Dr. Tamar Andrews has been a teacher and director and currently serves as the Director of Degree Programs at the American Jewish University. Her passion is early childhood education, and she tests out her ideas on her three grandchildren, all of whom live in Tenafly, NJ, and call her safta.
Elisa Berger has been teaching in the ECC3 classroom at Gottesman RTW Academy for the past three years. She was at The Gerrard Berman Day School for 25 years, where she taught in both the ECC3 and Pre-Kindergarten classrooms. Elisa has explored and implemented a variety of instructional approaches, thoughtfully integrating them into her curriculum. Her commitment to differentiated instruction has helped engage all learners and support a wide range of learning styles, enabling each student to reach their full potential.
Ellen Borsuk is the Associate Director of SINAI at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy. Ellen works as part of the administrative team to set and promote curricular, social, and behavioral goals and initiatives at both the lower and middle school levels. Over the past few years, Ellen has contributed to the introduction and implementation of Social Thinking concepts across the school in the form of teacher professional development, student classes, and parent workshops. Ellen holds a PhD in School Psychology from The Pennsylvania State University and has expertise in curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Kayla Broth teaches Judaic Studies at Bruriah High School and holds a B.A. in Judaic Studies from Touro University and an M.A. in Jewish Education from Azrieli. She is also an artist and runs a design company, combining her passion for art and education to enhance student engagement through creativity.
Dr. Erica Brown is the Vice Provost for Values and Leadership at Yeshiva University and the founding Director of its Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks-Herenstein Center for Values and Leadership. Her last two books were Morning Has Broken: Faith after October 7th and The Torah of Leadership: Essays on the Weekly Parasha. She has been published in The Atlantic, The New York Times, and First Things, among other media outlets.
Ashley Charnoff has been in the field of Jewish Education for over 20 years, serving in various capacities ranging from classroom teacher to administrator. She is currently an Educational Consultant working with Jewish say Schools throughout the country. In addition to coaching, she has created an Early Childhood math program which is currently being used at schools across Long Island and Queens. She specializes in building the capacity of classroom educators through coaching and modelling. Her diverse educational background includes a BA, JD, and a master’s in early childhood and special education.
Dr. Paula Chu taught and counseled students in independent schools for many years before shifting to a private practice in counseling. She has been on the faculty of the Stanley King Institute for 23 years and is currently its fourth director. Paula lives on the campus of The Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, NY, and thus is quite embedded in the world of adolescents and their teachers!
Sharon Darack, Assistant Director at Communities Confronting Substance Use & Addiction, has worked in the field of addiction and recovery for over 25 years. With her experience in counseling families and developing educational programs, Sharon has worked across the U.S., Israel, and the U.K. to raise awareness about substance use within the Jewish community.
Laurie Ehrlich is a seasoned marketing expert with a passion for combining a data-driven mindset with multichannel marketing strategy and planning, content creation, cross-team collaboration, and digital media. She works across the Jewish communal world including day schools, camps, synagogues, and mission-based nonprofits, implementing integrated and creative solutions based on audience research and enhanced brand identity. Laurie loves sharing her passion for marketing with others. She judges the annual InspiredSM Brilliance Awards, is a frequent presenter and workshop facilitator, and sits on the Board of Directors of Congregation Har Shalom in Potomac, MD.
Rebecca Eliason, Psy.D., MS, is the Associate Dean and Co-Founder of Adir Academy and the President and Founder of Kfar Shelanu. Dr. Eliason consults with schools and organizations to support student success, program development, and institutional growth. She previously served as Head of School at Barnstable Academy and is deeply committed to developing creative, individualized approaches to help students thrive.
Jason Erdreich is a Technology, Engineering, and Design educator who currently works to support educators as they create exciting learning environments for their students. With K-12, University, and Industry experience across the STEAM and CS disciplines, Jason wants to make learning relevant and more accessible for students and teachers of all levels.
