I contacted Rabbi Steven Pruzansky, who was the source of
the story (since picked up elsewhere as well).
I wanted to check who did the survey, how was it organized, how large
was the sample, what were the questions – in short, how credible was it, and
could I learn something from it?
Rabbi Pruzansky admitted that had never even seen or read
the survey. He was relying on an “oral
report”, and declined to give any further details.
I don’t know who did this survey, or from whom the ‘oral
report’ came. It may or may not be credible. It cannot be confidential, as significant
purported ‘results’ have now been leaked.
While respecting Rabbi Pruzansky (and thanking him for
promptly responding to my enquiry), I believe it was irresponsible to publish these
‘figures’ without ever having seen the survey, and/or without being prepared to
reveal the source.
When and if the organization who commissioned the survey
publish it, we will have something to discuss.
Until then, we don’t.
I do not want to ‘comment on the comments’. But it could be noted that the constituencies
of non-Haredi schools are much, much different than those of Haredi
schools. They are much more varied, and
come from communities whose historical-sociological-religious backgrounds are
much, much more varied and complex. In that context, simplistic comments, judgments
or proffered solutions are probably best avoided.
Thanks to Harry for giving me this ‘Guest Space’.
Paul Shaviv,
Head of School. Ramaz / NY
