Yechezkel Moskowitz | University of Scranton (original) (raw)

Research Papers On Education by Yechezkel Moskowitz

Private schools rarely have to follow state policies and guidelines. However, when utilizing stat... more Private schools rarely have to follow state policies and guidelines. However, when utilizing state funded programs, there is indeed the possibility they will need to follow the same guidelines as public schools. I discuss the legalities involved in using the services of a synagogue charitable organization and its volunteers for a state funded Summer Transitional Program within the school.

School policy making can be rather complex for both public and private school leaders as state an... more School policy making can be rather complex for both public and private school leaders as state and federal laws, especially those that pertain to education, are elusive and open to interpretation. One of the ways schools offset costs is through the usage of school volunteers, however, as expected, their rights within the school are a complicated issue. In this paper, I review some of the cases and laws regarding the legal rights of volunteers and how such laws can pose an issue to Jewish private schools.

After a brief overview of the current violence in schools, I present several cases over the last ... more After a brief overview of the current violence in schools, I present several cases over the last three years where students, in both high school and elementary school, brought knives to zero tolerance schools. After the presentation, I express my views on the matter through the perspective of Jewish thoughts and offer a framework for disciplining such situations through the above-mentioned Jewish prism.

In this paper, I review best practices for an evaluation framework including the tools used for i... more In this paper, I review best practices for an evaluation framework including the tools used for its implementation. Pulling inspiration from both national and state procedures, I develop a basic framework for supervision, which, I believe, can be potentially utilized in any school that desires to achieve school renewal and success.

For centuries, the nations of the world have pondered the secret to the Judaism’s survival during... more For centuries, the nations of the world have pondered the secret to the Judaism’s survival during the Jewish exile from Judea, of over the last two thousand years. Traditional forms of Jewish education are the most common answer, since traditional education is essentially the Jewish spiritual core. Jewish education has empowered the Jews to safeguard their belief in God and His Torah, no matter the cost. When the first Jewish immigrants arrived on the sandy beaches of the new world, they were faced with an unprecedented challenge: integrate into American culture and society, and while doing so, maintain their Jewish Identity. In this historical survey, the basic developments of the traditional Jewish day school will be traced, from its Divine origins in the Middle East, to the shores of America in Colonial times, and continuing into the present. In addition, the survey will incorporate and discuss, the challenges which traditional day school’s faced in the past and the present as well. Concluding with the various solutions suggested by leading Jewish educators to rectify them and better the system for future generations.

In the Disappearance of Childhood, Neil Postman suggests that childhood is a rather recent invent... more In the Disappearance of Childhood, Neil Postman suggests that childhood is a rather recent invention introduced when the printing press created a division between children and adults.

Over the last fifty years Yeshiva Day Schools have established themselves as the primary if not e... more Over the last fifty years Yeshiva Day Schools have established themselves as the primary if not exclusive choice for education of Orthodox Jews in America. Lacking state funding, tuition is high and parents expect to get the most for their money. With the popularity of John Dewey's theories on Progressive Education, and the effort to implement progressive ideas into public school classrooms, one wonders if Orthodox Jews aren't far behind, employing progressive ideas such as learning by doing into Yeshiva Day Schools as well. JOHN DEWEY AND JEWISH ORTHODOX EDUCATION

Unlike the educational system in the United States, which has lacked true sense of direction sinc... more Unlike the educational system in the United States, which has lacked true sense of direction since its foundation. There have been educational systems throughout history, which have had a set goal s in mind since their inception. These educational systems are usually coupled with a form of religious observance. Of those goal oriented educational systems, the Jesuit and Jewish brands of education are two very important systems to analyze. The similarities between these two systems are very noticeable when one takes a closer look at their inner workings. The purpose of this reflection essay is to analyze the most basic level of core values for both these systems of religious education, and to simply compare the two side by side.

Paper Reviews; Advanced Psych by Yechezkel Moskowitz

The psychological effects of religion on its followers has fascinated researchers for over fifty ... more The psychological effects of religion on its followers has fascinated researchers for over fifty years. In this paper I discuss various key research conducted in the area specifically regarding the influence of religion regarding the self, and its use as a selfobject. I will first present research that shows the positive effects and then that which shows adverse effects of its influence. I will then conclude with some observations and following implications in religious education, specifically, Jewish education.

In British Muslim Youth: Radicalization, Terrorism and the Construction of the “Other”, Orla Lync... more In British Muslim Youth: Radicalization, Terrorism and the Construction of the “Other”, Orla Lynch aims to set the record straight regarding the connection between Islam and terrorism and explores the elements which make British Muslim youth susceptible to radicalization. In this paper review I will present Lynch’s methods of research and the conclusion she establishes. I will criticize the methods used and present an additional insight into the subject matter, which in my opinion, could lead to a new angle of research on the radicalization of Muslim youth.

In Religion as a Recourse for Positive Youth Development: Religion, Social Capital and Moral Outc... more In Religion as a Recourse for Positive Youth Development: Religion, Social Capital and Moral Outcomes Pamela Ebstyne King and James L. Furrow set themselves apart from the existing literature on the developmental benefits of religion by trying to understand the much less discussed dynamics of the relationship between the two. Drawing on the Social Capital Theory, the researchers tested the religious influence on moral outcomes in a specific group, I will present the methods of this study and then offer my observations on the matter.

In Prayer in the lives of late adolescents, researchers John Paul McKinney and Kathleen G. McKinn... more In Prayer in the lives of late adolescents, researchers John Paul McKinney and Kathleen G. McKinney try to tackle a rather neglected field of study, the psychological elements of prayer. Their research revolves around the commonality of prayer by young adults, specifically, college students. In this review I will summarize the qualitative and quantitative research conducted, and the implications of the research as suggested by the research team. I will then offer alternative explanation to the phenomena.

In Some Clinical Application of religious Development in Adolescence the researchers discuss the ... more In Some Clinical Application of religious Development in Adolescence the researchers discuss the “uses of religion, in the lives of adolescents, to repair problematic or disrupted attachments […] in context of [the] attachment theory and Kohuts self-psychology, with particular reference to the selfobject” (Lovinger, Miller, & Lovinger, 1999, p. 269). Two cases are presented and discussed in relation to the attachment theory and self-psychology. In this review I will discuss the form of application and the level of coherence. In addition, I will discuss the implications that can be derived from the work done in the research presented, and what was left to be desired.

Curriculum Development by Yechezkel Moskowitz

Abstract This paper discusses the cultural diversity within Jewish Orthodox Private Schools using... more Abstract
This paper discusses the cultural diversity within Jewish Orthodox Private Schools using Shulamith School for girls as a case sample. This initial study utilizes the current structure of Shulmaith and its available diversity programing as a snap shot of diversity programing for Sephardim [suh-fahr-dim, -fahr-deem], and Mizrahim [miz-rah-kheem], in school’s where a majority of school population is Ashkenazim [ahsh-kuh-nah-zim]. The goal of this study is to acquire an initial snap shot of current diversity programing and accommodation for Orthodox minorities, as a stepping stone to a larger study on diversity programing and accommodation for Orthodox minorities within majorly Ashkenazik schools in the United States and beyond.
Included in this initial study is a brief historical review of diversity within the Jewish community, continuing with a summary of the research I conducted - in relation to the current level of diversity and related programing within the school - at Shulamith School for Girls. In conclusion I offer a personal perspective of the assessed level of diversity programing within the school, and offer a presentation of my ideal framework based on the work of Geneva Gay in her publication Culturally Responsive Teaching (Gay, 2015).

A review of Pre K-12 advising, counseling and guidance in two Jewish schools – an all-boys school... more A review of Pre K-12 advising, counseling and guidance in two Jewish schools – an all-boys school and an all-girls school – to assess best practices in order to ensure a safe and healthy environment for students within school halls. Furthermore, additional research is presented discussing the ideal advising, counseling and guidance program within Jewish education – specifically keeping in mind the role of the school leader in the Pre K-12 advising, counseling and guidance process. In completion, a matrix displaying the ideal program is introduced for the reader as well.

In this reflection essay, I report my thoughts on a series of observations I conducted of a Talmu... more In this reflection essay, I report my thoughts on a series of observations I conducted of a Talmud course during the early part of July, including my reflections post the observation discussions I had with the Talmud Educator otherwise known as Rebbie. After the completion of the initial reflection, I present several of my own ideas on Talmud instruction and supervision, and how I feel they should be incorporated into the current Talmud curriculum.

