With the opening of the new school year in Modi�in Illit, 2,300 children entered first grade. 2,600 three-year-olds entered kindergartens. According to a HaMevaser report quoting City Hall officials, there are a total of 27,000 students in the chareidi city�s educational system.

Some other interesting figures include the addition of 125 new classrooms [including special education facilities], 100 of which located in permanent structures as opposed to caravans and other temporary settings. A Beis Yaakov was built in the city�s Naot HaPisga neighborhood. Chinuch Atzmai officials are expected to announce plans to open the new building.

Mayor Rav Yaakov Gutterman is quoted as saying �In the merit of the Torah learning and lifestyle in the city, we have succeeded in establishing such fine Torah mosdos.�

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)