Welcome
THE YESHIVAH OF FLATBUSH JOEL BRAVERMAN
HIGH SCHOOL stands at the forefront of American Jewish education, and sets standards of excellence emulated by other academic institutions around the world.
OVER GENERATIONS, we have graduated more than 15,000 students sharing our love and commitment to Torah and Mitzvot, Israel and the Hebrew language.
WE PRIDE OURSELVES on our unique complement of Jewish and American values and an education that synthesizes Torah and General Studies with an unparalleled offering of extra-curricular activities, all in an atmosphere of inquiry and exploration.
YESHIVAH OF FLATBUSH
Joel Braverman High School
Our Mission is to...
Inspire, Challenge, and Support our students to grow into adults who have character, compassion, and scholarship, with a commitment to Torah u’Mitzvot, Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael.
We Empower our Graduates to...
Succeed, Lead, and Serve in institutions of higher learning, their communities and the world at large.
Core Values
םשה תבהא / םימש תארי
Awe and love are the foundation for an ongoing relationship with Hashem which is cultivated in order to inspire commitment to Torah and mitzvot.
תווצמה תרימש / הרות דומלת
Ongoing study of the Torah through traditional and contemporary methods shapes the learner and enables lifetime observance of mitzvot.
תמא
Honesty, trust, and conduct in accordance with the highest standards of integrity are religious imperatives and form the basis of community.
לארשי תנידמ
The establishment of the modern-day State of Israel is a divine gift and the initial fulfillment of a millennia-old national longing. It is our obligation to pray for, celebrate, support and strengthen its existence.
The Hebrew language is a cherished and sanctified treasure of the Jewish people. Conducting Judaic studies Ivrit b’Ivrit and communicating in Hebrew is essential to a complete Torah education.
םיקלא םלצ
Every human being is created in the image of God and therefore should be treated with dignity, respect, and derekh eretz.
המכח
The study of the sciences, humanities and the arts fulfills the halakhic imperative to engage God’s world and prepares students to contribute productively to society.
דסח
Acts of loving-kindness within and out of one’s social circles develop an individual’s character and foster arevut (responsibility to others).
תוכלמה םולש
The United States of America is founded on principles concomitant with Judaism and extends kindness to the Jewish people. We proudly support, celebrate and pray for the welfare of this great nation.
תולדתשה
Diligent and persistent effort, especially when facing and overcoming challenges, is fundamental to achieving growth and excellence.
Message
From our Head of School RABBI JOSEPH BEYDA
WELCOME TO THE YESHIVAH OF FLATBUSH JOEL BRAVERMAN HIGH SCHOOL!
There is a good deal of impressive material in these pages, but there is nothing like the experience of being on our Al & Sonny Gindi Campus. I invite you to come and visit our Yeshivah to get a sense of the incredible energy and enthusiasm which pulses throughout the school. Flatbush instills a great deal of pride in its students through the concerted effort of our entire dedicated staff to rise to meet the goal of our mission: to inspire, challenge and support our students as they grow into adults with character, compassion and scholarship, committed to Torah u’Mitzvot, Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael.
Our academics are known for their rigor and high standards in both Torah and secular studies, including all of our Judaic courses conducted in Hebrew, in our Torah b’Ivrit model. Beyond the walls of the classroom, Flatbush offers unparalleled extracurricular opportunities and student support: seminars, Pathfinders, clubs, teams, programs, guidance, college guidance, chesed, Yachad, Israel advocacy and much more.
Over decades, we have produced close to 15,000 graduates who are empowered
to succeed, lead and serve in their communities, in institutions of higher learning, and in the world at large.
Whereas we are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished as a school, we will never rest upon our achievements. We constantly seek to grow and find ways to prepare the next generation of graduates to make their mark on the world.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Joseph Beyda Head of School
Educate
At the heart of our high school is the day-to-day learning that takes place in every classroom and corridor of the building. Scholarship, curiosity, and ingenuity drive our lessons forward and create an atmosphere of contemplative study and intense focus.
We believe that the quest for knowledge and understanding is paramount and that we must use what we learn to improve ourselves and transform our world.
Judaic Studies
Tanakh
The Tanakh Department's mission is to create an environment in which our students can experience the unparalleled truth, beauty and complexity of the Torah while developing the reading and analytical skills they will need to understand it independently. The curriculum concentrates on sections of the Chumash during the first semester and portions of the Nevi’im and Ketuvim during the second semester. Every lesson connects the Torah’s teachings to core aspects of Jewish thought and philosophy. Students are inspired to see the Torah as the lens through which all aspects of life can be navigated and understood.
Talmud
The Talmud Department hones students' textual, analytical and critical thinking skills on a daily basis. Students study independently, learn in chavrutot, and interpret the Gemara with confidence and depth. The department aims to help students appreciate the beauty and value of this most important link in the chain of Jewish text and tradition.
Halakhah
The Halakhah Department familiarizes students with key themes, concepts, terms, and personalities and demonstrates the practical aspects of Judaism including laws of tefilah, berakhot, Shabbat observance, kashrut, marriage, and various She’elot u'Teshuvot. Students are inspired to appreciate the Halakhic system and understand the nuances involved in living a full Jewish life and use that to guide them in their everyday actions and lifelong decisions.
Jewish History
The Jewish History Department’s goal is for students to understand that they are vital links in a chain that goes back thousands of years. In the course of their studies, students learn about major events, key figures, and trends in ancient, medieval and modern Jewish history. Students will come to appreciate the relevance of Jewish history to their lives and see how the Ashkenazic and Sephardic communities they live in today were shaped, and continue to be shaped, by our rich and complex history.
Ivrit
The Hebrew Department's reinforcement of the Yeshivah's "Torah B'Ivrit" environment illustrates our school's commitment to Hebrew language acquisition and immersion. Classes allow students to develop skills in speaking, reading, writing and comprehension. Learning combines Hebrew literature and language to fulfill the school's mission of helping students develop a true relationship to Torah Yisrael, Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael.
“The Torah that we teach and learn at Yeshivah of Flatbush isn’t only a subject - it’s a way of life. It comes alive both inside and outside of the classroom. Rabbis, teachers and students walk together on the lifelong journey of finding and understanding themselves in the many words of our Torah.
— Rabbi Avi Harari Rosh Bet Midrash
General Studies
English
The English Department focuses on developing a student’s written voice, developing critical thinking and agency as readers and analysts. Students become more active and skilled readers who ask probing questions and interact with the text. They are able to organize and articulate their thoughts as writers and build on the skills needed to write coherently and effectively in college and on a professional level.
Math
The Math Department provides three years of high school math including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and Trigonometry. Students are encouraged to take a fourth year of math as an elective and can choose from Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Statistics, AP Statistics, and Multivariable Calculus. As intelligent and thoughtful problem-solvers, armed with the appropriate knowledge, our students are prepared for success in college and beyond.
Social Studies
The Social Studies Department’s goal is to help students connect to their roots, and establish an understanding of history, while thinking reflectively. Courses include Global and American History, Geography, Economics, Government and Civics. Students are inspired to become responsible citizens and active contributors to a society that is increasingly diverse and globally interdependent.
The YOFHS History Department is dedicated by the Bailey, Jerome and Horovits Families.
General Studies
Science
The Science Department guides students on a journey through scientific inquiry, scientific practice and scientific literacy. The three core science disciplines, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, are taught during the freshman,
sophomore, and junior years, respectively. With this strong foundation, students can select courses from a wide range of offerings, including Advanced Placement classes. Students research and apply current scientific data, perform
lab investigations, and develop their critical thinking skills. This multi-faceted approach promotes both logical and creative thinking and unleashes each student’s ability to problemsolve. With a strong foundation in science and a well-honed skill set, students are prepared for higher education and science citizenship.
Arts & Humanities
Expressive Arts
In their freshman year, students are introduced to Expressive Arts in a curriculum designed to teach the fundamentals of two different performance arts - music and theater. These unique courses offer a collaborative opportunity to engage in the creative/expressive process.
Ensemble & Improvisation
This interactive course encourages expression and self-growth through improvisation and theater. Students will learn to become active listeners and develop communication skills as they strengthen the dynamic of their class/ensemble.
Music Technology
This cutting-edge course teaches students to identify the fundamental elements of music through hands-on experience with music production software.
Arts Electives
Visual Arts
In their sophomore year, students are introduced to Visual Arts in a curriculum designed to teach the fundamentals of two different arts - fine arts and graphic design. These entry-level courses offer a wonderful foundation of basic concepts and skills, which can later be built upon in our arts elective courses.
