08/28/2026
Supporting Every Child’s Jewish Education Journey
Esther* is a beautiful, bright 11-year-old who brings light and happiness to everyone she encounters. An exceptional friend, she cares deeply about the people around her. When her mother told her that, for her 11th birthday, she would need to choose just one friend to celebrate with instead of inviting all the girls in her grade, she teared up — not because of what she wanted, but because she couldn’t bear the thought of hurting anyone’s feelings by not choosing them.
While kindness and empathy come naturally to her, learning has not always been easy. She was diagnosed with dyslexia in the middle of kindergarten and later with double-deficit dyslexia between second and third grade. What comes naturally to many children has required immense effort, perseverance, and courage from her every single day.
For a child facing these challenges, the obvious path might have been to move to a school without the added demands of a dual curriculum. But Fuchs Mizrachi School chose a different path: they chose Esther.
As a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Fuchs Mizrachi School receives vital support that helps make this kind of individualized care and education possible. With our community’s support of the annual Campaign for Jewish needs, the school can continue to invest in resources, programs, and services that help meet students where they are and give them the opportunity to thrive.
At every step, Esther has been met with individualized support, accommodations, and an unwavering belief in her potential. Her teachers and school community have worked tirelessly to find alternative resources and support so she can continue learning and growing alongside her peers.
She may never fully close the gap in Hebrew and English reading. But Fuchs Mizrachi School has given her something far more important: a place where she is seen, where she is supported, and where she is celebrated — not in spite of her differences, but alongside them.
And because of the support of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and its donors, stories like Esther’s are possible. Together, we are helping ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, belong, and reach their fullest potential.
*Name changed to protect confidentiality
TOGETHER, we help save and change tens of thousands of lives in Cleveland, Israel, and around the world. Thank you!
