BOG 2023: Constantiner Prize in Jewish Education Goes to Multicultural School

Participants from Tel Aviv University and community members from the city of Shoham in central Israel gathered at TAU’s 2023 Board of Governors meeting to honor Keshet Shoham School with the 20th annual Dr. Jaime Constantiner Prize in Jewish Education. The Prize recognizes a person or an organization bringing Jewish traditions and texts into the 21st century, especially through educational channels. Its namesake, the late Dr. Jaime Constantiner, was a leader in the Mexican Jewish community, a physician and educator. He was also a longtime supporter of TAU as founder of the Mexican Friends Association, former Deputy Chairman of Tel Aviv University's Board of Governors, and a TAU honorary doctor and President’s Award recipient. His family dedicated the Prize in remembrance of that legacy.   

Judaism in All Forms 

The Keshet Shoham School, with 200 pupils in grades 1-6, was founded on the principles of multiculturalism and teaching about many different Jewish traditions. Students learn to live in a complex society, deal with disputes, and develop a strong personal identity while respecting people from other backgrounds. Joint classes allow students to hear a multitude of voices and are fertile ground for complex and critical thinking, paving the way for the children’s transition into adulthood as tolerant and committed members of their community and society as a whole. 

Said Dean of Humanities Rachel Gali Cinamon: “The values that Keshet School teaches are essential to democracy, and are needed now more than ever.” 

Supporting Jewish Education 

Dr. Jaime Constantiner was an important member of the global Jewish community and supported many Jewish educational projects and organizations throughout his life. Attending the ceremony was his son Dr. Arturo Constantiner, a member of TAU's Board of Governors and AFTAU’s Board of Directors, and Arturo’s wife Caren. 

Said Dr. Arturo Constantiner: “We are honored that this prize was created by Tel Aviv University to commemorate my father who was very involved in life. I want to congratulate Keshet Shoham for the superb work they’re doing. What I’ve heard here has really moved me.” 

The ceremony, held at the Jaime and Joan Constantiner School of Education, was also attended by representatives from the Shoham community and city council, the Ministry of Education, several dignitaries including former US Ambassador and President of TAU Itamar Rabinovich and most importantly, the Keshet Shoham Children’s Choir. The choir performed two songs and a presentation on Shabbat traditions for attendees.