The International Staff based at Hebrew University in Jerusalem

The unique organizational structure of the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School network is based on a franchise concept. The home base of this social franchise is located at the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School Institute at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Jewish Federations, Bureaus of Jewish Education, Jewish Community Centers and other agencies serve as local sponsors, or franchisees.

The International Office is based at the Melton Centre for Jewish Education at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The International Office, headed by FMAMS International Director Dr. Yonatan Mirvis, oversees all aspects of the Mini-School, including site development and expansion outside of North America. Curriculum development takes place here, where writers can take full advantage of the Hebrew University’s unparalleled resources. A Board of Directors, chaired by Mr. Gordon Zacks, oversees the policy and finances of the FMAMS Institute.

The North American staff based in Chicago

The North American Office is housed in Northbrook, Illinois. North American Division Director Rabbi Loren A. Sykes and staff are responsible for site development and expansion in the United States and Canada. They assist directors with all aspects of running the Mini-Schools, including faculty training and orientation.

Local sites pay an annual fee for the license to host a Mini-School, which includes on-site orientation and seminars for directors and faculty. The sponsoring agency is responsible for establishing an advisory board, hiring a director and teachers (subject to approval by FMAMS staff), recruiting students, supplying classrooms and study materials and everything else involved in the day-to-day operations of the Mini-School. Local franchisees must adhere to the FMAMS Institute’s rigorous standards.