(Courtesy of JFNNJ) In this edition, we feature an exclusive Q&A with Rabbi Jonathan Knapp, head of school at Yavneh Academy, one of the leading Jewish day schools in our community. As Jewish education continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation, the partnership between our day schools and Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey is vital. In this conversation, Rabbi Knapp shared insights into how Federation’s support strengthens the school’s mission, enhances educational opportunities and helps foster a nurturing environment for students to grow in their Jewish identity.
How did you first hear about Federation? What’s your first memory?
I have many early Federation memories dating back to before Federation moved to the current location in Paramus. I fondly recall many professional development sessions in the educational space led and coordinated by our Federation.
Additionally, I had the privilege of attending a year-long, intensive executive growth program sponsored by the Berrie Foundation where we interacted and brainstormed with many other communal leaders in Bergen County. This gave me exposure to so many of the other areas where Federation makes a real difference in our broader community.
How has your school benefited from Federation’s support this past year?
Most recently, Federation played a pivotal role by providing important security measures and practices for our community. Federation has access to law enforcement officials and routinely disseminates pertinent information to the institutions to keep them safe. This is an unfortunate reality but we are grateful for their guidance, training and help.
Federation also plays an important role in other forward-thinking initiatives for our community. A recent example was the yearlong endowment training for all the day schools in Bergen County. Federation has access to some of the experts in this field and brought the schools together to learn best practices from them and one another. Endowments are an important part of our future planning and this help was vital.
How do you think the local Jewish day schools in Bergen County benefit from Federation’s role in the community?
Another way that Federation supports day schools is through advocacy in Trenton. Federation plays a role in trying to help secure additional funding for our schools through security allocations, additional training and other funding opportunities. They partner with other key organizations such as Teach NJ to make sure our voices are heard. They also advocate for legislation for the entire Jewish community, including the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism.
What’s something that you wish people in the community knew about Federation?
I think it is so important for people to realize the role of a large umbrella organization. Federation brings people together from diverse backgrounds, gives voice and provides statements to major communal issues, especially those impacting Israel, and looks at and monitors large communal trends such as demographics. Federation acts as the key liaison with so many local governmental institutions, making sure our communal voice is well represented. I look forward to continuing working closely with Federation and remain grateful for their partnership.
