Marblehead’s struggling Jewish day school Epstein Hillel announced late Monday that it will remain open and “is charting a strong path ahead,” according to an email sent to families and supporters.
“Over the past three months, our community has stepped forward in ways that reflect a deep commitment to Jewish day school education and to the unique meaning that EHS holds for so many of us,” the statement read.
Twelve-hundred donors contributed approximately $2.6 million toward the school’s $3 million fundraising push. “Most notably, we received an extraordinary leadership pledge of $500,000 from EHS alumnus Evan Paul (Class of 2003), who hopes his gift will inspire others to help the school reach its full campaign goal and beyond.”
Starting next school year, EHS will change to a PreK-6 model. It currently runs through eighth grade and serves 84 students.
“We will continue to focus on providing the best academic experience for our students while increasing recruitment and enrollment of new students. Additionally, parent engagement, volunteerism and continued financial support by the community are vital components of our plan toward sustainability,” the statement added.
EHS opened as Cohen Hillel Academy in 1955 in Lynn. It launched an emergency fundraising campaign in December.
“We want to especially thank Combined Jewish Philanthropies for their support and guidance, and our neighbors on the Hill (JCCNS and Temple Sinai) for their partnership. We are so happy to have reached this moment, and we look forward to continuing our work together,” the statement concluded.