Fine Arts
The sophomore fine arts curriculum introduces the fundamentals of fine art, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects. Students explore various mediums and techniques, and can develop skills in drawing, printmaking, and/or painting. Emphasis is placed on creativity, critical thinking, and effort.
Graphic Design
This dynamic sophomore course explores graphic communication and the principles of design. Students engage in the design process from idea development through final completion of their projects.
Both fine arts and performing arts electives offer students academic opportunities to build upon the core arts classes they took in 9th and 10th grade. In these AP and advanced art courses, students work on portfolios and accelerated projects, often geared towards application to arts colleges and programs. Junior and senior elective and AP courses allow students to master their skills and develop a portfolio before college.
Electives
Course Offerings & AP Courses
At the Yeshivah of Flatbush, we pride ourselves on offering wide-ranging and challenging courses to match student interests and to prepare our students for college and their future careers.
In addition to our core curriculum, we offer a variety of AP and elective courses. Below is a list of just some of our offerings.
The Arts
• Advanced Graphic Design
• Advanced Studio Art
• AP 2-D Art Design
• AP 2-D Photography
• AP Art History
• AP Music Theory
• AP Studio Art
• Fashion and Design
• Music & Media Production
• Music Theory & Appreciation
Business & Law
• Accounting/Marketing/ Business Statistics (Business Core 2)
• Business Law
• Criminal & Constitutional Law
• Micro/Macro Economics (Business Core 1)
• VEI Entrepreneurship
English
• AP English Language
• AP English Literature and Composition
• Journalism & Creative Writing Math
• AP Calculus AB/BC
• AP Statistics
• Calculus
• Statistics
• Multivariable Calculus
Science & STEM
• AP Biology
• AP Chemistry
• AP Computer Science A
• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP Environmental Science
• AP Physics 1
• AP Physics C
• AP Psychology
• Coding and Robotics
• Environmental Science
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• The Science of Nutrition
History, Politics, & Social Sciences
• AP European History
• AP U.S. Government and Politics
• AP World History
• AP U.S. History
• Holocaust & Human Behavior
• Sephardic
Jewish History
Foreign Language
• American Sign Language
Tsei U’lemad ®
is a Talmudic term which means “go out and learn.” This innovative program, officially trademarked by the Yeshivah of Flatbush in 2020, offers students the opportunity to pursue their personal passions and interests through a variety of independent study courses. Courses change from year to year and are dependent on student interest and curiosity. Tsei U’lemad® courses are reflected on student transcripts and comprise an exciting and important part of learning.
• Arabic
• Architecture and Design
• Biomedical Research
• Brain Health and Positive Thinking
• Effective Negotiation
• Neuroscience
• Nutrition and the Prevention of Disease
• Positive Psychology
• Principles of Intellectual Property
• Real Estate
• Russian
• תורפס / Safrut
• Science Olympiad
• SHOAH: Holocaust Studies
• Virtual Enterprise: JV
• Yiddish
Inspire
At the Yeshivah of Flatbush, we emphasize that personal growth and development is essential for each student. Whether it be inside or outside of the classroom, our dedicated teachers, guidance counselors, mentors and advisors work hard to connect with our students and guide them as they navigate daily life choices and challenges. Our meaningful trips, chesed activities, assemblies, seminars and classes enhance students’ religious and spiritual identities and allow them to grow into compassionate, conscientious and connected members of Klal Yisrael.
Guidance
Guidance Department
The Guidance Department comprises an unparalleled group of mental health professionals including social workers, psychologists and creative arts therapists. Guidance staff help students, parents and faculty navigate the social, emotional and academic challenges of the high school years. Freshmen are matched with individual guidance counselors who follow them throughout high school. The Guidance team provides a private and supportive relationship where students can work through academic challenges, social pressures, and family concerns.
Grade Advisory
Grade advisors are assigned to each grade and help students remain accountable, while offering them academic support. Along with grade principals, advisors track a student’s academic and behavioral performance, and act as a liaison between teachers, parents, the administration, and the student.
Project SAFE Classes and Programs
Weekly Project SAFE/Health Education classes address life skills and help students determine healthy decision-making based on a social-emotional curriculum. SAFE classes are separated by gender and cover a variety of topics such as body image, mental health, stress, relationships, coping skills and addictions. They also cover relevant current topics as they arise and provide a forum for small group discussions.
