Rosh Ha'ayin Opens School Year With Over 22,000 Students, New Facilities

The city of Rosh Ha'ayin has commenced the 2026-2027 school year with a total of 22,179 students enrolled in kindergartens and schools, excluding daycare centers and external students. The municipal education system, which has seen significant growth, now comprises 203 kindergartens serving 5,081 children, 10,565 students in elementary schools, and 6,195 in junior and senior high schools. Mayor Raz Shagi highlighted the city's efforts to accommodate the rising student population while expanding educational diversity and opportunities.

This student growth is supported by substantial infrastructure development. Nineteen new kindergartens have been built, with six already operational. Two new sports halls are opening this year, one at Alumot Rachel school and another at the educational campus serving Bari junior high and Reut and Assaf schools, which will also gain a new library. Extensive renovation and upgrade projects were completed over the summer break, including work at Atid Knafei Ruach high school and Rambam school, additional classrooms at Ohel Shalom school, accessibility improvements, and new equipment like computers and air conditioners.

Future construction plans include two additional elementary schools, a junior high, and a high school in the coming years. The city is also enhancing its educational offerings, with the opening of the "Ashira" high school for Haredi girls and expanding alternative education through the "Chaim Guri" school (Montessori) and "Afek" school (anthroposophic), which received a national education award.

Special education has seen a significant expansion, with 2,110 students enrolled, an increase of 600 from the previous year. The number of special education kindergartens has grown from 43 to 53, including a new complex housing six kindergartens. The city is also preparing to establish a high school for autistic students by 2028-2029 and a "Second Chance" high school for at-risk youth by 2027-2028.

The municipal education administration is operating under the "Meaningful Education Connects an Entire City" philosophy, emphasizing belonging, well-being, excellence, and meaning, aiming for a cohesive educational journey for every student. Mayor Shagi thanked city officials and education staff for their work in preparing for the new academic year.