Owning the problems in Jewish schools is necessary for change

It’s not easy to call out bad behaviour in a tight-knit community, as NOMI KALTMANN learned when she reported parents' experiences of special needs kids in Jewish schools.

“Hey Nomi. I'm enjoying your articles but ...” started the message I received in response to my latest column about families pulling their children with additional needs out of Jewish schools in Melbourne.

I am used to receiving feedback on my pieces, but my article about Jewish schools in Melbourne who are either unable or unwilling to accommodate Jewish children with additional needs hit a nerve. My inbox was overflowing with feedback, and many people took the time to message me on social media or text message to let me know they had read my piece.

Why did this article go semi-viral?

I think it’s because the exclusion that occurs at some Jewish schools in Melbourne has been happening for a long time, but there are very few people willing to call it out. In a tightknit community, it’s not easy to be the one to call out bad behaviour in beloved institutions, where people have strong feelings and deep emotional and nostalgic connections.

And in our community, there is a general feeling that we should highlight the good and not focus on the negative. I love highlighting beautiful things in our community, including writing in this very publication about the great work Jewish Aussies are doing in supporting young people with disability or supporting those who are sick and in hospital.