Jewish schools network CEO to be torchbearer at Yom Ha’atzmaut ceremony in Israel
Rabbi David Meyer, of the Partnership of Jewish Schools, is one of two diaspora participants picked for the event
The head of the network supporting the community’s schools has been chosen as one of two diaspora torchbearers for this year’s Yom Ha’atzmaut ceremony in Israel.
Rabbi David Meyer, chief executive officer of Partnership for Jewish Schools (PaJeS) joins Deborah Silverstein, a member of Chicago’s Jewish City Council, at this year’s 76th Israeli Independence Day celebrations.
The torch bearing ceremony, a symbol of hope and perseverance, takes place at the burial site of Theodor Herzl, Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, on the eve of Israeli Independence Day, Monday 13th May, and commemorates the nation’s journey towards freedom and sovereignty.
Meyer has played a significant role in supporting schools and educators in the diaspora and has been a leading advocate for the promotion of Jewish identity. A member of educational organisation UnitEd’s advisory committee, he also works closely with the Israeli Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism.
A former executive headteacher of Hasmonean High School, where his leadership garnered Outstanding ratings in both Ofsted and Pikuach assessments, Rabbi Meyer is also a celebrated public speaker.
He said: “I am humbled by this honour which is an accolade for all educational leaders from across the Diaspora. It is particularly poignant to see this recognition at these dark and challenging times when the our school leaders and teachers are working tirelessly to protect and educate our children.
“As we celebrate Israeli Independence Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to preserving our heritage and values and reaffirming our solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity.”
Under the guidance of fellow diaspora torchbearer Deborah Silverstein, Chicago became the first major city to condemn Hamas following the October 7th massacre and assert Israel’s right to self-defence.
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