On November 11th, the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School (JBHS) had an open house for 8th graders and their parents. An abundance of families from Brooklyn and the entire metropolitan area were greeted by current high school student volunteers and given Flatbush materials emblazoned with the yeshivah’s logo.
The volunteers guided the prospective students and their parents on tours of the new state-of-the-art North building, which includes the Stein Student Commons, the Library, and the BenHaim Bet Midrash, as they happily shared their experiences and the many reasons why they love attending JBHS.
The guests enjoyed coffee and refreshments in the cafe area, while mingling with principals and faculty. The main program began in the Khezrie Auditorium, where the yeshivah’s administration addressed a standing-room-only crowd. Head of School Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari offered a d’var Torah that explained how the Yeshivah of Flatbush follows the example of Yaakov Avinu, who was a spiritual student of Torah, as well as an active member of society. Rabbi Harari pointed out that YoF students, too, are deeply committed Jews who engage in high level secular studies.
Principal Rabbi Joseph Beyda reflected on the yeshivah’s mission to inspire, challenge, and support its students so each and every one of them will grow into an adult with Torah values, good character, compassion, scholarship, and commitment to Israel, the Jewish people, and people everywhere. He also discussed how YoF empowers its graduates to be world changers.
Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser introduced an exciting video that gave everyone a glimpse into what makes the school unique. It opened with scenes of students enjoying the new building, illustrating how the space enhances the way students explore their passions and pursue educational goals. It also included testimony from students, parents, and faculty that emphasized how JBHS teaches students about careers and leads them to career opportunities, how it encourages them to continue their educations throughout their lives, and to contribute in every way they can.
Associate Principal Sari Bacon highlighted the distinctive energy of Flatbush academic and extracurricular programs and introduced alumnus Michael Franco (HS 2013), a current medical student. Michael recalled how he immediately felt at home at YoF, despite the fact that he came from another school. He also described how the school gave him the intellectual and academic tools to succeed in college, yeshivah in Israel, and medical school.
Assistant Principal and Director of Admissions Esther Hidary spoke about all the ways students participate in meaningful programs and projects. She noted that JBHS students are encouraged to become leaders.
The open house continued in the classrooms; prospective students and their parents chose two mini-lessons from a range of subjects including general studies, Judaic studies, STEM, art and hesed.
Students then proceeded to the Laniado Auxiliary Gym where they explored the Student Activities Fair and athletic teams. High school commissioners of various extracurricular programs discussed their activities and answered questions. A video showcasing the school’s sports teams displayed what a Flatbush Falcon looks like in action. At the same time, parents learned about the Pathfinders Career Program, the high school guidance department, the SAFE program, as well as college guidance.
The open house concluded with a lavish, abundant and delicious meal, over which prospective students and parents talked with administrators, faculty, and YoF students to learn more about the diversity of Flatbush life—in and out of the classroom. They gained a greater understanding of why the school’s motto is “Four Years for the Rest of Your Life.”
