There is a traditional phrase, Yesh Omrim, which literally means, “There are those who say.” It is used to indicate that the opinion of someone who differs substantially from the majority is being included. Our tradition teaches us to include those who disagree with our ideas in fundamental ways because we can learn so much from respectful dialogue.
Most of the commentaries and responses to Our 21st Century Kaplanian Vision of Jewish Education can readily be characterized as “friendly critique.” The commentators seek to extend, refine, or nuance ideas within the vision. The fundamental assumptions found in the Vision are generally accepted.
In terms of this project, we profit enormously from the remarks of Rabbi Toba Spitzer and Cyd Weissman, whose challenges to Our 21st Century Vision are more radical.