Celebrating Democracy Across Diverse School Communities
Amal Educational Network held its Highschool Communities for Democracy Conference today, bringing together over 120 educators and staff from 16 schools across Israel. The event showcased the initiatives to strengthen democratic and civic engagement by Amal educators, who all share the responsibility of rebuilding Israeli society through education. Launched in partnership with the Philanthropic Coalition for Democracy Education, Amal’s program is part of a broader national effort supported by a growing number of educational networks across Israel. Yet Amal stands out in this landscape for one defining reason: its community is the most diverse in the country.
Within Amal’s schools, Jewish (secular and traditional), Arab, Druze, and Bedouin educators and students come together daily. This diversity enriches the network’s civic mission while also demanding creative, sensitive, and inclusive tools that meet t
he distinct needs of every community. Amal’s approach goes beyond traditional civics education. The program is built on the belief that democracy cannot be confined to textbooks or classroom debates rather should be experienced, practiced, and celebrated throughout all areas of school life. Teachers and students engage with democracy as a living practice: through entrepreneurship, community action, and collaborative problem-solving. This dynamic learning environment helps students internalize not only their civic responsibilities but also the joy and privilege of being part of a free society.
During the conference, participants from nine local Amal communities, stretching from Petah Tikva and Tira to Ma’ale Adumim, Nazareth, 
Al-Sayed, and Safed, came together to share insights, celebrate achievements, and equip themselves with new tools for leadership and social innovation. The atmosphere was one of pride, connection, and shared purpose, reflecting Amal’s vision of a network where schools across different cultures learn from each other and grow together.
The initiative, generously supported by the Philanthropic Coalition for Democracy Education, a partnership of eight forward-thinking foundations, continues to demonstrate how collaboration between philanthropy, educators, and communities can nurture a richer, more resilient democratic culture in Israel. Amal extends heartfelt thanks to all partner organizations and schools for their shared commitment to this essential mission.