Rabbi Mayer Erps has over 25 years of experience in Jewish Education, having served in a variety of roles throughout his career. For the past 11 years, he has been a Talmud teacher at both RKYHS and Maor, where he has taught students across multiple grades and levels. Rabbi Erps is widely recognized for his clear, systematic approach to teaching Talmud, making complex material accessible and engaging. In addition to his classroom work, he has served as a mentor to fellow educators, sharing his effective teaching strategies to enhance Talmud instruction more broadly.
Jacqueline Gooch is the Science Department Chair at JEC High School, where she teaches AP Biology, Physics, and Environmental Science. With over 15 years in education, she is also pursuing an EdD in Instructional Design and Technology and leads professional development focused on data-driven instruction and equity in STEM education.
Josh Gottesman is the Chief Human Resources Officer for the Orthodox Union. He plays an integral role in all people strategies, global recruitment efforts, professional development activities, and compliance across the organization. He has been a corporate trainer and facilitator for 9+ years and is especially skilled at building effective, productive, and working relationships with client and staff. He has an MBA in Industrial Organizational Psychology and HR Management and is a Senior Certified Professional in the Society for Human Resources Management. Most importantly, Josh is the proud father of four JEC students.
Dr. Samara Grossman teaches Library, Music, and Holocaust Studies at Golda Och Academy Lower School, where she also directs theatrical productions. Previously, she was Producing Artistic Director and Director of Triple Threat Theater Camp at JCC MetroWest for over two decades. Samara has a doctorate from Drew University and has authored three children’s books.
Jessica Harrell, MSEd, MA, is an educational leader specializing in professional learning, instructional leadership, and STEM education. A former teacher, founding school leader, and professional development program director, she recently launched her consulting business to help schools build equitable systems that improve outcomes. Jess lives in West Orange with her husband and two children.
Jenny Horowitz is the Director of Physical Education/Health at SAR Academy, where she leads curriculum innovation, staff training, and student engagement strategies. With over 30 years of experience in education, she has developed impactful programs that integrate fitness, teamwork, and social-emotional learning. Jenny has worked extensively with children and teenagers in both school and camp settings, creating dynamic experiences that foster confidence, leadership, and lifelong healthy habits. She collaborates with educators, parents, and community organizations to promote active learning and wellness both in and out of the classroom.
Rabbi Judah Isaacs serves as a Judaic Studies Rebbe at Bruriah Middle School and High School, where he enjoys making his classroom come alive with engaging lessons. He brings a wealth of experience in Jewish education, having previously served as Director of the Alliance for Jewish Education in Metropolitan Detroit. Rabbi Isaacs resides in Teaneck with his wife, Tzvia.
Amanda Kagan is the Math Team Lead at Golda Och Academy. Previously, she held the position of Math Coordinator at the Heschel School in Manhattan. She holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Mathematics from George Mason University and a Gifted Education certification from Hunter College. Amanda is passionate about engaging, student-centered math instruction and lives in Westfield, NJ, with her husband and two children.
Jason Langer teaches high school language arts at Golda Och Academy. He has been an avid student and fan of Shakespeare for the past 40 years. More recently he has studied Shakespeare pedagogy in programs with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Royal Shakespeare Company, and the Tikva Marom Teachers Summit.
Aliza Mayer is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience teaching Pre-K and First Grade in a variety of nursery and elementary school settings. With a passion for early childhood education, Aliza is known for creating engaging and dynamic learning environments that inspire curiosity and a love of learning. Throughout her career, she has developed a wealth of practical strategies that help young learners build strong foundational skills.
Rabbi Yaakov Mintz is an Educational Advocate at Work At It, an organization that supports Jewish youth who struggle in traditional educational settings. With over 20 years of teaching experience, he helps young people find their path to success through alternative education, school placement, career planning, and more. He is trained in Trauma-Sensitive and Resilience-Focused education and has completed graduate studies in Alternative and At-Risk Education at Marian University.
Godwyn Morris is the Director of Dazzling Discoveries STEM Education Center and Skill Mill NYC, maker space style facilities in New York City. Her mission is to empower educators and students through hands-on creative experiences. She is the inventor of DazzLinks Cardboard Building Kits, and co-creator of Engineering with Paper packets; projects that can be made with just paper, tape, and scissors. Several of her projects have been published in The New York Times.
