150 Girls at Kfar Chabad School Forced to Study Outdoors Amid Facility Crisis
Approximately 150 students at the "Beit Chaya Mushka" educational institution in Kfar Chabad began the school year without a proper building, marking the third consecutive day they have had to study outdoors under the hot sun, with some parents accompanying them. The institution, which has operated for about 13 years, was forced to vacate its rented premises. Sources linked to the school claim the situation arose due to accusations and harassment from a member of the village committee. Parents are demanding immediate intervention from authorities to find a solution that will allow the girls to return to a suitable learning environment. One mother told Channel 7, "What parent would agree to their daughter learning like this? Where is the Minister of Education? Where are the authorities? We demand an immediate solution."
The Ministry of Education stated that the institution does not have a license for the 2023-2024 school year and has not applied for one. It emphasized that the responsibility for licensing and providing a safe learning environment lies with the institution's ownership. The ministry is in contact with the local authority to ensure an appropriate educational response for the students. The Shdot Dan Regional Council responded that "Beit Chaya Mushka" is an exempt institution directly overseen by the Ministry of Education and not under the council's responsibility. The council clarified it does not operate or supervise the institution and does not own any buildings or land in Kfar Chabad, as these are managed by the village cooperative committee.
The council noted that other schools in Kfar Chabad, such as the "Beit Rivka" schools for girls, serve about 800 students under its supervision and the Ministry of Education's. While expressing regret over the current situation and understanding parents' concerns, the council stressed that the solution is beyond its authority. It also clarified that decisions regarding the institution's licensing symbol rest solely with the Ministry of Education. The council pledged to assist within its powers and coordinate with relevant parties. Meanwhile, as responsibility for resolving the crisis shifts between entities, the 150 students and their parents await a response that will allow the school year to continue in proper conditions within a suitable building.
