Act local, but think global. Most Jewish education takes place locally. If you are looking for a dynamic principal to run the new Jewish community high school being established in your city, you will have a hard time finding a candidate who is at once steeped in Judaica, trained in education, and experienced in administration. If the problems are systemic, the solutions can also be systemic, even at the local level. Foundations are uniquely capable of partnership with a range of local institutions across denominations as well as with other foundations.
Educational change demands change in people.
Changing a program or curriculum is not enough. A new idea or institution can seem much more exciting than what already exists. Concentrate your resources and focus your effort. It's the only way to make a significant difference. Being well educated is not the same as understanding education, so criticize your basic assumptions.