment are strictly forbidden. There is a strictly enforced curfew.

Curriculum

Makeup

Studies are split between Torah She Beal Peh, Torah She B'chtav (Torah and Nach), Machshava, and Halacha. The varying backgrounds of students coming from all over the world necessitates multiple levels, especially in classes where chavruta study is an essential segment of the curriculum. In these areas there are generally three or four levels, with multiple options within levels. Students choose their own classes with direction from the guidance staff. A strong emphasis is placed on Gemara, allowing students who are interested to spend between four and thirteen hours a week in Gemara seder and classes. We recognize, however, that not all students are interested in learning Gemara, and those students have the option of intensive Machshava seder and classes given parallel to the Gemara seder. Flexible Beit Medrash time enables students to add independent study hours in these and other areas.

Courses Offered

The educational philosophy of Midreshet HaRova puts an emphasis on offering a wide range of courses to meet the varied interests of the student body. There is generally a choice of five to seven courses in a given time slot. There is a strong emphasis placed on Chumash and Torah She Beal Peh/Machshava, with a significant focus placed on courses in Nach, Halacha and History as well. There is an optional teachers training program as well, where the emphasis is divided equally between educational philosophy and use of creative techniques such as art and drama as educational tools.

The Midrasha sponsors a Creative Arts department catering to creative interests of our student body. The program is founded on the belief that students with particular sensitivities and skills will learn better by applying artistic modes of thinking to their Torah and create better by drawing from the rich and deep sources of Torah for inspiration. Programs are offered in Art, Drama, and Creative Writing. Further information regarding Creative Arts opportunities at the Midrasha can be found in our course catalog.

Daily Schedule

The day runs from 8:30 AM until 10:00 PM, with a two hour break for lunch and an hour break for dinner. Morning and night seder tend to be chavruta oriented, and afternoon classes tend to be frontal. The flexibility that students have in designing their schedules allows for students who are more interested in beit medrash study to devote as much as 75% of their time to chavruta, while students who are more interested in lectures can spend as little as 40% of their time in the beit medrash. There is no time set for group tefilla, enabling students to daven at the Kotel or in local shuls.

Language of Instruction

While the vast majority of classes are given in English, a handful are offered in Hebrew.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

We do not offer an Ulpan option.

Assessment and Grading

Students receive Pass/Fail transcripts based on participation. Students who wish to earn a transcript with letter grades must either take exams or submit projects in order to receive grades.

Shana Bet

There is a formal Shana Bet program. Over the past number of years Shana Bet groups have ranged from four to fifteen students. In addition, a group of between 10-15 students generally choose to stay in Israel in order to volunteer for Sherut Leumi (National Service) or army service. 

Joint Program

Midreshet HaRova is a participant in the Yeshiva University Joint Program and the Israel Experience Program (IEP) of the Hebrew Theological College.

Staff

  • Rav David Milston, a musmach of the Chief Rabbinate and an alumnus of Yeshivat Har Etzion and Jews College in London is Rosh Midrasha.
  • Mrs. Tanya HaLevi is the Director of the Overseas Program.
  • Rav Ari Shames and Rav Michael Susman are Associate Directors.
  • The Dean of Students/Head Mashgicha is Mrs. Devorah Starr.

The faculty reflects the entire spectrum of the Religious Zionist/Centrist Orthodox world, providing students with multiple perspectives on a range of philosophical and Halachik issues.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Students are encouraged to experience Israel to the fullest. Overseas students live with Israeli students, and participate with them in a variety of activities and Tiyulim. Programs focusing on current events and the political situation in Israel are a regular part of the informal education program.

Special Informal Programs

An extensive Guest Speaker program exposes students to a wide variety of topics and viewpoints beyond those presented as part of the regular timetable. Guest speakers are invited to the Midrasha on a weekly basis.

Sports Facilities

The Midrasha maintains a fully equipped workout room.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

There is an In-Shabbat, spent with a visiting faculty member, once every three Shabbatot. There are also other group Shabbatot outside the Midrasha. Rosh HaShana is spent in groups, with Madrichot, in various communities around Israel. Students enjoy home hospitality as well as special group activities arranged for them in order to enhance their Rosh HaShana. Yom Kippur is spent as a group in the Midrasha. Room and board, as well as a range of activities and programming, is provided during the Sukkot and Pessach vacation periods.

Field Trips

There is generally a tiyul once every three weeks, as well as a series of four or five overnight tiyulim during the year. There is a siyurim course, which is dedicated to hikes throughout Yerushalayim. The goals of the tiyulim are to see Tanach through hiking, to acquire a love of Ereetz Yisrael through hiking, and, most importantly, to have fun!

Poland Trip: The Midrasha conducts two yearly trips to Poland, one in the spring for Northern Hemisphere students and the second during the summer, in conjuction with the MTA program, for the Southern Hemisphere students. The trip focuses on both the beauty and legacy of the Jewish community of Eastern Europe, as well as on the destruction of that community at the hands of the Nazis and their collaborators. Trip participants are required to dedicate several hours to special preparatory lectures prior to their departure, as well as prepare ceremonies and presentations which are given in Poland. The cost of the trip is not included in tuition. (There is no charge for MTA participants).

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

There are several levels of courses offered at Midreshet HaRova

  • Beginner- familiar with basic Jewish texts
  • Intermediate - can independently learn Chumash text, and begin to learn Mefarshim
  • Advanced - able to independently learn Mefarshim on Chumash, Shulchan Arukh, etc.
Hebrew Knowledge Required
  • Beginner - shiurim are mainly in English
  • Intermediate and Advanced- shiurim in Hebrew and in English

While the majority of Midrasha students, especially those from North America, fall into the intermediate and advanced categories, the international character of the Midrasha's student body requires that we cater to students who have not always had the opportunity to devote several hours daily to limmudei kodesh in high school. As a result, motivated students with a more limited background can find a track which is uniquely suited for them, as well as the opportunity to advance to higher levels as their skills improve.

Religious Observance Required

All students are expected to be fully committed to a lifestyle of Torah and Mitzvot.

Population

Type of American Student

American students hail from all over the country and a variety of backgrounds, from public school to the entire spectrum of Centrist Orthodox high schools. The Midrasha has a reputation of being a school with a highly diverse student body, and the percentage of students from the New York area tends to be relatively low (generally between 35-40% of the overseas student population).

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

190 (first and second year foreign, first year Israeli)

Foreign Student Percentage

66%

Number of 1st Year American Students

90

Number of 2nd Year American Students

14

Other Nationalities

The Midrasha is an international program, with a high percentage of students in the Overseas program hailing from countries other than the United States and Canada (35%-40% depending on the given academic year). The bulk of these students come from Australia, England, Europe, and South Africa

Number of Students per Class

Classes range from five students to fifty five, with the average size about 15-18 students.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Students live in the dormitory or in apartments in the Rova. There are generally house three to five students in a room. Students on the Overseas program also have the option of sharing apartments with Israeli students. Bathroom facilities and showers are located on each floor in the dormitory, and within each apartment unit. Email and Internet Access: Both the dormitory and the apartments have wi-fi access. There is a separate Torah research computer center which provides access for study and research purposes.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

There are limited kitchen facilities available in the apartments

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

There is generally an in-Shabbat once every three weeks. Students may stay in the dormitories with full board on an out-Shabbat, provided that a minimum number (5) of students are staying in. Room and board are provided during all vacation times.

Curfew

There is a strictly enforced curfew. Students must leave a landline phone number for where they are staying for Shabbat, as well as informing us when they anticipate returning after Shabbat.

Security Arrangements

All Midrasha buildings are kept locked at all times and may only be accessed by code. There are security guards present on campus. Depending on the security situation in Israel student travel to certain areas may require parental permission, and other areas may be placed entirely off limits.

History

Midreshet HaRova was established in 1991 in order to provide an educational framework for students from England, Europe, Australia and South Africa who were looking for a full year learning program. Four years later we opened our doors to North American students as well. Today, Midreshet HaRova continues to service a diverse international population seeking a demanding learning program in an intense but warm and open environment. The Midrasha's multi building Old City campus houses 120 first year students in the Overseas Program and another 60 first year students in the Israeli program.

Accrediting Universities

Midreshet HaRova is a participant in the S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program of Yeshiva University and the Israel Experience Program (IEP) of the Hebrew Theological College.

Additional Information

The type of student who is generally attracted to the Midrasha is a highly motivated young woman who is looking for an intensive, high-level program in a strongly Zionist environment. The international character of the student body attracts young women who are interested in interacting with people from different backgrounds and are seeking a less homogeneous atmosphere. The open intellectual environment, combined with the wide variety of the faculty is particularly attractive to a more creative type of student who is interested in exploring a range of ideas and approaches. Since it was established Midreshet HaRova has been the home to well over a thousand young women seeking the tools to help them take their place in the Jewish community. The Midrasha maintains active contact with its Bogrot, through shiurim, (email and visiting), chat rooms and shabbatonim. Anyone who would like to be in contact with a bogeret of the Midrasha from their area can contact the Midrasha office at any time.

Contact Information for Midreshet HaRova

Israel

50 Rechov Chabad
Old City, Jerusalem 97500

Phone: (02) 626-5970
Fax: (02) 628-4690
Email: office@harova.org

www.harova.org

Rabbi David Milston, Director
Phone: (02) 626-5971
Cell: (052) 357-1362
Email: davidmilston@harova.org

Rabbi Michael Susman, Associate Director Recruitment
Phone: (02) 626-5972
Cell: (054) 566-5139
Email:susman@harova.org

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

  1. To promote a love of Torah
  2. To provide the skills necessary to translate that love into a life dedicated to Torah learning and mitzva observance
  3. To strengthen our students’ connection and sense of responsibility to Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

We are proud that we present a Zionist message. It is not only Eretz Yisrael but also Medinat Yisrael that forms a significant part of our Jewish identity. We feel blessed to be living in an era that we consider atchalta d'geulah. On Yom Ha'Atzmaut there is true celebration. Equally important we take the students to Har Herzl on Yom Hazikaron to be part of Klal Yisrael not only in times of joy but in times of collective sorrow.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Most of our students attend either Ivy League universities (e.g. Columbia, University of Pennsylvania) or schools with large active Jewish communities (e.g. Brandeis, University of Maryland) upon completion of their year at Midreshet Lindenbaum. Approximately 20% percent go to Stern College each year. We emphasize the importance of being koveah itim wherever they may be. For the vast majority of our students, secular studies is a given. The issue is not “what will you study,” but rather -how will you live?

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Over the year, we have challenging and fun tiyulim and inspiring Shabbatot throughout Israel to deepen our connection to the land and to each other.

Our students are encouraged to develop themselves in ways which complement their Torah learning.  In particular, Tuesday afternoons are devoted to Chessed or Understanding Israel, a pro-Israel advocacy training program.

Midreshet Darkaynu, a program for developmentally disabled young women, is an integral part of the Midrasha. Many of our students choose to learn b’chavruta with the Darkaynu students, or to participate in Darkaynu’s annual musical production. Several times a year we sponsor school-wide chessed projects, often based on student initiatives.

Preparation for Post Israel

Our Halakha curriculum places a strong emphasis on empowering our students to live Halakhic lives on campus and beyond.  Our faculty remains in constant contact with our alumnae and their questions and experiences inform the topics that we address throughout the year.

Understanding Israel, our Israel advocacy program, challenges our students by exposing them to the heart of the Israel-Arab conflict through lectures, encounters with diverse communities and off-the-beaten-track field trips.  This open and comprehensive approach enables our students to become intelligent and passionate advocates for Israel on their college campuses.

Finally, towards the end of the year, we sponsor a series of “Back to the Future” events.  Topics discussed include relating to parents, relating to non-Jews and non-religious Jews, Jewish leadership on campus, advocating Israel's cause, aseh lecha rav, marriage and family, and aliya. We are proud that a number of our students each year remain in Israel to serve in the IDF or National Service. Midreshet Lindenbaum remains their home, and they often participate in our Shabbatot and spend yomtov at faculty homes.

The "Successful" Student

There is no one mold. We hope that our students will be religiously committed wives and mothers, involved in their Jewish communities. We hope that they will find personal fulfillment in the path of their choice, as career women, homemakers, educators, professional volunteers, or any combination of the above.

Dress

The school's dress code reflects accepted rabbinic standards of tzniut. Skirts must cover the knees even when sitting and slits in skirts may not go above the knee. The neckline must be appropriate and sleeves much reach the elbow. No more than two earrings in each ear and certainly no other body piercing.

Guidance Personnel

We strongly believe that the relationships that our students form with teachers, administrators, etc. will be one of the most significant elements of their year in Israel. Each student has a Ra’m, a full-time teacher assigned to a specific group of students. Each student is assigned an “ISP” mentor, a faculty member who sits with her regularly one-on-one to discuss her own individualized spiritual plan for growth. Our faculty is diverse and there are many role models to relate to. Our dorm parents live in the building and provide a warm, comfortable, additional resource. The madrichot are college graduates who live in the dorm and are always there to provide friendship, support, and information. In addition, we have a professional social worker on staff available to speak to students at their request or at the suggestion of one of the teachers or madrichot.

Supervision

Rules at Midreshet Lindenbaum are directed to helping students develop responsible adult behaviors. Students must sign into the building no later than 12:30pm. Attendance is carefully monitored. There is a zero tolerance policy for alcohol.

Curriculum

Topics

Most classes at Midreshet Lindenbaum are comprised of discussion-oriented classroom teaching plus chavruta learning in the beit midrash in approximately equal components. This is a defining and unique element of our program. It is not only the acquisition of knowledge but of skills that is of paramount importance. There is a limit to the knowledge you can acquire in one year, but skills open up limitless possibilities for the future.

The curriculum aims to expose students to every aspect of Torah:

Three mornings per week (total: 10 hours) Gemara
Two mornings and two afternoons per week (total 9 hours) - Tanakh

Two mornings per week (total: 4 hours)- Halakha (Shabbat, Kashrut)
Two hours per week: Women and Halakha

Four hours per week: Machshava/Emunah

Two evenings per week (total: 4 hours)- choice of Bkiut class
(Gemara, Tanach, Halakha or Machshava)

Two evenings per week (total: 4 hours)- Beit Midrash

At each given time there are multiple parallel shiurim on different levels/ on different topics. Students choose classes based on level and language of instruction.

Students who would like to combine the advantages of learning with Israelis with the care of an overseas program may participate in our Tochnit Tamar.  Students in this program spend between a third and half of their week integrated into classes with Lindenbaum’s Israeli program.

Courses Offered

The core curriculum consists of classes in Gemara, Tanakh, Halakha, Machshava, and Women and Halakha.  In addition, students may also choose from a variety of elective courses in Jewish Philosophy (Ultimate Questions, Rambam, Chassidut, Rav Kook, Rav Soloveitchik), Jewish History (Zionism, History of the Holocaust), and Contemporary Halakhic Issues.  There is a daf yomi shiur during the lunch breaks and Rav Menachem Liebtag offers an intensive Tanach Seminar one evening a week (5:00-10:00pm).

Students who choose to participate in our Tochnit Ora make weekly visits to the homes of guest speakers, alternating between Midreshet Lindenbaum faculty and other Torah scholars in the greater Jerusalem area, where they have an opportunity to learn from and about these Torah personalities.  Speakers have included Dr.Yael Ziegler, Rabbi Chaim Brovender, Rabbanit Malka Bina, and Rav Elchanan Samet.

Matmidot Scholars

Our new Matmidot Scholars program brings together students who want to invest even more in their scholarship and leadership training. They commit to extra hours of learning and submit a proposal for a research and writing project, that is mentored throughout the year and culminates in a Torah Journal article. A rich leadership training program helps them develop the skills to become leaders on their campuses and in their communities.

Daily Schedule
  • Tefila, breakfast
  • 8:45 – 12:40 Morning Seder – Chavruta time and Shiur
  • 12:40 – 2:30 Lunch Break, Mincha
  • 2:30 – 5:00 Afternoon Seder – Chavruta time and Shiur
  • 5:00 – 7:00 Elective classes
  • Dinner, Arvit
  • 8:00 – 10:00 Night Seder

Tefilla takes places daily in our Beit Midrash, usually with a minyan on Rosh Chodesh and fast days.

Tuesday afternoons are dedicated to chessed or Jerusalem U, our Israel advocacy program.

Night seders are a mix of chavruta time, bekiut shiurim (twice a week), and an intensive Torah seminar.

Daf Yomi is offered during the lunch breaks and Thursday night mishmar runs late into the night with a diverse selection of speakers.

Language of Instruction

English and Hebrew

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

We do not offer Ulpan; participation in Israeli shiurim and friendships with their counterparts in the Israeli program is the best Ulpan!

Assessment and Grading

Transcripts are provided to all students upon request. Grades are based on attendance, participation, and advancement in comprehension, skills, knowledge, etc. There are review sessions but generally no written exams.

