FRIENDS OF ISRAEL SCI-TECH SCHOOLS

“Smart House” - Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network Students Invent iPhone Application to Control Electrical Appliances

6/20/2010 2:53:19 PM

Students at the Sci-Tech Astronomy and Space High School in Ma'ale Adumim took away first prize honors in the Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network “Young Engineers” competition for their "iStart" group's iPhone application project that allows phone users to remotely operate small electrical devices. The June 1st event which drew 100 student competitors presenting some 40 different projects, was held at the Hermelin College of Engineering in Netanya.

The “iStart group”, students, Ronen Ohad, Shachar Davidovitz, Dani Zebranin and Kobi Bass planned a technological integration between the iPhone and a “Smart House”, which allows electrical components in the home to be operated remotely via the internet. The application makes it possible for the phone user--across town or abroad--to switch on the lights, turn on a hot water boiler, air conditioner, television or any other electrical device.

Using a WiFi internet database the iPhone user securely connects to the service assuring that no one other than the approved user can activate the home devices. Once the modification order is received by the network database the computer transmit instructions to a controller, connected through the USB, to operate the electrical devices in accordance with the order from the user. The iPhone interface is amended in accordance with the change made to the electrical device.
Izhar Shay, joint CEO at “Caanan Partners” Venture Capital and a member of the Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network Association, who has reviewed the project believes it has business potential.

Some 100 students from schools across Israel, presented their projects at the competition. Students had to design projects that integrated scientific, technological and social elements. The competition encouraged students to create projects based on scientific engineering, good planning and surveying and build projects that demonstrated innovative and creative engineering, construction and operation solutions --all important basic tools needed to excel in the field of engineering.

A project that helps clear the lungs of severely retarded children lacking the cough reflex and who suffer from a buildup of mucus and fluids in their lungs won second place in the competition. The students' solution offered a system of audio speakers that attach by belt to the patient’s back and serve as vibrators causing the release of mucus from the walls of the lungs, while larger speakers function to remove the mucus from the body.

Third place honors went to a student group that developed a water purification system using the UV rays of the sun. The system operates by creating a cascade of drops and - making use of the special properties in one drop of water -concentrating the sun’s rays onto each drop using a sunlight reflection system. The students developed a complex analytical model outlining the system's efficiency to purify droplets of different sizes under different environmental conditions. The model permitted the selection of optimal conditions for purifying the water. Using this model, computer software was also developed to allow complete control over the system.

Dr. Meir Fershtman, head of the Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network Goralnik Institute for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning, commented: “ We instructed students to choose innovative projects that would represent a contribution to the community, to the environment and to society by using advanced technologies. This program offers students an enjoyable experience where they get to construct models and conduct practical experiments based on the assumption that successful business leadership is dependent on professionalism as well as social sensitivity. The scientific-technological field is the direction of Israel’s future; we are happy to be training the future generation and, by doing so, positioning Israel technologically in first place worldwide”.

The Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network offers a wide selection of innovative areas of study: physics, chemistry, advanced-level biology, electronics and computer sciences, robotics and artificial intelligence, bio-medical engineering and aerospace.

Studies in the Scientific Engineering track are based on teaching through analogy - basic concepts or logical thinking patterns that are common to diverse fields of science and engineering. Learning through analogy facilitates a broad understanding of the fields of science and engineering and gives students the scope and perspective needed to make decisions about the academic pathways they choose to follow.

Israel’s High Tech Education / Izhar Shay

5/31/2010 12:29:57 PM

Before the Passover vacation I was invited to attend the practical matriculation exam of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network students in the Science & Engineering Track. Dr. Meir Fershtman, Head of the Goralnik Institute for the enhancement of teaching and learning, invited me to observe the students, who had been working on projects in engineering and electronics, constructing an engineering prototype on which they were being examined. If you happen to be a reader of this column, you will know that it rarely pays the educations system any compliments. But there is nothing like a day such as this to fill you with optimism. Among the projects for the recycling of black water in the home, a computerized greenhouse and an autonomous robot fireman, I wandered around with great enjoyment and watched the next generation of Israel’s hi-tech.

Take, for example, the “Eyes for the Blind” project from Habonim Sci-Tech School in Bat Yam. Four girls, Heli Bas, Mayan Gendelman, Adi Filosof and Moran Aharon, developed a robot designed to replace seeing-eye dogs. The project was the brainchild of one of the students who has a blind family member. Dr. Shlomo Tzafrir, the project supervisor, is a expert in brain research, the development of computerized models of neural networks and system management. Under his guidance the girls built a robot with a GPS, sensors, an electrical engine and controls. The girls were examined on their knowledge of the system’s definitions, its various components and their underlying electronics. As far as I can recall from my Technion days, their answers were spot on.

Every house can be “smart”
Another team came from the Sci-Tech School for Flight and Aerospace at Maaleh Adumim. Just like, any group of entrepreneurs that turns to a Capital Venture Fund, they developed an iPhone application that remotely controls the turning on and off of many electrical appliances in the modern home. Their iStart project, supervised by Eli Cohen, can turn any house into a Smart House. Shachar Davidovich was responsible for the databases and market survey conducted at the start of the project. Kobi Bass handled the TCP-based communication between the various project components and the iPhone. Danny Zebrenin was in charge of the iPhone software which he wrote in Xcode, “which only few understand and no one was able to help me”. He was alone throughout the learning process, working via the web and by trial and error. “This learning process was not easy and included many difficulties in the transfer from C# to Xcode, which I think is quite primitive.” Ohad Ronen, the initiator of the project, was a broadcaster on the local radio in Maaleh Adumim and even worked on some TV programs. He is also the founder and director of a private company that accompanies projects to leverage the achievements of young students by accompanying high schoolers in order to “create a better quality of community socially and scholastically.”
In addition to his preparations for the matriculation exams and transition to the role of company director, Ohad is currently getting ready for his military service. “It is a great opportunity to confront new challenges that I have never faced before”, he says, “I plan to give the army my all, no matter where I am stationed”, he told the examiners.

I don’t know what grade he got on the exam, but I am more than willing to give him a score of 100 in Civics!

Izhar Shay is a General Partner in Canaan Partners and a member of the Israeli Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network

Published on ”Globes” newspaper in Hebrew, 11 April 2010, Translated by Israel Sci-Tech Schools network

Meeting Point – inspires innovation and transforms schools

5/31/2010 11:58:47 AM

The economic leadership of Israel, The Minister of Education and the Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network mark the success of one of the most exciting new philanthropic partnerships in Israel

Meeting Point is a unique and innovative partnership initiated by the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network and the leadership of Israel’s business community. Led by Izhar Shay, CEO and Partner in Canaan Partners Venture Capital, Meeting Point is modeled on the acclaimed Principal for a Day Project (PENCIL) launched by Dr. Lisa Belzberg in New York in 1995.

Started in Israel in 2009 with the participation of 17 leaders of business and industry, Meeting Point has now doubled in size, bringing a cross section of 35 CEO’s of leading Israeli corporations to partner with Israel Sci-Tech Schools across the country.

“Meeting Point” inspires innovation by creating partnerships between leaders of the Israeli business community and the Israel Sci-Tech Schools . These encounters lead to the integration of creative ideas and management skills from the world of business and the educational system. It enables the building of long term relationships between business and education.

On Sunday, May 16, 2010, the 35 participating CEOs, their partner principles and network leadership gathered at the prestigious Dan Hotel in Tel Aviv, in the presence of the Minister of Education Mr. Gideon Saar, to mark the successful second year of the project.

The event paid tribute to the growing partnership between business and education in Israel, and highlighted the special relationship developed between Bank Hapoalim, headed by its Chairman, Mr. Yair Seroussi, and Israel Sc-Tech Schools network. In his address, Seroussi called upon leaders of industry and commerce to become more involved in education.
Together with Chairman of the Board of Israel Sc-Tech Schools network Dr. Uzi Tsuk, Shmuel Eilin, a student at the Sci-Tech Educational Center in Kfar Saba, presented Mr. Seroussi with his artwork entitled “I Have Value”- a picture chosen from amongst hundreds of submissions.

The event highlighted examples of the growing partnerships between industry and education, including, the development of an academic program for electro-optic studies developed in collaboration with Elbit Systems Electro-Optics and Rafael, a project where engineers from the Given Imaging Company train students in the scientific-engineering track, and the partnership with Genzyme Company that brings students into the laboratory.

“Meeting Point” focuses on the personal involvement of CEOs and business leaders, which results in a better understanding of the needs of the education system. Partnering CEOs included: Mr. Motti Zisser-Chairman of Elbit Imagining , Mr. Amos Shapira - CEO of Cellcom, Mr. Zeev Bregman - CEO of NICE Technologies, Mr. Moshe Lichtman - Microsoft Corporate vice president, Israel R&D, Mr. Boaz Maoz - CEO of Cisco Systems and more.

The event offered the leadership of Israel Sci-Tech Schools networks an excellent opportunity to highlight to the business community the growing market of export of educational knowledge. Mr. Yoel Rothschild, head of the network Moshinsky Center for Research and Development, highlighted market developments and laid out network’s success in achieving its first multi million Euro sale of Nano-technology teaching to the European Union.

InFocus

3/3/2010 5:23:25 PM

I see great significance in in the Air Force’s collaboration with Israel Sci-Tech Schools. It should be extended. When people see a fighter plane take off, they are not always aware of the fact that hundreds of soldiers worked hard to get it ready. That’s the significance of our joint venture in training cadets in partnership with the Israel Sci-Tech Schools.

Major General Ido Nechustan
Israel Air Force (IAF) Commander

Greening Israel’s Cities: Sci-Tech Schools’ Students Feature in Prestigious Business Competition

3/1/2010 5:19:02 PM

Among the bright ideas: showerlight water –saving device for fitness centers, dog leashes integrating excrement collection, and recycling bank

Two students chosen to represent Israel at the International Finals in Serbia, April 2010.

