For over a hundred years, there has been a strong and vibrant Jewish community in New York City. A hallmark of this community is its ability to educate its children in schools that promote progressive and true values. As member of this community, Isaac Toussie recognized the importance of a high-quality education system. Toussie attended a local Jewish Yeshivah, Yeshivah of Flatbush, and accredits much of his success to the strong foundation that the school provided him. “I would not have the eclectic knowledge or disciplinary sweep, had it not been for the valuable education I received here in Brooklyn,” Toussie stated.

Yeshivah of Flatbush enrolls students from kindergarten through high school, with over 1000 students in their elementary and high school. The schools elementary school building is blocks away from its high school location, maintaining a strong sense of community between the two locations. Both schools are located in the heart of Midwood, Brooklyn. Their mission is to empower, education and inspire their students to grow into well-rounded individuals. Toussie made the most of his education, graduating valedictorian of the Yeshivah of Flatbush High School.

Seeing how pivotal education was in attaining success in his life, Toussie has prioritized giving back to the community that fostered his growth. Over the past ten years, Toussie has generously donated to the Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School. In 2014, Toussie supplied the school with innovative learning games, books and supplies to bolster student’s ability to make the most of their classroom education. Early education students also received new pianos, providing students with an educational, yet exciting opportunity at a young age.

Although Toussie attended Yeshivah of Flatbush, he has remained grateful to the education system at large that permeates throughout the streets of Brooklyn. He has made donations to multiple Jewish schools in Brooklyn, including Mesivta and Bais Medrash of Manhattan Beach, Yeshivat Mikdash Melech and Yeshiva Ateres Yisroel. Each of these schools teaches young boys in the customs, traditions and values of Judaism. Many of his donations went directly to children and families in need. In a letter of appreciation, one individual wrote regarding Toussie that “many of the children that you helped and are continuing to help, come from distressed and destitute homes and backgrounds. Your volunteered time and resources has helped children who otherwise could not receive education, schooling and other support.” His commitment to building up the Jewish education system truly provides children with unprecedented opportunities.

Although Toussie has heavily contributed to Jewish institutions in NYC, he has maintained a connection to the education system at large. Toussie constantly emphasized the significance of ensuring that children have access to the proper tools to enhance their education. While speaking about children, he lauded their ability to further their education independently. As such, Toussie and his family have donated to institutions such as the Brooklyn Public Library in Sheepshead Bay. Brooklyn Public Libraries strive to reduce unemployment and illiteracy throughout the borough alongside local schools.

Toussie’s efforts to strengthen the education system in NYC is admirable. It has allowed hundreds, if not thousands of students, to escalate the level of their education. Whether that be through the donation of funds or materials, Toussie has found a way to give back to the community that raised him.