Kedma – for Social and Educational Equality in Israel (Friends of Kedma School) works to make a significant change in the level of education in disadvantaged towns and neighbourhoods in Israel.

The Kedma School in the Katamonim neighbourhood in Jerusalem was founded as a model for combating social and educational inequality. The primary aim of the school is to bring children from disadvantaged backgrounds to complete a full, academic high school education, including attaining a matriculation diploma, and go on to university. Today, Kedma remains the only fully academic high school in Israel serving a disadvantaged community.

In addition to empowering students to realize their potential by improving their academic achievements and enhancing their self-esteem regarding their ability to succeed, Kedma disseminates the social-pedagogic model of the Kedma School by training a new generation of teachers to cultivate change, reduce ever-expanding social gaps, and empower marginalized communities. Kedma also serves as a community center for both its students and former graduates who serve as role models for the younger generation.

If not for Kedma, Katamonim students would be channeled to vocational tracks or low-quality schools, from which many would drop out and only a few would matriculate. Kedma provides a true alternative to the public educational system. Most Kedma students complete a full, academic high school education, including attaining a matriculation diploma, and go on to university.

To learn more of our programs, please visit our website at http://www.kedma-school.org.il.