Gemara – Here at FTI we have a unique approach to comprehensive chinuch ha-banim which focuses on in-depth learning of Gemara. The goal is for the Gemara to come alive to the point that it is passionately debated between Rebbe and Talmid and even between Talmid and Talmid during shiur. This type of Torah learning impacts a Jewish neshama like nothing else.
Mussar and Hashkafa – Daily hashkafa and mussar shiur is perhaps the most important 15 minutes of the day in Yeshiva. Now more critical than ever, we strive to slowly and steadily counter-balance the demise of morality and decency in today’s world and replace it with lofty Torah ideals of Gadlus Ha’adam (the greatness of man) and Shlaimus (the perfection of one’s character traits).
Atmosphere/S’viva – Nothing is more conducive to learning (and almost any other challenge in life for that matter) than happiness. At FTI one of our highest priorities is to ensure our students are happy and feel comfortable with their surroundings and themselves. This is achieved first and foremost by giving them a healthy dose of respect and confidence. This is also accomplished by focusing on what’s really important; i.e., learning, halacha, ben adam lachavero, derech eretz, etc., and not overburdening them with unessential rules. This approach gives them the space and time they need to slowly and steadily mature Be”H into lifetime Bnei Torah.
General Studies – Under the able leadership of our secular studies principal Mr. Fred Brockman, we are fortunate to have a phenomenal lineup of teachers this year. We are most excited by the addition of longtime public school English teacher Bob Canzanese, awarded as one of the “Leading Educators of the World” in 2005 from The International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, England, whom we found through the help of longtime friend of the Yeshiva, Mrs. Marlene Goldhagen. Mr. Brockman runs the secular department under his award-winning “teaching with mentchlechkeit” program and H.A.R.R.R.P. (Honesty. Attitude. Respect. Responsibility. Rights. Persistance.)
Electives – We introduced an electives period this year during the afternoon class schedule to break up the day and give our students the flexibility and opportunity to select a topic of study of personal interest to them. Over the course of the year we will have offered: Higher academic courses, including a Gemara bekious program and a widely acclaimed Holocaust course; Arts, including a very popular music class where students learn to play the instrument of their choice and a chazzanus/nusach class given by our beloved Chazzan Horowitz; Hands-on training, including a CPR/First Aid course where students receive certification upon completion; and Sports and fitness courses including strength training, basketball skills, and team play.