West Coast College of Yeshiva University Moves to New Facilities

The West Coast Teachers College, an affiliate of Yeshiva University, New York, has moved to its new quarters, the former structure of Congregation Shaarei Tefila, it was announced by Dr. Samuel Belkin. president, Yeshiva University. The College, established in February, 1970 to provide programs in education, and Hebrew language, literature and culture, offers a four year program leading to the Hebrew Teachers Diploma. An outgrowth of Yeshiva University’s West Coast Division, founded in 1962, it seeks to prepare students for teaching positions at every grade level in all types of elementary and secondary Jewish schools. Courses are supplemented by teaching experience in a Jewish school. The College includes a Teachers Institute, a pre-theological and Adult Education program and also features a lecture series by faculty.

According to its Director, Dr. Leon D. Stitskin, it was established to meet the growing need for Jewish education teachers on the West Coast, and to fill the demand for qualified instructors at the increasing number of American colleges and universities offering Jewish studies programs, Dr. Stitskin said a bachelor’s degree program is currently being developed. The new facility for the College ranks as one of the most imposing public structures in Los Angeles. The four story building, of modern design, is nine years old. The Teachers College, which will occupy the second and third floors, will consist of 12 class rooms, an undergraduate library and office facilities. Current enrollment of 105 students in the teaching program is expected to double due to the increase in available classroom space. The new facility will also house Cong. Shaarei Tefiln and the Anna Grancell Building. The Congregation is one of the most prominent in Los Angeles. Its members are leaders in every educational and communal effort in the city. It is headed by Sanford Deutsch, president, and Abe Speigel, chairman of the board.