Israeli Education Ministry Confirms School Year Will Start on Time Amid Preparations

Meir Shimoni, Director General of Israel's Ministry of Education, assured in an interview with Channel 7 that preparations for the upcoming school year are in their final stages and expressed confidence that classes will begin as scheduled in about three weeks. Shimoni emphasized that there is no cause for concern or fear regarding the school year's opening.

He highlighted the intensive work of education teams to ensure an optimal start and mentioned the recent launch of a joint program involving the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Immigration and Absorption, and Nefesh B'Nefesh. This initiative aims to recruit English teachers from North America to address the demand for English educators and assist in the absorption of Jewish immigrants into Israel.

Regarding teacher shortages, Shimoni clarified that while there is no crisis, the system requires about 3,000 new teachers annually due to natural growth, with English being the most sought-after subject. He described the new recruitment program as significant both quantitatively and qualitatively.

Shimoni also noted the completion of a nationwide summer program for children and stressed that the ministry is working around the clock to maximize the remaining time before the school year begins. When asked about potential strikes or delays, he expressed hope that the school year would start smoothly, stating that efforts are ongoing both publicly and behind the scenes to ensure a successful opening.