Charter School Growth Fund: Helping Great Schools Grow
Overview
Darca Schools is improving academic achievement for 1,750 students in Ofakim by expanding access to STEM learning, counseling services, and preparation for Israel’s national graduation exam.
In Israel, a high school graduation certificate is essential for university admission and access to competitive careers. In Ofakim, a city in the country’s southern periphery, only 69% of students earn one – leaving nearly one in three without a clear path forward.
Darca Schools is changing that. Israel’s top-performing school network has raised graduation rates in similar communities from just 13% to more than 90%, giving thousands of students a real chance to pursue college and careers. With our support, Darca is leading a citywide push so every student in Ofakim has the same opportunity.
Building Stronger Schools with Coaching, Counseling, and STEM Education
In Ofakim, too few students take advanced classes – just 11% in Mathematics and 34% in English. On top of that, the October 7 attacks added trauma for students and teachers already working hard to succeed.
To address these challenges, Darca is delivering targeted interventions at all four of the city’s high schools, including:
- Coaching school leaders through hands-on planning and support
- Training teachers with ongoing professional development
- Expanding access to advanced STEM and English classes with modern labs and technology
- Providing counseling, group therapy, and resilience workshops for students
Together, these efforts are helping students in Ofakim build the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed in higher education and future careers.
Preparing Students for Higher Education and Careers
Darca Schools is working to double the number of students in Ofakim completing Israel’s highest-level high school track, a key gateway to STEM studies in higher education. For students, it opens the door to competitive universities and Israel’s vibrant tech economy. For Israelis, it proves that stronger pathways are being built not just in Tel Aviv, but in every city.