The British Council, partnering with Bank Leumi, Junior Achievement [Israel], Microsoft and Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network recently launched the 2010 Skills@Work competition in high schools across the country.

This year’s competition will focus on environmental quality in daily life. More than 100 Israel Sci-Tech Schools students were offered the opportunity to improve our quality of life through original ideas for innovative products or services using advanced technology.
February 10th saw these students teamed up at Microsoft Israel headquarters, channeling their talents into designing products or services that could contribute to raising awareness and changing our daily lifestyle schedules. Their challenges were revealed to the students only on the actual competition day, necessitating creative thinking and problem solving within defined time limits. Senior Microsoft professionals joined the competing teams, contributing their time and expertise to build a viable business plan for each product.

The committee of judges was composed of representatives of the four sponsoring organizations; their task was to evaluate both the creative process and the business plan parameters, based upon criteria of quality, innovation and creativity. The committee noted the exceptionally high level of inventiveness, ultimately choosing the Showerlight gym shower, the dog leash with its in-built excrement bags, and the recycling bank as winning ideas.

Two members of the winning group will represent Israel at the international finals in Serbia, April 2010.

Over 100 competitors were chosen from among dozens of groups participating in the Doing Business program of Junior Achievement Israel, which is active in schools across the country – including 13 Israel Sci-Tech Schools.

Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network Opened the First Apple Regional Training Center in Israel for Education

1/19/2010 2:56:29 PM

On December 9, 2009, the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network in collaboration with IDigital's Apple Education Division, opened the first Apple Regional Training Center (RTC) in Israel. IDigital is Israel’s official representative of Apple technology products.
Israel Sci-Tech Schools will conduct in-service courses at the Apple training center to provide teachers with tools that integrate advanced technology into teaching.

Participating in the opening ceremony were: Chemi Peres, a graduate of the network’s Givataim school and a member of Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools;Eran Tor, general manager of iDigital; Duncan Kemp, director of World Apple's European/Middle Eastern Unit; Prof. Bracha Rager, President of Israel Sci-Tech Schools ; Adv. Joshua Ne'eman, -- Israel Sci-Tech Schools Board member; Zvi Peleg, Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools; Yoel Rothschild, Director of Research & Development;guests from the Ministry of Education, teachers and others.

The ceremony was chaired by Dr. Eli Eisenberg, Sci-Tech’s Senior Deputy Director General and head of its Research, Development and Training Center. Dr. Eisenberg thanked iDigital for its investment in education and its willingness to be active in the important area of teacher training.

Chemi Peres welcomed the launching of this center and noted that he himself was a proud graduate of the Israel Sci-Tech network: "I am totally aware of the important part that Sci-Tech plays as a leader of education in Israel. When I recently visited my school in Givataim, and saw the enthusiastic pupils and spoke to them, I witnessed with my own eyes the importance of developing new ways of learning and integrating technology when teaching future generations. This is something that the Sci-Tech network system drives home in its own schools. These pupils are our most important resource and we must invest in them."

Eran Tor, CEO of iDigital also congratulated the conference attendees: "We could not have found a better partner than Israel Sci-Tech Schools . They are daring pioneers in the field of technological innovation. Without their courage and desire to change, we would not have considered opening such a center in Israel, even though such centers exist around the world. This center will enable teachers in Israel to develop innovative teaching skills suitable for today's pupils”.

Commander of the IAF visits Maale Adummim School for Aviation & Space

11/1/2009 12:16:48 PM

Commander of the IAF: “I see great significance in this array of potential air force cadets in collaboration with Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network. It should be extended”

On Monday October 26th, Israel Air Force (IAF) Commander Major General Ido Nechustan and other senior officers visited the Maale Adumim School for Aviation & Space .
Major General Nechustan was welcomed by the students with a parade they perform every morning.

The visitors gathered to hear the principal, Mr. Nissim Iluz, talk about the activities of the school and the special cadet track. They toured the campus together with Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network’s Director General, Zvi Peleg and spoke with 100 cadets studying electronics, computers, biotechnology, biomedicine and science & engineering specializing in aviation and space. They also visited the unique observatory which is an integral part of the studies in the astronomy and astrophysics tracks and is also used for after-school clubs for children from Maale Adumim and the greater Jerusalem area.
85% of the students are categorized as air force cadets and wear uniforms at school. They constitute an elite technological reserve of future skilled technicians and practical engineers for the IAF technical support system. The majority of the students continue on to practical engineering studies.

Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network’s Director General, Zvi Peleg said: “The Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network is playing an important role in positioning the spearhead of Israeli society, and the IAF has to do its best to support this educational endeavor in light of the quality and achievements of its soldiers and the human resource they represent. We must do everything possible to extend our collaboration in technology and cadet education.”
Mr. Peleg asked the Air Force commander to develop additional activities for cadets in the towns of Ramle, Or Yehuda and the religious Spanian school in Jerusalem. “The more we work together in our, value-laden, technological, educational efforts, the higher the quality of tomorrow’s generation.”

