Feb 17 • 13:46 UTC 🇮🇱 Israel Haaretz

The High Court ordered the state to explain why funding for educational institutions is not actually conditional on core curriculum studies

The High Court of Israel directed the state to explain why funding for ultra-Orthodox educational institutions does not depend on the fulfillment of the core curriculum requirements.

The High Court of Israel has mandated that the state provide an explanation by March 15 regarding why the funding of ultra-Orthodox educational institutions is not contingent upon the full implementation of core curriculum studies. This ruling underscores the ongoing debate over educational standards and accountability in the sector, particularly for institutions that receive government funding yet may not adhere to national education guidelines. The justices—Dafna Barak-Erez, David Mintz, and Ruth Ronen—expressed concerns about the lack of adequate oversight mechanisms, emphasizing the need for controls beyond mere self-reporting or pre-arranged inspections.

The judges' inquiry extends to questioning why the state has not implemented suitable monitoring systems to evaluate compliance with educational conditions and the financial implications of such compliance for funding allocations. The demand implies a push for greater transparency and accountability in how state resources are distributed to these institutions, which often operate with varying degrees of adherence to the national educational framework. The ruling reflects broader societal concerns about educational equity and the responsibilities of the state when it comes to financing education.

Furthermore, the case can be seen as part of a larger struggle within Israeli society regarding the integration of the ultra-Orthodox community into mainstream education. As the government navigates these complex issues, the implications of the court's ruling could reverberate throughout the education system, potentially impacting funding policies and the educational opportunities available to students in these institutions. Addressing the court's directives may lead to significant reforms in oversight practices or funding criteria, influencing discussions on public education standards and equity for years to come.

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