The Rebbe's guidance on running a Jewish school or yeshiva — curriculum, standards, enrollment and administration:
Torah comes first. Torah study must always take precedence over secular subjects in a Jewish school (IK 1635, 8416). Open each school day with Torah studies whenever possible (IK 3257, 4397). Limiting secular studies for young children while increasing Torah learning strengthens them (IK 2268); an established Torah curriculum shouldn't be altered to add general studies (IK 3638). Education must above all instill core values and practical mitzvos (IK 4693). Where schools combine Torah and secular studies, decide according to local conditions, keeping clear boundaries (IK 7551, 6943). Chabad's mission does not include promoting secular education (IK 3440). Secular subjects such as math and physics can be taught to girls in an environment of yiras Shamayim (IK 2895). Take great care in hiring teachers for secular subjects, including whether non-Jews should teach them (IK 5483, 5055), and consider carefully before placing children under non-Jewish kindergarten teachers (IK 1307).
Standards without compromise. Avoid compromising on Torah values, such as by mixing boys and girls in class, even for important educational goals (IK 6512), while not being overly strict in ways that keep students out (IK 2731).
Enrollment. Work actively to enroll more students; growth in numbers also raises quality (IK 1603, 1778, 3508, 3639, 3889, 4319, 4589). Teachers too should go out to bring in students (IK 8034), and persistent effort with guidance improves enrollment (IK 5844b).
Administration and staff. Discipline and respect for leadership are vital to a yeshiva's success (IK 2607). Resolve disagreements between administration and teachers through proper channels (IK 4275), include a teachers' representative in the administration (IK 2630), and lead with warmth and empathy toward staff, settling salaries on time (IK 7104). Invest in proper administration, including support staff (IK 4456). Tailor the curriculum to the students' backgrounds (IK 1397, 9332).
Kindergartens. In choosing a kindergarten, the most important factor is its emphasis on yiras Shamayim (IK 1169). Opening a kindergarten, even at home, needs careful planning and community partnership (IK 10550).
See also: Education – How to teach; Parenting – Choosing a school or yeshiva; Communal finances – Money troubles in shuls, schools and organizations.