Why did you choose to work in Jewish education?
When I think about what Judaism means to me, I think back to the songs we sang and lessons learned around circle time at Jewish preschool. Jewish educators are given a unique opportunity to nuture our communities and mold the next generations of American Jewry. From the earliest years of our students' lives, we get to help shape a Jewish future that is rich with tradition, lovingly kind, and that embraces inclusion and diversity. Jewish education - especially in the foundational years of early childhood - is the embodiment of l'dor v'dor.
What appeals to you most about our program?
If you had told me ten years ago, I'd be in a Jewish degree program, I wouldn't have believed you. I began my degree at a liberal arts college that ultimately did not match my professional goals and philosophy as an educator. During the pandemic, I discovered AJU from a social media post, and from the moment I signed in to the Virtual Open House, the AJU community felt like home. I cherish the relationships with my close-knit cohort and my instructors who are invested in my success at every step of the way. The unique community and the ability to balance work, travel, and the Jewish holidays while getting my degree make AJU's BA ECE program second to none.
What is your favorite part about being an educator?
My favorite part about being an educator is bearing witness to a child's learning journey; that moment when a concept clicks, a child reaches their educational goal, or feels empowered to reach outside their comfort zone. Jewish early childhood education has provided me the playground (pun very much intended!) to integrate my passions for Jewish learning, STEAM in education, and true inclusion.
Tell us about yourself:
My very first teaching job began when I was bat mitzvah age after one of my childhood Morahs saw my interest for working with young children. She saw a potential in me and chose to nuture it, helping me discover my passion and pointing my life's compass in the direction it would go. After training for a number of years to work in the K-12 public school system, I realized that the early childhood classroom is where I was meant to be. I currently work as a Student Support Specialist at my Temple and advise educational and religious organizations across the country on issues of disability and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.