Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Agudah Leader Testifies in Washington on Aid to Parochial Schools

February 21, 1963
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

A proposal that Congress evolve a formula for provision of partial Federal aid to private and parochial schools was made here today in testimony before the House Education Committee by Rabbi Morris Sherer, of New York, executive vice-president of Agudath Israel of America. His proposal would exclude funds for religious studies in those schools, but would provide aid “only for the general studies programs which meet all the educational requirements of each state.”

Rabbi Sherer pointed to “important contributions to the public welfare and to the growth of our country in the sciences, professions, government and industry” being made by graduates of Jewish all-day schools. “In all logic and fairness, the needs of these children in the private religiously oriented schools cannot be disregarded when Congress considers action to strengthen and improve educational quality and educational opportunity in the nation, ” he said. “To discriminate against these children is to deny them their sacred birthright as Americans to benefit along with all other school children.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement