In January 2012, The Jewish Theological Seminary’s (JTS) William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education will inaugurate Kesher Hadash (New Connection), a new and innovative Semester-in-Israel program in the field of Israel Education. Kesher Hadash will offer an opportunity for ten students to spend five months in Israel and take part in a 12-credit, Israel Education curriculum that includes traditional and experiential ulpans; mifgash (encounters) with Israeli teachers and citizens; volunteer opportunities; day trips; and courses on Zionism and Israel in contemporary education. The landmark program will be geared toward first-year students in The Davidson School’s master’s degree programs and students who will join the programs in fall 2012, and will result in a certificate in Israel Education. The Davidson School is the first academic institution in the country to offer a certificate program in this field.

The Semester in Israel is fully funded by The Davidson School.