The High Court ruled: Meitzav in Orthodox schools - or sanctions

Again intervention in the Haredi education: a petition filed by the Reform movement against the ultra-Orthodox educational institutions, was discussed today (Wednesday) at the High Court. Following the hearing the court ordered the Ministry of Education to formulate within 100 days a layout for Meitzav tests in the Orthodox schools, and if they do not, the ministry will have to apply sanctions against institutions.

President of the Supreme Court, Asher Grunis, said that the heads of networks "must begin to take it seriously."

In 2008 the Ministry of Education undertook to ensure that tests are being held at the independent education center (chinuch atzmai) and the Maayan Chinuch Torani in English and science. These tests took place only in fifth grade, and not in second and eighth grade like students in public schools and state – religious schools.
Attorney Shosh Shmueli, who represented the Ministry of Education, said that the issue which remains unresolved is the core exams. "Position of the Ministry of Education is strictly monitored. Meitzav exams purpose is to get a picture of conduct, set goals and this is a monitoring tool of the Ministry of Education." She added that there has been an expansion of the exams in English, but it has not been agreed in how many schools and whether the finals will take place in boy's educational institutions.

Yahadut Hatorah made it clear in their response: "picky petitions will not help. Haredi Judaism will object to it, especially given the fact that it is the decision of the High Court. Changes have been made and probably more changes will be made, but when it comes from the High Court it will not pass.

"The Haredi community at a time of decrees, will stand like a wall against the move, and as usual will be meticulous about everything, even the smallest and will not agree to the changes. With this kind of intervention, the decision will encounter a brick wall that will not compromise on the issue - and it’s a shame. Only through dialogue and gradual process can we create change, and not by coercion and interceptions by the Supreme Court.

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!