Once a year, a revolutionary consortium takes place. This year it took place in Boston. I was invited to the consortium in order to initiate the Haifa-Boston connection in special education.

The conference was very successful and I met participants that were dealing with the Jewish education's special services. I learned a lot about the Jewish community in Great Boston and North America. On Shabat, I was in "Minyan Meyuchad" for people with special needs at the conservative synagogue and I enjoyed it very much.

After the consortium ended, I went to visit day schools and congregational schools. Some of them are kinder-gardens for children in the ages of 3-6. I was impressed by the Jewish education, especially because of the following:

Schools have small classes that provide an intimate atmosphere, allowing each of the children to evolve according to his own abilities.

The Jewish identity in all its forms plays an important role in the Jewish heritage. The school gives a sense of community that fosters understanding and respect across a wide spectrum of religious beliefs and traditions.

Hebrew is as used as English throughout the day, and it is integrated organically throughout the curriculum at levels appropriate to each individual child.

In conclusion, the visit to Boston will definitely assist maintaining a strong relationship between Haifa and Boston for all that relates to special education. We have a lot of work ahead of us creating joint projects, accomplishing the same goals.

I thank you for the privilege of knowing the Boston Jewish community.