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Q: Don’t Day Schools increase segregation, and keep children isolated from the “real world” ?
A: As stated in the PEJE California Assemblies 2003:
    Children in the 21st century are bombarded with images and values of contemporary society. Day schools provide a framework of Jewish values and living from which students engage in the larger world while possessing a strong sense of who they are. Many schools take seriously their commitment to social justice and tikkun olam, and students engage in a wide range of activities beyond the confines of the school, including sports leagues and other inter-school competitions. It is well-documented that awareness of one’s own ethnic group is critical to social development and identity formation, and to the capacity to be an active and committed citizen with the broader community.1

    On a more personal level, Carol Minkus, a parent and Jewish educator adds, “These times are extremely precarious for young families. It is extremely difficult to raise a child today. Outside influences are very dangerous; alcohol, drugs, early sexual activity, cigarettes, internet predators. It is dangerous to grow up! In a public school, teachers and administrators can't take a moral stand. In a Jewish school, that child is wrapped up in ethics, morals, values, and a community that cares. Kids get the message that every Jewish child counts - we love you!



Q: The schools don’t handle their money efficiently.
A: There is no question that our schools need to be fiscally responsible. In the April 2006 issue of the World Jewish Digest, Betty Ehrenberg, of the Orthodox Union, suggests three ways to improve the cash flow for Jewish schools. “First by increasing the number and amount of contributions to day schools and by encouraging federations to give more money to day schools. Second, by lobbying the government to offer tax credits and other programs that would alleviate the burden on parents. And third, by helping schools save money by managing their funds more efficiently. But most importantly, in her view, “the attitude needs to change.” The Jewish community needs to realize there is a crisis.””2

The Superfund seeks to address the crisis, by raising awareness and funds to ensure that no child is turned away.


Q: Why are you supporting so many schools? Wouldn’t it be easier to focus on a smaller group?
A: Our goals are audacious, but so is the need. We want to do away with the financial barrier so that no Jewish child is left behind.


Q: I’m already giving to my school. Why should I support this too?
A: It’s wonderful that you support and recognize the value of Jewish education. Beyond our short term and immediate individual needs, we need to create a vehicle for community-wide Jewish education, which will be sustainable both in the near and long term.


Q: Is the Superfund local? Or is this a national movement?
A: Currently, the Superfund is raising money locally for local needs. However, we have been in consultation with individuals and fledgling organizations from several communities around North America, including Teaneck New Jersey, Raleigh North Carolina and Baltimore Maryland about setting up local branches of the Superfund. We envision a national movement. If you are interested in setting up a Superfund branch in your community, please call 312-201-0500.


Q: Is this the 5% Program?
A: The 5% Mandate, which suggested that each individual dedicate 5% of their estate to Jewish education, was a precursor to the Superfund. We encourage individuals to both contribute to the ongoing immediate needs of day schools through our annual campaign, and to make a longer term gift of 5% or more in estate planning.
1Appendix, PEJE California Assemblies 2003, “Common Misconceptions about Day Schools”.

2“And You Shall Teach Your Children”, Simona Fuma, World Jewish Digest, April 2006, page 19.