Ein Gedi Educational Village: Building International Partnerships for Educational Excellence

The Ein Gedi Educational Village is located in the heart of the Dead Sea region within the Tamar Regional Council of Israel. Set against a dramatic desert landscape, it serves approximately 300 local students from the Tamar and Megilot Regional Councils, plus 100 boarding students from across Israel.

Current Structure and Educational Approach

• Founded in 1977, the village combines natural desert tranquility with high-quality education
• Follows skills-based learning with emphasis on critical thinking and Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory
• Offers specialized tracks including “Bikurim” (music, art, theater) and environment/rescue/safety programs
• Boarding school operates on a two-week cycle including Saturdays

Challenges and Upgrade Needs

• Current buildings (from 1977) no longer meet earthquake safety standards
• School has reached maximum capacity (350 students) in 2024-2025
• Growth has necessitated temporary portable buildings

Future Vision

The Tamar Regional Council plans a new educational village featuring:

• Sustainable green construction with energy and water conservation
• Flexible learning spaces for various group sizes
• Creative facilities including art/music studios and performance spaces
• Modern work environments for teachers
• Climate-controlled outdoor spaces
• Integration of community values, progressive education, and sustainability principles

International Partnerships: Bridges of Hope

Recently, council representatives returned from a transformative visit to Tulsa, Oklahoma, forging important international connections for the educational village’s future. During this extraordinary journey to America’s heartland, the delegation engaged in meaningful conversations with Tulsa’s vibrant Jewish community and met with the city’s mayor.

These exchanges went beyond formalities, focusing on groundbreaking educational collaborations that will benefit Ein Gedi’s students and shape future generations on both sides. The delegation explored innovative approaches to education alongside agricultural innovations and strategies for mutual support—especially valuable in today’s challenging global climate.

The shared heritage and common challenges between the communities have created an unbreakable bond that continues to strengthen as Jewish communities worldwide navigate complex realities together. The council representatives returned with renewed purpose, fresh perspectives, and bold ideas to implement at the Ein Gedi Educational Village.

This international partnership represents not just a connection between communities but a shared commitment to creating educational environments where the next generation can thrive with promise, prosperity, and peace.

See what the students have to say about the Educational Village: https://youtu.be/7himRaqyIYA?si=9l75f3mPePIWQeEZ