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Parents, Leaders & Philanthropists Rally Around Southern Connecticut's First Pluralistic Jewish High School

Bridgeport, CT, August 24, 2009: The Jewish High School of Connecticut ("JHSC") announced today that it will open its doors to 9th and 10th graders in the fall of 2010.

To finance the school's launch, the Board of Trustees of JHSC raised over three million dollars. Fundraising accelerated over the last several months as a result of a generous challenge grant by Michael Steinhardt.

 

JHSC, a co-educational high school serving students from all Jewish backgrounds, is unique in mission and educational philosophy. The school will provide a rigorous, comprehensive curricular and co-curricular program of Jewish and General Studies, athletics and the arts in an environment that encourages spirited discussion and cultivates critical thinking.

"An open minded spirit of intellectual inquiry will guide learning and teaching; encouraging students to question, challenge and strive toward realizing their highest potential" said Rabbi Edward Harwitz, Head of School. "JHSC seeks to break the mold of contemporary Jewish education, encouraging student initiative and strengthening each student's unique voice and passion."

"We are extremely grateful to Michael Steinhardt for the opportunity to raise funds through a challenge grant" said Susan Birke Fiedler, President of JHSC's Board of Trustees. "The challenge motivated philanthropists throughout the region to give generously during this crucial start-up phase."

Michael Steinhardt said, "I believe it is important in these economic times to inspire support for worthy new options for the Jewish education of our children. I am happy to play a role in helping funders in the Connecticut community realize the value of Jewish education and the central importance of excellence in the ways we deliver that education."

In New Haven, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven launched a last minute campaign to help meet the challenge. "It was collaboration with the sheer determination to bring this high school to Southern Connecticut," said Joel Karp, President of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven.

"When we welcome our pioneering students in the fall of 2010, we will embark on a new frontier for education in this community" adds Harwitz.

To learn more about JHSC and request an application for the fall of 2010, visit www.jhsct.org, call 203.275.8448 or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .