Israeli Educator Advocates Respecting Each Child’s Uniqueness in School Building Philosophy

As the new school year approaches in Israel, Rabbi Ben Zion Nordman reflects on the educational philosophy inspired by the Torah’s instructions for building the altar, emphasizing respect for each child’s individuality. While physical construction involves shaping stones with force to fit a mold, education should avoid imposing rigid frameworks on students. Instead, educators and parents should recognize each child as a "whole stone" with unique talents and growth rhythms, nurturing them with care rather than force.

Rabbi Nordman draws on the weekly Torah portion, Shoftim, which commands building the altar with whole stones without using iron tools, symbolizing peace and life rather than destruction. This principle, also applied by King Solomon in the Temple’s construction, teaches that education should be a process of gentle shaping and respect, not coercion or uniformity.

He stresses that schools are not factories producing identical products but communities where each student’s distinctiveness is honored. The physical renovations underway in schools serve as a metaphor for the deeper spiritual and emotional foundation educators must build, based on trust, respect, and love. As the month of Elul begins, a time of reflection and repentance, Rabbi Nordman hopes for educational environments that foster peace and allow every child to flourish in their own way.

This message comes amid preparations for thousands of students returning to classrooms on September 1, highlighting the importance of educational approaches that build lasting, meaningful foundations for future generations.