Supporting Early Childhood Education

Program: Education

Zahrat Al-Yasmeen Kindergarten is possible because of global partnership. Since 2019, 1for3 has brought together Palestinian and US educators to build & support the development of child-focused learning. Together, they build curricula, teaching methods & new offerings of student support. Opened in 2021 & located on the ground floor of the Lajee Center in the UN-run Aida refugee camp in Bethlehem, West Bank, Zahrat Al-Yasmeen kindergarten provides a pre-school education for children from two UN-run camps.

Data Points

  • There are three classes of between 25-30 children each: KG1 serves 4-year-olds; KG2 serves 5-year-olds.

  • It is a safe & secure place for children to learn about their world in a nurturing environment.

  • 7 teachers, 2 directors & other support staff provide teaching & nurture. They guide & support children to achieve academic, social & creative competencies with a comprehensive program centered on nature, culture & music.

  • A child graduating from the program is prepared intellectually & socially to enter primary school & to engage constructively with family & community.

  • Parents are encouraged to participate in the education of their child.

  • Classroom learning is supported by firsthand involvement in folk dancing, gardening, recycling & health education.

  • An international advisory committee provides guidance on funding, construction, curriculum & pedagogy.

  • It is the only kindergarten in Bethlehem that incorporates students with special needs into the standard classroom setting.

Leadership

  • Beverly Wispelwey is an experienced teacher of 3-to-9 year-olds. Her particular educational work has been focused on teaching & curriculum development.

  • Hubert Murray is an architect with experience working on projects in the United States, Europe, Africa & the Middle East. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects.

  • Katherine Hanna is an American-born Palestinian. She was a Massachusetts early elementary grades public school educator for 26 years.

  • Magi Fatouleh is the director of the Zahrat Al-Yasmeen kindergarten. A lifelong resident of Beit Jala, Palestine, she brings years of experience in early childhood education to her work.

  • Betsy Abrams is a social worker, social activist & an American-born Jewish woman of Ashkenazi heritage. She works at the intersection of trauma, racism & resilience.