Shana Bet

We encourage Shana Bet and generally have a small group each year who take their learning to the next level, tailoring their schedule to the topics they would like to delve deeper into and the skills they seek to hone further. Most of our Shana Bet students continue at Stern College where they can receive credit for a year and a half of study.

Joint Program

Midreshet Lindenbaum is proudly affiliated with the Joint Israel Program at Yeshiva University/Stern College.

Staff

Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander is the President and Rosh haYeshiva of Ohr Torah Stone Institutions, of which Midreshet Lindenbaum is a member
Rabbanit Sally Mayer is the Rosh Midrasha

Rabbanit Nomi Berman is the Rosh Beit Midrash
Rabbi Shlomo Brown is the Executive Director

The Ramim are Rav David Brofsky, Rabbanit Dena Freundlich, Rabbanit Rachel Leshaw, and Rav Yoni Rosensweig.

Other faculty members include: Rav Yitzchak Blau, Davina Wanderer-Kriel, Rivky Krestt, Rav Johnny Solomon, Rav Shmuel Klitsner, Rav Menachem Leibtag, Dr. Tamar Ross, Rav Ari Shvat, Cheryl Burnat, Rav Aharon Wexler, and others.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Midreshet Lindenbaum’s Tochnit Tamar offers students an opportunity to create a life-long kesher with Israeli peers.  Students in the program may choose to dorm and integrate into classes with Lindenbaum’s Israeli program. Even for students who do not choose this option, the Overseas Program shares a building and a beit midrash with our Israeli Program providing a daily opportunity for meaningful interaction.

Some of our students choose to volunteer with Israeli families, and others are exposed to various Israeli personalities in the context of our Israel Advocacy program.  In addition, students are encouraged to visit family and friends throughout the country on free Shabbatot. We encourage our students to read the newspaper and follow Israeli news on relevant websites.

Special Informal Programs

There are programs and speakers relating to calendar events - chagim, Yom Hashoa, etc. There are chagigot (or other programming) for Rosh Chodesh and for Yom Ha'Atzmaut. Our students are in Meron on Lag Ba'Omer and participate in the Rikud HaDegalim on Yom Yerushaliam. In addition, we invite special guest speakers to address the students on various topics of interest. Among the speakers we have invited are Dr. Yocheved Debow (personal safety), Ronnie Halibard (Jewish History in a Flash), Rav David Stav (understanding the religious spectrum in Israel), Robby Berman of the Halachic Organ Donor Society, among others.

Sports Facilities

Midreshet Lindenbaum has a fully equipped exercise room with treadmills and an elliptical machine.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

We spend Shabbat together as a community approximately every 2-3 weeks.  Sometimes students enjoy spending Shabbat together on our campus, their our home-away-from-home, and at other times we travel to Tzfat, Shadmot Mechola, Sderot, or Gush Etzion. Several times a year, the students are hosted as a group in the homes and communities of our faculty. We daven and learn together at the midrasha on Yom Kippur and Shavuot.  Additionally, there are several optional Shabbatot both in and out of the midrasha. The dormitory is always open (including out Shabbatot and vacation times) with either a madricha or the av and em bayit present.

On free Shabbatot, the em bayit helps to arrange places with faculty members, at the homes of Israeli students, or with Anglo-Saxon olim as per the request of the student. Most of our students either travel home for Pesach or participate in the Tochnit Nissan program of Bnei Akiva.

Field Trips

At Midreshet Lindenbaum we believe that each step you take strengthens your everlasting connection to Eretz Yisrael.  There are three three-day tiyulim, one south and two north. These contain both fun hikes (eg. Yehudia) and a Tanakh or historical component (eg. Gilboa, Zippori). We also have several one-day tiyulim in the Jerusalem area (Kotel Tunnels, Southern Wall, Yad Vashem, Emek Ha'Elah, Givat Hatachmoshet, etc.)

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Intermediate and Advanced

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Intermediate

Religious Observance Required

Students must be fully committed to Shmirat Torah u'Mitzvot

Population

Type of Overseas Student

Greater New York Metropolitan Area: 30

Others from the United States, Canada, England, France, Australia: 30

New York / New Jersey Schools: Bruriah, Frisch, HAFTR, Kushner, Maayanot, Ramaz, SAR, Shalhevet, SKA, Yeshiva of Flatbush, Yeshiva University High School for Girls

Others (United States and Canada): Baltimore (Beth Tfiloh), Boca Raton (Weinbaum), Boston (Maimonides), Chicago (Ida Crown), Cleveland (Fuchs Mizrachi), Detroit (Akiva and Metro Detroit), Hartford (Hebrew Academy of New England), Los Angeles (YULA and Shalhevet), Miami (Hebrew Academy), Philadelphia (Kohelet), San Diego (Hebrew High School), Seattle (Northwest Yeshiva High School), Silver Spring (Melvin J. Berman)

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

200

Foreign Student Percentage

50%

Number of 1st Year American Students

62

Number of 2nd Year American Students

No information provided

Other Nationalities

There is an Israeli program of approximately 100 students (80 post high school and 20 post sherut leumi/army) and a program for students from South America.

Number of Students per Class

An average of 18-20 students in each class; some are larger, some smaller.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Our dorm never closes throughout the students’ year at Midreshet Lindenbaum! We are housed on a beautiful campus in the Arnona residential neighborhood of Jerusalem. The second and third floors of the building are renovated dormitory suites. Each suite has two rooms of two, a bathroom and kitchenette with a refrigerator, electric burners and a large toaster-type oven. All students fill out a roommate questionnaire and may choose their own roommate but no more than two students from the same high school are placed in the same suite. Students may have guests with the permission of their roommates and the approval of the em bayit.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Each suite has two rooms of two, a kitchenette with a refrigerator, electric burners and a large toaster-type oven.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

The dormitory is open throughout the year including Shabbatot and vacation periods. A madricha or the em bayit are always present.

Curfew

Students must sleep in the dorm every night other than Friday night of a free Shabbat. The curfew is 12:30 am.

Security Arrangements

There is a 24 hour armed security guard. A closed circuit television surveys the entire perimeter of the property. The front door is locked at all times. The students know the code to open the door. The school does not issue its own travel advisories but does inform the students of any special alert that is announced to the public. We ask parents to discuss with their daughters (before their arrival in Israel) their specific comfort boundaries- where they may travel, how (bus, taxi) they may travel etc. We discuss these issues with students and parents throughout the year. In case of a terrorist incident, God forbid, there is an immediate message and accounting for students and e-mail is sent to the parent body assuring them of their daughter's safety.

History

Midreshet Lindenbaum (originally known as Bruria) was founded in 1978. It was the first women's program to promote chavruta Torah study and is currently the largest women's beit midrash program in the world.

The school is located in the quiet residential area of Arnona, Jerusalem.

Accrediting Universities

Midreshet Lindenbaum is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2019-2020 academic year is 98,000 NIS. All students are entitled to a $200 grant from Masa. Midreshet Lindenbaum offers need-based financial aid.

Additional Information

The uniqueness of Midreshet Lindenbaum is apparent in our approach to learning and in our approach to our students. As we mentioned above, we are not concerned only with the amount information that a student acquires. It is important to us that she become an active partner in the learning process, that she experiences true Torah lishma. In addition, it is important to us that she learns the skills and acquires the love of Torah that will ensure that she didn't just learn for a year, but in that year she learned how to learn and how to live for the rest of her life. We treat our students with respect and they reciprocate that respect as well.

Contact Information for Midreshet Lindenbaum

Israel

Rabbanit Sally Mayer, Rosh Midrasha
Rechov Leib Yafe 51
Jerusalem 93390

Phone: (02) 671-0043
Fax: (02) 671-0144
Email: ml@ots.org.il (general)

Sally.mayer@ots.org.il

www.midreshet-lindenbaum.org.il

United States

Mrs. Renee Rosner
49 W. 45th St., Suite 701
New York, N.Y. 10036

Phone: (212) 935-8672
Fax: (212) 935-8683
Email: renee@otsny.org

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Midreshet Moriah is a warm, family-like environment where we emphasize the individual growth and growing independence of every student; maximum flexibility for each student in designing her personal schedule to match her interests and goals; close relationships with teachers and mentors; the opportunity to create a passionate relationship with Torah through challenging, exciting shiurim and in private chavrutot with our faculty; and lasting ties to friends, teachers, and the Land.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Midreshet Moriah presents a powerful Religious Zionist message. This hashkafah is conveyed in many shiurim and sichot as well as in specific classes and Yemei Iyyun devoted to Religious Zionist thought and the history of Medinat Yisrael. Days of special significance for Medinat Yisrael, such as Yom HaAtzma’ut, Yom Yerushalayim, and others are highlights of our year, celebrated proudly with special Tefilot, music, dancing, se’udot, and special programs.

Attitude Towards University Studies

We view secular studies as a positive part of our students’ development into Bnot Torah able to make a positive contribution to Am Yisrael and the outside world. Our graduates continue their university studies at a wide range of campuses, with many attending Stern College.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

We encourage our students to participate in programs outside the formal study program. Time is built into the schedule for the full range of volunteering opportunities available in Yerushalayim. Students receive guidance in choosing a placement they find meaningful.

The "Successful" Student

The successful Midreshet Moriah student will approach life with a great love for Torah and mitzvot, confident in her unique strengths, aware of her challenges, and sensitive to her responsibility to contribute to Am Yisrael. She will build a Torah home based on these values while maximizing her potential as a leader in the Jewish community. She will always see living in Eretz Yisrael as her ultimate destination.

Dress

Students are expected to dress in and out of school according to standards of tzniut befitting young religious women. This includes closed necklines, sleeves below the elbows, skirts well below the knee when sitting or standing, and no slacks.

Guidance Personnel

Midreshet Moriah provides a wide array of personnel to whom the students may turn and who will seek them out as well: Madrichot, Em Bayit, Rakazot, teachers and Rabbanim. Our Rakazot, young women teachers, meet indvidually with each student every week to learn or just shmooze, as well as teaching their students as a group. Teachers and Rabbanim make themselves available for private chavrutah and chaburah (small group) learning in the Bet Midrash day and night. Our faculty accompany the students on Shabbatonim and invite them frequently for Shabbat in their own homes.We firmly believe in providing role models with differing hashkafot so that each student may choose the one most suitable to her.

Supervision

Our Em Bayit and madrichot supervise the dorm, and Rakazot meet weekly with each student. Curfew weeknights is 12:00 AM, Thursday night and Motzei Shabbat at 12:30 AM. Attendance is taken in classes. We are part of the Joint Council of Women's Schools in Israel, whose stated policy is one of zero tolerance for alcohol.

Curriculum

Makeup

Our curriculum emphasizes maximum flexibility so that each student can design a schedule which meets her needs, both in terms of level and area of interest. Requirements are kept to a minimum in order to allow students maximum freedom in customizing their learning so that they may use their time to pursue their interests. Midreshet offers both Regular and Advanced courses, which allows students to customize the level of challenge according to their needs. Advanced courses offer academically advanced students a program which provides skills through extensive chavrutah and a high-level discussion during shiur. Each student is also encouraged to devote some hours to independent learning outside the context of shiurim, often with a faculty or student chavrutah. Seder Erev shiurim take place nightly.

Courses Offered

Our main areas of focus are Tanakh, Halakhah, and Jewish Thought (which includes philosophy, mussar, chasidut, and the like). Students are free to customize a schedule which balances these three areas, or they may choose to emphasize any area they wish. We also offer two levels of Gemara and offerings in Jewish History and contemporary events. Some examples of courses we offer: Chamesh Megillot, Guide to the Perplexed, Derekh Hashem, Netivot Shalom, Thought of Rabbi Soloveitchik, Haggadah Shel Pesach, Jewish Medical Ethics, From Adam to Avraham, Mishkan, Shir Ha-Shirim, Kohelet, Parsha Insights, Alei Shur, Sho’ah & Emunah ,Women in Jewish Law, Pholisophical Issues in Tanach, Chasidut, Rav Kook, Interpersonal Halachah. For a full list and weekly schedule, please visit our website at www.midreshetmoriah.com.

Daily Schedule

A day typically begins with tefilah at 8:30 AM and shiurim at 9:00 AM (10 AM Sundays). Each student creates her own schedule, mixing shiurim and breaks to fit with her preference, in addition to the lunch and dinner breaks. Shiurim are offered throughout the day, through the conclusion of Seder Erev at 9:30, and special shiurim continue after that. Students are required to be at Seder Erev four nights a week. Monday evenings and Fridays are free time.

Language of Instruction

Shiurim are taught mainly in English. 

Assessment and Grading

Students receive grades for courses based on each teacher’s assessment, which includes attendance and participation and, in a few courses, may also include exams. Overall, however, we work hard to keep pressure and testing to an absolute minimum so that our students are motivated just by the desire to learn and grow and not by external pressure.

Joint Program

Joint programs with American colleges include Yeshiva University, Touro College, and Hebrew Theological College. In addition, credits earned at Midreshet Moriah are accepted by many other colleges and universities in North America.

Staff

Dean:
Rabbi Meyer Berglas is Midreshet’s Founder and Dean. Rabbi Berglas’s warm smile, gentle manner, and wisdom have made him a beloved mentor to decades of Midreshet students, and his shiurim play a central role in shaping the character and values of our students. Every year, a few students are privileged to learn with Rabbi Berglas individually as part of Midreshet’s unique commitment to the growth of each individual student. Rabbi Berglas, a student of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, received Semikhah and an MHL from Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, and an MA at Columbia University. Rabbi Berglas lives in Neve Alizah, the community he founded with his wife, Vicky.

Director:
Mrs. Vicky Berglas. Vicky’s warmth and empathy maker her a much sought-after confidant and chavruta, and the sounds of laughter with the joy of learning always accompanies her "chevrah" in the Beit Midrash. In addition to the role she plays at Midreshet, Vicky, as our students call her, also serves as a guide at Yad Vashem and leads tours to Poland to explore the Jewish civilization which once flourished there. Vicky's class in "Sho'ah and Faith" is one of our students' favorites, combining the study of the Holocaust with religious and halakhic writings from that time. When Vicky leads our students on the annual Heritage tour of Poland, they are treated to her unique perspective, which combines encyclopedic historical knowledge with a deep connection to the great personalities of our past and the conviction that the Holocaust can inspire us toward meaning and accomplishment in our personal own lives. Vicky earned a BA in Psychology and Judaic Studies at Yeshiva University and an MA in Holocaust Studies at Haifa University. She lives in Neve Alizah, the community she founded with her husband.

Menahel Chinuchi:
Rabbi Eitan Mayer is Midreshet's Menahel Chinuchi. “Rav Eitan,” as our students call him, is known both for his wry sense of humor and his shiurim in Chumash and Machshavah, which emphasize highly creative thinking and intensely personal grappling with Torah and its implications for our emunah and our lives. Rav Eitan is always available for personal advice, halakhic questions, and discussions on emunah. Rav Eitan learned at Yeshivat Sha’alvim and received Semikhah at Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, where he was a Wexner Graduate Fellow, and continued his learning in the Beren Kollel Elyon. He earned a BA in English Literature and an MA in Jewish Education at Yeshiva University, and is completing an MA in Jewish Philosophy and an EdD in Jewish Education at Yeshiva University. Before making Aliyah in 2004, Rav Eitan taught Gemara and Halakhah at the Graduate Program in Advanced Talmudic Studies for Women at Yeshiva University and served as Assistant Rabbi at The Jewish Center on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Rav Eitan lives in Neve Daniel with his wife, Sally, and their six children.

Menahelet:
Mrs. Bracha Krohn is our Menahelet. In addition to her full time administrative responsibilities, she teaches Tanakh, Midrash, Halacha and Rabbinic Thought at Midreshet Moriah. Bracha, as her students call her, has an enthusiasm for learning which permeates the classroom. Her dynamic teaching style encourages participation and fosters a strong desire to learn, and her openness and genuineness create an environment for thoughtful, honest questioning. She has a special way of identifying with students and showing them her authentic care and concern. Bracha learned at Michlala, was Jewish Studies valedictorian and earned a BA at Stern College in Jewish Studies and English Literature, and studied Bible at Yeshiva University’s Bernard Revel Graduate School. She taught for seven years at the Fuchs Mizrachi School and the Women's Beit Midrash in Cleveland, before making aliyah in 2008. Bracha currently serves on the educational staff of Camp Stone, where she returns each summer with her family. She lives in Efrat with her husband, a Rebbe at Yeshivat Orayta, and three children.

Faculty:
Midreshet Moriah’s tradition of outstanding, creative, inspiring teachers was established by its founding faculty, including Dr. Bryna Levy, Rabbi Dr. Reuven Aberman, Rabbi Dr. Aharon Rakefet, and others. Today, we are proud that these traditions continue. Our teachers revere as their own mentors Rabbi Joseph B Soloveitchik, Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Kook, Dr. Nechama Leibowitz, and others. A full list, with full bio’s, can be found at www.midreshetmoriah.com.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Students are encouraged to visit different communities in Israel and at their request may be placed for home hospitality on Shabbatot throughout the country. Students are encouraged to understand Israeli politics and the Israeli scene in formal classes like “Current Events”, and informally, through the madrichot and the people they volunteer with at their weekly volunteer activities. 