Major General Nechustan took this opportunity to say the he would do everything in his power to assist the development of technology education which is so essential to both the IDF and the country in general. To the students he stressed the importance of the cadet track: “When people see a fighter plane take off, they are not always aware of the fact that hundreds of soldiers worked hard to get it ready, and therein lies the importance of the technology cadets setup the IAF is working on in collaboration with the Israel Sci-Tech Schools Network.”

Outstanding creativity

9/17/2009 9:40:24 AM

The film made by the graduating class from Rabin School in Gan Yavne wins first prize in the Van Leer Young Creations contest:

The documentary produced by students from Rabin School in Gan Yavne about a woman suffering from cerebral palsy who wins all her personal battles against all odds, won first prize for a documentary film at the Jerusalem Film Festival.

This is the 18th year that the Van Leer Youth Festival has been part of the world film festival held every year in Jerusalem. The ceremony was attended by the Chief Inspectors for the teaching of Media and Cinema, Ms. Balin and Mr. David Waldman, and other key figures from the world of film such as Lea Van Leer, Haim Elbom, Ada Ushpiz and Riki Shelach.

The film, entitled “Things I wanted to say”, tells the story of Lilach, a young woman born with CP. Lilach is a fascinating character, coping with her limitations in a way that can only inspire admiration. Today, Lilach is attending university, after marrying and giving birth to a beautiful daughter. The film accompanies her through her second pregnancy and the producers join in the great excitement at the celebration of her new son’s Brit Mila. In the film Lilach says she has something she wants to say to the world and that this film is her way of doing just that.

In addition to the excitement of winning first place for a documentary film, the four students also received an honorable mention for best script. According to their supervisor, this is the first year that a documentary has ever received an honorable mention for the script. The next day, the students were even more thrilled to be invited, together with the school principal, Mr. Haim Eisner, to be guests of honor at the closing ceremony of the Van Leer Festival. The students met with actor Moshe Ivgi and received hearty applause from everyone there.

Director Dorin and producer Eldad spoke of how thrilled they were to win. They had no such expectations, but during the festival its organizer and one of the judges approached them and mentioned that their film was good and even moved them to tears. “Naturally, when someone says something like that, you start hoping. When we got the prize for the school we were very happy and felt a real esprit de corps”, recalls Dorin.

This prize is a further rung on the ladder of success for this track, which also came second in the Journalists’ Award at the Dimona Festival, and a screening of the film “Let the whole world know!” on Channel 1.

We wish them all great success in the future!

2009/10 School year Launched

9/10/2009 8:56:48 AM

New School Year:

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network sends greetings for the New Year and for the 2009/10 school year to its 100,000 students, 7,000 staff and the heads and staff of 50 local authorities around the country, all of whom are partners in our educational endeavors.

We are delighted to announce the addition of 10 new educational institutions to the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network:
The Hermelin Academic College of Engineering & Technology, Netanya
Ben Gurion School, Afula
Tuba Zangariya School
Dekel Vilnai School, Maaleh Adumim
Pisga School, Lod
Um Batin School, Abu Basma
Ramle Regional School
Atidim Lilenthal School, Ramle
Arab Comprehensive School, Ramle
Zur Arad School, Arad

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network will continue to promote the two main facets of its vision:
Education for values together with science and technology
to reinforce the value-laden, social and economic strength of the State of Israel.

Outstanding creativity: The film made by the graduating class from Rabin School in Gan Yavne wins first prize in the Van Leer Young Creations contest

8/31/2009 8:42:37 AM

Outstanding Creativity:

The festive ceremony took place at the end of July at The Lab in Jerusalem, a campus that offers a stage for young creators from across the country, awarding prizes to the talented youngsters, among whom were four 12th graders from Rabin School in Gan Yavne. They were competing against 15 other schools for the title of best documentary film.
This is the 18th year that the Van Leer Youth Festival has been part of the world film festival held every year in Jerusalem. The ceremony was attended by the Chief Inspectors for the teaching of Media and Cinema, Ms. Balin and Mr. David Waldman, and other key figures from the world of film such as Lea Van Leer, Haim Elbom, Ada Ushpiz and Riki Shelach.

The winning documentary was created by a particularly talented foursome: Dorin Menashe, Eldad Nahmias, Orin Tayeb and Sapir Bitan, as part of their studies in the media studies track at the school, under the supervision of teacher Amiram Romem.
The film, entitled “Things I wanted to say”, tells the story of Lilach, a young woman born with CP. Lilach is a fascinating character, coping with her limitations in a way that can only inspire admiration. Today, Lilach is attending university, after marrying and giving birth to a beautiful daughter. The film accompanies her through her second pregnancy and the producers join in the great excitement at the celebration of her new son’s Brit Mila. In the film Lilach says she has something she wants to say to the world and that this film is her way of doing just that.

