Galinsky Academy

The Galinsky Academy was established to provide Jewish children of all ages the highest quality education possible.  Galinsky Academy consists of all the schools of the Jacksonville Jewish Center – the Laurie Preschool, the Bernard & Alice Selevan Religious School, the Martin J. Gottlieb Day School, and Setzer Youth Education.  It represents our commitment that all of our children – regardless of the path their parents choose – will benefit from the finest teachers, an engaged clergy, the highest-quality curriculum, and the most cutting-edge technology.  Galinsky Academy will be a 21st century learning organization like no other. No artificial boundaries. No territories. No excuses.

Samuel and Esther Galinsky were, by all accounts, modest and unassuming members of the Jacksonville Jewish Center.  They participated in synagogue life and were respected members of the congregation. They cared about Jewish education, but had no children of their own.  They were, in many ways, like any other couple. When they died, their friends mourned their passing. And that should be the end of the story. But it isn’t.  Because this ordinary couple did something extraordinary. With no fanfare and no notice, Samuel and Esther Galinsky left the Center amongst the most significant gifts it has ever received – $3 million.  And it was given for one purpose – this childless couple gave their fortune to ensure that Jewish children would be able to have a Jewish education.