Special Informal Programs

Guest speakers are featured several times a month. Chagigot and Yemei Iyun are scheduled for appropriate holidays (i.e. Yamim Nora’im, Chanukah, Purim, Yom Ha’Atzma’ut, Rosh Chodesh).

Sports Facilities

There is access to several gyms nearby and many students choose to jog on the mesilah, the old wooden train track that has been transformed into a beautiful boardwalk and paved running track. 

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

At Midreshet, we have a Shabbaton about once a month, bringing our students and faculty together in locations such as Tzfat, Neve Daniel, Beit She'an and other locations. Our dormitory remains open on all Shabbatot and during Chol HaMo’ed Sukkot, so that students may stay “in” when they wish. Students are often hosted for Shabbat by families of staff members and former students. For the Yamim Nora’im, all students are invited to the home of a member of our faculty.

Field Trips

Our itinerary of guided field trips and tours is both a part of the academic curriculum, enriching our learning of Tanakh and Jewish History, as well as a chance for students to enjoy a break from routine and a chance to bond and get to know our faculty better. Day trips, including Kever Rachel, Me’arat Ha-Machpelah, and other destinations, are interspersed throughout the year, while extended tours of the areas of Eilat, the Negev, Galil and Golan facilitate the student's appreciation of the Land of Israel.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Intermediate to Advanced: Can independently learn Chumash and Mefarshim

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Intermediate: Shiurim are in Hebrew and English.

Religious Observance Required

Full commitment to Shmirat Torah U-Mitzvot.

Population

Type of American Student

Midreshet Moriah draws students from all types of schools, from community day schools to yeshiva high schools to Beis Yaakov and Chabad schools. Our goal is to create a true community of learners – meaning that each individual is unique, and our “community” as a whole is heterogeneous. We’re not a “cookie cutter” kind of school, and we actively seek out students who do not all fit into the same mold. We work very hard to achieve diversity among the student body, with a balance between students with different kinds of talents, like in a real community – some talented in the Bet Midrash, others in Midot Tovot, others in leadership, so that our students can all learn from one another. One third of our students each year are from communities outside the Tri-State area, in keeping with the national statistics on the American Jewish population.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

80-95

Foreign Student Percentage

No information provided

Number of 1st Year American Students

70-84

Number of 2nd Year American Students

8-15

Other Nationalities

Students have attended from many countries including Canada, Great Britain, Australia, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, South Africa, Brazil and Costa Rica.

Number of Students per Class

The faculty to student ratio is 2.5:1. Sizes of classes vary from 5 to 45 students.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Each apartment for 6 girls, in our residence building Beit Ruby, contains 3 bedrooms, is climate-controlled with AC/Heat, has a refrigerator and microwave in the kitchen and has two bathrooms. The building is supervised by an Em Bayit and 4 resident madrichot. Students generally live two to a room and may request their apartment mates or go "potluck". Students may invite female friends over to sleep during the week and for Shabbatot. Laundry machines are in the building, shared by all students. Our Bet Midrash, classrooms, student computers, offices and dining facilities are all located in a separate building, a 7 minute walk from the apartments. 

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Meals are served on days when shiurim are in session. Meals include a breakfast of American cereal and milk, catered lunch, and dinner four nights a week (Monday evenings are free time). Students may also use the microwave ovens, burners and ovens in the Midrasha kitchen to prepare their own meals. The shopping nearby also offers a great variety of options.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students can stay in together for Shabbat with a madrichah. Midreshet faculty homes are always open to our students, and we assist those who would like to be accommodated in locations all over Israel. We allow guests as well. The dorm is open for Chol Ha-Mo’ed Sukkot (except Shabbat) and is closed for the days of Yom Tov. We spend Shavuot together at Midreshet. We allow guests as well.

Curfew

Curfew weeknights is 12:00 AM, and on Thursday nights and Motzei Shabbat at 12:30. Students who leave for Shabbat fill out a form with the pertinent information. During vacation times, members of the administration check in with the students to make sure everything’s OK.

Security Arrangements

Our new campus in the quiet, safe, beautiful Jerusalem neighborhoo of Baka is protected by security guards and cameras. On all tiyyulim, we are accompanied by armed escorts. Restrictions on travel are based on real-time assessment of the situation with our contacts in the security agencies. In the event of a terrorist incident in Israel, God forbid, we ascertain the whereabouts of every student and then an immediate e-mail message is sent to parents notifying them to this effect.

History

Midreshet was founded in 1987 by Rabbi Meyer Berglas, who continues to inspire and enlighten students today as our Dean, in response to the need for a strongly Zionist, high-level learning program for girls looking to connect to Torat Yisrael and Am Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael Midreshet is very proud of its almost 2000 alumnae, all of whom continue their education after Midreshet at leading universities. For 28 years, Midreshet Moriah called the same place home: the campus of Shaare Zedek Medical Center. Our central location served twenty-eight years of young women as they grew in Torah and Yir’at Shamayyim in the heart of Yerushalayyim. Our new campus,on the other side of Jerusalem, is located in the quiet, safe, beautiful Jerusalem neighborhood of Baka and is set within its own picturesque, charming grounds, along the beloved Mesilah- with lots of spots to sit and enjoy conversation with teachers and friends.We are excited to finally have a building all to ourselves where we can truly feel at home.

Accrediting Universities

Midreshet Moriah is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. We also participate in the joint programs of Touro College and Hebrew Theological College. In addition, credits earned at Midreshet Moriah are accepted by many other colleges and universities in North America.

Tuition

Tuition is 97,500 NIS and includes the academic program, dormitory, health insurance, all school tiyulim, daily light breakfast, hot lunch and dinner, and Shabbat meals.

Additional Information

What makes Midreshet a special place? A warm environment with caring, approachable teachers; a schedule with maximum flexibility and variety; our incomparable, beautiful Beit Midrash; and our passionate Religious Zionist approach.

Contact Information for Midreshet Moriah

Israel

Rav Eitan Mayer
Azarya 1
Jerusalem 9622226

Phone: (02) 652-7449
Fax: (02) 651-1524
Email: midreshetoffice@gmail.com

www.midreshetmoriah.com

Click here to learn about Midreshet Rachel V'Chaya

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

For students to develop a sophisticated understanding of Torah, themselves, and the connection between the two. For students to recognize their unique place in the Jewish people, the strength which this gives them and the responsibility it places upon them. For students to appreciate the impact of our return to the Land of Israel and the unique opportunity which this creates. For students to understand the world around them, the challenges which specifically define our generation, and how this effects our connection to Torah and one another. For students to internalize their commitment to Torah in a deep and genuine manner so that they can live in the world with integrity as a genuinely religious and growing person. For students to understand what it means to be a Torah observant Jewish woman in this generation and to truly identify and define themselves around this concept.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

We deeply appreciate that we have the opportunity to live in Eretz Yisrael and in Medinat Yisrael. We recognize that this gift was given to enable us to create a community based on Torah values in our Land. We recognize that staggering personal sacrifices were made to make this possible, often by people with very different ideas of what Eretz Yisrael should be. We encourage our students to understand with depth and sensitivity the varying approaches held by different communities to the religious relevance of Medinat Yisrael, so that their personal hashkafic choices are made thoughtfully rather than simply through cultural association. In practical terms, Midreshet Tehillah celebrates Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim and appropriately observes Yom HaShoah and Yom HaZikaron.

Attitude Towards University Studies

After completing their year at Midreshet Tehillah students scatter to the full gamut of college and university options. Many attend Stern or Touro, some go to local colleges and universities, some stay in Israel for a second year, some attend fast track college degree granting programs, a few attend more prestigious secular universities.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

The academic program at Midreshet Tehillah is intense and focused so there is little time for major projects outside the structure of the program. That being said students with strong interest in particular activities have found avenues through which to pursue those interests while in school such as setting up art lessons with local artists—the neighborhood in which the school is located is endowed with a number of richly talented people in diverse areas. Our curriculum includes one evening a week of Chugim – informal educational activities such as Jewish Music, Jewish Art, Israel Advocacy, Meditation and Mindfullness etc.  Students often organize other chugim amongst themselves (Karate etc). Many of our students are careful about exercise and either jog or join a nearby gym or pool. There is also excellent gym equipment on campus next to the laundry room, allowing students to go around in circles along with their laundry.

Preparation for Post Israel

We end the year with a “Re-Entry Seminar” devoted to meeting the challenges of continuing growth upon return from seminary. In addition, students are counseled individually and offered guidance for their particular circumstances.

The "Successful" Student

In this increasingly complex, amoral, and intrusive world a student has been successful at Midreshet Tehillah if she internalizes her love, understanding, and commitment to Torah, Mitzvot, and the Jewish People to the point where she can hold solidly to her ideals through life and make good, healthy choices reflective of her true values. Our goal is for students to become deeper versions of themselves.

Dress

Our dress code is typical for a strong seminary. Most of our students have one neck two elbows and two knees. Relatively loose-fitting clothing must cover these areas and everything in between with no slits in skirts and closed-toed footwear. Generally the dress at Midreshet Tehillah is casual — though some students dress more formally, depending upon background, cultural differences, taste. The diversity of our student body is reflected in a diversity of dress styles.

Guidance Personnel

Midreshet Tehillah is renowned for the close and lasting relationships built up between students and faculty members over the course of the year. There are many levels of mentoring available within the school. We try to give students plenty of space to choose the level of closeness or privacy they desire, but a 20 minute one on one with a designated faculty member either for learning or schmoozing is built into every student's schedule. Teachers are trained to bring sophistication to their understanding and interaction with students, but also to know their limits. We have staff with professional training and experience to recognize when a student needs something more and to facilitate her getting it.

Supervision

Attendance at all classes and school activities is required. On-campus curfew at 11:30 pm is strictly enforced. Several families reside on the grounds and, to maintain security, an armed guard is on duty at the main entrance to the gated campus.

Curriculum

Makeup

The curriculum centers around deep learning of Machshava, Hashkafa, Tanach, Halacha, and Jewish History, with a textual source as the centerpiece of each class. The program is weighed more heavily toward deep understanding than breadth of knowledge. We concentrate our efforts on stretching students intellectually. For those looking for more of a text and skills focus and to be stretched academically, we have a parallel Beit Midrash Track with ample guided chavruta learning complimenting class discussion.

Courses Offered
  • Machshava: Ramchal, Pirkei Machshava, Bayit Yehudi, Bein Adam, Ta’amei Hamitzvot, Ma’agal Hashana, Torah MiSinai,Tefillah, Musar, Pirkei Avot, Parsha Bekiut and Iyun, and much more
  • Tanach: Bereishit, Parsha, Chumash Be’Iyun, Beit Midrash, Mishlei, Tehillim, Shevatim B'Tanach, Melachim, Overview of Nach, Topics in Sefer Devarim, and much more.
  • Halacha: Hilchot Shabbat, Hilchot Tefillah/Kashrut, Hilchot Bein Adam l'Chavero, Hilchot Nashim, Torah SheBa’al Peh.
  • History: Modern Jewish History, Historical Development of Torah
Daily Schedule

Classes run from Sunday through Thursday, 9:00 – 12:50 for everyone, 2:00 – 5:30 with flexibility of scheduling depending upon the course selection of the student, and 7:00 – 8:45 for everyone.

Language of Instruction

Classes are taught in English, as our primary goal is deep comprehension and the material we present is subtle, requiring one to work with her mother tongue for precise understanding. We offer an optional ulpan for those seeking to improve their conversational Hebrew.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

Ulpan is offered.

Assessment and Grading

Grades are based on tests, papers, projects, attendance, and class participation. The school is generally experienced as a lishma experience – serious but not stressful. But there are midterms and finals, as grades are needed for college credit. 

Shana Bet

Midreshet Tehilla has a Shana Bet program. Mornings and evenings are kodesh. Afternoons are dedicated to college work, with an option to complete a US BA during the second year or to take classes that will advance the process of attaining a BA upon return to the US.

Joint Program

College accreditations by: YU/Stern, Touro, Teacher’s Institute of Chicago, NCCR

Staff

  • Rabbi Dr. Dovid Refson, Dean
  • Jeremy Kagan, Minahel
  • Rabbi Anthony Manning, Co-Director
  • Mrs. Susan Kagan – Co-Director
  • Mrs. Michal Levy – Extra Curricular Coordinator
  • Mrs. Ariella Cohen, Housemother
  • Rabbi Zev Leff
  • Rabbi Yehoshua Schwab
  • Rabbi Shlomo Cohen
  • Rabbi Shalom Apelbaum
  • Mrs. Arielle Arieli
  • Ms. Miriam Brunner
  • Mrs Nechama Carter
  • Mrs Ilana Cowland
  • Rabbi Jamie Cowland
  • Mrs. Brocha David
  • Mrs Ayelet Encave
  • Mrs Rena Gershenfeld
  • Ms. Ayelet Gordon
  • Mrs. Leah Hasten
  • Mrs. Raquel Kirszenbaum
  • Rabbi Gabi Kruskal
  • Rabbi Samuel Landau
  • Rabbi Dov Lev
  • Mrs. Chana Levitan
  • Rabbi Yaakov Marcus
  • Mrs. Nadia Morris
  • Mrs. Shalva Muschel
  • Rabbi Menachem Nissel
  • Mrs. Rivki Norman
  • Mrs. Tova Orenbuch
  • Rabbi Simcha Poupko
  • Rabbi Y.A. Refson
  • Rabbi Menachem Salasnick
  • Rabbi Baruch Schechter
  • Mrs Bracha Sendic
  • Mrs, Rochel Silber
  • Mrs. Miriam Tannenbaum
  • Rabbi Moshe Yehudah Turner

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Students spend Shabbatot throughout the country and do chesed both with families and in institutions in Jerusalem.

Special Informal Programs

Chagigot and the inter-seminary choir competition open artistic outlets to students. Yamei Iyun allow for concentrated focus on specific topics and guest lectures introduce some of the outstanding personalities of the Jewish World to our students.

Sports Facilities

There is gym equipment on campus. There are also dance and exercise classes on the campus (for a small fee). In the surrounding area there are several professional gyms and a swimming pool.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

Approximately once a month, we have Shabbatonim. Several of these are held off campus to allow students to experience different communities around the country – for example Tzfat, the Old City, Bnei Brak, a Yishuv and others - broadening their understanding of what it is or can be like to live in Israel. On Shabbatot and Yamim Tovim when Midreshet Tehillah does not have a group program organized most students make their own arrangements with family and friends. We assist all those who want help setting up meals with families and faculty members.

Field Trips

The Midreshet Tehillah program includes a full compliment of day and over night tiyulim traveling around the country. Emphasis is put on seeing the places where the events of Tanach occurred and hiking to give students a chance to form a personal connection with Eretz Yisrael. Accommodations are made for those who have difficulty hiking.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Classes are on a sophisticated level for students with a serious interest in learning, thinking, and growing. Classes are presented in a fashion which accommodates Hebrew skill levels ranging from beginner to complete fluency.

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Student Hebrew levels range from beginners to complete fluency. All classes which work directly with text have beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.

Religious Observance Required

Full commitment to shemirat Torah and mitzvot.

Population

Type of American Student

Students typically come from Yeshiva High Schools such as Bruriah and Yeshiva of Greater Washington, or out of town Beit Yaakovs like Valley Torah or BY of Baltimore. Of the American girls, typically about 1/4 come from NY, and about 3/4 come from outside NY.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

60 - 70 students

Foreign Student Percentage

About 1/4 of our students are foreign, with the majority from England and South Africa.

Number of 1st Year American Students

50 - 60 students

Number of 2nd Year American Students

Typically 10 -15 students stay on for our shana bet program.

Other Nationalities

England, South Africa, Brazil, Switzerland, Holland, Germany, Poland, Ukraine, Mexico, and Australia.

Number of Students per Class

Varies by class with the smallest having six to eight students. A few classes per week are given to the whole school together.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

The school is housed on the spacious Neve Yerushalayim campus, with plenty of open, green spaces contained within this gated facility. Residence buildings are divided into apartments, with each apartment having four or six bedrooms and washroom facilities with showers. Three - four students live in each bedroom. The large dining hall serves three meals a day. Washing machines and dryers for laundry are available in the main school building. There is a gym facility. 

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Three meals a day are provided in the campus dining room. Meals are also served during vacations. Our building has a small kitchen with a fridge, sink, counter space, cupboards, and a microwave. Students generally develop extraordinary creativity and skill in supplementing their diet with these minimal facilities.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

The dorm is always open, with meals either provided on campus or with families in the neighborhood.

Curfew

On-campus curfew at 11:30 any night when there are classes the next day, and 12:00 on nights that do not have classes the next day, such as Thursday night.

