This year we celebrate the golden jubilee of Schechter Bergen. At this significant juncture, we find ourselves reflecting on the past 50 years of growth, learning, and community while looking forward to a bright future. Schechter has been much more than just a school; it has been a nurturing environment where the rich tapestry of our Jewish heritage and values is lovingly woven into the lives of each student. Over the decades, it has stood as a model, guiding young minds towards developing wisdom, compassion, and understanding, deeply rooted in our traditions.

Not long after its founding, our school quickly became a central pillar of our community, a place where generations of children have been instilled with a strong sense of identity, a deep connection to their Jewish heritage, and a commitment to Tikkun Olam—the healing of the world. Schechter Bergen can be proud of its role in shaping graduates who contribute significantly to their world, guided by the ethical and moral compass nurtured within these walls. As a school committed to learning and growing, we have successfully balanced academic vigor with Jewish growth, determined  to ensure  that every student is valued, and their potential is realized.

The importance of Schechter Bergen’s role in Bergen County in providing a Jewish education has never been more critical, especially in today's complex world. This education extends beyond the academic; we truly work to instill a deep sense of belonging and responsibility towards our people, our heritage, Israel, and community. At a time when identity can be challenging to navigate, coupled with the alarming rise of anti-semitism, our school offers a solid foundation, connecting students with their past and empowering them to face the future with confidence, pride, and dignity. 

It has always been the goal and hope of Schechter Bergen that our families see the school as a partner in the sacred journey of raising ethical, knowledgeable, and committed Jewish individuals. It's a community where shared values and celebrations strengthen the connections between us, offering support through both joyous and challenging times. For many, we are feeling this now more than any time in the school’s 50 year history.

The school's impact also extends beyond individual families, contributing to the vibrancy and continuity of Jewish life in our broader community as our graduates live in many different places throughout the country and in Israel. 

In this moment, marked by rising antisemitism, extreme anti-Israel rhetoric, and indifference by too many, the existence of our school is a testament to the enduring relevance of Jewish education and its capacity to inspire commitment to justice and peace along with a strong and vibrant Jewish community where our people thrive.

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Schechter Bergen, I believe you share my gratitude for the visionary leaders, dedicated educators, supportive families, and terrific students who have built and sustained this school community. We look back with pride at the legacy that has been created, a legacy that not only celebrates Jewish life and learning but also commits to nurturing future generations.

Looking forward, we are filled with hope and determination. The challenges and opportunities ahead call us to continue to innovate, adapt, and expand our reach, ensuring that a Schechter Bergen education remains engaging, relevant, and accessible. Our mission for the next 50 years is clear; to continue being a source of light, wisdom, and hope, illuminating the path forward with the wisdom of our past and the promise of our future.  In this way we will continue to do our part to ensure the next generation has knowledgeable, committed Jews, proud to live a  Jewish life, and leaders who will ensure that the Jewish people and Israel remain strong, proud and secure here and everywhere. 

At this pivotal moment, we must strengthen our commitment even more to the sacred task of sharing with our friends and community the special nature of Schechter Bergen, its essential place in our community, and  join in advocating for our friends and neighbors to send their children in order to Jewishly educate, inspire, and empower. Together, let's ensure that our Schechter Bergen remains a vibrant center of learning, Jewish life, and community for generations to come. There is no doubt that Schechter Bergen was the right place at the right time in 1974. Now, more than ever, is the right place at the right time for Schechter!