Rabbi Avi Harari

Yeshivah Of Flatbush Rabbinical Leader

Observing the daily momentum of the Yeshivah of Flatbush, I am continually impressed by how much of our students' growth occurs outside the formal boundaries of a classroom. This vibrant, constant activity is a direct realization of the Shema’s demand:

“And you shall teach these words to your children, and you shall speak about them, when you rest in your home and when you walk on your way, when you lie down and when you rise up.” (Devarim 6:7)

Engagement in Torah is not confined to a study hall. It takes place exactly as the verse dictates: “when you rest in your home” and “when you walk on your way.” At the Yeshivah of Flatbush, we recognize that critical moments of development happen in all states of being, whether “lying down” to rest or “rising up” to face the day.

A comprehensive Jewish education does not pause when the school bell rings; it permeates every aspect of a student's life. From early childhood through high school, our students develop as scholars and as Jews across every environment they inhabit, breaking down the artificial boundary between academic learning and personal development.

Growth in any discipline requires a clear structure to expand and flourish. It demands a defined identity and a precise mission. Growth as a Jew is no different. Essential questions like "Who am I?" and "What do I believe in?" must drive our actions and purpose. We continuously frame our students' identity and core beliefs around three foundational concepts:

• Torah: The daily rigor of our dual curriculum and specialized initiatives like the Matmidim program emphasize the absolute centrality of talmud Torah. The Midrash opens its doors each day to our graduates so they can continue serious Torah study beyond high school.

• Am Yisrael (The People of Israel): Through structured acts of hesed and profound engagements—such as hosting former hostages—we forge an inextricable kinship with the global Jewish community.

• Medinat Yisrael (The State of Israel): Immersive programming and targeted trips solidify our unwavering commitment to our homeland, artzenu ha-kedoshah.

Walk the halls of the Yeshivah with me, and you will see this philosophy brought to life. The rigorous daily integration of Torah and general studies forms the structural backbone of our school. Yet the true vitality of the institution—its muscles and limbs—is driven by the continuous acts of learning, kindness, and connection occurring in every corner, on any given day. By breaking down the walls between the classroom and the outside world, the Yeshivah of Flatbush delivers more than just an academic foundation—it provides the framework for a complete, integrated Jewish life.