Jordan Mroziak is an Education Technology and AI Consultant who designs human-centered learning experiences at the intersection of technology, equity, and community. He has worked with national and international partners—including school districts, nonprofits, and global organizations—to create AI policies, design instructional tools, and lead professional development initiatives that promote safe, inclusive, and future-ready learning ecosystems.
Jaime Nahan is the Junior Kindergarten Teacher at Gottesman RTW Academy, where she brings warmth, creativity, and a deep commitment to early childhood education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and has been working in the field for the past nine years. Her approach emphasizes hands-on exploration, social-emotional growth, and the integration of STEM concepts in age-appropriate ways. Jaime lives in Sparta, NJ, with her husband and their three children.
Rabbi Dr. Avichai Pepper is a seasoned educator with an extensive academic and professional background. He is a graduate of the New England Rabbinical College in Providence, RI, and holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University. In addition, he earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Bellevue University and a master’s degree in Counseling from Liberty University. With over 25 years of dedicated service in chinuch (Jewish education) and community development, Rabbi Dr. Pepper brings a wealth of experience to his work. His educational approach emphasizes empowering students’ engagement and fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
Dr. Deena Rabinovich is the Associate Dean of the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration. Previously, Deena served as the chair for both the Jewish Studies and the Jewish Education departments at Stern College for Women. Before coming to Yeshiva University, Deena taught and served as an administrator at the North Shore Hebrew Academy Middle School and Yeshiva University High School for Girls. Deena is passionate about teaching and learning.
Limor Ramer is a Hebrew and Jewish Studies teacher at Golda Och Academy, where she currently teaches third grade. With over 20 years of experience in education in Israel and the U.S, she holds a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) and a master’s degree (MA) in Organizational Development, both earned with honors. Limor is deeply committed to understanding each student as the key to meaningful learning. She thoughtfully adapts her teaching materials tailored to each child’s academic level, abilities, and interests promoting emotional and academic growth. Her approach integrates technology in purposeful ways to boost engagement and support for each student.
Tamara Rebick is the Founder and Chief Experience Officer of CORIPHERY Holistic Consulting Solutions, advising leaders on engagement, program optimization, strategy, and culture. The inaugural Director of Israel Engagement at TanenbaumCHAT, she has been a featured presenter and subject matter expert across five continents, and works closely with Jewish day and congregational schools, youth movements, synagogues, summer camps, Hillels, Federations and foundations. Tamara has a M.Ed in Adult Education and Community Development from OISE/University of Toronto with a focus on Workplace Learning & Change, and a certificate in Experiential Jewish Education from Yeshiva University.
Shulamit Roth, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the Head of School at Yeshivat Shalshelet, a yeshiva day school in Bergen County, N, for students with language-based learning difficulties. Shulamit began her career as a clinician at the Soifer Center for Learning and Child Development in White Plains, NY. After working in private practice, she served as a language and literacy specialist in public and private schools in Boston, New Jersey, and New York, including Brookline Public Schools, The Carroll School, Maimonides School, Yeshivat Noam, and The Shefa School. She received a B.A. from Stern College for Women and an M.S. from Brooklyn College in Speech and Language Pathology. She is a licensed speech and language pathologist in New York and New Jersey and a New York certified Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities.
Miri Rubin, the Director of Educational Technology at the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, is deeply passionate about student-directed learning and STEM education. She holds master’s degrees in Instructional Technology from Columbia University of Missouri, where she majored in computer science and education. Miri excels at designing curricula that empower students to become discerning media consumers, content creators, and STEM innovators.
Reesa Salomon, M.S., CCC-SL is the owner and solo speech-language therapist at SOMASLP, a private speech-language therapy practice in Maplewood, NJ, working with children aged birth through young adulthood. She received her Master of Science degree from Emerson College. She has over 24 years of experience as an SLP and has expertise in speech sound disorders, including Apraxia of Speech; Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD); Autism; ADHD; receptive and expressive language delays; anxiety; and fluency. She sees children individually and in neurodivergent-affirming social skills groups. She is ASHA certified, licensed in the state of NJ, and is PROMPT trained.
