Financial Collapse: Bnos Penina School in Lakewood Suspends All Classes

Bnos Penina, a girls' school in Lakewood, New Jersey, has announced the suspension of all classes starting tomorrow (Thursday), effectively shutting down operations at its current location.

The decision stems from a severe shortfall in tuition payments, where parents' commitments to provide additional support and keep up with payments were not met, leading to financial inviability.

"Had tuition obligations been maintained as agreed, we would not be in this position today," the school administration stated in a letter to parents.

Compounding factors include increased operating and maintenance costs due to prolonged sub-freezing temperatures earlier this winter, as well as the landlord's notification that the building would no longer be available after this week.

School officials noted that despite extensive efforts, including consultations with Torah authorities and attempts to secure funding or alternative solutions, they could not find a sustainable path forward.

"After much effort, many conversations, and every possible attempt to find a sustainable path forward, we have reached the painful conclusion that we will not be able to continue," the letter stated.

Administrators expressed hope that parents would step up immediately with meaningful support to potentially enable continuation, though no specific reopening plans have been outlined.

"It is our sincere hope that our wonderful and loyal parents will step forward in a meaningful and immediate way to make continuation possible," the administration wrote.

This marks a recurrence of financial struggles for the school, which in September 2025 faced similar challenges, including inability to open for the school year due to unpaid salaries, outstanding tuitions, and rent issues, prompting calls for immediate parental assistance.