In relation to previous findings that most Haredi schools do not provide much culturally responsi... more In relation to previous findings that most Haredi schools do not provide much culturally responsive teaching, it is only logical that such a program should exist, and any school which implements such forms of teaching should be supported in any way possible. Following in the path of Jewish leaders such as R. Israel Salanter and Samson R. Hirsch, I prepared two model lessons in line with Culturally Responsive Teaching methods . However, due to certain communal sensitivities to secular ideas within the Ultra-Orthodox community, the curriculum presented, had to be formulated from a religious perspective and text in order for it to even be a viable option. In the end of the lesson plan features and handout descriptions. I present the rationale for both of my lesson plans in a clear and concise fashion.

Talmud is one of the core subjects in an Orthodox Jewish child's education. Every school determin... more Talmud is one of the core subjects in an Orthodox Jewish child's education. Every school determines their own Talmud curriculum. Unfortunately however, no data exists on the success rates of the Talmud studies provided by the schools. I conducted a survey in two local yeshiva high schools, to discover how the students feel about the current Talmud curriculum and their attitude toward Talmud learning in general. After presenting the data I then discuss four ideas which could possibly enhance current Talmud studies curriculum globally
In the second part of the essay, I use the data collected from previous research to identify reading skills, content comprehension and content association, as the core issues with the current curriculum. I then address those issues and suggest solutions which can possibly solve several of the prevalent learning issues - based on traditional sources as well as the current, cutting edge research, on brain based learning.
In the third portion of the essay I identify, through previous research and interviews with leaders in Jewish education, five key limitations within the current Talmud curriculum. Using Jewish traditional sources in addition to current brain research for better methods of learning. In addition, I discuss the presented limitations, and one by one offer practical, easy to implement solutions for a better future in Talmud education.

Halahic Inquiries by Yechezkel Moskowitz

A Halahic discussion regarding wine which was touched by a Non-Observant Jew.

Talmudic Discussions by Yechezkel Moskowitz

נספח מראה מקומות למאמר על תוספות ד"ה אחות אשתו ובענין דרכי נועם

A Halahic discussion regarding wine which was touched by a Non-Observant Jew.

נספח מראה מקומות למאמר על תוספות ד"ה אחות אשתו ובענין דרכי נועם

Short discussion on the way I view the Sugya of Darchi Noaam, as discussed in Yavamot, Folio 2A ... more Short discussion on the way I view the Sugya of Darchi Noaam, as discussed in Yavamot, Folio 2A and Folio 87B.
מראה מקומות
• תוס' ד"ה אחות אשתו (ב.) בתירוצם השיני
• (:ישרש יעקב על רשי ד"ה דרכיה (פז
• רב חיים מטעלז בענין דרכי נועם
• גמר"א פז: נעשה מתים, ורש"י ד"ה דרכיה שם
• מהרש"ל פ"ז: על רשי ד"ה דרכיה

In this essay, I discuss the different research available on making school Emergency Operation Pl... more In this essay, I discuss the different research available on making school Emergency Operation Plans, and why Jewish schools have unique challenges as there are limited resources available to them. Using the basic framework of FEMA and KYSS I discuss a basic communication plan for lockdown mode, and a framework for post lockdown communication with state officials and parents, including cases where parents are not able to unite with their loved ones for a variety of unfortunate circumstances.

In this research paper - after a brief summary of the current abysmal state of education in the U... more In this research paper - after a brief summary of the current abysmal state of education in the U.S., I briefly discuss the current most common model and rationale for supervision – and as such, most commonly used formats within both public and private formats for education, including but not limited to, Jewish Ultra-Orthodox private schools. This description of this format includes the supervisory style used within the school I currently work for as well. After briefly introducing the report, I then discuss how the solutions presented in the report match current framework for best educational practice as discussed by various educational experts (Sergiovanni & Starratt, 2007; Danielson, 2007; Ornstein & Hunkins, 2013). Following that discussion, I present how the current model for supervision most commonly used within Jewish Orthodox Schools, are practices that conflict with current research for optimal supervision. Following my review of the current educational environment, I discuss how the current framework for supervision within Jewish schools came to be, and why they are, in many cases, failing their communities. I then present my philosophy on best frameworks for education, supervision, and evaluation, and question how one should attempt to fix the leadership system in my school and others. I conclude that the system is broken and although they have the ability to fix it, current leadership has very little reason to do so. I therefore conclude that if future educational leaders desire to incorporate better professional practice within the Ultra-Orthodox community, they will have to buck the trend and create their own educational institutions, as only such institutions will be able to incorporate the optimal frameworks of practice.