The Shifra Hanon
Pathfinders Department
FIND YOUR PATH
The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department offers a four-year, individualized, mentoring and career exploration program that offers academic, professional and extracurricular experiences to every high school student. This innovative program, which complements College Guidance, is an exciting way for students to strengthen their college portfolios, build resumés, network with industry professionals, and learn about themselves. The Pathfinders team schedules dozens of guest lecturers (many of whom are alumni), arranges trips, shares internship opportunities, organizes career fairs, holds individual self-discovery meetings and introduces a wide range of contacts and career connections. Each student is given the opportunity to discover and pursue his or her own unique path.
The Four Goals of Pathfinders
• SELF-DISCOVERY: Students learn about their strengths and interests through meetings and workshops with their Pathfinders Counselor.
• CAREER EXPLORATION: Students explore a variety of career fields to broaden their potential paths through trips, speakers, and Career Days.
• EXTRACURRICULAR INVOLVEMENT: Students are offered hundreds of extracurricular choices that promote self-discovery, leadership, and relationship building.
• SKILL BUILDING: Students acquire the necessary skills to succeed in the workplace, including resumé writing, interviewing skills, and communicating effectively.
College Guidance
The College Guidance department’s mission is to educate students and families about the college admissions process, provide individualized support to all students about appropriate higher education options that suit their individual needs and goals, and work directly with students and parents as they navigate the college process.
College Guidance counselors are committed to supporting each student’s successful transition from high school to post-secondary educational opportunities. The team fosters an environment where students are actively supported in identifying their goals, building
balanced college lists and engaging in the college application process.
Beginning in junior year, the College Guidance department teaches a full curriculum to all juniors focused on familiarizing them with how colleges read applications, how to do college research and how to write a strong college essay. These weekly sessions are facilitated by the College Guidance counselors and allow all students to get a head start on their college process. All counselors also have a 1:1 family meeting with students and their parents before the end of junior year.
Recent College Acceptances
• Adelphi University
• Babson College
• Barnard College
• Boston University
• Brandeis University
• Brown University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Case Western Reserve University
• Columbia University
• Tel Aviv University/Columbia University Dual Degree Program
• The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science & Art
• Cornell University
• CUNY Baruch College (Scholars)
• CUNY Brooklyn College (BA - MD Program) (Scholars)
• CUNY City College
• CUNY College of Staten Island (Verrazano Honor Program)
• CUNY Hunter College (Scholars)
• CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
• CUNY Macaulay Honors College
• CUNY Queens College
• Drexel University
• Emerson College
• Emory University
• Fordham University
• George Washington University
• Harvard University
• Hofstra University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Lander College
• Lehigh University
• LIM College
• Long Island University
• Marymount Manhattan College
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Monmouth University
• Muhlenberg College
• New York Institute of Technology
• New York School of Interior Design
• New York University
• Northeastern University
• Nova Southeastern University
• Pace University
• Parsons School of Design
• Pennsylvania State University
• Pratt Institute
• Princeton University
• Rochester Institute of Technology
• Rutgers University
• Sarah Lawrence College
• Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education
• Stevens Institute of Technology
• SUNY University at Albany
• SUNY Binghamton University
• SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology
• SUNY Polytechnic Institute
• SUNY Stony Brook University
• Syracuse University
• The New School
• Touro College
• Union College
• University of Colorado - Boulder
• University of Connecticut
• University of Delaware
• University of Hartford
• University of Maryland - College Park
• University of Massachusetts
• University of Miami
• University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
• University of Pennsylvania
• Wagner College
• Williams College
• Yale University
• Yeshiva University
• Yeshiva University Honors
Campus Life
Al and Sonny Gindi Campus
The Al and Sonny Gindi Campus is a warm school environment designed to encourage religious growth, academic and social advancement and engagement in our extracurricular activities. It is outfitted with state of the art technology and an uplifting architectural design that allows for plenty of natural light.
Main Level
The student commons is the social hub of the Yeshivah. This corridor is always filled with activities providing all members of the school with a comfortable place to read, study and relax. The plaza offers indoor and outdoor seating and leads to the cafe, where students can order from throughout the day. These two areas offer warm meeting places for our students.
