Having a dream become reality is no small achievement. Yet forty-nine years ago, a dedicated group of community members recognized a need in the community and envisioned a solution. These individuals undertook the daunting task of establishing a school that would provide both Torah and secular studies in a warm, secure environment. And today Ahi Ezer Yeshiva is proud to educate approximately 300 students annually, imbuing each child with solid Torah values and middot.
Ahi Ezerâs continuous growth and success can be attributed to its selfless board of directors. Though each board member leads an active private life, each has invested countless amounts of time, energy and funds into the continued functioning of Ahi Ezer. The constant dedication and concern exhibited toward the school is apparent in all actions performed by the board.
However, the schoolâs ultimate success also lies in the hands of the community. If not for the communityâs generous support, the vision of Ahi Ezer would never have become a reality.
Behind The Scenes
In Ahi Ezer Yeshiva, it is impossible not to feel an immediate connection as soon as you enter the building. However, it is not just the education that appeals to the hearts of those who step into the school. It is also the schoolâs innovative approach, along with a personal touch that reaches each and every student and family.
The education of todayâs youth is not for the fainthearted. At Ahi Ezer Yeshiva, the staff realizes the significance of the task placed in their hands. Their goal is to bring out all aspects of a studentsâ education to their utmost ability. Ahi Ezer nurtures and encourages according to each childâs unique characteristics and abilities.
When one walks through the schoolâs halls, the enthusiasm and excitement expressed by teachers and students alike is a pleasure to witness. A peek into Ahi Ezerâs classrooms shows conscientious students and dedicated teachers, all trying to make the most of every opportunity. Indeed, much credit is attributed to the committed administration and faculty, who have dedicated their lives to nurturing studentsâ growth. It is because of their efforts that Ahi Ezer has become a model school, devoted to helping students grow and succeed.
Foundations
Those at Ahi Ezer, understand the significance of a solid, Judaic education combined with a warm and caring environment. Their Judaic curriculum is a unique merging of textual learning and hands-on experience designed to maintain a high academic standard. Teachers strive to assist each student to maximize their potential. A resource room, run by highly qualified teachers, is available for those girls who need individual assistance to excel.
To advance Hebrew curriculum and improve Hebrew fluency, Ahi Ezer has kriah beginning in Pre-1a. This provides the students with an early start in their reading and writing skills by allowing them to gain familiarity with Hebrew letters at an earlier age. The students also have access to a Hebrew library, where they can research various topics and even access Jewish novels for their own enjoyment. The school encourages students to borrow books over the weekend to share their learning with their families.
Ahi Ezerâs educational program is not limited to the classroom. Many students are privileged to experience Shabbatons at their teachersâ homes. These Shabbatons give the students an opportunity to experience firsthand the spirit and sanctity of Shabbat together with their friends.
The schoolâs stimulating and innovative Hebrew curriculum is only achieved through effort on the part of its principal and wonderful staff. The administration and faculty are living personifications of their lessons, allowing each child to witness and understand what it means to live a true Torah life. Whether teaching chumash, navi, mitzvot or middot, the Ahi Ezer staff intills the girls with a love for Torah and a Jewish way of life. Indeed, the warmth and enthusiasm expressed by principals, teachers and administrative staff alike remain with students long after their school days are over.
Innovative Advancements In Education
Ahi Ezerâs general studies department is executed by a highly experienced and knowledgeable staff. The school utilizes a variety of creative approaches and techniques to encourage academic achievement. At Ahi Ezer, the goal is to encourage inquiring minds and foster advancement while simultaneously focusing on each individual student. Consequently, the curriculum is designed to challenge each student according to her unique capabilities. As the students progress, the challenging academic program stimulates them to strive for excellence and take on more difficult tasks. And for those girls who need one-on-one instruction to thrive, the resource room is available to help them succeed.
The schoolâs English program is not limited to the classroom. To enrich their curriculum, Ahi Ezer students are taken on exciting, informative trips. This year different grades have visited the library, the Staten Island Zoo, City Hall, fleet week, the district attorneyâs office and the Museum of Jewish Heritage. Additional projects assigned by teachers allow students to research topics and present them to their classmates. It is always a delight to witness the time and effort invested into making each presentation a masterpiece.
Preschool Building Blocks
Ahi Ezerâs preschool provides a perfect combination of education and a warm, loving environment. Indeed, the school has been providing early childhood education to thousands of students since its inception. Due to their extensive experience, Ahi Ezerâs preschool staff has acquired an intimate understanding of the multifaceted, early educational needs of young children and has developed a high level of expertise in the education of young minds. The school utilizes modern, fully equipped classrooms to nurture, stimulate and encourage skill development. The children develop manipulative, musical and social skills through block building, arts and crafts, computers, music and many other activities. Concepts taught and discussed in the classroom are brought to life through these hands-on activities. The best proof of this successful program is the joyful expressions on the childrenâs faces as they experience the warmth and educational atmosphere in the fun filled environment of the preschool.