Security Arrangements

Armed guard 24 hours at the campus gate. Students have Student ID cards which are required to enter the campus late at night. Students are updated on the country-wide security situation when relevant and when it is deemed necessary we restrict students’ movement.

History

Midreshet Tehillah first began in 2002, and has rapidly risen to prominence, becoming a program of choice for motivated students looking for a genuine growth experience.

Accrediting Universities

YU/Stern, Touro, Teacher’s Institute of Chicago

Tuition

Tuition is $25,000

Contact Information

Midreshet Tehillah
1 Beit Yitzchak Street, Hakablan
(mailing address) P.O. Box 43016
Har Nof, Jerusalem 91430
Phone: (02) 654-4578
Email: mtehillah@nevey.org
Website: http://midreshettehillah.nevey.org

Rabbi Jeremy Kagan
+1-347-408-1453
+972-50-709-4747
rjeremykagan@yahoo.com

Rabbi Anthony Manning
+972-54-475-6734
rabbi@rabbimanning.com

At Midreshet Torat Chessed, we believe in the power of a multi-faceted Year-in-Israel experience. Our program combines serious Torah learning with meaningful and intensive chessed in a way that is life altering, as each aspect mutually enhances the other.  Our students spend their mornings and evenings immersed in Torah learning, and then devote their afternoons as counselors to the amazing children at Bet Elazraki children’s home. We believe that these two elements go hand in hand- that the Torah learning provides a spiritual framework for the chessed in the afternoons, just as the chessed adds significance and unique meaning to the Torah learning being done in the morning. Each student in the program is thereby able to recognize her own singular talents and strengths within the context of Jewish life and the Jewish land, and learns, in the most concrete way, the power of her ability to give. This combination arms our students towards a life of learning and giving, all within the context of Avodat Hashem.

Hashkafa

Goal of Program
The goal of MTC is for our students to grow in their Torah observance and commitment, while also gaining a deep appreciation for the role that chessed and giving can play in their lives as Jews. Our program seeks to help students recognize their unique talents and strengths- and to have the opportunity to express those talents within the context of the Jewish community. We also aim to cultivate a love for, and appreciation of, Eretz Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael- through the daily interaction with Israeli children as well as the wide array of tiyulim and Shabbatonim that we offer throughout the year.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael
Our program not only conveys a deep love for Eretz Yisrael but an appreciation for Medinat Yisrael and for our ability to live in, govern, and protect our own land. Yom Hazikaron/Ha’atzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim are celebrated at MTC.

Attitude Towards University Studies
Students in our program are encouraged to attend university, and time is devoted to planning for life after seminary and to discussing various options. We convey the blessing and privilege of being able to attend a Jewish university when possible, and we discuss the importance of seeking out appropriate and meaningful Jewish resources when in secular environments.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities
In addition to the wide variety of extracurricular activities that our students participate in with the children of the Home (weekly water sports, running chug, art classes etc…), aerobics and/or Zumba is offered on campus once a week, and students are encouraged and assisted in finding local classes and chugim that interest them.

Preparation for Post Israel
MTC recognizes the challenges that students face after leaving their year in Israel – whether it’s going off to college or returning back home after an intensive and growth-filled year. We provide various Yemei Iyun (special lectures) about these topics and try to help our students anticipate various hurdles and feel capable to overcome them.

The "Successful" Student
The successful MTC student is one who views the year as an opportunity to grow and to give.  She is a person who is interested in personal and religious growth, and is someone wants to connect more deeply with Am Yisrael, Torat Yisrael, and Eretz Yisrael.

Dress
We believe that the laws of tzniut help create a more serious and respectful atmosphere to allow for learning and growth. We enforce a standard of tzniut for all students. For details, please see our website:  http://toratchessed.com/about-mtc/faqs/

Guidance Personnel
The mental health of our students is of utmost importance to us. Our Director is a trained social worker, and she lives next to campus in order to be available at all times. In addition, our eim bayit lives on campus with our students and oversees all their emotional needs. MTC provides a loving and caring environment and our students feel very close to all of our staff.

Supervision

The students' dorms are part of the Children's Home Campus which is monitored by cameras and a security guard 24 hours a day. Several members of administration live near campus and each villa has its own madricha. Students are able to travel for out-shabbatot, but must submit all details for where they will be staying and provide an emergency contact number.

Curriculum

Makeup
Midreshet Torat Chessed offers a wide variety of Torah and Judaic classes in the mornings, and then switches to a full afternoon of chessed with the kids in Bet Elazraki children’s home.  In addition, students have night seder twice a week, a weekly social work course to help in their chessed work, and a special weekly seminar on Israel Advocacy staffed by the organization StandWithUs.

Courses Offered
We offer a wide range of classes, including Tanach, Jewish law, Jewish philosophy, Jewish history, and Gemara. Each hour offers multiple class options, allowing students to build a schedule that suits their interests. In addition, we offer Open Beit Midrash for students who also want some time to pursue their own learning. Please check our website : http://toratchessed.com/ for a more detailed schedule.

Daily Schedule
After davening, students have classes from 9:00-13:00. There is then a lunch break until 3pm, when students can partake in the hot lunch served in the campus dining room. The students then go to their assigned children’s groups within Bet Elazraki and remain with their kids until dinner at 7pm. Three evenings a week our students have night seder from 8-9:30 pm. The other evenings consist of free time and programming.

Language of Instruction
Our program and classes run in English. The afternoon chessed done in the children’s home is primarily in Hebrew. However, knowing fluent Hebrew is not required to attend MTC.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class
Ulpan is a required class, and students are placed by level. Through their daily interactions with the children and staff of Bet Elazraki, our students grow tremendously in their Hebrew abilities.

Assessment and Grading
At the end of each semester, teachers assign assessments as an opportunity to help our students process the semester’s material, and in order to determine their final grades. Students receive a transcript at the completion of the program.

Shana Bet
MTC welcomes interested students to stay Shana Bet, in order to continue to strengthen their connection to Torah learning and daily chessed. We are happy to accommodate them by creating a program- the nature of the specific program each year depends on the number of students.

Joint Program
MTC participates in Yeshiva University’s Joint Israel Program. Students can obtain a full year of American academic college credits for their studies in our program.

Faculty

Please see our website for the full list and bios of our wonderful staff - http://toratchessed.com/about-mtc/faculty/

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis
Students at MTC have many interactions with Israelis on a daily basis. Through their work at Bet Elazraki's Children Home each afternoon, our students have the privilege to spend wonderful quality time with the children, and staff at Bet Elazraki.

Special Informal Programs
Informal educational programing is a major component of the MTC experience. Thursday evenings are dedicated to our "bayit cham" program, where our students have the opportunity to visit the house of a staff member and learn together in an informal way. In addition, throughout the year we hold regular Yemei Iyun and special programming to enhance our students' year.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov
We have approximately two in-Shabbatot a month, either on campus or away in communities throughout the country. On out-shabbatot, students have the option of staying on campus if they choose.  For some chagim, MTC is “in” and provides programming, while for others, students are put up at homes and are able to celebrate in various communities. Our staff will always assist students looking to be set up for Shabbat or chag.

Field Trips
Tiyulim are a major part of the MTC experience. We offer several multi-day trips throughout the year. We also offer many day tiyulim that serve as educational, inspirational, and fun bonding experiences

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered
Students come to MTC from varying backgrounds and levels- and our classes span a wide range of levels and topics, in order to accommodate the needs of our entire student body.

Hebrew Knowledge Required
Minimal. Higher level Hebrew is helpful with the chessed work with the kids, but not necessary.

Religious Observance Required
Students come from various backgrounds, but our program requires a commitment to Torah and Shemirat Mitzvot.

Population

Type of Student
Our students come mostly from United States and Canada, with some coming from England.

Overall Number of Students
Approximately 25-28 students

Foreign Student Percentage
100% (we do not have an Israeli program)

Number of Students per Class
Average class size is 10 students, but it varies widely as students are allowed to choose their own classes.

Accommodations

Living Quarters
Our campus in located in Netanya, and is a 10 minute walk from the beach. Students live in two beautifully furnished villas right next to the Bet Elazraki campus. In addition to the bedrooms, each villa has a spacious living room, large kitchen, and outdoor area. Each room houses 2-4 students.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities
Each villa has a large kitchen that students can use to make their own food if they choose. In addition, they are provided cereal and milk and two hot meals a day in the Bet Elazraki cafeteria.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov
Students have the option to stay in during out shabbatot and almost all holidays. On the rare occasion that the facility is closed, MTC will help accommodate any students needing a place.

Curfew
We have a curfew which is strictly monitored- on most nights it is at 12am, and on Monday evenings and Motzei Shabbat it is 1am. Students must provide us with the name and phone numbers of the family or friends they are with when they leave for vacation times.

Security Arrangements
The villas are kept locked, and have a gate (with a code) in order to enter. The on campus security guard makes rounds each night to all our dorms. All school trips follow standard security procedures.

History

Midreshet Torat Chessed opened its doors in 2013.The mission was to create a year-in-Israel program housed in the Bet Elazraki children’s home in order to provide an alternative seminary experience for girls who are looking to be involved in chessed in addition to their Torah learning.

Accrediting Universities

Midreshet Torat Chessed is a member of the Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program, as well as the Touro College Israel Option.

Tuition

Our tuition for the 2021-2022 year is $26,500. Midreshet Torat Chessed offers needs-based financial aid.

Additional Information

Contact Information

Israel address:

Midreshet Torat Chesed
Rabbi Tarfon 7
Netanya Israel 42448

email- office@mtcstaff.com
phone- 052-436-5031

American Address:

American Friends of Midreshet Torat Chessed
C/O Mrs. Sarah Struhl Packer
585 West End Ave. Apt. 1H
New York, NY 10024

Midreshet Torah V’Avodah (MTVA), under the auspices of Bnei Akiva of North America, World Bnei Akiva, and in partnership with Matan, draws on over 75 years of combined experience of Religious Zionist education in Israel. The young women who join TVA are looking for an immersive and intensive Torah learning experience that prepares them for the rest of their lives in a broad and integrated fashion. Our students want to learn Torah at a high level, and encounter Israeli society in a meaningful way.

Along with focused in-depth Torah study with the most impressive teachers in all of Israel, MTVA opens its students up to Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael through brief targeted internships, intense volunteering and service learning, living and working on Kibbutz, exploring pivotal issues facing the future of the Jewish people, intensive spoken-Hebrew language training, and exciting tiyulim throughout the year. All of these experiences are infused with rigorous Torah learning and apartment living in the dynamic community of Katamonim in Jerusalem.

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

TVA is founded upon the values on Bnei Akiva and Modern Orthodoxy.  TVA envisions Jewish learning in the broadest sense, including the following:

  • Serious study and skills building of Talmud, Tanach, Halakha, and Jewish philosophy at the highest level with world-renowned educators at MATAN.
  • Study of Religious Zionism and deep exposure to the political and cultural systems of Israel
  • Immersive and intense Hebrew language education
  • Experiential education including trips, volunteering, and leadership training
  • Integration of Torah with classics of Western literature and thought—thus modeling future learning in college and beyond in which immersion in Torah learning will be impossible.  This will set the students up for success as they look back at their gap year and attempt to emulate this in future years.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

TVA and Bnei Akiva firmly believe in the ideal of “Am Yisrael b’Eretz Yisrael al-pi Torat Yisrael,” that the Jewish people are meant to live in the Land of Israel according to the laws of the Torah. Everything that we do at TVA is based on this premise. Everyone on our staff is a true lover of Eretz Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael, and they are eager to share this love with the talmidot.

Attitude Towards University Studies

TVA is proud that many of its students attend top universities in the United States, Canada and Israel. Toward the end of the academic year we spend a significant amount of time providing those attending secular universities with the tools needed to succeed there and to take leadership roles in their campus societies.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

At TVA, Extra-curricular activities are not “extra,” but an integrated part of the holistic and broad educational model of Torah v’Avodah.  TVA is committed to its mission of providing high level Torah study, combined with a plethora of activities outside of the Beit Midrash. Nothing at TVA takes place in a vacuum; everything is part of a well thought out course of limud Torah, activities that will guarantee that you fall in love with the land of Israel and the people of Israel, and service to Am Yisrael. This includes tiyulim throughout the country, working on a kibbutz, volunteering once a week in various “chesed” settings, one week of teaching English in development towns in the south, 1 month of targeted internships in Jerusalem businesses and organizations and much, much more.

Preparation for Post Seminary

We view the year at Midreshet Torah V’Avodah as a springboard for life as a Jewish woman. We strive to help each student make smart choices for the future and to give them the tools to actualize those choices in the most self-fulfilling way possible. For students who go to universities outside of Israel, we spend considerable time discussing ways to give to and receive from the Jewish communities on campuses. A considerable number of our students choose to stay in Israel, doing National Service (Sheirut Leumi), joining the IDF, or attending Israeli universities. Those students instantly become part of the Bnei Akiva family in Israel.

Dress Code

At MTVA, we strive to create a very special religious atmosphere. Part of this atmosphere involves the kinds of clothes our participants wear. We therefore enforce specific guidelines for dress code.  The MTVA dress code is to be followed at all times, even while on vacation, free Shabbatot, and on tiyulim.  Additionally, since the apartment building is shared with others, the dress code also must be followed in the hallways, on the terraces, and in any other public areas.

  • All skirts must cover the knee.
  • Skirt slits may not extend above the knees.
  • Tight fitting skirts, mini-skirts, pants, and shorts are not permissible.
  • Shirts must be styled modestly, not tight, shirtsleeves must reach the elbow, and necklines must approach the collarbone.
  • Tank tops, sleeveless shirts, cap sleeves, low cut shirts or tight-fitting shirts may not be worn. Shirts and shirt sleeves must be long enough and high enough that no midriff, underarms, or cleavage is exposed when you are standing, sitting or as a result of regular movement.  Sheer and lace tops are also not permitted.
  • No body piercings other than earrings are permissible.
  • No dying of hair in an unusual way
  • Underwear may not be showing at any time.
  • No writing across the rear end is allowed on any clothing.

Guidance Personnel

TVA has trail blazed a new attitude toward guidance during the year in Israel.  Our staff is extremely hands-on.  The administration, the Em-bayit, the Rakezet, the madrichot, the guidance counselor, and many of the teachers are extremely well acquainted with each and every student.  In addition to formal, scheduled meetings, there are constant discussions between various staff members to make sure that every student is getting what she needs at all times. In addition, the staff is extremely accessible to the students and they feel very comfortable coming to them at any time when they have an issue or challenge to deal with.

We also offer a wide variety of mental health services. Guidance counselor, Dina Kessler, M.Sc., heads the team and directs both the formal and informal services. We focus on how to make behavioral changes in a way that allows the students to integrate the concepts of middot with practical methods of habit change.  As part of our personal growth program, we also have our students take the VIA strength assessment to identify and highlight their strengths. This can be especially helpful in the leadership components of our program, where a student can use this information to tailor their leadership style and contributions.

Additionally, our Mashgichot Ruchaniyot, Rabbanit Shani Taragin, Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash, Rabbanit Michal Jacob, and Dr. Tamara Spitz, run weekly small group processing workshops to encourage reflection and deliberation on crucial religious issues that arise during the seminary year. Furthermore, the guidance counselor and Mashgichot schedule individual meetings with students and open office hours. The support staff is thereby able to assist students in working through personal challenges and to guide each student towards maximizing his or her potential and character. In cases where a student requires more extensive mental health services, we have a network of private licensed practitioners, with whom we refer, and contacts at The Family Institute of Nevey Yerushalayim when finances are an issue.

Supervision

MTVA is a program that nurtures independent adults within a structured framework. Students live in wonderful apartments in the heart of Jerusalem and are integrated into the local community and synagogues. An Eim Bayit (house mother), Educational Director, and a staff of madrichot (counselors) help them navigate the transition to independent adulthood successfully. Students walk to shul and the Beit Midrash and shop in the neighborhood. At the same time, there is a nightly curfew and there is a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol or other substances.

Curriculum

Schedule

Please navigate here for a sample schedule.

Along with this schedule, students have the option of attending the amazing classes that are given to the larger Matan community.  All of our classes incorporate preparatory work in the Beit Midrash in order to build independent learning skills.

Please click here for the MTVA course catalog.

Ulpan

In additional to consistent shiurim (courses) offered in Hebrew, we offer an immersive Ulpan course to focus on hebrew language training

Assessment and Grading

There are generally no exams at TVA--students are assessed by their ability to prepare a shiur and deliver it using the methodologies from their shiurim, thus demonstrating and honing their own abilities for the future. Transcripts are provided to all students upon requests.

Shana Bet

Students are offered the option of integrating Sherut Leumi with learning for their Shana Bet.

Joint Program

Midreshet Torah V’Avodah is one of many programs affiliated with the Joint Israel Program at Yeshiva University/Stern College.

Staff

Please navigate to our site for a list of our incredible staff.