Library
Modeled after libraries in large universities, this expansive space has become the primary home for independent learning and study. Filled with an impressive collection of books, periodicals and digital media, the library provides students with a bright and comfortable place to read, study and explore both academic and personal pursuits. The library also contains a phalanx of flexible-space conference rooms that allow for group study, small classes, extracurricular meetings and student-teacher consultations.
Athletics Suite
The state-of the-art basketball gym is designed to elevate the athletic experience for our students and offers a vibrant community space to foster growth and teamwork. The auxiliary gym is a multi-functional space used for hockey,
volleyball, indoor training for the baseball and softball teams, as well as for rikkudim and special grade-wide programs. Jack's Gym, dedicated in memory of 2021 graduate Jack Charles Levy and his passion for health and fitness, serves as a versatile space for the school community. It hosts several physical education classes and is the venue for the annual Fitness Day event. Additionally, the gym remains open after school, providing a place for students and sports teams to train and stay active.
F.A.M.E. Studios
Multimedia Suite
This new, high-tech space is an open invitation for students to record, rehearse, create and jam during lunch periods as well as after school on Fridays. There are more than 40 instruments, including percussion sets, keyboards, acoustic, electric and bass guitars.
Arts Wing
With two innovative new art spaces, students are able to hone in on their creativity and foster collaboration. The Art Room displays floor-toceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and pinspot lighting that accentuates exhibited student work. The space includes a dedicated wall of corkboard stands ready to showcase ongoing projects and inspiration, complemented by easels for independent creation. Versatile display walls proudly feature finished masterpieces, while a flexible classroom arrangement encourages student interaction and personalized learning experiences.
Just across the hall, the Graphic Design Lab boasts a Mac Lab equipped to empower students with digital creativity. Here, shelves proudly display student projects.
Together, the Art Room and Graphic Design Lab not only enrich artistic expression but also create a dynamic hub where ideas flourish and artistic skills thrive.
Religious Growth
Four years of classroom learning and extracurricular experiences effectively challenge students to grow through a deep understanding of Torah by enhancing strong connections with Halakhah and having meaningful relationships with mentors. Unique experiences such as Seminar, Rosh Chodesh rikkudim, and advanced learning opportunities cultivate spirituality and inspire devotion to Torah and Mitzvot.
Bet Midrash
The Bet Midrash is the spiritual center of the Yeshivah. At shacharit and at mincha, student prayers are uplifted daily by the sheer beauty of the space. Throughout the day, the room is filled with intensive chavruta learning and dynamic classes. The space is also home to our adult Torah education classes and afterschool Torah study program.
After School Learning
Every evening, boys and girls from all four grades join together to enjoy after school learning opportunities using the weekly parasha or an upcoming holiday as a springboard for further discussion. The participants use this time to explore Jewish themes in a deep and meaningful way and consider it an open forum to ask questions. The goal of these programs is for students to see and appreciate the Torah in a new light and understand its relevance in today’s world.
Tefillah
Tefillah is an integral aspect of the Yeshivah of Flatbush experience. Minyanim, both Ashkenazic and Sephardic, are structured to create the proper atmosphere for the service of Hashem. Led by rabbis and mentors, minyanim are environments in which students are active participants in the prayers. Students learn both how to pray and what it means when we pray.
Seminar
Gradewide seminars are created to imbue students with a greater love of Judaism and connection to Am Yisrael while enabling them to develop leadership skills and critical thinking. Seminar weekends strengthen the bond students have with one another and with the entire school community. Students participate in a ruach-filled communal Shabbat and engage in formal and informal learning sessions designed to stimulate discussions about a wide range of topics. These seminars provide some of the most memorable and meaningful moments of our students’ educational experience.
Chesed
Chesed Activities
Acts of chesed and community service are core facets of the Yeshivah of Flatbush curriculum. Our students learn compassion through action. We stress sensitivity and responsibility towards the world, which leads to confident, selffulfilled individuals. Students can choose to do one consistent chesed activity on a steady basis or they can participate in a number of specified chesed events per semester. The yearly requirement of 30 chesed hours introduces students to the value of volunteerism and inspires many students to become leaders in chesed and community service. The majority of students exceed the benchmark, and make significant contributions to a vast array of local, regional, national and global causes and projects.
