An effort, initiated and fully funded by AVI CHAI, to promote excellence in Jewish studies, Zionism, and civic education in the state school system. The goal is to develop a corpus of model mamlachti (non-religious) schools that embrace and exemplify high educational standards and values in areas related to AVI CHAI’s mission.
Candidate schools in Ma’arag, selected after a careful screening process, are expected over a period of three years to work toward meeting the project’s standards of excellence. Ma’arag provides a facilitator and budget for in-service and instructional support; these resources, however, are catalysts for the real work of effecting school change, which depends on the commitment and efforts of each school’s leadership and staff. Schools are required to develop and implement a school-wide work plan, initially in targeted curricular areas, and eventually encompassing the broad spectrum of school life.
Four cohorts, or a total of twenty-two schools, have earned Ma’arag certificates of excellence so far. Once awarded for their excellence, schools are expected to continue to refine their educational programs with Ma’arag’s support over an additional period of three years. During 2010/11, another 14 schools will be engaged in various stages of progress toward meeting Ma’arag standards. The project is being supervised by a steering committee, and coordinated with the Ministry of Education.
During 2010/11, Ma’arag also plans to pilot an effort to adapt its educational approach to a broader spectrum of schools in selected municipalities, with the Ministry of Education’s support.