Israel Sci-Tech network’s Students win the contest sponsored by the Industrialists Association

8/31/2009 8:38:36 AM

Excellence in industrial management:

At the end of July, an award ceremony was held for the contest of outstanding projects that the Industrialists Association has been running for the past four years together with the Ministry of Education. Israel Sci-Tech schools network’s students were among the top seven prizewinners (out of 48 projects).

Natanel Moshe Marco – from Hannah Senesh School, Haifa – wrote a paper on the Frangelico organization – a private business with 5 partners specializing in the preparation of first class sushi, alcohol and all the accompanying trimmings and service. The project analyzed and improved the procedures for quality, marketing and inventory management and the organization of work methods.
Hila Albachri – from Geula School , Tel Aviv – wrote a paper about Ness Technologies, which “adopted” the school some years ago. Employees helped Hila in her research on the impact of the company’s values on employee training. Company representatives, who were also very excited about this event, came to show Hila their support.
The top place winners were awarded a 3000 shekel study scholarship for any institution they choose.

Tal Lubovsky – from Geula School , Tel Aviv - came third with her paper on the influence of organizational culture (values, beliefs and symbols) on how satisfied Israeli youth is with the functioning of the police force.
Ilya Ogorodnikov – from Hannah Senesh School, Haifa – received an honorable mention for his paper on Supersol Big – a retail chain for foods, electrical appliances and clothing. He analyzed and offered suggestions for improvements in the areas of quality, forecasting, inventory, organizational engineering and methods, and process analysis and enhancement.
Ilya received a scholarship of 2,500 shekels for a well known institution.

Zvi Peleg, Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, welcomed the prominence of the network’s students in this Industrialists Association contest. “The Israel Sci-Tech Schools network appreciates the ties it has with industry and with senior corporate executives which can help nurture the next generation of managers. Cultivating leadership and excellence among our students in this field is an integral part of the creed followed by the excellent educators in our network.”

Meeting Point - Education, Business and Industry Shape the Future

7/28/2009 2:59:05 PM

Meeting Point:

For one week in May, 17 prominent Israelis visited 17 Israel Sci-Tech Schools to open a new conversation designed to shape the future of Israel. All across the country, business and industry leaders met with educators at Israel Sci-Tech Schools to see for themselves what education in the network schools looks like and what these schools need to help Israel remain strong.

The Meeting Point (Nekudat Mifgash) project emerged from the shared desire of Israel Sci-Tech Schools and leaders in industry to create a strong working partnership between them that could lead to more educational innovation which would, in turn, assure a steady stream of talented and well prepared graduates ready to
fill important roles in Israeli society and keep the country strong.

Depending on a specific school’s needs, leaders in business and industry find the most effective ways to interact with each other through the Meeting Point program.

The project is based on New York City public school’s PENCIL Principal for a Day® program. That program was developed to build relationships between business leaders and school principals to inspire innovation and transform public schools. According to PENCIL chairperson, Dr. Lisa Belzberg, the program has delivered exceptional results throughout the United States. “By bringing together the best ideas, resources and talent, we learned that you can build school capacity and enhance student learning. I am delighted to learn that Israel Sci-Tech Schools is modeling its Meeting Point program on Principal for a Day®. The results we have experienced are inspiring.”

During the recent week of school visits, business and industry leaders visited classrooms, met with teachers and students and looked for opportunities to become helpmates to the schools. Schools and company directors were then matched up based on the school’s needs and the industry leaders’ expertise. Each matched team will work together to develop working plans to ensure the long-term success of their partnership and contribute to the school’s performance.

This year’s project participants were:
Ami Sagis – Chairperson of H&O and Chairperson of the Israeli Friends of Israel, partnered with Haim Badash, principal of Habonim School, Bat Yam
Avi Aroch – CEO of UMI partnered with Menachem Weinboim, principal of Technological High School for Automotive Studies, Tzrifin
Eli Ronen – Chairman of the Board of Mekorot partnered with Shula Manor, principal of Sci-Tech School, Holon.
Effi Kotek – President Ness Israel partnered with Eyal Shaul, principal of Singalovsky School, Tel-Aviv
Prof. Gabi Barabash – Director of the Sourasky Medical Center partnered with Iris Harel, principal of Givataim school
David Eini – Chairperson of UMI partnered with Riki Biro, principal of Yad Shapira School, Tel-Aviv
Hagit Weintrop - Brak Capital partnered with Pnina Glas, principal of Ramat Yosef School, Bat Yam
Haim Rousso – Deputy CEO of Elbit for Engineering and Technology Excellence partnered with Avi Saar, principal of Rechovot School
Igal Ben Arie – Deputy CEO for Marcom, Strategy Consultant and Special Roles of the Israel Electricity Corp. partnered with Maher Nassradin, principal of Ronson School, Har Hacarmel.
Izhar Shai – Joint Director, Keinan Partners, partnered with Itzhak Klein, principal, Kfar Saba Education Center
Motti Zisser – businessman, partnered with Avraham Lifschitz, principal of Ulpanit Tiberias
Moshe Horev – CEO of Oracle partnered with Shula Manor, principal of Sci-Tech School, Holon.
Sigal Weisswasser – Managing Director of TBN Group and Chairperson of “Circle of Life” partnered with Avi Schwartz, principal of Ariel School
Charles Sheffer – CEO Carmel Olefins, partnered with Simcha Palti, principal of Hannah Senesh, Haifa
Ravit Bar Niv – Chairperson of Shikun & Binui, partnered with Ilana Mayo, principal of Ebin, Ramat Gan
Ra’anan Bokelman – Deputy Director, Given Imaging, partnered with Dr. Rivka Tzafir, principal of Allon School, Yoqneam
Shimon Shekel – CEO of Multilock, partnered with Udi Laniado, principal of Rogosin Maritime School Ashdod

