Bnos Peninim, a program serving students with special needs welcomed Senator Bill Weber for a tour of its facilities at the Sanz Girls School. The visit provided the Senator, who also serves as ranking member on the Senate Disabilities Committee, with an opportunity to see firsthand the program’s unique approach to education with a strong focus on embracing students with special needs.
Upon arrival, Senator Weber was greeted by staff of Bnos Peninim, who shared insight into the school’s mission and daily operations. They explained that the program emphasizes integrating students with special needs into the broader school environment, ensuring they feel included in the regular rhythm of school life. From classroom participation to extracurricular activities, the goal is to foster a sense of belonging and connection for every student. At the same time, the integration is a two-way experience, as the general student body develops greater compassion, understanding, and a strong sense of responsibility toward their peers.
The integration extends beyond the classroom. Students from Bnos Peninim participate in school-wide events, including Shabbatones and productions, where they are included alongside their peers. These shared experiences help build confidence, friendships, and a supportive school community.
“The visit with the senator was truly special in every way,” said Ruchel Einhorn, Bnos Peninim Director. “It was amazing to see how he really cares and supports us in our mission!”
The visit concluded with a meeting between Senator Weber and school leadership to discuss legislation designed to better support individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.
“What I saw here today is truly inspiring,” said the Senator. “Bnos Peninim is not only supporting students with special needs in a meaningful way, but it is also instilling values of compassion and sensitivity in the entire student body. This is a unique model that benefits everyone involved.”
Cute picture 😻 lovely children with Bill
It’s hard to understand the value of building large institutions and constantly fundraising in the name of “chinuch” and helping children, when some schools seem to only celebrate the students who naturally succeed within their system.
At the same time that this Sanz school emphasize to the community how important every child is, there are children being thrown out and left feeling abandoned. In particular, when a school throws struggling children into the street, and later teaches its students not to become like those very same children, the contradiction is painful to witness.
The message being sent feels less like education and more like preserving an image. True chinuch should include responsibility for the children who strugle, not only pride in the ones who fit the mold..
Those hypocrites, their day will come.