4201 —התמדה והדרכה בהנהגת בית ספר לבנות

B"H, 6th of Nissan, 5716.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z Yissachar Dovber Gurvitz

Shalom u'Vrachah!

After a long break, once again I received your letter from Rosh Chodesh Nissan. Regarding what you write about various confusions in the holy work of educating the daughters of Israel in purity, this is indeed the way of human endeavor since we were exiled from our land and distanced from our soil. On the contrary, specifically in recent years, concealments and obstacles have lessened even if they still exist. Especially each one of Anash who came from our previous country sees this tangibly and personally. If for a brief moment one considers: "What about twenty years ago when I was in such a situation... yet I still engaged in Torah and mitzvos even though it seemed dangerous; rather, through this very engagement I was saved along with my family," then all the more so should one thank the Creator and Leader of the world who brought me from distress to relief and enabled me to do all this with joy. There is no need to elaborate further.

As for obstacles and concealments that arise, you surely see that with relatively little effort—and mainly with firm determination that the matter must endure—one succeeds. Certainly this will continue to be so, and our Nasi, my revered father-in-law the Rebbe, stands and serves and arouses abundant mercy so that success will flow into all his endeavors conducted according to his spirit and will—even in the personal matters of those involved in this work.

Regarding what you wrote about printing sheets to record students’ grades etc.—it is surprising that you do not yet have them, as this is standard in all schools. It is clear that it is proper to implement them at least now.

On your question about how to conduct oneself with the students: generally there must be two opposite approaches—“cast severity among students,” but for a child or woman it should be “the right hand draws close,” especially in educational matters. This is true; there is room for both approaches. The boundaries become apparent during actual educational work according to each student’s nature; there are no fixed rules here. Especially since circumstances change from place to place, time to time, and student to student. It is appropriate for all or most teachers to consult together regularly regarding how to guide and influence the students; may Hashem grant you success.

Certainly arrangements are being made ahead of time for Pesach procedures. It would be worthwhile to clarify details about what they were accustomed to in Morocco at home—even though for essential matters things should follow Chabad custom—surely there are particulars where their custom can be preserved appropriately.

The pidyon nefesh enclosed in your letter will be read at the holy resting place of my revered father-in-law the Rebbe zatzal nbg"m zya"a, and surely by now her health has improved.

With wishes for a good and blessed Pesach holiday for you and all your family—may you celebrate it with kashrus and joy.

Blessings and regards to the administration, students, and wishes for a kosher and joyous Pesach both materially and spiritually.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that perseverance through challenges brings success in holy work. Firm resolve paired with thoughtful guidance ensures effective education while honoring tradition and individual needs.