Established in 1939, Secondary School #42, ORT "Gesher" is one of Samara's oldest educational institutions. Since 1999, it has incorporated Jewish studies and technology education through a partnership with World ORT. The School operates as a municipal-subsidized institution and has two departments: General Education and General Education with a Jewish curriculum (“Gesher”), which serves 34% of the student body.

The School has become a regional leader in STEM and computer science education, offering advanced programming, digital design, and robotics courses. With a track record of innovation and inclusion, it is also deeply involved in community-building and interethnic dialogue. It serves students in Grades 1–11, integrating modern teaching technologies with cultural identity and civic engagement.

The School delivers the Russian Federation National Curriculum and offers specialized programs in both Jewish and technology education. Students are divided between two academic tracks—General and “Gesher”—the latter including additional instruction in Jewish subjects.

Technology is taught from Grades 5 to 9, with students learning mechanical systems, pneumatics, control systems, and material science. ICT and Computer Science are taught from Grade 2 through Grade 11, covering logic, algorithms, programming (including Pascal), digital electronics, cybersecurity, and GIS.

The curriculum includes extensive elective programs in engineering, design, and robotics. Students use LEGO sets, BBC Micro:bit, Intel microscopes, CNC tools, and Compass 3D CAD systems. Computer graphics is a required subject in Grade 10, and CAD/CAM training begins in Grade 9.

Since 2017, the School has hosted a Digital TV Video Studio, supporting multimedia production and professional retraining. In partnership with Cisco Networking Academy, students gain hands-on skills in network deployment and IT career preparation.

Beyond regular classes, the School offers elective programs in programming, digital media, engineering, and robotics. Students work on hands-on projects, participate in national competitions, and develop innovations in school labs.

Since 2002, the School has hosted a Sunday School, offering informal Jewish education through holiday celebrations, film screenings, quests, and excursions. The School also supports family learning programs and youth engagement initiatives.

Extracurricular activities include participation in robotics competitions, design expos, and local engineering fairs. Students also engage in creative and civic programs, including contributions to city-wide multicultural forums.