History and Philosophy

Rabbi Arthur Schneier Park East Day School is the realization of Rabbi Schneier’s vision to “concentrate on the education of our youth to ensure our future.” For many years, the Rabbi dreamed of opening a school to kindle a love of learning and vibrant awareness of Jewish identity, tradition, and heritage. Within its walls, generations would learn to celebrate unity and diversity, coexistence, mutual understanding, and acceptance. “From generation to generation” is the essence of the Rabbi’s philosophy.

Park East Day School has a rich history. In 1976, Rabbi Arthur Schneier started Park East’s early childhood facility, a nursery school. In 1981, the nursery school merged with the East Side Hebrew Institute, once a major Jewish institution of the Lower East Side. The new merged school was named “Park East ESHI.” In 1990, the school was renamed after Rabbi Arthur Schneier.

Today, Rabbi Arthur Schneier Park East Day School stands poised as an educational institution where a rigorous academic curriculum seamlessly integrates with Judaic studies. Its philosophy of building proud Jewish leaders with a strong sense of identity and tradition is taught through the lens of a global society. Park East Day School is a place where children learn to extend themselves intellectually and spiritually within the Jewish traditions of ethics, honesty, and excellence.