For dozens of children on the autism spectrum and their families, the new school year in Jerusalem begins with fresh hope: a new special education school has opened inside the Shalva National Center, with four dedicated communication classes for first-grade students. The initiative reflects a growing vision of inclusion and equal opportunity in the city<\/p>\n
The Municipality of Jerusalem, through its Education Administration (Manhi), together with the Shalva organization, launched four special education classes for 20 children on the autism spectrum. Each class will host 5\u20136 students, ages six to seven, with mid-to-high functioning. The program is designed as a “growing” school, with plans to double the number of classes each year<\/p>\n
Students will follow a curriculum adapted to the national-religious stream, integrating subjects from mainstream education. They will also benefit from unique activities such as theater, music, swimming, and art, all aimed at building learning and social skills<\/p>\n
The new school is located inside the Shalva National Center in Beit Vagan, which already operates a wide range of programs: a rehabilitation day care, the “Mother and Child” program for newborns with disabilities, special education kindergartens integrated with municipal kindergartens, and popular afternoon programs serving hundreds of children from Jerusalem and beyond with swimming lessons, basketball, and judo<\/p>\n
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion said: “The inauguration of the communication classes for first grade students at the Shalva Center is exciting news for children on the autism spectrum and their families, and reflects our deep commitment to adapted, professional, and sensitive education for every child in the city. The close partnership with Shalva, one of Israel\u2019s leading institutions for people with disabilities, is an example of joint work that promotes inclusion, equality, and a strong community. We will continue to invest in education in general, and in special education in particular \u2013 because every child deserves equal opportunity. May this school year be calm, safe, and successful<\/p>\n