Evolution of Educational Landscape | with Unique School Culture | Journey of Jewish Girls’ School on Park Street Kolkata | a Short Review

Evolution of Educational Landscape | with Unique School Culture | Journey of Jewish Girls’ School on Park Street Kolkata

Evolution of Educational Landscape | with Unique School Culture | Journey of Jewish Girls’ School on Park Street Kolkata

JGS: Evolving Tradition & Diversity : 

Inception and Growth :

The Jewish Girls’ School (JGS) on Park Street, established in 1881, initially focused on Hebrew religious principles with just 18 students. 

Its counterpart, the Jewish Boys’ School in Bowbazar, and the Jesuit Free School, designed for financially disadvantaged students up to Class V, completed the trio in central Calcutta, near the synagogues.

Early Days and Curriculum : 

Flower Silliman, a 94-year-old alumna, reminisces about Anglo-Indian and Jewish teachers imparting education. 

The curriculum omitted Indian languages, emphasizing Hebrew and French. Interestingly, the administrative staff comprised Muslims, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry.

Demographic Changes : 

Calcutta's Jewish population burgeoned by the turn of the century, attracting Jews from various regions. 

Orthodox Judaism’s matrilineal principle played a role in establishing a girls’ school, steering clear of proselytization rampant in missionary schools.

Evolution of Educational Landscape : 

While the boys' school embraces diversity, the girls’ school predominantly enrolls Muslim students. 

Jael Silliman notes that the board members are Jewish, maintaining the school's roots, while the teaching and administrative staff are from various faiths. 

The original free school eventually closed its doors.

Unique School Culture : 

JGS, adhering to a British curriculum, infused a Baghdadi character into its atmosphere. 

Miss Ramah Luddy's transformative leadership from 1929 to 1964 introduced discipline, uniforms, physical education, and mandatory gym sessions. 

Despite a relaxed approach, JGS aimed at providing a Jewish education.

Changing Post-Independence Dynamics : 

Post-Independence, the Jewish community dwindled, with only 25 members remaining. 

The schools adapted, with the discontinuation of Hebrew and an influx of Muslim students from the neighboring area. Notably, Jewish symbols persist, fostering a sense of heritage amid changing demographics.

Nostalgia and Transition : 

Alumna Sunsann L. Iyer from the 1982-83 batch recalls the diminishing presence of Jewish students, marking a cultural shift. 

Formerly, the school staff and even cooks in Jewish households were predominantly Muslim. 

Today, the connection between Jews and Muslims endures, mirroring a two-century-long coexistence.

Preserving Tradition : 

Despite the evolving demographic landscape, the school holds onto its heritage. 

The four houses and school uniform pay homage to Jewish founders, while the Star of David remains a prominent symbol. 

The mezuzah at the staff room entrance and the observance of Jewish holidays attest to the school's commitment to its roots.

Conclusion : Embracing Diversity with Shared Traditions : 

The journey of the Jewish Girls’ School on Park Street reflects not only the evolution of educational institutions but also the adaptability of a community amid changing demographics. 

LAs the school continues to thrive with a predominantly Muslim student body, the essence of mutual respect and shared traditions remains a beacon, echoing the harmonious coexistence that has defined the relationship between Jews and Muslims for over two centuries.

Content Image Source Courtesy : 

https://www.telegraphindia.com

https://www.tutorialathome.in/heritage