Jewish Education: Our Shield Against Antisemitism

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks once remarked, “To defend a country, you need an army. But to defend a civilization, you need schools.” With over twenty years of experience as an educator, school psychologist, and parent within American schools and healthcare settings, I deeply understand the profound truth of these words, especially in periods marked by rising antisemitism and extremism.

As we celebrate Purim, we reflect on the courage and unity of Esther and Mordechai, who stood firmly against hatred through clarity of identity, solidarity, and education. Their legacy offers vital lessons today, reinforcing the role education plays in building resilience within our communities.

The alarming rise in antisemitic incidents across America since the the attacks on Israel beginning in October 2023 has dramatically affected Jewish families, prompting many to reconsider their children’s educational environments. Recent data from the Prizmah Center for Jewish Day Schools highlights a notable increase in Jewish day school enrollments, driven by parents seeking both physical safety and a nurturing environment to strengthen their children’s Jewish identities.

Jewish day schools provide more than just safety; they offer rigorous academic programs interwoven with robust Jewish cultural, ethical, and community education. My professional experience has consistently shown that students educated in these institutions develop strong resilience, pride, and the capacity to engage positively with the wider society. They graduate not only academically prepared but morally grounded, ready to advocate for themselves and their communities.

Despite rising demand, significant barriers remain. Many families face financial obstacles that restrict their access to Jewish education. Addressing this requires proactive policies such as educational voucher systems, which allow families from all backgrounds to choose educational settings that best align with their children’s unique needs. These voucher programs are essential for ensuring equitable access and empowering parents to provide their children with education reflecting their values and priorities.

The Purim story itself underscores the power of education and collective identity. Esther and Mordechai exemplify how knowledge, communal support, and strong identities enable communities to stand firmly against threats. Today, these lessons resonate clearly, reminding us that education remains our strongest and most enduring defense.

We are grateful for the support of leaders such as President Trump and Secretary McMahon, whose acknowledgment of education’s critical role in countering hatred and extremism underscores the importance of ongoing investment and support for Jewish education.

This Purim, let us renew our commitment to education as a fundamental strategy against antisemitism and extremism. By supporting policies like school choice and educational vouchers, we build an inclusive, accessible educational system that strengthens communities and American society as a whole. Together, inspired by Purim’s powerful legacy of courage, unity, and resilience, we can empower future generations to proudly celebrate their heritage, resist hate, and contribute positively to our country.