Since its inception approximately 4,000 years ago, diversity has been a major part of Jewish life... more Since its inception approximately 4,000 years ago, diversity has been a major part of Jewish life. Beginning with the twelve tribes of Jacob – Israel – Jews have traditionally viewed themselves as a family with many stripes. This perspective of diversity within the Jewish community would last throughout most of the Diaspora – Jews from all backgrounds enjoyed the ability to express their individuality. In the aftermath of the Holocaust however, a small remnant of the Orthodox community in Europe immigrated to the newly founded, secular, state of Israel. The dynamics of the period forced the more conservative portion of the community into defense mode, planting the seeds for a social disaster - which only worsened as the years went by. Sixty five years later, The Ultra-orthodox Jews- called Haredim - in the state of Israel have become a self-proclaimed, discriminated minority. To better understand the conflict in Israeli society, I set out to answer the following questions; what are the characteristics and rationale behind Haredi, extreme behaviors? Can Haredim evolve beyond their defensive position - that is, to meet the challenges of an ever diversifying State of Israel? And can the Haredi community accept the challenges of modernity by becoming community leaders, living lives of ethically and morally sound conduct - in the pursuit social justice on a global scale? I compiled a lot of current research which discusses the Haredi community adaptation – or lack thereof - to modernity. After an annotated bibliography, I review the collected literature, searching for the underlying themes of the conflict between the liberal and illiberal factions; I then proceed to suggest a solution: The education of classic Jewish literature on diversity and the role of the Jew in a global world - which will hopefully usher in a new era in the Haredi – Ultra-orthodox Jewish- perspective of its role in an ever-evolving world.

In this paper the various angles of the communications framework at Shulamith School for Girls in... more In this paper the various angles of the communications framework at Shulamith School for Girls in Cedarhurst, New York is reviewed and analyzed in contrast to best practices for schoolwide communication. Best practices for school communication are reviewed and analyzed, followed by an analysis of Shulamith’s internal and external modes of communication with relevant school stakeholders. The strengths and weaknesses of Shulamith’s communications are ascertained and a framework is presented that the Shulamith administration believe can facilitate future growth and progress.

This paper is a study and discussion on the current state of data driven testing analysis in Shul... more This paper is a study and discussion on the current state of data driven testing analysis in Shulamith School for Girls, Cedarhurst, New York, closing with a framework for change to a more data driven framework of testing analysis. The initial inquiry is accomplished through an investigation of the school's current system for data collection of student testing, analysis of results and several discussions with both the school leader, Rabbi Perry Tirschwell (Personal communication, May 11, 2016) and Middle School Associate Principal Dr. Evelyn Gross (Personal communication, May 11, 2016) on current practices. Upon discovering a significant lack of testing data collection within the school, it is decided-with the approval of the school administration – that the development of a framework for data driven decision making is required. The framework is created through the application of the most up to date literature for better data driven evaluation protocols for schools. In addition, the provision of a modified framework for better testing analysis procedures is established with both an initial change proposal as well as a more detailed outline of the program until the end of the school year of 2019. I believe that the framework presented will help school leadership and faculty to assess how Shulamith students perform as a whole and as individuals, thus enabling the school to improve its educational success on a whole new level of efficiency and professionalism.

In this paper, I discuss the challenges which time presents to school administrators and how they... more In this paper, I discuss the challenges which time presents to school administrators and how they can effectively manage their time in order to better the volume and effectivity of their daily outputs - which in turn, makes them better school leaders for all the school community stakeholders.

In this essay I research the most basic power brokers in public school districts and the impact t... more In this essay I research the most basic power brokers in public school districts and the impact these groups/individuals have on my decision making as a school leader. I follow that research with a similar format presenting and discussing the main power brokers in the Jewish private school community. I then create and present an entrance plan as though I am arriving in my school as a new principal. In my plan, I address what I would do to establish myself with power brokers and all school stakeholders.

In this essay, I discuss various styles of leadership as presented in several sources. I then fol... more In this essay, I discuss various styles of leadership as presented in several sources. I then follow up with a brief explanation of why I feel that transformational leadership modified with servant leadership would best suit my personality.