Extra-Curricular Activities

At TVA, Extra-curricular activities are not “extra,” but an integrated part of the holistic and broad educational model of Torah v’Avodah.  TVA is committed to its mission of providing high level Torah study, combined with a plethora of activities outside of the Beit Midrash. Nothing at TVA takes place in a vacuum; everything is part of a well thought out course of limud Torah, activities that will guarantee that you fall in love with the land of Israel and the people of Israel, and service to Am Yisrael. This includes tiyulim throughout the country, intensive on-site Israel advocacy training, working on a kibbutz, volunteering once a week in various “chessed” settings, one week of teaching English in development towns in the south, Leadership training in politics and economics, targeted internships in Jerusalem businesses and organizations, Magen David Adom courses and much, much more.

Shabbatot

There are three models of Shabbatot on TVA:

  • In-Shabbatot, where students stay in their apartments in Jerusalem with programming, meals, and ruach.  Part of these shabbatot includes home hospitality at local families in the neighborhood.
  • Shabbatonim, where we go to various important destinations in Israel, such as Tzfat, or join with all of the World Bnei Akiva programs for special programming.
  • Out Shabbatot (approximately half of the time), when students can visit friends or family, or stay in their own apartments, with the em bayit helping secure them meals at local host families.

The apartments belong to the young women for the year--they are available at any time and the em bayit is always on call to help arrange meals for Chagim.  TVA students also have special programming for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, and can take advantage of special programming during the month of Nissan.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Intermediate and Advanced

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Intermediate

Religious Observance Required

Students must be fully committed to Shmirat Torah u'Mitzvot

Population

Type of American Student

Our students come from all over the US and Canada, as well as Europe. Our enrollment is capped at 47. Classes range from small seminar-type classes to large lectures that are part of the general Matan community shiurim.  Hundreds of women pass through Matan on a weekly basis for high-level learning in Tanach, Machshava, Halakha, and Gemara.

Accommodations

Living/Learning Facilities

MTVA is based in MATAN’s lovely and modern 3 story building in the Katamonim neighborhood of Jerusalem. There is a large auditorium, a well-stocked Beit Midrash/library, classrooms and a spacious lounge where the girls eat lunch and dinner every day. In the Beit Midrash there are accessible computers equipped with access to online research sites and the Bar Ilan CD as well as other online Judaica libraries.

The apartment building, a 1 minute walk from MATAN, is situated on convenient bus lines, within walking distance of major supermarkets, gyms, and parks where the students are able to exercise and relax.  Girls have 1-2 roommates and about 6-8 apartment mates. The madrichot live in the apartments with the students and are a guiding force in helping to create a comfortable and Torani environment. The students are expected to keep their apartments and personal space clean and are provided with the cleaning supplies that are necessary.

Living in an apartment building with Israeli families for neighbors exposes the students to what it is like to really live in Jerusalem.  They have the independence of living on their own with the comfort of having a support system through the madrichot, Eim Bayit, and staff.

This setup for the apartments is reflective of our education goals of training them towards independent living and ownership of their own religious and personal growth. At the same time, having everyone in one building is wonderful, as it helps facilitate the forming of a close and cohesive group.

The Eim Bayit’s family lives on the first floor of the building giving the students enough independence while at the same time having a constant address for any concerns.

Kitchen Facilities

Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen for milk and meat.  While a dairy lunch and pareve or meat dinner are provided every day the students still have the facilities to cook for themselves and learn about keeping a kosher kitchen.

Laundry facilities are spread throughout the apartments.

Shabbat and Chagim

At MTVA we strive to make every Shabbat and Chag a beautiful and spiritual experience, including those which don’t have any official programming. Although students are always encouraged to go out to different places for free Shabbatot and any chagim we are not together, the apartments are always available for them, including during Sukkot and Pesach vacations. There is always either a madricha or the Eim Bayit on premises and the students are encouraged to join them for meals, or be set up around the community. When we spend Shabbat as a group in the apartments, we have some meals together, and for others we facilitate the students going to families in the neighborhood to help them feel even more like they are part of the community.

Curfew

There is a nightly curfew to ensure we are aware of each student’s whereabouts every night.

Security Arrangements

The safety and security of our students is our number one concern.  To that end we have security guards and/or cameras monitoring the school building and apartments, both at the entrances and in the hallways. There is also an electronic combination lock at the entrance to the apartments, and each apartment is locked with a key. On tiyulim we are accompanied by an armed guard, according to the strictest protocols of MASA and the Israeli Ministry of Education. Both buildings have fully functioning miklatim (specially reinforced rooms) that students are shown in orientation.  In case of a terror attack we have a phone system and whatsapp group in place to quickly locate each of our students.

History

Bnei Akiva is at the forefront of Religious Zionist education for youth, by youth. We have chapters across the United States, Canada, and the world over. Bnei Akiva school–year and summer educational programming takes participants and members from childhood through the college years.

Bnei Akiva is the premier religious Zionist youth movement dedicated to growing generations of Jews committed to building a society devoted to Torah and the Jewish people in the state of Israel.

For over 80 years, World Bnei Akiva (WBA) has been a leading provider of informal Jewish education for children and young adults around the globe, focusing on religious Zionism with its message of love of Torah, the Jewish People and the Land of Israel.

WBA teaches its members leadership skills, empowering them to become the next generation of Jewish leaders and social activists in their local communities and Israel.

Midreshet Torah V’Avodah (TVA) is the culmination of a years-long dream of Bnei Akiva of North America.  The movement was missing  a serious gap year program, and felt that without one it was impossible to fulfill the mission of educating its youth in the values of Torah V’Avodah.  It took many years of careful planning and of seeking out excellent people to initiate and run the program, before it came to fruition in the fall of 2014. TVA is proud to offer extremely high level Torah learning taught by leading educators. Midreshet Torah V’Avodah is located in Matan, the prominent institution for women’s advanced Torah studies that has just celebrated its 30th year.

Accrediting Universities

MTVA is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School.

Tuition

Tution for the 2019-20 year is $28,500 plus $3,500 registration fee.

Contact Information

In the United States

MIDRESHET TORAH V'AVODAH

Bnei Akiva of the US and Canada
520 8th Avenue, 15th Fl
New York NY 10018

Phone: (212) 465-9536
Fax: (212) 216-9578
Email: office@tvaisrael.org

In Israel

MIDRESHET TORAH V'AVODAH

Matan
30 Rashbag St.
Jerusalem 9108001

Phone- 050-7098304

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

The Beit Midrash for Women was founded in order to create a dynamic learning community for young women seeking to enhance their spiritual development through intensive, high-level Torah study. The program for overseas students is completely integrated into the Israeli program and is ideal for students with a serious commitment to Torah study who wish to progress in their Avodat Hashem and make a contribution to Am Yisrael while developing a strong kesher with Eretz Yisrael. The serious limmud, combined with the spiritually-uplifting ruach which permeates the Beit Midrash on a daily basis, and particularly on Shabbat and chagim, create an all-encompassing, unparalleled experience which will impact on the students for the rest of their lives.

The Beit Midrash for Women was established by the Roshei Yeshiva of Yeshivat Har Etzion, Harav Yehuda Amital and Harav Aharon Lichtenstein, who together with Roshei Yeshiva Harav Yaakov Medan and Harav Baruch Gigi, render guidance and educational expertise on an ongoing basis. The Beit Midrash is dedicated to fostering a synthesis between high-level, intensive and challenging Torah study, the spiritual quest for self-realization and the acceptance of communal responsibility for Am Yisrael. Students are expected to devote many hours and great diligence to their studies. The time spent in the Beit Midrash is very extensive, both in terms of the number of study hours and the inclusion of Shabbatot and Chagim as integral parts of the program. The high level and great breadth of the curriculum creates a comprehensive "learning community" for women at this prime stage in their lives.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

The Beit Midrash for Women is a totally Israeli program in which the students from overseas are fully integrated. Israeli students serve the country in the context of Sherut Leumi (National Service), either before or after their Beit Midrash studies. Yom Ha'atzmaut is celebrated as a religious holiday, with festive tefillot, a seuda, and singing and dancing.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Students are encouraged to attend university with the goal of being the pursuit of the best possible education they can obtain in the area of study which interests them and in which they can make an important contribution to society in general, and to Jewish society in particular. The Beit Midrash is aware of the challenges involved in interacting with the secular world and these issues are discussed at length with the Ramim and teachers over the course of the year in various contexts. Most of the Israeli students attend Bar Ilan University or Hebrew University. Some American students choose to remain in Israel to do Sherut Leumi (National Service) or for University, while others attend Stern College, U. of Penn, Columbia University, Brandeis University, and others.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Beyond the intensive study program, considerable effort is devoted to developing vibrant religious experiences on a daily basis. Confronting the topic of tefilla and emuna, Shabbatot and Chagim, are inseparable components of the Beit Midrash. Each Chag is preceded by special shiurim that are often given by guest speakers, focusing on different aspects of the holiday. The overall atmosphere helps strengthen the students' progression in Avodat Hashem, nurtures a sense of responsibility and commitment towards Am Yisrael, and provides an all-encompassing educational and growing experience. Informal discussion groups and chugim take place on a frequent basis with teachers, madrichot and older students. There are also evenings of spirited singing, animated Rosh Chodesh, Yom Ha'atzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim celebrations and much more, which all combine to have a profound and lasting effect on each student. Students participate in chessed activities, such as learning b'chevruta with children from Kibbutz Migdal Oz or volunteering with physically-challenged children and with the elderly. The Beit Midrash as a whole visits Beit Feuerstein in Jerusalem for physically-challenged children, senior citizen homes and schools in development areas, where they lead Rosh Chodesh and pre-holiday celebrations.

Preparation for Post Israel

While the year in Israel emphasizes intense Torah study, the message which we try to impart to the students is that the year in Israel is not separate from what comes after, but rather preparation for a lifetime of Torah study and a Torah way of life. The Ramim devote much time to discussing relevant issues with the students and are always available for guidance and to answer questions which may arise. The American students have separate chugim which discuss relevant issues pertaining specifically to them, such as aliya and secular college.

The "Successful" Student

The Beit Midrash strives to transmit the message to each student that her religious world constitutes the most significant part of her life. A "successful" alumna will continue to be God-fearing with a love of and commitment to Torah which will grow from year to year. We hope our alumnae will maximize their potential through advanced study and by making their unique contribution utilizing their special talents and abilities. A successful alumna will take what she received in the Beit Midrash, develop her skills and talents, and make a meaningful contribution to Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael wherever she chooses to live.

Dress

Students are expected to dress in accordance with accepted halachic standards, including elbow-length sleeves and knee-covering skirts, creating a modest appearance, thereby respecting kedushat ha'makom and the presence of the rabbis.

Guidance Personnel

Guidance personnel: Esti Rosenberg, the head of the Beit Midrash, is a wonderful role model for the students, and is available for discussion and advice. The Roshei Yeshiva of Yeshivat Har Etzion are the halachic poskim and spiritual and educational guides for the Beit Midrash. The rabbis and teachers, both male and female, interact with the students through study, discussions and extra-curricular activities, each a unique personality with different areas of expertise to share. The madrichot live on campus and the students benefit by the presence of older students, in their third or fourth year of study in the Beit Midrash, who connect with the students on a daily basis both in the Beit Midrash and outside of it.

Supervision

Students are expected to be self-motivated, responsible and mature individuals. Therefore, there is no curfew and no attendance taken.

Curriculum

Makeup

The course of study focuses on four major areas: Gemara, Halacha, Machshava and Tanach. The program is unique in that the bulk of study revolves around the Beit Midrash. There is an emphasis on chevruta-study. Some of the classes are frontal lectures while others are guided classes that include both intensive, independent preparation in the Beit Midrash and time spent in active discussion.

The daily learning in the Beit Midrash is divided into three main components. Mornings are devoted to intense learning of Gemara B'Iyun, afternoons to shiurim on many different areas of learning, and nights to chevruta learning in programs of Gemara and Machshava Bekiyut. A faculty member assists each student in building her personal balanced schedule according to her specific needs and desires.

Gemara B'Iyun (In-depth study) - Three mornings a week are devoted to Gemara, emphasizing understanding the sugya from beginning to end, from Torah She'b'chtav, mishna and following the chain of mesora of Torah she'be'al'pe through the Rishonim, Acharonim until the halacha of our day. Great effort is invested in aiding mastery of the Aramaic language and the acquisition of skills. Most of this learning takes place in the Beit Midrash b'chevruta with the Ram present to answer questions and help wherever necessary. After chevruta preparation, the group gets together for a shiur in Gemara b'iyun wherein the Rabbi deepens the learning of the sugya while taking the learning a few steps ahead. The Beit Midrash offers a selection of advanced level shiurim.

Extensive Study of Tanach (bekiyut) - This class entails energetic study, either individually or with a chevruta, at the rate of five chapters per day, with the goal of covering the entire Tanach in the course of the year. Students prepare during the week and class time is devoted to overview and analysis of each sefer, in terms of structure, content and ideology. Afternoon Study - There is a great variety of shiurim offered on topics in Halacha, Machshava, Chassidut and Tanach. Each shiur focuses on different texts and emphasizes different approaches. The smaller shiurim are characterized by more discussion, while shiurim with more preparation tend to be more interactive. In the beginning of the year, the students are advised to attend all shiurim and before the winter, each students builds her own personalized schedule of shiurim and chevrutot. There is always learning going on in the Beit Midrash and there are always teachers and more advanced students present to assist, guide and answer questions.

Night Seder - Two main programs:

Extensive Gemara study (bekiyut) - Every evening, five days per week, the students learn b'chevruta, with the aim of covering two pages of Gemara per week. The main goal is completing a Masechet through the acquisition of self-study skills. This includes a basic vocabulary in Aramaic, familiarity with canonical models of development of sugyot in the Gemara, and identification of key words that mark the course of the sugya: question, response, proof, conclusion, etc. The classes in the early weeks include directed reading of the Gemara; as concepts are assimilated, students are able to focus on the in-depth study of fundamental topics that arise in the text with an emphasis on practical ramifications. Learning is fostered through the use of sources from the Rishonim and Acharonim, commentaries of the Gemara and Responsa literature. The weekly shiur provides added perspective and depth.

Bekiyut Machshava - (Overview of Jewish Thought) - Guided self-study takes places 8-10 hours per week during night seder, accompanied by a review class. Through this class, students become familiar with the fundamentals of the philosophies of the great Jewish thinkers throughout Jewish history, through an analysis of methodological and substantive characteristics of their philosophies.

Courses Offered
  • Oral Law and Halacha
  • Introduction to Oral Law
  • Gemara
  • The Laws of Berachot
  • The Laws of Shabbat
  • Practical Topics in Halacha
  • Kashrut
  • Sugyot Bein Adam L'Chavero
  • The Mitzvot of Women
  • Wide range of classes in Tanach
  • Parashat Ha'shavua
  • Weekly Haftarot
  • Shiur that guides Bekiyut Tanach Program

Jewish Thought: Through exposure to Hassidic texts and texts of modern philosophers, the focus is on theological and philosophical questions dealt with in these books, aimed at internalizing the learning and its relevance to our lives and our avodat Hashem. Rav Tzadok Hacohen of Lublin; Reb Nachman of Breslov; Nefesh HaChaim (Reb Chaim of Volozhin) and Orot HaTorah (Rav Kook), Aggadot Chazal; Midrash; Rav Kook; and Sefat Emet (the Gerrer Rebbe).

Daily Schedule
  • 8:30 am - 12:45 pm - Morning Seder
  • 12:45 pm - 2:45 pm - Lunch and Break
  • 2:45 pm - 7:30 pm - Shiurim and chevruta time
  • 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Dinner and Break
  • 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm (and later) - Night Seder

The Beit Midrash offers many programs. The goal is to build a balanced personal learning schedule to enable maximal individual growth according to each student's individual needs and preferences. While structured, the program allows for some flexibility in terms of which shiurim to take and which framework of learning is preferred (smaller learning groups, chevruta -study, etc.)

There is a set time in the schedule for Shacharit and Mincha in the Beit Midrash. During the week, students daven individually while on Rosh Chodesh and Kabbalat Shabbat, they daven as a group. On Shabbat, students daven in the kibbutz shul. Three meals a day are provided.

Language of Instruction

All classes are in Hebrew and while it is a struggle for the American students for the first month or two, they quickly acclimate and greatly benefit by the Israeli learning environment.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

There are no Hebrew language or Ulpan classes offered.

Assessment and Grading

No grades are given and attendance is not taken in class. Students receive credit from certain universities, such as Stern College and Bar Ilan University.

Shana Bet

There is a formal Shana Bet program, as well as Shana Gimmel and Dalet, and students are encouraged to stay for further study. There are currently 25 second-year students and another 15 in their 3rd or 4th years of study. Most students in the advanced program combine their studies with university study or are enrolled in the Teacher Training Program in the Beit Midrash in conjunction with Herzog College. The Beit Midrash has recently been accredited by Israel's Ministry of Education to grant academic degrees in education through the Yaacov Herzog College of Yeshivat Har Etzion. The Beit Midrash aspires to create a continuum of study and spiritual growth for women between the ages of 18 and 25 (including 1-2 years of Sherut Leumi). Students from abroad often return during winter break to study in the Beit Midrash.