Zvi Peleg, Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network commenting on the new program, said “The integration of industry, academics and community can lead to higher quality education that encourages students to achieve success in the fields of science and technology and gives them the values they will need to become contributing members of Israeli society.

Our goal is to have Meeting Point relationships at every Israel Sci-Tech School and to infusing all our schools with fresh approaches these leaders from industry, business and our own talented educators will bring to our work. Already, in 2009, we have some 90 partnership relationships helping to improve our schools. With a focus on Meeting Point, we are sure we do even more.”

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network makes its international debut with 20 European countries

6/22/2009 2:44:26 PM

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network makes its international debut with 20 European countries:

Last month, the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network held a ceremony to mark the launching of the NANOYOU Project to develop and implement a curriculum on nanotechnology for some 30,000 young people between the ages of 11 and 25 in 20 European and other countries. The project is being led by Israel Sci-Tech Schools network and financed by the European Union, with 9 bodies from 7 European countries.

The NANOYOU project will combine temporary exhibitions, computer games, experiments and other internet products together with workshops designed to promote a dialogue to raise awareness of ethical legal and social aspects of nanotechnology. The project involves developing learning materials about nanotechnology that will be appropriate for different age groups, and training of teachers in the schools.

The project is scheduled to last 27 months at a cost of 1.5 Million Euros.

The launching ceremony held at the Moshinsky Center on the Singalovsky campus in Tel Aviv, was attended by members of the consortium who came from all over Europe (picture).
In addition, the ceremony was attended by members of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network board of directors, the Friends Association, the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network academic council, principals teachers and students.

The Minister of Science and Technology, MK Rabbi Prof. Daniel Hershkovitz greeted the participants: “I am moved and excited. Israel has no natural resources, it has but one significant resource: its human capital. Nanotechnology is one of the most prominent fields of scientific research. I can’t think of a greater achievement than that of the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, which won the bid to lead this project. It is no secret that there are often differences of opinion on political issues between Israel and the EU, but this project proves that some things are stronger than politics. This is the essence – the future built on essential technological cooperation. This project makes a great contribution to our political relationship with the EU. There is nothing more symbolic than the fact that this project is being launched two days before our Independence Day, this is a great gift that Israel Sci-Tech Schools network and its European partners are giving to the State.”

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network has various European partners for this NANOYOU project: Belgium, the UK, Denmark, Spain, Austria and France . The EU Ambassador, Mr. Ramiro Cibrian-Uzal greeting the representatives of the participating countries: “I am delighted to be here for the launching of this project. Israel is the only non-European country that is a full partner in this EU program to develop technology education. The EU has no alternative to its relationship with Israel . We are very satisfied with our ties with Israel in science, education and other areas. At the same time, I would like to say that we want to see this wonderful country living in peace with its Palestinian neighbors.”

Zvi Peleg, Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network: “This is a real breakthrough in our work in terms of international activity and the export of knowledge in the most innovative and inventive science and technology education. Introducing our network’s abilities to 20 countries across Europe will lead to future collaborations with many countries around the world in the fields of innovative curriculum development and the implementation of technology study tracks and teacher in-service training to promote the education system within Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, in Israel and in Europe.”

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network International Council holds first meeting

6/18/2009 3:56:36 PM

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network International Council holds first meeting:

"I feel I have been re-united with my family" said Zvi Peleg , Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, in a moving address to the first Israel Sci-Tech Schools network International Council meeting on 2-4 June 2009. Delegates from ORTCanada, ORT France, USA Friends of Sci-Tec Schools ,members of the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network board and Israeli friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network gathered in Herzliya and Jerusalem for three days of fruitful discussions.

The conference presented a unique opportunity to highlight 60 years of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network's achievements and gave attendees the opportunity to work together on future challenges. "The site visits allowed us to hear from the field about the real issues we face" said Jacob Kincler, former President of ORTMontreal, Canada.

Leading a discussion on future trends, Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, Professor Bracha Rager , promised the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network international Council would meet on a regular basis and work to develop a strong partnership for the benefit of all.

Stuart Bensusan, Israel Sci-Tech Schools network CFO, provide an in-depth financial reports to the Council. "Transparency is a key to the success of the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network Model" said Dr. Uzi Tsuk, Chairman of the Board of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network.

