Ever wonder what it means to learn in a space without walls? That’s the legacy of Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy. This academy is known as SAR Academy. It stands as a coeducational private Modern Orthodox Jewish day school in the Riverdale section of the Bronx.
SAR Academy’s story is one of mergers and innovative vision. The school’s name comes from three schools. They are Salanter, Akiba, and Riverdale Academy. These schools merged in 1968. They adopted the current name.
The land beneath Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy has an interesting past. It was once the estate of Arturo Toscanini. He was a famous Italian conductor. The school purchased the land in 1968. The new building opened in 1974. Caudill Rowlett Scott designed it. The design even won an award. It received the Albert S. Bard Award in 1975.
The founders of Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy embraced a unique concept. They learned about the Open Education movement. This inspired them to create a learning environment. It featured wide open spaces. Students could explore learn from each other. Creativity could flourish.
The architecture firm spoke to principals teachers and students. They wanted input on the design. Initial plans involved leveling the ground. But they saw the potential of the hillside slope. This allowed them to save flat land for athletic fields. It also created stepped levels with Hudson River views.
Blu and Rabbi Yitz Greenberg recalled the peaceful open green oasis. It seemed like a perfect setting. It illustrated their religious beliefs. God gave a beautiful creation. It would uplift spirits and open minds.
The school has had several principals. Rabbi Sheldon Chwat was the first. Rabbi Binyamin Krauss is the current principal. He started in 2005.
Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy boasts a dual curriculum. Students study general subjects. These are Math Science English and Social Studies. They also delve into Judaic Studies. These include Hebrew Mishnah Talmud and Bible studies.
SAR Academy received the Blue Ribbon School Award of Excellence in 1991-92. The U.S. Department of Education gave this award. It is the highest honor an American school can receive. The school also fostered a creative arts program.
Salanter Yeshiva started in Harlem around 1906. Akiba Hebrew Academy began in 1947. It started with kindergarten. It added grades annually.
Salanter Akiba Riverdale Academy continues to evolve. The architectural excellence continues to be a landmark in architecture and education.