Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Jews in Milford Differ on Closing Local Schools on Yom Kippur

September 17, 1959
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Differences of opinion among Jewish spokesmen were recorded today over the decision of the Board of Education of Milford to shut its schools on Yom Kippur

Joseph A Foran, Milford School Superintendent, asked the school board to close the schools because “many teachers will be absent that day to observe the Jewish holiday. It would be difficult to recruit 50 or 60 substitute teachers to fill the posts of some 60 teachers for the day. ” he said. Cancellation of classes, he argued, would make it possible for Jewish teachers to observe Yom Kippur and would also save substitute teachers’ pay.

A.H. Henkin, director of the Bureau of Jewish Education here. said the Milford school board action was dangerous “because it could lead to the further integration of religious activities into the public schools. ” However, Joseph Bernblum, a former town judge and Milford Jewish community leader said he saw “no great objection” to the closing. He said “it is purely a practical matter. It is not a religious matter. “

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement