Parents' Council Supports Givat Shmuel Mayor in Bnei Akiva Yeshiva Dispute

The Parents' Council of the Bnei Akiva Yeshiva in Givat Shmuel has expressed full support for Mayor Yossi Brodny amid an ongoing dispute with the Bnei Akiva Yeshiva Center regarding the yeshiva's future and operational arrangements. In a letter sent to the yeshiva center, the parents emphasized their backing of the municipality's efforts to ensure the yeshiva's stability, educational quality, and the protection of public interests.

The council highlighted the improvements made since the municipality became involved, including significant reductions in parental fees, comprehensive renovations of the yeshiva buildings, and ongoing investments in pedagogical and value-based projects. They praised Mayor Brodny's continuous support, describing it as a key factor in the yeshiva's current leading status.

The letter recalled a previous agreement between the yeshiva center and the municipality that regulated tuition supervision, dedicated accounts for parental funds, class size limits, and integration of disadvantaged populations. Following a recent crisis, the council, led by Yanki Abramovitz, facilitated a mediation meeting that resulted in a new, fair draft agreement focused solely on educational needs. However, the yeshiva center reportedly did not respond or propose an alternative.

The parents expressed concern over the cessation of dialogue and warned against any real estate developments on the yeshiva grounds, which they consider a public educational asset rather than a commercial property. They issued three demands: immediate resumption of transparent and responsible negotiations, assurance of fair tuition fees and classroom conditions, and full preservation of the yeshiva's educational land.

The letter concluded with a call for all parties to prioritize the students' welfare above all else. The Parents' Council pledged to continue working closely with the municipality to secure the yeshiva's future. The letter was signed by council chair Yanki Abramovitz and multiple council representatives.