Rebbecca Caspi, Director General UJC Israel, chaired a breakthrough session on Jewish Values, Minority Heritage and Youth Volunteerism. The session, led by Israel Sci-Tech Schools network’s Alonit Hasson and Dr. Danny Marom of the Mandel Institute in Jerusalem , highlighted the successes of current programs and the challenges ahead.

Haim Rousso, Elbit Systems Executive Vice President for Engineering and Technology Excellence, spoke at a workshop on Israel Sci-Tech Schools network’s new teacher recruitment and retention Attendee, Lucian Kalfon President of ORT France, noted the similarity of issues faced by his organization -ORT France—and the need to work collaboratively on them. A joint task force to examine the implementation of common issues and projects will be established.

The conference delegates visited the Knesset for a private meeting with the Minister of Science and Technology Rabbi and Professor MK Daniel Hershkovitz. "Israel Sci-Tech Schools network is the key to the future of the State" he said imploring the delegates to make every effort to expand the network’s partnership with the government and people of Israel.

Ms. Edith Everett , Chair of the American Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools said that she was extremely impressed by the work of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network. She recounted her experience in trying to improve the city of Hazor years ago – along with her late husband Henry. “The core of the problem in the city was an underperforming high school. I asked the Sci-Tech network to take control of the school”, she said, “and they did. They brought their high level of professionalism to the school, improved its performance and created an Air Force cadet training program focusing on science and engineering. Now these self-confident students, in their crisp uniforms, are making all of Hazor proud of their achievements and the whole town is better place. They are making the country a better place the same way.”

Dr. Eli Eisenberg, Senior Deputy Director General for Research, and his team presented some of the cutting edge technology being developed across the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network system, underscoring Israel Sci-Tech Schools network’s growing role as a leader in global technology education. Delegates discussed the need to expand on the successful NANOYOU Agreement with the European Union for teaching nanotechnology in Europe.

The Council meetings culminated in a moving tribute to the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, marking its 60th year celebration. The event was held at Binyanei Hauma in Jerusalem , in front of 3000 teachers, students and partners. Minister of Education, Gidon Sa'ar attended.

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network launches the Berelowitz College and Technology Training Center in Tel-Aviv

6/16/2009 9:02:14 AM

Last month, Israel Sci-Tech Schools network and the Tel Aviv Municipality held the inauguration ceremony of the Berelowitz College and Technology Training Center in Tel Aviv. During the past year, the buildings of Yad Shapira School have undergone extensive renovations costing over one and a quarter million dollars.

The Yad Shapira school and college underwent re-design and renovation costing over one and a quarter million dollars. This was made possible through a very generous donation by Mr. Barry Berelowitz of San Diego, California, a board member of the Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools organization. The project was carried out in cooperation with the Tel Aviv Foundation and Israel Sci-Tech Schools network.

The upgrade included the construction of a new auditorium for the school and college, massive refurbishment of the automobile workshop, and construction and furnishing of the automotive electricity lab and computer lab. These improvements will greatly enhance the learning conditions of both school and college students, providing them with a top class innovative learning environment.

Mr. Barry Berelowitz’s donation to this project was given in honor of the South African Jewish community for its contribution to the State of Israel. At the inauguration ceremony, there were speeches from Tel Aviv Mayor, Ron Huldai, Mr. Barry Berelowitz and Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, Zvi Peleg.

According to Peleg, “Mr. Barry Berelowitz and his family followed their hearts and souls and chose to invest in education which merges widening horizons for youngsters who come mostly from economically distressed families, with an Israeli reality where Jews and Arabs live side by side. Their tremendous generosity will enable hundreds of young people to acquire a vocation that can provide a promising future. Let us hope there will be many more like them, people who understand that investing in education is the basis for our continued existence here in Israel.”

Mr. Ron Huldai, Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, thanked Mr. Berelowitz and his family for their investment in education and their desire to offer the younger generation a better, more promising future.

Mr. Berelowitz said: “I decided to make this donation to Israel Sci-Tech Schools network because I have been involved in this organization for decades, and because I know the wonderful educational work of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network which focuses on values alongside the world of science and technology. Let us hope that my future investments in education will also be realized through the Israel Sci-Tech Schools network.”

Board Leadership

5/25/2009 12:18:38 PM

Serving on the advisory board are five outstanding leaders in their respective fields who generously volunteer their time and expertise to help ensure the success of Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools. Here’s who they are and what they have to say:

Edith Everett

Co-founder and President

The Everett Foundation

"The Sci-Tech Network is an essential part of the future success of education in Israel."

Herzel Laor

Manager, FIBERID, LLC

Founder, Hebrew Edition, Scientific American

"I graduated from one of the Sci-Tech Network high schools in Tel Aviv (over 40 years ago!) and set my sights on becoming a physicist. I think that technical education is critical to Israel's future."

Robert Pollack, Ph.D.