• Bikur Holim
• Blood Drive
• Chanukah Toy Drive
• Chesed Day
• Cooking for a Cause
• Clothing Drive
• Homework Help
• Make Chesed Fun
• Matanot L'evyonim
• Oneg Shabbat
• Peer Tutoring
• Pesach Packaging
• Purim Packaging
• The Tzedakah Commission
Yachad/Ohel Program
The Yachad/Ohel Programs bring people with developmental challenges together with our high school students in social situations including shabbatonim, monthly learning programs, a theatrical performance and other events. These programs teach students the significance of interacting with people with physical and mental challenges and let them experience how fulfilling these interactions can be for all involved.
Grade-wide Chesed Days
These days give students a chance to immerse themselves in different forms of chesed while forging bonds within their grade. Each grade has a speaker who brings a unique perspective, representing a variety of chesed organizations. Students are divided into groups and perform various acts of chesed, from packaging, making meals, engaging in crafts projects with special needs children, and more.
COOKING FOR A CAUSE
Cooking for a Cause is a monthly chesed opportunity during which students get together after school to cook for families in need. This program allows interaction between students in other grades while addressing the needs of those less fortunate.
Cooking for a Cause is dedicated in honor of Marlene and Steven R. Shamah
Love of Israel
Teaching our students to love, support and defend the State of Israel is central to our mission. The efforts of our Israel Activism Commission, our participation in the Israel Parade and the sharing of our Israel Institute Newsletter inspire our students’ deep connection to our homeland.
Programs
On Yom HaShoah, Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut, the entire school takes part in special programs to reflect, mourn, and celebrate the sacrifices and accomplishments of the Jewish people and the land of Israel. Students contribute to the overall creation of these programs with their own ideas, writing and performance pieces.
Annual Lobbying Trip
Groups of students visit Washington, D.C. annually to lobby on behalf of Israel and the United StatesIsrael relationship. Students receive extensive training on lobbying techniques and public speaking. The trip culminates with a visit to Capitol Hill where students get a chance to utilize their lobbying skills and meet with congressional representatives from their district.
Israel Parade
Hundreds of our students and faculty participate annually in the Israel Parade. Students can help design the school’s parade artwork, march with flags, or learn a dance to be performed at the parade. Students get to proudly show off their school, have fun and show public support for Israel.
Israel Activism Symposium
Israel advocacy experts from AIPAC, Students Supporting Israel, Stand With Us, ClubZ, and Unpacked for Educators visit YOFHS each year to give informative and engaging sessions on the best ways to advocate for Israel.
Israel in World Relations Curriculum
Every senior will be prepared to discuss the hottest topics relating to Israel on college campuses. Students are given the necessary skills and resources to intelligently examine these issues with their peers as they embark on life beyond the high school setting.
We believe extracurricular experiences promote personal growth, heighten social awareness, and increase self-confidence. We help our students develop good sportsmanship and take a “can do” approach to challenges. Through the many opportunities that Flatbush offers, students often find their passion and are inspired to choose their future career and life goals.
We offer more than 100 extracurricular offerings and provide students with dynamic and inspiring opportunities. When students participate in our programs, they gain a better understanding of their personal interests, goals, identities and talents, and learn what it means to be part of a team.
The Arts
Audio Visual Squad
The A/V Squad helps to run all of the events and programs in the school that require media, including lighting, microphones, video editing, sound effects, slideshows, and more. Students receive training on how to operate equipment and are assigned to work on different events throughout the year.
Choir
One of the most sought-after groups to join at YOF is the choir. Major annual performances include Yom Ha’Atzmaut, the Jason Botnick A”H Memorial Hebrew Play, Witness Theater and at the Evening of the Arts. The choir demonstrates what can happen when our students come together in unison and harmony.
Open Studio
Students gain hands-on experience in recording a song, from the initial concept to the final production. All of our students are invited to develop their skills during Open Studio sessions several days a week. They can work on composition, arrangement, preproduction, microphone setup, live performance, as well as the intricacies of production and post-production. Students take charge of every element of their projects, including vocal editing, pitch correction, mixing and mastering using a professional software of their choice.
Witness Theater
The Witness Theater Program is one of the most impactful and unique experiences a student can have at the school. Witness Theater brings together 12th graders and Holocaust survivors through a partnership with Selfhelp Community Services.
The year-long project connects the hearts and minds of the participants through an intergenerational collaborative journey, and culminates in a public production of the survivors’ stories performed by the group on Yom HaShoah.
