Ever wonder where some of today’s leaders and innovators got their start? Look no further than the Ramaz School. Founded in 1937, Ramaz stands as a beacon of Modern Orthodox education in the heart of Manhattan. The Ramaz School is more than just a school. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity.
Ramaz was the vision of Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein. He saw a need for a school that blended Jewish heritage with American culture. He wanted students to be proud of both their faith and their citizenship. Max J. Etra, a lawyer and philanthropist, stepped in to finance Rabbi Lookstein’s vision. The school’s name, Ramaz, comes from the initials of Rabbi Moses Zevulun Margolies. He was Rabbi Lookstein’s grandfather-in-law and a respected leader.
Initially, Ramaz started small. Classes were held in the vestry rooms of Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun. There were only six students and two teachers. One teacher taught general studies and the other religious studies. Word spread quickly and Ramaz began to grow. By the end of the first year, twenty students were enrolled.
During World War II, Ramaz opened its doors to refugee children from Europe. These children came from France, Belgium, Germany, and Holland. Ramaz provided them with a safe and nurturing environment to continue their education. By 1942, enrollment had grown to one hundred and twenty students. The Teachers Institute of Yeshiva University even began sending student teachers to Ramaz.
Ramaz continued to expand and enhance its facilities. In 1981, the Upper School building was completed. Architect James Rossant designed the modernist building. It provided a state-of-the-art learning environment for high school students.
The Ramaz School offers a dual curriculum. Students study both general subjects in English and Judaic subjects in Hebrew. This unique approach prepares students for college and for life. Ramaz encourages students to think critically. It also teaches them to appreciate different perspectives.
Ramaz boasts a long list of notable alumni. These include Isaac Herzog, the President of Israel, and Natasha Lyonne, the actress from “Orange Is the New Black”. Michael Mukasey, a former United States Attorney General, also graduated from Ramaz. These successful individuals demonstrate the impact of a Ramaz education.
The Ramaz Rams compete in a variety of sports. These include basketball, tennis, volleyball, and floor hockey. The school also has academic teams. These include Mock Trial, Model Congress, and Model UN. Ramaz students excel in both athletics and academics.
Ramaz faced challenges over the years. In 2009, the school lost $6 million in the Bernard Madoff investment scheme. In 2011, a fire damaged the lower school building. Despite these setbacks, Ramaz persevered. The school community came together to support one another.
Today, the Ramaz School continues to thrive. It remains committed to its founding principles. Torah, derech eretz, and menschlichkeit guide the school’s mission. Ramaz prepares students to be leaders. It encourages them to make a positive impact on the world. The Ramaz School is a special place. It’s a place where students learn, grow, and discover their potential.