Professor of Biological Sciences

Director, The Center for the Study of Science and Religion Columbia University

"I am an active supporter of Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools because it allows me to contribute to Israel's future through the teaching of science to Israeli children – especially for those not given the good fortune of personal family wealth – in a caring, fair and intellectually-sound way."

Roy Shay

VP of engineering

EFI

"The future of Israel depends on the ability to provide high quality education to every child in any location in the country
I believe that the Sci-Tech Network has the vision and the skills to be one of the key players to accomplish this goal."

Charlotte K. Frank, Ph.D.

Senior Vice President, Research & Development

McGraw-Hill Education of the McGraw-Hill Companies

"The meaningful use of technology will make teaching and learning more effective."

Uzi Landman

Regents and Institute Professor

Georgia Institute of Technology

"The teaching of science and technology and the promotion and fostering of technically educated and skilled students are among the highest priorities for a prosperous and secure Israel."

Barry Berelowitz, CPA

Berelowitz CPA

"The foundation of every state is the education of its youth"

Richard Rothbard

President, Research Foundation, City University of New York New York

"Tikkun olam can never truly be realized without high quality educational opportunities for all. Friends of Israel Sci-Tech Schools is helping create those opportunities throughout Israel. I am proud to be associated with such a worthwhile enterprise."

Unique Study - Community Service Action Program Launched at Rechovot College

3/30/2009 3:40:38 PM

“Mehalcha Lema’aseh”

Students at Rechovot college campus are being offered the opportunity to study issues of social justice through the prism of pluralistic Jewish texts – and translate their new knowledge into action, through a spectrum of community service opportunities. Benefiting are numerous disadvantaged and underprivileged locals, from seniors through special needs children.

Students' participation makes them eligible for a modest scholarship which goes a long way to financing their tuition fees.

Israel Sci-Tech Schools network is partnering with UJA Federation of New York in this innovative program that benefits both participating students and the wider community. Students gain a deeper awareness and appreciation for their Jewish cultural heritage, while contributing their energies in giving back to their local communities.

Leading philanthropists continue to support growth of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network

3/30/2009 3:34:51 PM

A gift of $1,000,000 from the Estate of the Kirshner family of Germany will allow Israel Sci-Tech Schools network to develop and equip the network’s Sci-Tech schools with state of the art equipment, develop new and innovative study tracks and embark on new projects such as Positive Psychology in Education, new models of teacher assessment and differential compensation for the networks outstanding teachers.

Together with a $500,000 gift from the Gershenson family, Israel Sci-Tech Schools is better able to realize its vision and mission of pursuing high quality education in Israel. It is the leadership of our philanthropic partners in Israel and around the world that allows Israel Sci-Tech Schools network to constantly strive to enhance innovation and creativity in education and better serve the children of Israel.

Four Years of Successful Social Involvement Ties between Tel-Aviv University and Israel Sci-Tech Schools network

3/5/2009 5:21:31 PM

TAU's student community involvement program colaborates with Israel Sci-Tech Schools for the last four years. In recognition of their vibrant collaboration, the Israel Sci-Tech Schools Board Officers awarded a certificate of recognition to TAU's Dean of students. The Ruth and Alan Ziegler community service program encompasses several Sci-Tech schools and colleges, and reflects the symbiotic values of giving to disadvantaged populations that both TAU and Israel Sci-Tech Schools network educate towards.

Feedback shows the deep and lasting positive effects on both the volunteering students and their mentored pupils; from personal empowerment through science studies enrichment and matriculation preparation, the program provides a nurturing growth experience in for the teens.

Notes Pnina Glass, principal of Ramat Yosef School in Bat Yam, "The program offers our students an undreamed of opportunity. The students' community outreach and service is a wonderful role model for our kids." Ramat Yosef School offers two programs: "Takeoff" funded by Barack Capital in partnership with TAU's sports department, enables pupils to combine studies' enrichment with certification as fitness trainers; and "Community computer science studies", in collaboration with TAU's faculty of computer sciences and the Bat Yam municipality.

These and similar volunteering programs touch the lives of hundreds of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network’s students and offer them new vistas for personal success, both in school and beyond.

Ness Technologies Company Partners with Israel Sci-Tech Schools network to offer QA Program for Students

3/5/2009 5:19:38 PM

Ness Technologies, as part of its civic philanthropy strategy, offers Singalovsky School students a rare opportunity to complete a company – sponsored software QA inspection program.

Successful participants received their diplomas at an impressive ceremony at Ness headquarters, attended by the company's CEO, Effie Kotek, Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, Zvi Peleg and Singalovsky principal, Eyal Shaul.

17 outstanding students were privileged to participate in the advanced program, in addition to their regular school schedule.

Zvi Peleg ,Director General of Israel Sci-Tech Schools network, in his address to the assembled guests, thanked Ness directors for their support of this critical program. "The Israel Sci-Tech Schools network attaches great importance to opportunities such as these for our outstanding students to maximize their talents in professional settings that are normally not open to them. This first glimpse into the real world of high–tech while still in high school will encourage more students to emulate these pioneers, thus enabling them to enter Israel's vital export industries' sector."