Transformational capital project to expand campus and elevate educational and community experience.

(Courtesy of SAR) SAR Academy and High School, a leader in Jewish education for over 56 years, has officially launched the Big Bold Future Campaign, an initiative to expand its facilities and enrich the learning experiences of its students. This transformational effort comes at a critical time in our world, where Jewish education is more vital than ever for the future of the Jewish people.

The Big Bold Future Campaign will fund extensive renovations and new construction across SAR Academy and High School, creating cutting edge facilities that empower students to thrive academically, creatively, spiritually and athletically. This includes the revitalization of 22,000 square feet of existing space and the creation of 56,000 square feet of new construction in the high school and 10,000 square feet in the Academy, for a total of 88,000 square feet. The project will provide state-of-the-art spaces for learning, tefillah, athletics and community gatherings, all designed to foster a vibrant and collaborative environment that aligns with SAR’s commitment to excellence in Jewish education.

“We are proud to launch the Big Bold Future Campaign which will ensure that SAR continues to provide the highest quality Jewish education for generations to come,” said Jack C. Bendheim, President, SAR Academy and High School. “This project reflects our unwavering belief in the power of Jewish education to shape strong, compassionate and capable leaders who will contribute to the strength and vibrancy of the Jewish people for years to come. These new spaces will become the heart of SAR—places where lifelong friendships are forged, curiosity is sparked and spiritual growth is fostered.”

Key components of the campaign include:

• In the High School:
  • A 25% increase in classroom space to create more flexible learning environments
  • Two new Batei Midrash (Judaic Study Centers), including a dedicated space for Sephardic prayer
  • An expanded 47% larger theater to accommodate school-wide events and celebrations
  • A new Engineering and Innovation Lab, in addition to new Centers for both Arts and Music, will provide students with the tools and spaces to explore their creative and technological passions
  • A new gymnasium, regulation-size hockey rink and additional basketball court to support the school’s leading athletic program
  • Additional open spaces to facilitate large student and faculty gatherings,with a new daycare center to benefit faculty parents
• In the Academy:
  • A new wing in the Middle School, adding nearly 10,000 square feet of new space
  • Six new state-of-the-art classrooms
  • A large open area overlooking the Hudson River for prayer and student gatherings
  • Enhanced access to the school’s educational garden, Gan Ilan

To realize this vision, SAR aims to raise $35 million in total: $25 million for capital projects and $10 million for the school’s endowment, which will support ongoing maintenance and financial aid initiatives. The campaign reflects SAR’s commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment for all students, from the youngest learners to high school seniors.

“SAR has always been a place where every child’s mind, heart and soul are nurtured and challenged to reach their individual potential,” stated Rabbi Binyamin Krauss, principal of SAR Academy, “These new spaces will enable us to continue saying yes to students seeking an SAR education, while expanding opportunities for deeper creativity, exploration and connection—all while strengthening our students’ commitment to Torah, mitzvot and the people and Israel.”

Rabbi Tully Harcsztark, principal of SAR High School and dean of Machon Siach, spoke about the significance of this initiative: “At SAR High School, we strive to empower students to lead lives of meaning and purpose, grounded in Torah and guided by critical thinking and values. When the High School building opened in 2004, we planned for a large student body. As it turned out, we experienced significant growth in the last two decades and our facilities must keep pace. The Big Bold Future Campaign gives us the opportunity to deepen their educational experience, providing access to even more resources, space, and helping them develop into thoughtful leaders who will leave a lasting impact on the Jewish world and beyond.”

The Big Bold Future Campaign honors the legacy of Lou Bravmann who, together with his wife Lotte, were founders of the school. His transformative bequest laid the foundation for the school’s endowment, ensuring SAR’s mission endures. This initiative also honors the visionary leadership of Rabbi Yitz and Blu Greenberg, whose foundational values have guided SAR for the past 56 years.

With $19 million already raised, SAR invites community members to learn more about the Big Bold Future Capital Campaign. For more information, please contact Heidi Greenbaum at [email protected].