The new Board of Bnos Penina tells TLS that it has assumed responsibility for the school amid what it described as significant financial and operational challenges that raised concerns about the institution’s future.

In a letter being sent today to parents and friends of the school, the Board said a group of askanim and philanthropists, working together with Keren Olam HaChinuch, stepped in several months ago to stabilize and strengthen the Lakewood girls’ school.

The letter also acknowledged the longtime service of Mrs. Paschkes, praising her “dedication, mesiras nefesh, and leadership” over the past two decades, and crediting her with helping shape Bnos Penina into “the warm and caring מוסד it is today.”

According to the Board, since taking over responsibility for the school, hundreds of thousands of dollars and countless hours have been invested into strengthening Bnos Penina’s financial, operational, and administrative structure in an effort to secure long-term growth and stability.

The Board said its primary focus is ensuring that “every child has the opportunity to receive a warm, high-level Torah and Yiddish education in a stable environment where she can thrive and grow as a בת ישראל.”

The letter further revealed that after consultations with rabbanim, educators, and parents, it was determined that renewed structure and leadership were necessary for the school’s future. As part of that effort, the Board said it is actively searching for a new principal/מנהלת to help guide the school moving forward.

In the interim, Rabbi Yisroel Stern has been brought in by the Board to oversee and lead school operations. The Board credited R. Stern with restructuring operations, strengthening administrative and enrollment systems, and helping position the school for long-term stability and growth.

The Board also expressed optimism about the school’s future, stating that enrollment is increasing for the upcoming school year due to strengthened oversight, administration, and partnerships with parents, community members, and the Lakewood school Vaad.

The letter concluded with a call for additional parents and community members to become involved in helping guide and support the school in the future.