ABSTRACT
Shafririm–the Institute of Special Education–is situated within Kibbutz Givat Haim Ichud and was founded in 1957. Its purpose was to provide an alternative educational framework for pupils who had experienced difficulties within the mainstream kibbutz schools. The school now includes over 300 pupils between the ages of 12 to 21. It is the largest special education framework in Israel for this age group. Pupils come from all over Israel. Those whose homes are not within travelling distance live with foster families in settlements in the surrounding area. Among the special characteristics of the school is its integration in and use of kibbutz facilities, including the various work “branches” of the communal settlement: This as part of its educational, therapeutic, and rehabilitative philosophy. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: <getinfo@haworthpressinc.com> Website: <https://www.HaworthPress.com> © 2001 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]