Joint Program

There is a joint program with Yeshiva University/Stern College for Women.

Staff

Esti Rosenberg is the head of the Beit Midrash. She is married to Rav Herzl Rosenberg, is the mother of seven children, and daughter of Rav Aharon and Dr. Tovah Lichtenstein.

The Poskim of the school are the Roshei Yeshiva of Yeshivat Har Etzion - Rav Aharon Lichtenstein, Rav Yaakov Medan, Rav Moshe Lichtenstein and Rav Baruch Gigi, in path of the late Rav Yehudah Amital.

The majority of the educational staff teach at Yeshivat Har Etzion and the Herzog College.

Ramim: Mrs. Naomi Adler, Rav Ze'ev Friedman, Rav Netanel Buchs, Rav Meir Nehorai, Rav Avishay Shreiber, Mrs. Dina Nagar, Mrs. Chani Kleiman.

Mashgicha: Mrs. Shayna Goldberg.

Overseas Director: Mrs. Racheli Schmell.

Educational Staff:
Mrs. Shani Taragin, Rav Yuval Cherlow, Ms. Or Machluf, Rav Elchanan Samet, Dr. Tani Feintuch, Rav Reuven Tubul, Mrs. Efrat Koslovsky, Mrs. Malka Puetrekovsky, Rav Amnon Bazak, Rav Aviezer Cohen, Rav Baruch Gigi, Dr. Yonatan Grossman, Rav Dan Hauser, Rav Yaakov Medan, Rav Chaim Navon, Rav Yehoshua Reiss, Rav Yosef Zvi Rimon, Rav Moshe Taragin, Dr. Shmuel Wygoda and Dr. Yael Ziegler.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

This program is unique in that it is a completely Israeli program. Overseas students are fully integrated into the Israeli program. Both the classes and the dormitories are mixed. Therefore, there is maximum interaction between the overseas and Israeli students and close friendships are developed over the year. Being a part of an Israeli Beit Midrash, located in Kibbutz Migdal Oz, overseas students step into an Israeli community and live and breathe Israeli culture and politics. When not in the Beit Midrash, students are invited to the homes of Israeli students for Shabbat, enabling them to become acquainted with differing communities in Israel. Guest lectures are invited to address timely issues affecting Israeli society. Whether or not to attend rallies with a political agenda is an individual decision.

Special Informal Programs

A minyan for Selichot, dancing on Simchat Torah, all-night learning on Hoshana Rabba and Shavuot, Chanuka, Purim and Rosh Chodesh celebrations, enhance the students' spiritual growth and contribute to the special Ruach and atmosphere which characterize the Beit Midrash. Each Chag is preceded by special shiurim that are often given by guest speakers, focusing on different aspects of the chag.

Sports Facilities

There is an indoor pool and gym in nearby Alon Shevut with separate hours for those who wish to avail themselves. Many students run or jog along the paths of the kibbutz. There is also a basketball court on the kibbutz.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

An important aspect of the religious community life of the Beit Midrash is Shabbat and Chagim. Every second Shabbat is spent in the Beit Midrash with one of the rabbis or teachers, and periodic Shabbatonim are held at the homes of the Ramim. Arrangements are made to ensure that everyone has a place to be during the breaks. This year, the school davened as a group on Yom Kippur, but not on Rosh Hashana.

Field Trips

The Beit Midrash as a whole has a trip at the beginning of the year and a two-day tiyul in the middle of the year. There are also educational trips on Asara Be'Tevet, Yom Hazikaron and Yom Yerushalayim. In addition, overseas students have a major tiyul during the Sukkot and Pesach breaks and shorter tiyulim throughout the year. The goal is both educational and social.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Advanced – able to independently study a Talmudic passage

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Advanced – shiurim are mainly in Hebrew

Religious Observance Required

A full commitment to shmirat Torah U’mitzvot is a prerequisite

Population

Type of American Student

Many North American students are from the New York and New Jersey area. They attended high school at Maayanot, Central, Stella K. Abraham, Bruria, Kushner, Ramaz, Flatbush, SAR and others. There also have been students from other areas of the U.S., including Atlanta, Seattle, Chicago, Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

180 (140 first year' 30 second year and 10 in the Advanced Program)

Foreign Student Percentage

20%

Number of 1st Year American Students

35-40

Number of 2nd Year American Students

3-5

Other Nationalities

Canada, England, Australia

Number of Students per Class

Class size varies, ranging from 10 to over 40. Each kevutza (group) of approximately 30 students has one Ram (or Ramit) and 1 or 2 madrichot.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

The students live in modern dormitory rooms on campus, with air-conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter. Each dormitory unit is designed for four girls, with a small kitchenette, a bedroom and full bathroom. We recommend that overseas students dorm with only Israeli roommates, at least one of whom will be an English-speaker. Guests are welcome. There is frequent transportation to Jerusalem, and Efrat is a five minute walk away.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Three full meals are provided in the dining room on campus.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students spend alternate Shabbatot in the Beit Midrash and when not in the Beit Midrash, American students are invited to spend Shabbat at the homes of Israeli students. The Beit Midrash is closed on Sukkot and Pesach, although arrangements can be made for those who wish to stay in their rooms.

Curfew

There is no curfew

Security Arrangements

The Beit Midrash has a security head who is responsible for creating security policy, guard duty and all other safety issues. He guides the students in security drills and is on continuous contact with the army. The Beit Midrash is located within Kibbutz Migdal Oz, which is surrounded by an electronic security fence, and an additional fence was built around the entire campus for added protection. Three security guards are on duty 24 hours a day. Students are expected to conduct themselves according to their parents' instructions in terms of travel. In the event of a security incident, all students are contacted to ensure their safety. We rely on the students to communicate with their parents and to follow their instructions.

History

The Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women was established by Yeshivat Har Etzion in 1997 in Kibbutz Migdal Oz, Gush Etzion, a five-minute walk from Efrat. In Elul 5764, the beautiful and expansive Beit Midrash building was completed, with windows opening to one of the most breathtaking views of the Judean hills, providing an appropriate venue for inspired study and spiritual growth.

Accrediting Universities

There is a joint program with Yeshiva University/Stern College for Women.

Tuition

$26,000 for the year, which includes modern dormitory accommodations, three meals a day, medical insurance, laundry facilities and trips.

Additional Information

The Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women is founded on the firm commitment to the advancement of women's Torah study. The program is intended for women who wish to develop spiritually while broadening their Torah education in a community that is devoted to kiyum Halacha, avodat Hashem and Am Yisrael. The unique character of the program is the synthesis of intense, challenging limmud Torah with the objective of developing a spiritual community of ovdot Hashem within the Beit Midrash. The program is built upon the conviction that the world of Torah and limmud serves as the primary focal point from which each student can blossom and deepen her conviction to Hashem. In addition to the intellectual challenges, the program provides opportunities for students to face challenges in the spiritual realm, striving for constant effort and growth in yirat shamayim and commitment to Halacha. If you are interested in an Israeli program that incorporates intensive Torah study, a unique religious experience and the development of a connection with Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael, we invite you to join us in the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women - Migdal Oz.

Contact Information

Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women of Yeshiva Har Etzion (Migdal Oz)

United States

Shirley Schuster, Etzion Foundation
111 Galway Place, Suite 203
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Phone: (212) 732-4874

Israel

Nechama Vairogs
Kibbutz Migdal Oz
Gush Etzion 9091500
Phone: (02) 993-4520
Fax: (02) 993-4901
Email: officemigdaloz@gmail.com

Goal of Program

At Nishmat, we seek to help students grow in Avodat Hashem, Talmud Torah, and personal connection to Medinat Yisrael.  Through in-depth Torah study and the relationships that are developed with peers and mentors during this year of shared growth and inspiration, students deepen their inner religious life and commitment to a lifetime of Avodat Hashem and Talmud Torah within the context of an Israeli midrasha that offers them a multifaceted experience of Medinat Yisrael.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Nishmat is a strongly Religious Zionist midrasha.  Through the experience of integration with our Israeli students and through many trips and experiences over the course of the year, we encourage students to develop a deep personal connection with Medinat Yisrael and an appreciation of the extraordinary blessing of living in this era of Jewish history. 

Attitude Towards University Studies

At Nishmat, we believe strongly in the value of Torah UMadda.  All of our students go to university after their Shana Ba’Aretz experience.  We believe that the choice of university to attend is a personal one, and encourage each student to join the university community that is the right match for her as she continues to grow religiously, personally, and intellectually and to maintain her commitment to shmirat hamitzvot.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Students participate in chesed activities every Wednesday afternoon, with the guidance of our Chesed coordinator.  Additionally, students may choose to pursue their own extracurricular interests in their free time.

Preparation for Post Israel

There are programs and shiurim throughout the year on a wide variety of topics relating to life after midrasha.  Additionally, our halakha curriculum prepares students to live halakhic lives independently and on campus.  Our faculty is sensitive to the religious and personal needs of students in preparation for university and post-midrasha life, and strives to equip students for the future in the context of their shiurim and mentorship. 

The "Successful" Student

We believe in supporting each individual student as she charts her own path of personal and religious growth.  The successful Nishmat student strives to grow as an ovedet Hashem in the realms of bein adam lechavero and bein adam laMakom, deepening her religious identity, understanding of Torah, and connection to those around her.  She values Medinat Yisrael as an integral aspect of her Jewish identity. 

Dress

Students are required to wear skirts that cover the knee and shirts that meet the shirt and come within a tefach of the elbow.

Guidance Personnel

Our faculty -- including teachers, administrators, and madrichot -- is devoted to supporting our students and getting to know each of them. Faculty makes it a priority to be available to students and to meet with them individually and in small groups. 

Supervision

Our Shana Ba’Aretz faculty includes our Rosh Tochnit, Administrator, Em Bayit, and two Melavot, all of whom get to know our students well and help them make the most of their year. 

Curriculum

Makeup

Students devote three mornings a week to Gemara shiur, in which they delve into a masechta in depth.  There are four options of Gemara shiurim, each of which has a different style and derech halimud.  Some focus on peshat in the Gemara, while others include extensive analysis of Rishonim.  This allows students to find the right shiur for them, whether they enter Nishmat with extensive Gemara background or with very little Gemara background. 

During the remaining two mornings, students choose between Halacha B’Iyun and Tanach B’Iyun.  Halacha B’Iyun focuses on tracing the development of areas of Hilchot Shabbat from their sources in the Gemara through Acharonim.  Tanach B’Iyun focuses on exploring themes in Tanach, such as leadership, sin and redemption, and human psychology, through the lens of parshanut and literary analysis. Both Halacha and Tanach are intensive, textual shiurim that include both chavruta and shiur.  Students who choose to focus on Tanach B’Iyun also participate in a Halacha L’Maaseh shiur one afternoon a week.

Afternoon shiurim cover a broad range of topics, from Parshat Hashavua with Rabbanit Chana Henkin, to Divine Justice in Tanach with Rav Yoel Bin Nun, to courses in halachic topics, Midrash, the philosophy of halacha, and Machshevet Yisrael.  In night seder, students choose among shiurim and chaburot in topics in Tanach, Gemara, and Jewish Philosophy.  We help each student craft the schedule that helps her pursue her own goals and interests in Talmud Torah. 

Students also have many opportunities to pursue independent learning projects and to participate in small-group learning on topics and questions of interest to them.

Courses Offered

For a full class schedule, click here

Daily Schedule

For a full class schedule, click here

Language of Instruction

Learning b'Ivrit with Israelis is a significant, valuable part of your year at Nishmat. Your Hebrew will improve exponentially as you are exposed to a fresh experience of Talmud Torah that is challenging and exciting. For that reason, almost every slot during the week will have a Hebrew shiur which you may choose to take. That said, because you are coming to learn the most you can and sometimes it is beneficial to do that in your native language, our schedule also includes a selection of extraordinary classes given in English. Each student shapes her own schedule and determines the balance of Hebrew and English that works best for her.  The opportunity to choose one’s own balance of Hebrew and English shiurim represents Nishmat’s belief in supporting each individual student in charting her own path of growth and learning.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

Students at Nishmat learn Hebrew through immersion.  Most shiurim are given in Hebrew and Shana Ba’Aretz students live in apartments with Israeli students. 

Assessment and Grading

There are no formal assessments or grades at Nishmat.

Shana Bet

Nishmat offers a Shana Bet option.

Joint Program

Nishmat is a participant in the Yeshiva University Joint Program.

Staff

For a list of many of our faculty members, click here.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

You will be integrated into an Israeli Beit Midrash, sharing your chevrutot, shiurim, and dormitory apartments with Israeli students - b’Ivrit. Shana Ba’Aretz students room with Israelis from Shiur Alef and Ethiopian Israeli programs, experiencing the personal kibbutz galuyot that lies at the heart of the Nishmat experience. 

Special Informal Programs

Our midrasha enjoys many informal programs together, including guest speakers, holiday programs, Shabbatonim, and trips.

Sports Facilities

Nishmat is located on the beautiful “Park Hamesilah” jogging trail that students use and enjoy.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

There are organized Shabbat programs, in the midrasha or in another community in Israel, once or twice a month.  On other Shabbatot, you are free to visit friends or family or to ask for home hospitality with a member of the Nishmat faculty or student body.  We are always happy to help you make Shabbat plans.  Additionally, you are always welcome to stay in your apartment at Nishmat during any time of the year; your apartment is your home, and our campus never closes. 

We spent Yom Kippur, Leil Hoshana Rabba, and Shavuot together as a midrasha.  For other yamim tovim, you are free to visit friends or family, or to spend the chag with a Nishmat family.

Field Trips

Shana Ba’Aretz students engage in a special Shabbaton approximately once a month, visiting communities around Israel.  Additionally, we take five major tiyulim (2-3 days each) and many half- and whole-day trips throughout the year to different areas of the country and to cultural events and museums.  We believe that experiencing the many facets of Israel is an important part of your year, which enhances your learning and your connection to Jewish history and destiny.  

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

The level of learning at Nishmat is advanced, requiring facility with Hebrew texts.  However, there are multiple options of shiurim during each time slot so that students can take the classes that are the best fit for them.  There are four options of Gemara shiurim, each one with a different derech halimud.  This allows students to find the right shiur for them, whether they enter Nishmat with extensive Gemara background or with very little Gemara background. 

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Students should have facility with Hebrew texts and general comfort with spoken Hebrew.  Students who are motivated to learn Hebrew will find that their Hebrew improves exponentially during their first few weeks and months at Nishmat.   

Religious Observance Required

Commitment to halacha and shmirat hamitzvot is required.

Population

Type of Student

Our overseas students over the past two years have come from the following high schools: Frisch/New Jersey, Ma’ayanot/New Jersey, Bruriah/New Jersey, SAR/New York, Ramaz/New York, SKA/New York, Hillel of Pittsburgh/Pittsburgh, Kohelet/Philadelphia, Mevin J. Berman HA/Silver Spring, Charles E. Smith Jewish DS/Silver Spring, Maimonides/Boston, Denver Academy of Torah/Denver, Ulpana/Toronto, Ida Crown/Chicago, YULA/LA, Shalhevet/LA, New England Jewish Academy/West Harford, Beren Academy/Houston, Akiva-Farber/Detroit, Frankel Jewish Academy/Detroit, Hasmonean/London, Aquiba/Strasbourg, Torah Academy /Johannesburg, Ort School/Rome, Jewish Gymnasium Moses Mendelssohn/Berlin  

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

150

Foreign Student Percentage

25%

Number of 1st Year American Students

26

Number of 2nd Year American Students

No information provided

Other Nationalities

Students from all over the world come to study at Nishmat.

Number of Students per Class

The number of students per class varies widely, as students choose their own classes. However, the average number is about 15.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Each student lives in an apartment with four other students.  Generally speaking, students in the Shana Ba’Aretz program live with one other Shana Ba’Aretz student and three Israeli students.  Students may stay in their apartments at any time throughout the year; your apartment is your home for the year, and our campus never closes. For a virtual tour of our campus, click here (please insert link to video tour).  There are six wonderful families, as well as madrichot, who live on our campus and are available to our students. 

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Apartments have a dairy kitchen which students use to prepare breakfast and dinner.  Lunch is provided by the midrasha. 

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students may stay in their apartments at any time throughout the year; your apartment is your home for the year, and our campus never closes. The campus has older students and staff members available on campus during evening hours and Shabbatot.

Curfew

After 11:30 pm, students must sign in with the security guard.  We encourage students to return to the midrasha by 12:30 am.

Security Arrangements

Nishmat is protected by an armed security guard.  Our campus is enclosed with a protective wall, equipped with an in-house security camera system, and has a secured gate.

