Historic Jewish girls' school in Brooklyn faces closure; community rallies to save it

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Shulamith of Brooklyn, a 95-year-old Jewish girls' school with a rich legacy, is on the brink of closure, sparking a community-wide effort to save the beloved educational institution. The school, which has been a pillar in the community for generations, now needs $1 million in donations to keep its doors open.

Elan Kornblum, a parent and longtime supporter of the school, is leading the charge in a fundraising campaign.

"The last few years have been a struggle for the school," Kornblum explained. His connection to Shulamith runs deep. "My mom taught there for 20 years. My wife went there, my sister went there, my kids went there. So I speak on behalf of the parents and the parent body."

The school has faced challenges in recent years, with declining enrollment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, the administration announced plans to consolidate with Mill Basin Yeshiva Academy, effectively signaling the end of Shulamith as an independent institution.

Kornblum emphasized the unique role the school plays in the community.

"This was the first all-girls Jewish school, Zionist school, believing in the state of Israel and that the Jews have a right to exist and a right to our own homelands. So it's really important, especially with what's going on today with antisemitism, with Israel being under attack. We need a school like this."

The parent-led fundraising campaign aims to raise $1 million to cover debts, secure a new lease, pay teachers and cover operational costs. So far, they have raised $21,000 in under a week, but time is running short.

"We're looking for someone who's out there who wants to invest, who wants to be a benefactor," Kornblum urged. "We need a miracle. We need someone who says, 'I want to be a part of this school. I want to be a part of an all-girls Zionistic school in Brooklyn that will continue to flourish.'"

As the community rallies to save this pillar of Jewish education, the fate of Shulamith of Brooklyn hangs in the balance. Parents like Kornblum and supporters are hoping for a last-minute intervention to preserve the school. In Kornblum's words, "I think we need a miracle."

Those wishing to contribute to the effort can visit the fundraising page here.