Yeshivah of Flatbush’s Witness Theater Program is being generously supported through The William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute.
The YOFHS Choir is dedicated in memory of Ethel Gordon A"H and Ruth Peres A"H.
The Arts
Hebrew Play
The Jason Botnick A”H Memorial Hebrew Play, performed during Chanukah, is an artistic highlight of the school year. Open to students of all grades, the musical is produced exclusively in Hebrew. Students design the backdrop and work on their own costumes and makeup. Past productions include, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” “Les Misérables,” “The Wizard of Oz,” “Beauty & the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and “High School Musical.”
Masterpiece Theater
The Masterpiece Theater program immerses students in the professional performing arts. Taking advantage of our NYC location, students in this program attend Broadway shows, operas, concerts, and art exhibits. Students meet for pre-and post-sessions for each event to delve into the meaning and history of each performance.
Lunch 'n Listen
Lunch ‘n Listen is a monthly “pop-up” concert curated and performed by students, for students. Hundreds of students pack into the plaza to cheer on their friends and sing along at these lunchtime shows.
Traveling Troupe
The Traveling Troupe brings the joy of music, dance and drama to the elderly on a monthly basis at various neighborhood community centers and nursing homes.
Evening of the Arts
Evening of the Arts, an annual show held every spring, showcases the extraordinary talents of students and faculty in visual, graphic and performing arts. Students’ paintings, drawings, sculptures, graphic designs and photographs are on display. This multifaceted arts program offers musical numbers performed by the orchestra and choir. Solo acts range from pop to standards to classical music. Actors perform scenes from Broadway plays as well as interpretations of original student works. Students’ paintings, drawings, sculptures, graphic designs and photographs are on display.
YOFHS Evening of the Arts is dedicated by Trina and Joe Cayre and Family
Publications
Pegasus
This award-winning annual literary and arts magazine is written, designed and published by students who join Pegasus staff as a writer, artist, graphic designer or editor. In 2024, the publication won the First Place with Special Merit Scholastic Yearbook and Magazine Award, and Most Outstanding High School and Best Photograph from the American Scholastic Press Association. The Pegasus Literature & Art Magazine is dedicated by Laura & Joe R. Tawil.
The Phoenix
The Phoenix is the high school’s award-winning newspaper, written entirely by students. Each issue features in-depth reporting on school news, upcoming events, sports, entertainment, Divrei Torah and more. The Phoenix also gives students the opportunity to voice their opinions in an appropriate forum. In 2024 (the 9th year in a row), the newspaper secured a First Place win from the American Scholastic Press Association in its high school category as well as a First Place for News Reporting award from the Jewish Scholastic Press Association for an article on antisemitism and how it affected college choices.
Phoenix Live
Phoenix Live is a biweekly student life and news podcast featuring the latest happenings, insightful interviews, and engaging stories recorded in our state-of-the-art production studio. Its dynamic offshoot, Phoenix Live 75, offers a weekly review in 75 seconds using both audio and video elements to highlight school news. Entirely student-led, these productions showcase the creativity, dedication, and technical skills of our students, who manage everything from content creation and interviews to recording, editing, and video production. You can find Phoenix Live on Spotify under “Phoenix Live” and catch Phoenix Live 75 on YouTube and Instagram by following @yofhs.
Summit Yearbook
The Summit is an award-winning, student-run publication that celebrates the journey of the graduating class. All aspects of student life are explored, from academics to extracurriculars to athletics, chronicling the collective experience of four years at Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School. The yearbook staff works together to create an artistic, engaging and meaningful book that tells the students' stories through their own words. The Summit won a 1st Place award from the 2024 American Scholastic Press Association.
Trips
Achdut/Chesed Mission
Several times a year, faculty members lead groups of students, parents and community members to Israel to perform acts of chesed. Trip itineraries include visits to victims of terror, hospitals, rehab facilities, soup kitchens, and institutions that help children and adults deal with physical and emotional challenges. These trips have a monumental impact on all participants, especially at this poignant time where students’ connection to Israel is imperative.
NCSY Mission to Houston
Over the course of a week, a group of sophomores head to Houston for an NCSY Chesed Mission where they set up a pop-up cafe for the homeless, volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, and visit the Houston Food Bank. The mission reinforces our students' commitment to Tikkun Olam and spreading chesed.