History

Nishmat was founded in 1990 by Rabbanit Chana Henkin to open the gates of higher Torah learning to women. Now situated in its beautiful campus in Jerusalem’s Pat neighborhood, south of Katamon, Nishmat has become a world center for women’s scholarship, leadership, and social responsibility, and a world leader in paving a new path for women in Jewish life.

Nishmat has a range of programs catering to women of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities. Nishmat unites native Israelis and new immigrants, Americans, East and West Europeans, and more, in a warm, cohesive learning community.

Our Shana Ba’Aretz program offers post-high school students the opportunity to enter the world of higher Torah learning in an environment which is intellectually rigorous and spiritually nourishing, while experiencing Israel as an insider with fellow Israeli students.

Nishmat’s Alisa Flatow International Program offers English-speaking women of college age and above a challenging Torah learning experience, emphasizing skills development and textual mastery together with a clarification of what it means to be a Jewish woman, and uniting women of diverse backgrounds and ages. The program caters to all levels of learning, from beginner to advanced.

Nishmat’s Keren Ariel Program is a two-year fellowship providing highest-level halachic study and training Yoatzot Halacha for leadership positions around the world.

Our Israeli Midrasha offers women an intensive year of rigorous text-based Torah learning in the year following National or Israel Defense Forces service, with the option of continuing on to Shiur Bet-Gimel-Dalet and Heh in our Educators’ Program.

Nishmat’s Ma’ayan program enables talented Ethiopian-Israelis to join the world of higher Torah learning together with a rigorous college preparation program, and the option of joining Nishmat’s Joint College Program.

Accrediting Universities

Nishmat is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School.

Tuition

Our tuition is $28,500 (2021-2022 school year)

Contact Information

Email: office@nishmat.net

Tel: +972-2-640-4333

Direct US line to Israel office: (212)444-1988

Website: www.nishmat.net

At Sha'alvim for Women, we strive for our students to continue to enhance their love for learning Torah, to engage their minds, their hearts and their souls in their personal growth and in their Torah study, and more.

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

At Shaalvim for Women we strive for our students to…

  1. continue and enhance their love for learning Torah.
  2. engage their minds, their hearts and their souls in their personal growth and in their Torah study.
  3. grow with and from the kindness and sincerity of each member of our exceptional staff along with the individual attention provided to each student.
  4. continue and enhance their development of Middot.
  5. develop further in their yirat shamayim, ahavat HaShem, derech eretz and avodah shebalev (tefilah).
  6. expand upon their Torah learning skills that they will take with them beyond their “year in Israel .”
  7. develop a deep appreciation for and a sense of obligation to their family, their school, and their community.
  8. expand their love for Am Yisra’el, Eretz Yisra’el and Medinat Yisra’el. Our unique, integrated program of shiurim and siyurim, together with our extended tiyulim and meaningful, outstanding programs on Yom HaAtzmaut, Yom Yerushalayim, and throughout the year expand our students’ love for the Land, the People, and the State of Israel.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

As mentioned above, one of our primary goals is to expand our students’ love for Am Yisra’el, Eretz Yisra’el and Medinat Yisra’el.

As the sister school of a Yeshivat Hesder, we strive to demonstrate the centrality of Eretz Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael for all of Am Yisrael.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Students are encouraged to continue both their Torah studies and their general education after they leave Shaalvim for Women.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

Students are encouraged to participate in chessed programs and other extra-curricular activities outside of “standard” seminary studies. The ideas “derech eretz kadma laTorah” and “olam chessed yibaneh” are very much experienced and encouraged at SFW both as part of our weekly schedule (e.g. Students are provided with a weekly block of time to be involved in our chesed program and work with handicapped children, long-term patients, the elderly, the poor, and others) and during their free time.

Preparation for Post Israel

SFW addresses these issues in a variety of sichot and shiurim, and also in many individual conversations between faculty members and students. We also run an annual “Bogrot Program,” where our alumni are invited to join us during any part of their winter break for a month of learning and special programming.

The "Successful" Student

The "successful" Shaalvim alumnus is one for whom Torah is an integral part of her life. Regardless of her chosen career path, she will live a life of Torah and Mitzvot while she pursues her familial, professional, and personal aspirations.

Dress

There is no formal dress code in Sha'alvim for Women, but our students are required to dress according to halacha.

Guidance Personnel

Our administration, rakazot, faculty, madrichot, etc. are available day and night to talk with our students for advice and guidance. We are proud of the role models that our students are exposed to.

Supervision

Safety and security are very important to us. Curfew is strictly enforced and attendance is taken in every class. Students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a manner befitting bnot Torah.

Curriculum

Makeup

The curriculum is balanced with courses in Judaic studies, Tanach, Halacha, Machshava, Talmud, Jewish history, Contemporary Issues, etc.

Courses Offered

A variety of shiurim are offered in the major areas listed above. A wide range of options is available for our students during ever shiur “slot.” In addition, optional “chaburot” are offered during every lunch, dinner, and post-night seder in a wide variety of topics as well.

Daily Schedule

Usually the formal learning takes place between 9:00 AM and 9:45 PM with breaks for all meals and tefillot. Every shiur has a “formal” component and chavruta/seder time. In addition, Beit Midrash/seder is also built into the schedule every morning and evening.

Language of Instruction

The language of a depends on the instructor. Some of our teachers teach in Hebrew, others in English. The ability to understand a shiur in basic Hebrew is a requirement.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

An optional Ulpan is offered twice a week

Assessment and Grading

Students receive grades on their transcripts. Grades are based on participation and attendance as well as projects or exams.

Shana Bet

We have a formal “Shana Bet” program.

Joint Program

We have joint programs with Yeshiva University, Touro College and the Hebrew Theological College of Skokie, IL.

Staff

Menahel/Director:
Rav Yamin Goldsmith, who is well known and respected for his warm and engaging personality, attended Yeshivat Sha’alvim for two years before serving in the I.D.F with the Yeshivat Hesder Machal program. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Yeshiva University, a master’s degree in public administration from Columbia University, was ordained at the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary of Yeshiva University, and is currently completing his doctoral dissertation in Curriculum and Teaching at Columbia University’s Teachers College. He has worked in both formal and informal Jewish education in the United States and in Israel for the past 17 years. Rav Yamin lives with his wife, Joy, and children in Beit Shemesh.

Assistant Director/Dean of Students:
Michelle Elmaleh, received her BA and MSW from Yeshiva University. Mrs. Elmaleh has extensive teaching experience in both formal and informal settings. She has been involved in addressing adolescent issues and administrative policy at Yeshiva University High School for Girls and at Ma'aynot. Mrs. Elmaleh has served as head counselor at Camp Simcha - an oncology camp for children and young adults. She has also been the recipient of many prestigious awards for academic achievement.

Rosh Beit Midrash:
Rabbi Gershon Turetsky studied in Yeshivat Sha'alvim following high school. He received his B.S. in Accounting from Yeshiva University's Sy Syms School of business and then continued on to Yeshiva University's Kollel as part of the semicha program. Subsequently, Rabbi Turetsky returned to Sha'alvim as a member of its Kollel where he completed his semicha studies and received ordination from HaRav Zalman Nechemia Goldberg of the Beit Din HaGadol of Jerusalem. Following that, he joined Yeshiva University’s Gruss Kollel in Jeruslalem while serving as a teacher and the Av Bayit of Sha’alvim for Women.

In addition, our Eim and Av Bayit reside in our dormitory building and are always available.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Students are very much encouraged to visit different communities in Israel.

Special Informal Programs

SFW is full of guest speakers and special programs. Yamim Tovim and other special days are replete with Chagigot, Yemei Iyun, etc.

Sports Facilities

Our dormitory is equipped with exercise equipment.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students at SFW spend Shabbat together approximately once a month. Sometimes, we use these opportunities to travel and to spend Shabbat in different inspirational and educational settings, from Safed to the Old City of Jerusalem to Beit Shemesh. On other occasions, we take these Shabbatot as chances to stay in the dormitory, and are joined by special speakers and faculty members as part of exciting programs. On “out” shabbatot, students may stay in the dormitory, where meals are provided and our Eim and Av Bayit are always “in”. Otherwise, students may choose to travel to visit friends and family or can have Shabbat arrangements made for them to spend Shabbat in a location of their choice.

At SFW, we spend the Yamim Noraim together at Yeshivat Shaalvim, davening with the yeshiva and eating our meals together with faculty members and guests. Additionally, we spend Shavuot together in Yerushalayim.

Field Trips

Our students have the unique opportunity to study about a wide variety of locations in Israel and then, using maps, a Tanach, and relevant history books, go and visit the very places they studied. In this way, they re-enact thousands of years of our history, from the Tanach to Modern Israel, in an unparalleled hands-on program. At the end of the year, we can look back at a map and feel unbelievably accomplished as we see how we made the locations of the Chumash, Navi, Mishna, Gmara, Rishonim, Acharonim, and modern heros come to life.

In addition, three times a year, we at SFW pack our bags and visit major sections of the country on overnight tiyulim. We hike the North, the South and the Tzfat area until we drop, visiting major and minor sites and getting to know our faculty (who join us), our friends, and our country in a different setting. In addition to these major excursions, we have a number of day-long tiyulim to places such as Masada and Caesarea.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Advanced - students should be able to prepare classical sources independently.

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Advanced

Religious Observance Required

Jews can always improve upon their level of shmirat hamitzvot. It is a lifelong quest. Indeed, it is our hope that that is one of the reasons she has decided to spend a year learning Torah in Eretz Yisrael. Having said that, Shaalvim for Women is designed for young women who are already committed to shmirat hamitzvot; who place halacha at the forefront of their minds throughout the day.

Population

Type of American Student

Our students come from a variety of Jewish communities in the United States, Canada, England, Switzerland and Australia.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

85

Foreign Student Percentage

90%

Number of 1st Year American Students

74

Number of 2nd Year American Students

11

Other Nationalities

Our students come from a variety of Jewish communities in the United States, Canada, England, Switzerland and Australia.

Number of Students per Class

There are approximately 15-20 students per class, although that number can vary since students are allowed to choose their classes from a number of choices in each time slot.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Comfortable dormitory, laundry service, 24 hour security, dorms open all time (i.e. every Shabbat, Sukkot, Chanuka, Pesach, etc.)

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

The kitchenette facilities include refrigerators, microwave and toasters.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Students at SFW spend Shabbat together approximately once a month. Sometimes, we use these opportunities to travel and to spend Shabbat in different inspirational and educational settings, from Safed to the Old City of Jerusalem to Beit Shemesh. On other occasions, we take these Shabbatot as chances to stay in the dormitory, and are joined by special speakers and faculty members as part of exciting programs. On “out” shabbatot, students may stay in the dormitory, where meals are provided and our Eim and Av Bayit are always “in”. Otherwise, students may choose to travel to visit friends and family or can have Shabbat arrangements made for them to spend Shabbat in a location of their choice.

At SFW, we spend the Yamim Noraim together at Yeshivat Shaalvim, davening with the yeshiva and eating our meals together with faculty members and guests. Additionally, we spend Shavuot together in Yerushalayim.

Curfew

Curfew is at 12:00 AM and strictly enforced. Additionally, students are required to provide us with phone numbers of their Shabbat hosts.

Security Arrangements

The building is accessible only through a guarded, locked front door. Students are not permitted to leave the campus in times of tension. All students must carry cell phones so we can access them. Parents are contacted by phone and email.

History

Shaalvim for Woomen was founded in September, 2004 as a branch of the well-renowned Yeshivat Hesder Yeshivat Shaalvim. We are located in the Malcha section of Yerushalayim adjacent to the Ella residence with a magnificent view overlooking the hills of Yerushalayim.

Accrediting Universities

Sha'alvim for Women is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. There are joint programs with Touro College and Hebrew Theological College in Chicago.

Additional Information

We are looking for serious minded students that want to experience Israel to the fullest by being in a variety of environments and communities. The program offers a combination of work, study and volunteering and looks for participants that want this experience. The program has a strong group atmosphere and positive social skills of the participants are required.

Contact Information for Sha'alvim for Women

United States

American Friends of Sha'alvim
PO Box 960426
Inwood, NY 11096-0426

Phone: (718) 677-7200
Fax: (718) 677-3080

office@usshaalvim.org
 

Israel

Rabbi Yamin Goldsmith
21 Hadishon Street
Malcha, Jerusalem, 96956

Phone: (02) 678-4062
Fax: (02) 678-0342
Email: sfw.shaalvim@gmail.com

www.shaalvim.org/sfw

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

Tiferet is a Religious-Zionist school that aims to give its students an all-encompassing Israel experience that appeals to the mind, body and soul. We aspire to enlighten our students and broaden their understanding and knowledge of Judaism, as well as inspire them towards a closer connection to Torah, Am Yisrael, Eretz Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael. Our experienced and dynamic staff will instill in every student pride in Torah and love for every Jew.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Tiferet is proudly Zionist, where we strive to instill in our students an appreciation for the modern-day miracle that is the State of Israel. Tiferet provides classes on Zionism and Israel, and we joyously celebrate Yom Haatzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim together.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Tiferet's graduates will continue their studies in a variety of colleges and universities after their year in Israel. We aim to give our students the tools they need to flourish in any setting, and we encourage them to maintain their involvement in Jewish causes and learning wherever they may be. Our students are taught that the secular subjects that they will study following their year in Israel should serve as a complement to their Torah studies.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

The Chesed program at Tiferet lets you translate your Torah knowledge into action. There are a large variety of chesed opportunities to choose from - from packing food for needy families, to helping new immigrants, to participating in big sister programs. Chesed at Tiferet, however, involves not just regularly planned activities, but also spontaneous visits to hospitals, retirement homes and other places that need our help. Because we strive to place such a strong emphasis on derech eretz, mitzvot bein adam l'chaveiro, and midot improvement, chesed at Tiferet is more than just part of our program; it becomes a fundamental part of everyone's lives.

Preparation for Post Israel

Our philosophy is that students learning in Israel should not feel like they are in a bubble, detached from the outside world that they will be dealing with upon their return. Our teachers understand that real religiosity must be able to exist within the context of families, communities, and the workplace. This philosophy is apparent on a regular basis, in our warm teaching style and our understanding that there is a wide range of acceptable Halachic opinions on almost every issue. We also prepare our students in more specific ways for challenges that they may face, including a workshop on dealing with anti-Semitism on the college campus.

The "Successful" Student

A successful Tiferet student will take what she has learned at Tiferet and use it to guide her spiritually for the rest of her life. She will maintain a strong commitment to Torah, Am Yisrael, Eretz Yisrael, and Medinat Yisrael, and live her life according to those commitments.

Dress

A Tiferet student will understand that tzinut is not merely a list of rules and measurements, it is a midah that all people, men and women, should be constantly aspiring to cultivate. Of course, our students are expected to dress according to halachic standards, but more importantly, over the course of the year, we encourage them to work on all of their midot, one of which is tzniut.

Guidance Personnel

Tiferet truly stands apart because of the relationships you will build with your teachers, rakazot, and madrichot throughout the year. Teachers' homes are extensions of the classroom, and you are encouraged to drop in at any time, for any reason. When you want to continue an exciting discussion from earlier in the day, when you have a problem and need someone to talk to, when you just want to stop by for a cup of coffee in a warm, family atmosphere - our doors are always open for you. That's why Tiferet's faculty members live within easy walking distance of our campus.

Supervision

At Tiferet, we believe that the goal of supervision is not merely to stop students from doing something inappropriate, but to enable them to grow personally, and to improve themselves as people and as Jews. As a school which prides itself on close relationships between students and teachers, we are concerned with and stay abreast of all aspects of our students lives - their attendance in shiurim, their interpersonal relationships in the dormitories, and their general well-being. Our opinion is that supervision should be a direct manifestation of that concern for each individual student, and not just of a desire to enforce our particular rules. Tiferet's curfew is at 12:30 and we have a zero tolerance policy towards alcohol use.

Curriculum

Makeup

Tiferet offers interactive classes in Chumash, Nach, Practical Halacha, Tefilla, Jewish Philosophy and Mussar, along with optional classes in Jewish History, Zionism, Chassidut and Gemara - all taught by our dynamic, exciting teachers.

Courses Offered

Tiferet offers courses in Chumash, Navi, Ketuvim, Talmud, Practical Halacha, Tefila, Jewish Philosophy, Jewish History, Zionism and Musar. Students have the opportunity to become familiar with a wide array of great Jewish minds including Rav Soloveitchik, Rav Kook and Nechama Leibowitz. Tiferet's curriculum combines exciting and interactive shiurim with independent Beit Midrash study to maximize growth in our students.

Daily Schedule

At Tiferet, the day typically begins at 9:00 AM, and the learning continues with afternoon and night seder. We believe that learning flourishes when a real relationship and a strong comfort level are established in each classroom. Therefore, we avoid classes where teachers only appear once a week, and in February still have difficulty remembering their students' names! Although there is enough regularity in your schedule to build those vital bonds, each day has its own unique aspects to keep you on your toes - from the workshops on Sunday morning, to the musar shmooze on Thursday night.

