Can you imagine a small storefront in Brooklyn? That’s where Beth Rivkah first opened its doors in 1941. Only 30 students attended. It hardly resembled the large educational system it is today.
This small institution was making history. Beth Rivkah was the first Chassidic girls school in the United States and abroad. Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn established it. He was the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe. The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, also led it.
Fourteen years later, the high school division opened in 1955. The Division of Higher Learning followed in 1960. Beth Rivkah has served as the flagship institution for Lubavitch girls education. Its educational model can be found worldwide. Beth Rivkah alumnae work and teach globally.
As the student body grew, Beth Rivkah needed a larger campus. In 1988, grounds were acquired to build Campus Chomesh. The modern campus memorializes Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson. She was the Rebbe’s devoted wife. The groundbreaking ceremony occurred shortly after her passing.
The Rebbe participated in the ceremony. He presented Rabbi Abraham Shemtov with a contribution of $470. This amount equals the numerical value of the Rebbetzin’s name. He wished to partner in building the campus. Interestingly, the campus address is also 470.
Today, Campus Chomesh represents more than a building. It embodies a worldwide movement in women’s education. It is an investment in the future of the Jewish nation. The 125000 square foot campus is ideal for learning. Over 2200 students use nearly 100 classrooms. They also use science labs and computer centers. A vast rooftop playground and a huge sports gymnasium serve students every day.
Today Beth Rivkah has multiple campuses. Every classroom is filled. Plans are underway to build a seminary campus. This will ensure a bright future for students.
Beth Rivkah is more than just a school. It is a community and a home. It proudly bears the title of “the Rebbe’s school”. The school works hard to realize the goals he set.
Beth Rivkah is committed to its community. It does not turn away any child due to lack of funds. Many students receive financial aid. This enables them to access quality Jewish education.
Beth Rivkah graduates carry the torch of Torah and Mitzvot. They promote Chabad values. Beth Rivkah graduates assume leadership roles. They elevate Jewish pride around the globe.
In the year 5741, the Rebbe instructed the creation of a special Torah scroll. Everyone associated with Beth Rivkah could buy a letter for this endeavor. The response was overwhelming. Thousands of letters were purchased initially. The goal was set even higher. Within a few months, many thousands letters were bought.
Throughout the years, the Beth Rivkah community has completed seven Torah scrolls. Each one was made possible by individuals from all walks of life. Now, Beth Rivkah is embarking on its eighth Torah scroll.
Beth Rivkah is writing the story of our heritage. It shapes the future. Beth Rivkah is not just a school but a community and a home for the students.