In this reflection essay. I discuss the basics of clinical supervision and whether the school I c... more In this reflection essay. I discuss the basics of clinical supervision and whether the school I currently work in uses a clinical supervision model, in day-to-day practice. I discuss the current model of supervision and its apparent implications on faculty morale and efficiency.

The goal of supervision is to assist teachers’ improvement (Sergiovanni & Starratt, 2007). In lin... more The goal of supervision is to assist teachers’ improvement (Sergiovanni & Starratt, 2007). In line with previous work in this series (Moskowitz, 2015), I discuss the main points of supervision, specifically how it influences teachers. I then present the Orthodox Jewish view on such practice, pulling from the current literature on the subject.

In the second chapter of Sergiovanni & Starratt’s joint work Supervision: A redefinition (Sergiov... more In the second chapter of Sergiovanni & Starratt’s joint work Supervision: A redefinition (Sergiovanni & Starratt, 2007), they present a wide range of sources from which school supervisors draw their supervision style. After an initial discussion on the ideas they present in their text, I reflect on how these ideas fit into the world of Jewish education and its sources of authority.

In this reflection paper I address the need for school renewal through the creation of proper fra... more In this reflection paper I address the need for school renewal through the creation of proper frameworks for supervision. These improved formats foster a healthy schoolwide learning culture. I discuss why I feel such renewal is necessary in traditional Jewish schools despite the relative success rates- including a discussion of why these initiatives fail, and how investing in strong leadership can be the solution.

School leaders are faced with many challenges throughout their careers. As such, the development ... more School leaders are faced with many challenges throughout their careers. As such, the development of problem solving skills is crucial for any school leader to achieve true success in their school and community. With this in mind I present several challenges I might face as an administrator, and respond with two creative ideas I would possibly use to resolve them.

Administrators are faced with many challenges, amongst those challenges are choosing and facilita... more Administrators are faced with many challenges, amongst those challenges are choosing and facilitating the correct curriculum for the school and following it up with teacher evaluation. In this reflection I discuss the some of the practices I – as a school leader - would engage in which would promotes healthy teacher professional development, and at the same time avoids stigmatization.

Principals are faced with many challenges throughout their careers. However, few of those challen... more Principals are faced with many challenges throughout their careers. However, few of those challenges match up to the challenge of creating change, especially within an already established school. In this reflection I analyze the reasons why creating change is such a challenge, and present a formula for bringing change to an already established institution, as a newly hired school leader via the creation of a need for change.

In conjunction with my paper on the mathematics overhaul I present two year-end memos to my staff... more In conjunction with my paper on the mathematics overhaul I present two year-end memos to my staff. The memo mainly focuses on the failure of students in their NYS regent exams. The first memo is not personal, and does not meet current procedures for proper administrator staff participation. The second memo displays proper communication procedures.

Although math is a fundamental of education, Americans "stink at math" (Green, 2014). Educational... more Although math is a fundamental of education, Americans "stink at math" (Green, 2014). Educational researchers are doing their utmost to get to the root of the problem, however, many students are still failing (Green, 2014). Math success rates in Jewish private schools are consistently split 50/50. According to Marvin Schick, the success of the math department, and the entire general studies department, lies in the hands of the administrator and the end goals of the school itself (Schick, 2014) & (Schick, 2007). Yeshiva day schools have been recorded to have inferior general studies programs – in contrast to their more modern counterparts (Schick, 2014). Yeshiva day school leaders should make every effort to even the score, amend the situation and provide better education. I analyzed– with the limited resources available to me - the current common math program in Yeshiva day schools and, using collection of data, leader and staff collaboration, developed a process for overhauling the program.

What makes us good leaders? In truth, the possibilities are endless, as what makes one a leader v... more What makes us good leaders? In truth, the possibilities are endless, as what makes one a leader varies. In this reflection I write a list of fives, based on concepts I gleaned from the writings of Lunenburg and Ornstein's Educational Administration Concepts and Practices. Using their ideas as a base board, I establish what I will promise to myself as a future administrator, educator and leader

Government involvement in education is at an all-time high (Lunenberg & Ornstein, 2012). The resu... more Government involvement in education is at an all-time high (Lunenberg & Ornstein, 2012). The result of such involvement is controversial, as it has a large price tag and constituents – justifiably - expect results from their hard earned tax dollars (Lunenberg & Ornstein, 2012). The Jewish community is no different, as it is currently going through a tuition crisis. It is a dire state of affairs where parents are paying, on top of their taxes, somewhere between 9,000 to 30,000 dollars per child a year in tuition payments to Jewish private schools (Litwack, 2015). These schools - which are religious non-profits - receive little government funding, besides for those which are mandated, and therefore rely heavily on tuition payments and fundraising to survive. In this essay I will answer the following two questions; Do Jewish schools receive any funding from the government, either state, federal or both? And if not, is there any short, or long term, government – state or federal - assisted solution, to alleviate the monetary cost to both schools and parents.

