It is a privilege to bear witness to some of our community’s most monumental events: the opening of a new school, the establishment of a new synagogue, or the completion of a Judaic and cultural center. In 2004, Magen David Yeshivah, which for 52 years had been educating and molding our children at Ave P and Stillwell Avenue, relocated to a brand new facility in the heart of our community.
Here’s a look back at MDY: In 1952, the great visionary Isaac Shalom A”H and a group of dedicated individuals succeeded in opening a Sephardic religious school despite mixed opinions. Back then many felt that a yeshivah was anti-American, while our founders felt this was the only way to preserve our heritage and traditions. What started out as a few classrooms in a building primarily dedicated to bowling, bingo and social events, in time, under the direction of many outstanding community leaders and principals, became a premier educational institution, while perpetuating our unique Sephardic values.
As MDY’s popularity increased, so did enrollment—at an extremely rapid pace—causing lack of space. Offices became classrooms, and closets became offices. The need for a new facility was not merely a desire for luxury, but a necessity. The clear solution was to build a school to encompass their needs, and make it as accessible to the community as possible.
The summer before the move, the school was a mere hole in the ground. The rate at which the school took shape was truly a miracle. Hundreds of craftsmen worked intensively to complete the new building for their September opening.
Although its architectural magnificence can be plainly seen by all, it is that which lies within the bricks and mortar that is MDY’s true triumph, balancing age-old tradition with modern day technology. Children are taught Sephardic taamim (pronunciation), pizmonim (hymns) and keriah (reading). Their strength in limudei kodesh (Hebrew studies) has resulted in their unprecedented representation at the worldwide Hidon Tanach (Bible) contest.
“Our new building is truly a kiddush Hashem (sanctification of G-d’s name) as it enables us to enhance our ability to educate future members of our community who are committed to the love of Torah and mitzvot, are well rounded in the knowledge of the world and dedicated to the land of Israel,” commented Rabbi Baruch Hilsenrath, the elementary school Principal.
Its immense 200,000 square feet do not in any way diminish its homey atmosphere. Their grand 700-seat auditorium and beautiful bet midrash (learning center) are also used on weekends and holidays as a synagogue. After-school, evening and weekend programs, for children as well as parents, keep this building abuzz 24/7. Classes include music, theatre, science, crafts and story time in the fully equipped library.
Enrichment programs for the gifted, and resource rooms for those who need a more personal approach ,give children the individualized attention they deserve.
All members of the community are part of the MDY family and are made to feel welcome. It is truly a school by the people, for the people.
Everyone’s excited about the two tremendous state-of-the-art gymnasiums. There is enough space to include all age and ability levels, and programs such as father/son leagues, intramurals and skill training. MDY believes that athletics are the perfect compliment to academics. If sports do not interest your child, MDY has an abundance of creative outlets to choose from, that build confidence and expose your child to culture, whether it be shop, guitar lessons, calligraphy, writing, art appreciation or dance.
On the last day of MDY classes at the old building, the spirit and affection of the children and faculty were a sight to behold. In their eyes one could glimpse the true love and respect they had for their school, as they bid farewell to one home and expressed their enthusiasm for a new one.
At the new school, fathers and sons can pray side- by-side in the Midrash before they start their day, mothers can work alongside their children while assisting the PTA, and families can walk to shul together with pride on Shabbat. With additional new staff members in place, an ever expanding preschool on West 11th and Ave T, and a flourishing high school, there’s just no stopping Magen David.
Good Luck, MDY, and continued success, always!
