Congregation Beth Israel and its Shlenker School were closed early Wednesday morning, April 22, after the Houston Police Department informed them of a potential threat to the Reform synagogue and Jewish day school.
No other Houston Jewish organizations or schools were threatened, according to the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.
“After significant discussions with both the FBI and HPD, we have been advised that it is safe for other local Jewish institutions to remain open,” the Jewish Federation said in a statement.
Local law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols around Houston-area Jewish institutions as the Houston Jewish community celebrates Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Israel’s 78th anniversary on April 22.
“Yom Ha’atzmaut events will occur as planned this afternoon/evening with appropriate security in place,” the Federation said.
Shlenker Head of School Dr. Michelle Barton and school president Arturo Karakowsky sent out a statement to parents.
“There is nothing more important than the safety and security of your children and our faculty and staff. We acted quickly and out of an abundance of caution to ensure that no one was placed at risk,” the statement read.
Beth Israel Rabbi David Lyon, along with synagogue president Susan Feigin Harris and executive director Casey Cole also sent out a message to synagogue members.
“We understand that this type of message can be unsettling. Please know that this decision was made thoughtfully, with safety as our top priority and in coordination with trusted partners.”
Nearby Robert M. Beren Academy, which was not threatened and remained open, sent out a statement to its families, saying local police are looking for a person with a Houston connection.
“As the FBI continues to investigate this threat out of state, they have informed local law enforcement that one of the individuals that they are looking for has ties to Houston,” Beren Rabbi Jordan Silvestri said in a statement.
There is no word yet on when Beth Israel or The Shlenker School will reopen their South Braeswood Boulevard campus.
“This situation is fluid, ongoing and under investigation,” the Federation said.
“We will share information, as warranted, in partnership with Congregation Beth Israel and The Shlenker School. We all remain in close communication with HPD, the FBI and local and national security partners.”