All organizations rely on some model of structure to maintain proper functionality. Over the cour... more All organizations rely on some model of structure to maintain proper functionality. Over the course of the twentieth century, various sociologists, psychologists, and administrators have theorized and formulated a large variety of proper organizational models as discussed in the second chapter of Educational Administration Concepts & Practices (Lunenberg & Ornstein, 2012). In this reflection, after a brief survey of common organizational models discussed by Lunenburg and Ornstein, I use the Jewish community – which I am familiar with – as a test model. Based on the ideas of the Getzels social systems model, I address the following questions: Do different systems for education differ based on their social values? And if they do, can those governing elements be identified?

One of the most important elements of education, in both the public and private sector, is school... more One of the most important elements of education, in both the public and private sector, is school liability. After a short law review of school liability, I focus on school nurses and the legalities of administrating medication in school. I than follow up with a case in point combined with a legal discussion on the issue of drug administration

Cyber schools are here in the present and are probably the future of education. However, how lega... more Cyber schools are here in the present and are probably the future of education. However, how legal are they? School leaders can be perplexed by the mandated levels of involvement for both themselves and the state when it comes to compulsory attendance and providing text books. In this essay I review the state of cyber schooling and the rights of students enrolled in such programs. I then provide a case in point scenario with some legal suggestions.

In 2004, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act - known as IDEA - introduced... more In 2004, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act - known as IDEA - introduced a set of provisions for dealing with students who have special needs. In private schools, students are now able to get services due to federal and state laws. However, things are not as simple as they are in the public school system. As such, I review the progression of special needs legislation and how it relates to private school education. I then present two cases where school leaders can clash with parents over the requirements of their special needs students and suggest frameworks for dealing with them.

The Cult is a rather obscure part of American history. Until this day and age there are dozens if... more The Cult is a rather obscure part of American history. Until this day and age there are dozens if not hundreds of cults operating in the united states. As a school leader there times due to compulsory laws that a school leader must seek out information regarding the students in their district, in order to insure they are getting the state mandated education they deserve.

Obergefell v. Hodges will always be remembered as the case that changed it all. With homosexualit... more Obergefell v. Hodges will always be remembered as the case that changed it all. With homosexuality recognized as a legal format for marriage in the United States, religious schools across the nation are wondering how this policy effects their day to day functions and rules of employment. In this law review essay I will discuss both the religious and federal elements of homosexuals, their employment and school law. Followed by a discussion on the practical application for such legalities.

In this essay I discuss the legalities of school uniform in both private and public school settin... more In this essay I discuss the legalities of school uniform in both private and public school settings. I explore uniforms within Jewish Orthodox girl schools and present a possible uniform policy that enables freedom of expression of students, while maintaining a commitment, and emphasis, to the laws of Jewish modesty

In this essay I discuss the basic structure of school law and its effects on private schools, spe... more In this essay I discuss the basic structure of school law and its effects on private schools, specifically in the state of New York. After a review of various sources of school legislation and policies which are available to school leaders within a private school setting, I discuss the format of policymaking in private schools, including the school manuals and student handbooks, and those who are involved in the process.

Current Cost Per Pupil – otherwise referred to as the Actual Instructional Expense or AIE for sho... more Current Cost Per Pupil – otherwise referred to as the Actual Instructional Expense or AIE for short – is reviewed for a variety of student types in both the Lawrence School District, Nassau County, New York and the Township of Lakewood school district in Ocean County, New Jersey. Having a better understanding of the actual cost can assist a school leader to better allocate funds in order to financially sustain their various educational programing for all students.

Revenue and spending for special education in the Lawrence Union Free School District is analyzed... more Revenue and spending for special education in the Lawrence Union Free School District is analyzed. Furthermore, the number and categories of students in outside placement is estimated as the school district would not release information. Subsequently, I present a scenario where all students in special education - that are presently in outside placements – are brought back into the district with an illustration of the programs and staffing that would be necessary to accommodate them. I offer a side-by-side analysis showing the comparative costs of educating those students inside and out of the district.

