While many school districts across the country are tightening their belts with smaller budgets, others are considering a broader range of charter schools to address the specific needs of families in their areas. One type of charter school that has gained plenty of attention in recent years is Hebrew-immersion charter schools that teach Hebrew language and culture without bringing religion into the picture. While many school districts have denied such charter applications, others have signed on for Hebrew-immersion schools that are filling quickly in some areas.
Try, Try Again!
In Bergen County in New Jersey, one Hebrew-immersion charter school is hoping the fourth time is the charm as they once again submit their charter application to the state for approval. The school, Shalom Academy, may get its wish in a year when the current state government is hoping to expand choices in public schools. According to a report at NJ.com, this year might be Shalom's best shot at approval.
The Shalom Academy would serve populations in Englewood and Teaneck, two communities that already each host a charter school. It is estimated that the two current schools would have to reduce their budgets by nearly $3 million to create the money needed to set up and run Shalom Academy.
This video documents how, with their use of taxpayer dollars for Hebrew education, the nation's Hebrew-language charter schools are becoming an increasingly popular choice for Jewish parents.