Honorees
This past June, JBHS Head of School Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari, retired from his full-time position at Yeshivah of Flatbush after serving the Yeshivah community for more than four decades, but his legacy will remain strong.
After graduating from the high school in 1972, Rabbi Harari graduated from Yeshiva University with a BS in Philosophy and a Master’s degree in Jewish Studies, then spent a year in Israel. Before returning to New York, he already knew he had a teaching position awaiting him at YOF, a goal of his from late college years. Rabbi Harari started as a teacher of Judaic Studies, then became Chairman of the Halakhah Department, and later was promoted to an administrator.
Under Rabbi Harari’s tenure, JBHS' enrollment and student satisfaction have grown tremendously. His student-centered approach, introduction of extensive Torah classes, chesed opportunities, electives and co-curricular programs, has reinforced YOF’s position as a leader in Jewish education worldwide. As a role model of Torah U’madah, well-versed in both Torah and secular matters, Rabbi Harari is an engaging and passionate teacher who empowers our students.
Aside from his many years tied to the school, it is important to note that all of Rabbi Harari’s children graduated from the high school and his grandchildren are currently enrolled in the elementary school. He notes that the Yeshivah has shaped much of who he is today, and he hopes the same will be true for his family. “My identity, my ideology, my understanding of Torah, my interest in intellectual pursuits, my thinking about the State of Israel and modernity, and even my social circles have been profoundly impacted by the Yeshivah of Flatbush.”
Rabbi Harari will continue to impact the Yeshivah as a teacher mentor and as a Talmud teacher. “The most important thing I do in my day is connect with kids head-on in an academic Jewish environment,” Rabbi Harari shared. “We have so many students here who authentically want to learn. It is a privilege to teach and learn with some of the best, brightest and most committed students. ”However, now that he will have fewer overall responsibilities at YOF, he looks forward to visiting with his two daughters and eight grandchildren in Israel for longer periods of time.
YOF is indebted to Mrs. Shifra Hanon, who retired this past June. Mrs. Hanon joined the JBHS faculty more than three decades ago as an English teacher, then later became the director of the Pathfinders Program. She has impacted generations of alumni, parents, and staff members with her ideas, kindness and chesed. She leaves an indelible mark on our Yeshivah and we are so thankful for all of her years of dedication.