The costs of the several budget categories including, athletics, intramurals, field trips, clubs,... more The costs of the several budget categories including, athletics, intramurals, field trips, clubs, supplies, equipment, consumables, and textbooks are reviewed in both Shulamith School for Girls, an all-girls school in Cedarhurst, New York, and Yeshiva of South Shore, an all-boys school, in Hewlett, New York. With the exact expenditures of both schools established, both schools are compared and analyzed. In addition, through discussions with three school executive directors, I discuss the actual percentages of the annual budget costs as per common practice in the Jewish private school community. Once the percentage is established, I defend the current practice based on common sense and school need, that is, that privately funded schools have little liability to stakeholders to begin with. In conclusion, I discuss my thoughts on the Yeshivot spending for these categories and how they reflect within the broader spectrum of Yeshiva Day School Finances.

This paper analyzes and discusses the current budget practice of Yeshiva Day Schools in the Unite... more This paper analyzes and discusses the current budget practice of Yeshiva Day Schools in the United States, based on both review of current financial practices within such schools, including but not limited to, budget development, generation of school revenue, and current average actual instructional expense, AIE, and breakdown of expenditures including extracurricular activities. This is done through analysis of the current practices in Jewish Ultra-Orthodox schools nationwide as well as three school within the five towns community of Nassau County, New York, through the usage of several articles on practices within the Yeshiva Day School including two articles by Yisorel Besser in Mishpacha magazine (Besser, 2014; Besser, 2016), a Jewish Ultra-Orthodox magazine popular within the Jewish Ultra-Orthodox in the United States and across the globe (Goldman, 2015). And peer reviewed research on the topic by Dr. Marvin Shick for the Avi Chai Foundation (Schick, 2007; Shick, 2009; Schick, 2014). In conclusion, I offer some of my own insights into the current practices and how I feel they can be improved in the future in order to facilitate further involvement of additional stakeholders in the process.

This paper analyzes a variety of budgeting systems utilized by schools across the nation (Garner,... more This paper analyzes a variety of budgeting systems utilized by schools across the nation (Garner, 2004), for both their efficiency and shortcomings. Additionally, budgeting within Jewish Orthodox schools is analyzed and scrutinized for most common budget building practices used within these educational institutions. Furthermore, the paper briefly presents groundwork for an alternative budget building process, including an illustration of a unique format for budget approval

In this paper I review and evaluate the various tax methods used in two districts with high perce... more In this paper I review and evaluate the various tax methods used in two districts with high percentages of Jewish populations; Lawrence Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York; and the Township of Lakewood, Ocean County, New Jersey. Due to current demographics, both these districts are unique as they present a scenario where non-public school students outnumber public school students. It is interesting to see how the monies generated from local taxation flow to the needs of both factions

As an essential facet of orthodox Jewish lifestyle, Jewish education, and more specifically its f... more As an essential facet of orthodox Jewish lifestyle, Jewish education, and more specifically its financial viability, is one of – if not the most – discussed issues in the Orthodox and Ultra-Orthodox collective. With “861 schools nationwide accommodating nearly 255,000 [Jewish] students enrolled from the four-year-old level through 12th grade in Jewish elementary and secondary schools in the 2013-14 school year” (Schick, 2014). It is no wonder, that Jewish education is major priority for observant Jewish families, as they unanimously send their children to such schools. In this essay I will examine the ways which these Yeshiva private schools finance themselves, thus ensuring their survivability – as “government funding is not available, in any significant way, to private schools at this time” (Schloss, 2014).

With a decline in relevance, it is rather clear that United Reform Judaism, (URJ), through its af... more With a decline in relevance, it is rather clear that United Reform Judaism, (URJ), through its affiliates and proxies have clearly embraced the dark side of the liberal progressive anti-Israel narrative as a means of attracting more congregants - specifically the disenchanted millennial youth. Using Jewish practices and symbols, the reform movement has been able to infuse Jewishness into their liberal progressive, anti-Israel agenda, thus giving it a new found attraction to the young hungry adolescents. In this paper I explore in detail both the motivation for the reform movements “reboot”, as well as presenting just a glimpse of how deep the rabbit hole actually goes.