Yoni Schwab, PhD, is a founder and Assistant Head of The Shefa School, the first and largest Jewish day school for kids with dyslexia and learning disabilities. A clinical psychologist, he is on the voluntary faculty of YU’s Ferkauf Graduate School and maintains a private practice. Yoni is a sought-after presenter on many topics, including ADHD, anxiety, learning disabilities, and the effects of technology on youth.
Amy Schiffman, President and CEO, Evolve Giving Group, has more than 25 years in nonprofit development. Amy partners with organizations to develop effective fundraising campaigns, build strong leadership teams, and empower them with tools to visualize and achieve mission impact. Since co-founding Giving Tree Associates in 2008, and launching Evolve Giving Group in 2020, Amy has helped over 500 nonprofits, including over 75 Jewish day schools, raise hundreds of millions of dollars, create growth strategies, and recruit exceptional nonprofit executives. She served as Director of Development and Communications at Ida Crown Jewish Academy in Chicago from 2003 – 2008. Based in Chicago and Northern Michigan, Amy is a frequent public speaker and trainer at local, regional, and national gatherings. She oversees a team of 43 individuals across 16 states and serves on the faculty at the HUC/USC Zelikow School of Nonprofit Management in Los Angeles and Spertus Institute in Chicago.
Dr. Jessica Gilson Shore, PT, DPT is a physical therapist who received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Touro College and her Bachelor of Science from Yeshiva University Stern College for Women. Jessica primarily works with children and young adults, ranging in age from birth to 21 years old in a variety of settings. These include a private therapy center, both the general and special education school systems, and in the home within the early intervention model. She has worked and collaborated with teachers, paraprofessionals, social workers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and physical education teachers. She is a S’cool Moves Certified Trainer and the assistant director of the entire S’cool Moves Program. She has worked in many mainstream yeshivas and is currently the PT at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, SINAI at Kushner and SINAI at Maayanot High School.
Miriam Stein is a New Jersey native and graduate of Jewish day school. After more than 20 years in education and in strategic enrollment, she founded Saddlerock Strategies and Thrive Hive, boutique consulting services that work with schools in enrollment strategy and professional development.
Aliza Strassman is the Director of SINAI at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, where she leads the professional team of teachers, therapists, and administrators at SINAI’s elementary and middle school at Kushner. Aliza has over 15 years of teaching and administrative experience in Jewish day schools. With her background of a master’s degree in general and special education from the Bank Street College of Education, Aliza is passionate about making learning accessible to all students by bridging the gap between general and special education classrooms and practices.
Shira Strong serves as the Math Chair at Bruriah High School. With over 25 years of teaching experience, she is known for developing her own math textbooks, videos, and instructional resources to foster a collaborative and engaging learning environment. Shira is especially passionate about designing creative games and activities that make math meaningful and enjoyable for her students—many of which she will share in her workshop to help fellow educators bring that same energy into their own classrooms.
Shoshana Sturm is the Assistant Director at SINAI at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy. In her role there, she oversees the Judaic Studies and therapy departments, facilitates inclusion opportunities, liaisons with school districts and child study team members, and testifies on behalf of the school at impartial hearings. A speech-language pathologist by training, Shoshana holds a master’s degree in communication sciences and an advanced certificate in pediatric feeding disorders.
Lisa Swanson, Mathematics Department Chair at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, has been teaching middle school math with a passion for innovation. She collaborates on cross-curricular, real-world projects and integrates technology to enhance learning. Lisa is dedicated to creating meaningful, memorable classroom experiences that inspire student engagement and deeper understanding.
Sheri Swiss serves as the Middle School Vice Principal at Gottesman RTW Academy, where she has taught middle school language arts and math for nearly 15 years. A passionate supporter of lifelong learning, Sheri holds a B.S. in Education from The College of New Jersey and an M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University.
Miri Wexler collaborates with mission-driven teams to build thriving organizational cultures, lead through change, and turn strategy into impact. With over 20 years of experience in education, she’s been a teacher, administrator, and regional superintendent at one of the nation’s largest charter school networks. Miri is a day school graduate, spends her summers at Ramah California, and serves on the Upstart Advisory Council.