“Naot Learning” – Supporting Students’ Success
The “Naot Learning” program was established through a collaboration between the family of Naot Weitzman z”l and the Association for Educational Advancement in Jerusalem.
This comprehensive educational model is designed to support students in grades 7–12, their parents, and their school staff in overcoming learning challenges. The program fosters a collaborative learning environment to improve academic achievements and strengthen the emotional resilience of youth facing learning difficulties.
Implemented in secondary schools and boarding schools operated by the Association for Educational Advancement, “Naot Learning” optimally leverages government resources while supplementing them with donor-funded support services. The program honors the memory and accomplishments of Naot Weitzman z”l.
The Story of Naot Weitzman
Naot, once considered a “problematic” child, struggled to sit still and focus in class. Despite his parents’ efforts, ranging from strict discipline to private tutoring, the desired results were elusive.
Through consultation with experts, they learned that with proper intervention and a supportive learning environment, children with learning disabilities (often associated with ADHD) can succeed academically and in life.
In the absence of school-provided assessments or intervention plans, Naot’s parents turned to private evaluation and bore the costs of additional support, amounting to tens of thousands of shekels.
Their persistence paid off. With the dedication of Naot, his teachers, and his parents, he excelled in his studies, earned a full matriculation certificate, and became one of the top students in his class.
Naot later enlisted in the IDF and successfully completed his training as a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade. Tragically, he passed away in a diving accident during Passover leave in 2011, at the age of 20.
Goals of the “Naot Learning” Program
- Promote Academic and Emotional Success: Support students with learning challenges to achieve better academic outcomes and emotional resilience.
- Create a Scalable Model: Develop an effective educational framework adaptable to other schools nationwide.
- Increase Matriculation Success: Help more students with learning challenges earn high-quality matriculation certificates to access meaningful military roles, higher education, and fulfilling careers.
- Empower Educators: Equip teachers and school leaders with tools to address learning difficulties, fostering an inclusive and improved learning environment for all students.
- Reduce Financial Strain: Alleviate families’ financial burden by subsidizing evaluations and providing necessary support services.
How It Works
Naot Learning Centers
Each center is led by a coordinator specializing in learning disabilities and ADHD. Coordinators:
- Monitor and support students needing assistance.
- Develop personalized learning plans.
- Coordinate tutoring and accommodations.
- Collaborate with teachers and school staff.
Evaluations
The program subsidizes psycho-educational evaluations conducted by certified professionals. The findings guide tailored intervention strategies, helping both students and educators adopt effective learning methods.
Program Achievements
An external evaluation report highlights significant outcomes:
- Over half of the students improved core subject grades.
- Mathematics showed the greatest improvement.
- Coordinators identified and utilized previously untapped resources.
- Teacher collaboration was critical to intervention success.
Leadership Team
Eden Israeli
- Role: Learning Processes Developer
- Experience: 20+ years in teaching and supporting students with learning and behavioral challenges, former regional instructor for the Ministry of Education.
- Education: B.A. in Psychology, M.A. in Special Education (Hebrew University). Certified in educational diagnostics and ABA therapy.
Chaim Weitzman
- Role: Chair of the “Naot Learning” Steering Committee
- Background: An American-Israeli author and translator, Chaim’s life changed during a volunteer year in Israel. His books include Company C and A Crack in the Earth. Chaim is married to Ilana, and their children honor a legacy of excellence and service.
To learn more about Chaim and his work, click here.
