Bilingual Jerusalem School Receives World’s Best School Prize for Jewish-Arab Integration
The Max Rayne Hand in Hand Jerusalem School, a bilingual institution fostering unity between Jewish and Arab students, has been awarded the prestigious World’s Best School prize for its exceptional achievements. This accolade was part of the awards ceremony hosted by T4 Education, a global network for educators, where five schools from different countries were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their communities.
At the Hand in Hand school in Jerusalem, more than 600 students are taught in both Hebrew and Arabic. This unique approach facilitates the integration of Jewish and Arab students, promoting cultural understanding and tolerance. Even amidst the conflict between Israel and Gaza, which escalated following an attack by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, the school’s commitment to unity and resolution shone through.
The Hand in Hand school was commended for its dedication to overcoming adversity and promoting inclusivity in an environment marred by conflict. Danny Elazar, the chief executive of the Hand in Hand schools network, emphasized the significance of this recognition at such a challenging time. While acknowledging the tragic loss of lives, Elazar emphasized that winning this award serves as a reminder of the need for resolution and unity.
The other prizewinning schools also made a significant impact on their local communities. SPARK Soweto, located in the South African township associated with former president Nelson Mandela, received the community collaboration prize. The school’s initiatives include educating students on voting, combating waste pollution, addressing gender-based violence, and engaging in peer teaching to improve literacy.
In Colombia, the Institución Educativa Municipal Montessori sede San Francisco was awarded the environmental action prize. Its students developed a program that repurposes coffee pulp waste into eco-friendly products like organic soap. This innovative initiative not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to sustainable livelihoods.
In the small town of Carnaubal, Brazil, the EEMTI Joaquim Bastos Gonçalves school won the supporting healthy lives award. This school played a vital role in providing students with access to psychologists and teaching them about mental health in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the importance of holistic education, the school’s efforts aimed to support students’ overall well-being during these challenging times.
The innovation prize went to the Riverside School in Ahmedabad, India. The school’s student-centric approach and focus on cultivating empathy, creativity, and social responsibility were applauded. By encouraging students to explore their potential and contribute positively to society, the school has become a beacon of innovation and inspiration.
Lastly, the Escola Municipal Professor Edson Pisani in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, received the inaugural community choice award, which was determined by public votes. The school was recognized for its local initiatives, including the introduction of a new bus route and a community waste project. These endeavors demonstrated the school’s commitment to serving its community’s unique needs.
Vikas Pota, the founder of T4 Education and the World’s Best School prizes, highlighted the transformative impact of these schools. Their exceptional work in making a difference in people’s lives serves as an example for educators worldwide. Pota also emphasized the importance of governments looking to these trailblazing schools for innovative solutions to the challenges ahead.
In a time when education plays a crucial role in shaping society, these schools have demonstrated their dedication to fostering unity, supporting mental health, addressing environmental concerns, and making a positive impact on their communities. Their achievements resonate globally, highlighting the power of education in creating a brighter future for all.