Poland Heritage Trip
The Poland Heritage Trip offers a memorable experience for seniors to better connect with the lives of European Jews in the pre-Holocaust era and to understand the devastation of the Shoah. This program strengthens Jewish identity, awareness and the commitment to the Jewish people and the state of Israel.
Poland Heritage Trip is part of The William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute.
Student Empowerment
Student Voice
The Student Government Organization (SGO), Senior Council and class representatives work together to advocate and plan on behalf of all students. They incorporate special programs throughout the year including Color War, Rosh Chodesh programs, a Chanukah basketball game and a Purim Fair. Class leaders schedule monthly meetings with school administrators and class representatives to make sure that student voices are heard and included in school decisions.
Academic Teams
• Chess Team
• Chidon Hatanach
• College Bowl
• Debate Team
• Math Team
• Mock Trial
• Model Congress
• Model U.N.
• Robotics
• Reading Championships
• Science Olympiads
• Torah Bowl
Student Empowerment
Clubs & Student Groups
All club leaders attend leadership meetings to learn how to run effective meetings, facilitate open discussions amongst club members, encourage brainstorming, and address club problems and concerns.
This is a sampling of clubs recently offered at YOFHS:
• ACE Mentorship
• Art Club
• Art Lab/Portfolio Design
• Audio-Visual Squad
• Band
• Blumenthal Scholars
• Choir
• Coding
• Envision Theatre
• Finance/Stock Club
• Fitness Club
• Flatbush Feeds
• Friday T Group
• Gavel Club (Toastmasters)
• Girls Who Code
• Hebrew Play
• Law Society
• Leaders in Business
• Lunch and Listen
• Lunch and Lit
• Make Chesed Fun
• Partners in Reading
• Phoenix
• Phoenix Live Podcast
• Poetry & Writing Club
• Pre Med
• Psychology Group
• Real Estate
• Shalom Task Force
• Sports Management
• Students Supporting Israel
• The Victoria and Jack Aini
Traveling Troupe
• Travel
• Tuesday Night Learning
• Tzedakah Committee
• Video Production
• Women's Empowerment
• Writers for Readers
• Yachad
• Yearbook
Sports
The Falcon’s Nest
The Falcon’s Nest is the home of our interscholastic athletic program and is an integral part of the Yeshivah of Flatbush experience. Participation as a Flatbush Falcon provides our students the unique opportunity to display derech eretz and middot such as responsibility, teamwork, fair play, loyalty, leadership and sportsmanship within the framework of athletic competition. Teams practice in the new, state-of-the-art basketball gym and auxiliary gym.
The high school’s comprehensive athletics program includes 23 sports team offerings. More than half the school participates in at least one sport, and some decide to engage in multiple sports. Teams practice and compete onsite as well as offsite. In addition, several teams compete in tournaments held across the U.S. and Canada. Many teams also compete in the prestigious Metropolitan Yeshiva High School Athletic League (MYHSAL).
Sports Management Club
The Sports Management club, run by the Athletics Department, provides members an experiential learning opportunity in the athletics industry in Sports Marketing and Promotions, Social Media Usage and Strategies, Game Day Operations, Broadcasting and Live Streaming. Members apply this content to the school’s athletics programs by choosing a specialty area and having an “off the court or field” experience that resembles today’s sports industry.
Students also have the opportunity to hear from a variety of guest speakers who are in the sports management field.
Jack's Gym
Jack’s Gym was built in memory of 2021 graduate Jack Charles Levy, A”H, honoring his recognition of health and fitness. Aside from an annual Fitness Day event, several physical education classes are held in the space. It is also open after school for students and sports teams.
Boys Athletic Program:
• Baseball – Varsity
• Basketball – JV & Varsity
• Cross Country – Varsity
• Flag Football – JV & Varsity
• Hockey – JV & Varsity
• Soccer – Varsity
• Softball – Varsity
• Tennis – Varsity
• Track & Field – Varsity
• Volleyball – Varsity
Girls Athletic Program:
• Basketball – JV & Varsity
• Cross Country – Varsity
• Dance Team – Varsity
• Soccer – Varsity
• Softball – Varsity
• Tennis – Varsity
• Track & Field – Varsity
• Volleyball – JV & Varsity
– YOFHS Boys & Girls Varsity Basketball Teams are dedicated by the Oved Family.
