Bnei Akiva Yeshiva Head Warns of Crisis Ahead of School Year in Givat Shmuel

Three weeks before the new school year begins, Rabbi Shraga Prochter, head of the Bnei Akiva Yeshiva in Givat Shmuel, sent an urgent letter to parents warning of serious consequences stemming from an ongoing dispute between the Givat Shmuel municipality and the Bnei Akiva network. Rabbi Prochter expressed deep pain and responsibility for the students and the yeshiva, explaining that while preparations for the school year should be underway, the institution faces severe difficulties due to the conflict over land and buildings.

Rabbi Prochter revealed that unlike previous years, the yeshiva did not receive municipal funding for summer renovations and building preparations. The Bnei Akiva network allocated 300,000 shekels for repairs, and Rabbi Prochter personally committed to raising an additional 200,000 shekels to complete essential work. He lamented that his strength is waning as he is forced to deal with disputes unrelated to education instead of focusing on teaching.

He warned that if the situation is not resolved immediately, there will be significant educational and emotional repercussions for both students and parents. Rabbi Prochter concluded his letter with a heavy heart, stating he may reconsider his position if the issues are not settled by the start of the school year.

In response, city council member Adi Gross criticized Mayor Yossi Brodny for the crisis, calling the letter a "deep cry of pain" and demanding transparency about the agreement with Bnei Akiva. Gross urged the mayor to resolve the dispute promptly to ensure the school year can begin smoothly.