Language of Instruction

Most classes in Tiferet are taught in English, although we study and analyze primary sources in their original Hebrew. There are a few classes taught in Hebrew.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

Tiferet offers an optional "practical ulpan" designed to give you the communication skills necessary to get the most out of your year in Israel.

Assessment and Grading

At Tiferet, we believe that this year is a unique opportunity to grow through learning "Torah Lishmah." Tiferet students are motivated to learn Torah, not because of external pressure, but because they have been inspired to do so. Teachers use tests, essays or projects to evaluate their students' progress. However, a far more significant evaluation is the continuous growth that we see in each Tiferet student.

Shana Bet

Tiferet has a Shana Bet program every year for interested students. Their classes are more advanced and they work even harder on developing independent learning skills.

Joint Program

Tiferet has a Joint Program with Stern College for Women and with Touro College.

Staff

  • Rabbi Azriel Rosner - Rosh Midrasha
  • Rabbi Elie Mayer - Mashgiach Ruchani
  • Mrs. Leba Schneider - Dean of Students
  • Mrs. Karen Hochhauser - Director of Student Life

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Tiferet is located in the heart of a neighborhood made up of a healthy mix of native-born Israelis and olim, primarily from English-speaking countries. We encourage our students to integrate into this community, in terms of chesed, shiurim, and home hospitality. This gives Tiferet's students a unique opportunity to experience Israeli life over the course of their year here.

Special Informal Programs

Tiferet will regularly bring in guest speakers to expose our students to the broad spectrum of Orthodox Jewish thinkers and scholars. We believe that an appreciation for all types of Jews is vital for a Tiferet graduate. Chagigot and Yemei Iyun will be scheduled to highlight significant times in the year including Rosh Chodesh, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim, Yom Ha-Atzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim.

Sports Facilities

Tiferet truly believes that Torah learning is facilitated by a healthy body. We have an exercise room and a basketball hoop for students to use in their spare time.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

At Tiferet, we believe that no one should have to spend their year worrying about where they will be spending their next Shabbat. Because we are a community, Tiferet remains open at all times. On all Shabbatot and Chagim, you are welcome to stay at Tiferet and enjoy seudot, shiurim and programs with your friends and teachers. You don't have to make off-campus plans for the Yamim Nora'im or the Purim Seudah. You'll have an inspiring Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur together with your friends and teachers. Our doors are open to you from the day you step off the plane until the day that you leave.

Field Trips

At Tiferet, we view all of Medinat Yisrael as an extension of our campus. By exploring the rich history and stunning beauty of Israel, you deepen your love for the Land, strengthen your bonds with teachers and other students, allowing the theoretical knowledge you possess to become tangible before your eyes, all while having an incredibly good time. All tiyulim are led by experienced and inspiring guides, and every tiyul is planned with safety and security as our greatest concerns.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Tiferet offers shiurim on a variety of levels to cater to each student's abilities and learning style.

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Most classes are in English, with a few in Hebrew. An ability to read Hebrew sources is required.

Religious Observance Required

We expect Tiferet's students to be fully committed to Torah and mitzvot.

Population

Type of American Student

Virtually all of our students have attended Orthodox High Schools.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

72 Shana Alef students and 13 Shana Bet for the 5779 school year

Foreign Student Percentage

No information provided

Number of 1st Year American Students

2017-2018: 66

Number of 2nd Year American Students

2017-2018: 8

Other Nationalities

Canadian, British, Australian

Number of Students per Class

Average class size is 15 students

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Tiferet students live in apartments in the brand new Tiferet building. Each apartment has its own kitchen facilities and lounge area, and the entire building has air conditioning and heating. We also provide our students with a delicious lunch and dinner every day in the Tiferet dining room. The school building has a computer room for student use with high-speed internet access enabling them to communicate with parents, relatives and friends.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

Each apartment is equipped with kitchen facilities, to enable students to prepare meals on their own.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

Tiferet believes that students and their parents, should not have to worry constantly about where she will be staying on the next Shabbat or holiday. Therefore, we are open every Shabbat and Chag, with no exceptions. Students enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that they never have to leave their home away from home. Each Shabbat there are shiurim, Oneg Shabbatot and programs with our locally residing faculty. In addition, we also schedule many "in-Shabbatot," when all Tiferet students stay in for Shabbat. Special programming and speakers make these Shabbatot one of the highlights of the students' year.

Curfew

Curfew at Tiferet is at 12:30 AM, and we rigorously enforce it. When students are away for Shabbat, they are required to notify us where and with whom they are staying, before they go.

Security Arrangements

Tiferet is located in safe and friendly Ramat Beit Shemesh. Safety is our paramount concern. We believe that it is parents' prerogative to set the precise security policy for their daughter, and therefore, no student is permitted to visit any part of the country without her parents' explicit permission. In the event of a specific warning, we may impose temporary restrictions on all of our students, and in the event of a terrorist incident, we immediately communicate with all of our students via cellphone, and keep in close contact with parents.

History

Tiferet was founded by a group of young, dynamic educators to fill a need in the Jewish community. Many students yearned for a school which stressed the inspirational aspects of learning, in addition to the intellectual aspects. They wanted a stronger relationship with their teachers and mentors, with the presence of their school's faculty all the time, and not just during class hours.

Tiferet was designed to be more than just a school; Tiferet is a community. It is teachers who give classes tailored to your needs and interests. It is a staff that lives in the school's neighborhood, within a short walking distance, whose doors will always be open for you. It is a place whose doors never close, where you will never be asked to leave for Shabbat or chagim.

At Tiferet, we will make sure that your year in Israel - both in and out of the classroom - is the most meaningful and complete experience you've ever had.

Accrediting Universities

Tiferet is a Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. It is on Touro's Israel Option.

Tuition

$28,600 for 2019-2020

Contact Information for Tiferet

United States

American Friends of Tiferet Center
415 Avenue I
Brooklyn, NY 11230

Phone: (718) 253-0230
Fax: (718) 338-1250
Email: tiferetcenter@aol.com

Israel

Rabbi Azriel Rosner, Rabbi Elie Mayer
Nachal Shimshon 2
Ramat Bet Shemesh 99622

Phone: (02) 999-7957
Fax: (050) 897-1328
Email: info@tiferetcenter.com

www.tiferetcenter.com

Hashkafa

Goal of Program

To educate and inspire students to use a healthy Torah lens to assess their goals and priorities for their adult life.

Attitude Towards Israel and Medinat Yisrael

Tomer Devorah seeks to engender a very strong connection to the Land of Israel through classes, tiyulim and Shabbatot in communities throughout the Land.  Medinat Yisrael is a precious and fragile gift that Hashem gave back to the Jews after the destruction of the Holocaust.  We have tremendous hakarat hatov for the fact that we have a Medina that affords us to learn and serve Hashem in the Land of our Forefathers.

Attitude Towards University Studies

Very encouraging of students to continue their studies in colleges and universities around the world.

Attitude Towards Extracurricular Activities

There is a very big emphasis on involvement in experiential and extracurricular activities in Tomer Devorah. The monthly calendar has multiple extracurricular activities, trips, events and more every month.

Preparation for Post Israel

In Tomer Devorah there is a very big emphasis on being "real" and encouraging the students to face their real-life challenges and hurdles head-on.  Tomer Devorah prepares the students not only with the knowledge and background to be confident and proud in their Torah perspectives and beliefs but also to be healthy, inside and out, with a balanced perspective on life and the future.

The "Successful" Student

A successful Tomer Devorah student is one who went through her seminary year facing her challenges - academic, personal growth or spiritual - head on.  Tomer Devorah students find they have the support and backing they need to overcome the challenges they meet throughout the year.  Those students who don't fake or shy away, but are committed to taking on their challenges, both in the classroom and out, succeed at becoming developed, mature thinkers and recognize the deep wellspring of personal abilities and potential that they have inside.  This is something the students take with them for the rest of their lives and use to face all their future challenges and obstacles.

Dress

The Tomer Devorah dress code reflects adherence to Halacha as well as sensitivity to the local religious population.

Guidance Personnel

We have a strong staff with a very small staff to student ratio.  Students are encouraged to take advantage of the staff by making meetings and personal connections.

Supervision

There is 24 hour security for the  Tomer Devorah campus.  There is a family living on the campus and another Eim Bayit living just a few minutes walk away.  Our staff is in constant contact with the students and attendance and curfew are monitored daily in order to ensure that every student is accounted for.

Curriculum

Makeup

Our curriculum focuses on developing a deep love of Judaism and commitment to a Torah lifestyle through learning the texts and contemporary teachings of our rabbis. There is a strong emphasis on Midot development and finding each individual girl's place in her Judaism.

Courses Offered

A full weekly schedule is available on our website.

  • 4 D Vision
  • 48 Ways
  • A Deeper Look
  • A Meaningful Life
  • Advanced Halacha
  • Bayit Rishon: A Nation Divided
  • Bein Adam Lichaveiro
  • Beit Midrash (Freestyle)
  • Beit Midrash: Chumash Prep
  • Building Blocks
  • Building Your Humanity
  • Chayei Olam
  • Chinuch Habanim
  • Chorev
  • Chovat Hatalmidim
  • Chumash
  • Concepts in Jewish Thought
  • Contemporary Conundrums in Halacha
  • D’rash v’Remez al HaParsha
  • Da Et Atzmecha
  • Da Ma Lihashiv
  • Darchei Noam
  • Empowerment through Torah
  • Foundations of Faith
  • From Adam to Adam
  • From Adam to Me
  • Galgal Hashana - Sephardic
  • Habayit Hayehudi
  • Haftarah
  • Halacha: Lifecycles
  • Hatzalah - EMR
  • Hilchot Brachot
  • Hilchot Inyanei Nashim
  • Hilchot Shabbat I: Fundamentals
  • Hilchot Shabbat II: Sephardic
  • Hilchot Shabbat III: 39 Melachot
  • Honors Chumash
  • Iggeret HaRamban
  • Independent Parshat Hashavua Self Study
  • Inyanei Nashim
  • Iyunim B'Chumash
  • Lessons from the Desert
  • Life Skills
  • Maagal Hashana: The Cycle of the Jewish Year
  • Mesilat Yesharim
  • Michtav Meliyahu
  • Mishlei
  • Misunderstood Topics in Tanach
  • Mitzvot Nashim
  • Mysteries of Parshat Bereishit
  • Nashim BaTanach
  • Netivot Shalom
  • Out and About in Jerusalem
  • Pirkei Avot
  • Rodfei Emet
  • Sefer Chafetz Chaim
  • Sefer Daniel
  • Sefer Kuzari
  • Sefer Ovadia
  • Shearim BeTfillah
  • Sheva Neviot
  • Shir Hashirim
  • Taamei Hamitzvot
  • Tefillah
  • Tehillim
  • The Joy of Being a Jew
  • Threats to Judaism
  • Tools for the Real World
  • Trei Asar
  • Ulpan
  • Understanding the End of Days
  • Uva LiTzion
  • Values and Value
  • Works of the Ramchal
  • Yediat Ha’aretz
Daily Schedule

Classes are offered 5 days a week beginning at 8:30am. Girls choose their own classes and therefore have the flexibility to create their schedules to best suit their individual needs. There are no classes on Fridays.

Language of Instruction

Our classes are in English.

Ulpan or Hebrew Class

We offer Ulpan as part of our schedule.

Assessment and Grading

Grades are assessed based on attendance, class participation and semester tests or projects.

Shana Bet

Tomer Devorah offers a full shana bet program.

Joint Program

Yeshiva University, Touro, Excelsior College

Staff

  • Mrs. Chana Abowitz
  • Mrs. Gitty Auerbach
  • Mrs. Michelle Baruch
  • Rabbi Meir Blake
  • Rabbi Morderchai Burg
  • Rabbi Tzadok Cable
  • Rabbi Yirmiyahu Cohen
  • Mrs. Tzipora Leah Danesh
  • Rabbi Meir Eisenman
  • Rabbi Noam Fix
  • Mrs. Rivka Fix
  • Mrs. Elana Glatt
  • Mrs. Sophie Goldstein
  • Mrs. Chana Greenfield
  • Mrs. Pearly Hausman
  • Mrs. Chava Leah Hoffman
  • Miss Shifra Kahana
  • Mrs. Mindel Kassorla
  • Rabbi Gabi Kruskal
  • Rabbi Dov Lev
  • Mrs. Rivka Lichtman
  • Mrs. Menucha Lieberman
  • Rabbi Yoel Lock
  • Mrs. Hyndi Mendelowitz
  • Mrs. Miriam Miller
  • Miss Tsivia Morrison
  • Mrs. Shaina Newman
  • Mrs. Shelly Padowitz
  • Mrs. Tamara Pearl
  • Rabbi Don Perkal
  • Mrs. Sheva Rand
  • Mrs. Miriam Rosen
  • Miss Sara Rosenbaum
  • Mrs. Leah Rosenstein
  • Rabbi Moshe Rosenstein
  • Mrs. Aviva Saunders
  • Rabbi Baruch Schechter
  • Mrs. Dina Schoonmaker
  • Rabbi Nachman Seltzer
  • Mrs. Hanna Shukrun
  • Rabbi Adam Simon
  • Mrs. Joyce Sperling
  • Mrs. Elana Stahler
  • Mrs. Avigail Teller
  • Mrs. Michal Trenk
  • Mrs. Ariella Vale
  • Mrs. Tova Walder
  • Mrs. Chaya Wealcatch
  • Rabbi Yaakov Yisroel Wenglin

Extra-Curricular Activities

Interaction with Israelis

Tomer Devorah is located on the beautiful Beit Olot Campus -- a home for underprivileged Israeli girls.

Tomer Devorah girls are encouraged to expand their horizons by spending shabbat with families living all over Israel.

Special Informal Programs

Special informal programming happens all the time at Tomer Devorah. We host workshops at staff homes, movie nights on educational topics, night activities, exercise classes, game.nights , kumzitzs, dinners with teachers and more.  Over vacation times, we have special programming including a pizza party, BBQ, tie dyeing, informal trips, joint chessed opportunities and other fun and relaxing activities.

Sports Facilities

Our campus houses various exercise machines and an outdoor basketball court.

Programming for Shabbat and Yom Tov

Tomer Devorah offers approximately one shabbaton per month.  Shabbatonim are either on our campus or in various communities around Israel.  Tomer Devorah has a shabbat placement program in which girls can sign up to be placed in different communities.

Field Trips

Tomer Devorah girls are privileged to travel the width and breadth of the country.  We travel up to the North of the Country, the South of the country and everywhere in between.

Eligibility

Level of Learning Offered

Intermediate-Advanced

Hebrew Knowledge Required

Shiurim are in English.

Religious Observance Required

An orthodox woman who exhibits a positive attitude towards her shemirat Torah U'Mitzvot and who is actively seeking growth in learning.

Population

Type of Student

Tomer Devorah students come from all over the United States from backgrounds ranging from public school to Beit Yaakov.

Overall Number of Students (Kollel, Israeli, Foreign)

75

Foreign Student Percentage

10%

Number of 1st Year American Students

60

Number of 2nd Year American Students

Generally 10-20

Other Nationalities

England, Canada, Brazil,  Australia, South Africa, and Italy

Number of Students per Class

Students choose their own classes and therefore class sizes range from as few as 5-8 girls to classes that have all the girls in attendance.

Accommodations

Living Quarters

Each room houses 4-5 students. The dorms are housed in the same beautiful building as all the school facilities -- no need to be exposed to the elements on your way to class, to the common areas or to eat. All students have access to a kitchenette, laundry and computers with internet access. Students may choose their own roommates. Tomer Devorah is housed on a campus equipped with a basketball court and multiple outdoor areas for recreation.

Availability of Private Kitchen Facilities

The dorm has a kitchen facility for student use with refrigerator, burners and microwave.

Facility use during Shabbat and Yom Tov

The dorm is always open.

Curfew

Curfew is 11:30pm nightly.

Security Arrangements

There is a 24 hour security guard, closed circuit cameras and a fence surrounding the entire scenic campus.

History

Founded in 2006, Tomer Devorah is proud to be moving into its second decade as a successful, popular and highly regarded seminary.

Accrediting Universities

Tomer Devorah is a recognized Yeshiva University S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program School. Our credits are accepted by Touro College, Excelsior College and various other universities. Please be in touch with the Tomer Devorah Office to find out if your college will accept a Tomer Devorah transcript.

Tuition

Annual tuition is $23,800.

Additional Information

Please see our website http://www.tomerdevorah.net/

Contact Information for Tomer Devorah

United States

Tomer Devorah Seminary
c/o Samantha Dauber
6541 N. Drake
Lincolnwood, IL 60712

Phone: (773) 262-0208
Fax: (312) 873-4172
Email: info@tomerdevorah.net

Israel

Rabbi Noam Fix
29 Ma'agalei Harim Levin
Sanhedria Murchevet, Jerusalem 9770727

Phone: (02) 571-6633
Fax: (02) 571-5032
Email: office@tomerdevorah.net