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The NewCAJE conference is a vibrant gathering that unites Jewish educators and professionals to strengthen the Jewish community through education. Rooted in the legacy of CAJE, NewCAJE fosters innovation, collaboration, and inspiration. The conference offers space for sharing best practicesexploring new ideas, and deepening Jewish and educational learning. Committed to inclusivity and pluralism, it welcomes educators from all backgrounds, creating a supportive network that empowers them to make a lasting impact.

Monday, June 23
 

12:30pm EDT

New Attendee Orientation #1
Monday June 23, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm EDT
Come and bring your program books! We will help you figure out how to get the most out of the conference, how to read the program book, how to meet people, and answer whatever questions you might have. Learn from NewCAJE veterans, and connect with other first-timers!
Monday June 23, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

1:00pm EDT

New Attendee Orientation #2
Monday June 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Come and bring your program books! We will help you figure out how to get the most out of the conference, how to read the program book, how to meet people, and answer whatever questions you might have. Learn from NewCAJE veterans, and connect with other first-timers!
Monday June 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

2:00pm EDT

Who, When, Where, Why: The What and How of Calendar Planning the Year
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Let's workshop how to plan out the year in advance, while allowing room for the things that will inevitably cause you to pivot. We will look at tools to help you in the planning, share best practices, and even think about ways to make the calendar do the hard work for you. This workshop is designed for directors of supplemental settings, but useful to anyone thinking big picture about the year ahead.

Speakers
avatar for Aileen Heiman

Aileen Heiman

Director of Education and Engagement, Park Slope Jewish Center
Aileen Heiman is the Director of Education and Engagement at Park Slope Jewish Center in Brooklyn, NY. She holds an MA in Jewish Education from Hebrew College and an MA in Jewish Studies from the RRC. Aileen has been involved with NewCAJE since interning with CAJE and loves the joyous... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

2:00pm EDT

Reaching and Teaching All Learners: Creating a Culture of Inclusion in the Supplemental School Setting
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
This session offers practical approaches, tools and insights to support diverse learners and cultivate a welcoming environment in Jewish supplemental schools.



Speakers
MP

Meredith Polsky

Founder & Director of Vision and Impact, Matan
Meredith Polsky, Founder & Director of Vision and Impact at Matan, is a nationally sought-after speaker on Jewish Disability Inclusion and is often called upon as an expert voice in the field. A 2017 Covenant Award winner, Meredith is also a licensed clinical social worker and co-author... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

2:00pm EDT

A Sukkah on the Moon: PBL in the Jewish Classroom
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Project-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered approach resulting in deep, long-lasting, and relevant learning.Jewish educators can adapt any unit or topic to a PBL format. Come away with an outline and resources for how to approach an example project for fourth graders and learn how to design your own PBL units!

Speakers
avatar for Tanya Wisoker

Tanya Wisoker

Adult Educator, Storyteller
Tanya has been telling stories her whole life, starting with reading to her little sister.  She worked with preschoolers, as a museum interpreter, and as a Religious School principal.  Tanya was a Day School science teacher and drama coach for 11 years before retiring to pursue... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

2:00pm EDT

God loves the Jewish people, but do we?: Teaching and Learning Ahavat Yisrael
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Many Jews find Judaism fascinating and meaningful but the subject of Jews—not so much. Peoplehood and religion fortify each other and may not be truly distinct, so how can we teach ethnic cultural particularism in a global age?

Speakers
avatar for Rabbi David Starr

Rabbi David Starr

Lead Congregation, Mishkan Tefila
Rabbi David Star leads Congregation Mishkan Tefila in Brooklline, MA. He was a Research Associate at Brandeis University and earned a Ph.D. at Columbia University. He is the author of a forthcoming biography of Solomon Schechter, and was the founder of the Me’ah program.
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

2:00pm EDT

Ask Mrs. Lincoln
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Meet the real Mary Todd Lincoln. Discover why the wife of Abraham Lincoln was so disliked. Was she really insane? What was it like to be married to Abe, to live in Washington during the Civil War, to be the wife of the president? Understand what it was like for Jews during the Civil War? What was Lincoln’s relationship to the Jewish people? After the presentation, there will be a discussion about how this information can be effective in congregational afternoon schools, day schools, and for adults. In addition, participants will explore how they might be able to take on characters and bring history to life in their classrooms.

Speakers
avatar for Heléna Eilenberg

Heléna Eilenberg

Adult Educator, Consultant, Informal/Camp Educator, Online Tutor (Hebrew or Judaica), Storyteller, Merrick Jewish Centre
Heléna Geberer Eilenberg is an actress, a Jewish educator (Director of Education, principal) and a history teacher. In full character and dress, she portrays unique, fascinating women who are almost forgotten in our history books. For adults, middle and high school and upper elementary... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

2:00pm EDT

The Four Children of the Youth Staff: Understanding Your Madrichim
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Not all madrichim are created equal—and that’s a good thing. Some are natural teachers, others are quiet anchors, and some just need the right spark to shine. Learn strategies for leveraging their strengths and challenges in order to turn teen helpers into confident classroom partners.

Speakers
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

2:00pm EDT

Navigating social media when Israel is at war: Best practices for students
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
This workshop will help students identify antisemitism online and distinguish it from legitimate criticism of Israel. Using real examples, students will learn to analyze content, stay safe, and engage responsibly. Topics include media literacy, historical context, and digital responsibility, empowering students to recognize and respond to online hate..

Speakers
avatar for Karen Horn

Karen Horn

Education Associate, Unpacked for Educators
Keren Horn is an Education Associate at Unpacked for Educators, a division of OpenDor Media. Unpacked for Educators is dedicated to exploring the Jewish story in all its depth, complexity, and intellectual richness. Keren holds a Master’s in Education from Rutgers University and... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01
  Israel/Zionism  Technology
  • Subject Holocaust/Antisemitism Certificate
  • about Keren Horn is an Education Associate at Unpacked for Educators, a division of OpenDor Media. Unpacked for Educators is dedicated to exploring the Jewish story in all its depth, complexity, and intellectual richness. Keren holds a Master’s in Education from Rutgers University and has developed curriculum to teach Israel education to middle and high school students.

2:00pm EDT

Capturing Learner's Attention and Imaginations in the Jewish Classroom
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Struggling with distracted students who can't focus? Discover practical strategies to engage learners by making content relevant and interactive. Explore transformative approaches like Choose Your Own Adventure, Project-Based Learning, and customized electives that spark student enthusiasm. Walk away with ready-to-use methods to dramatically improve classroom participation.

Speakers
avatar for Ronni Ticker

Ronni Ticker

Classroom Teacher - Elementary, Classrooom Teacher - Middle School, Consultant, Self Employed
Ronni Ticker, Founder & Chief Imagination Officer of Jewish Learning Central, is a creative strategic thinker consulting with synagogues and non-profits to reimagine learning and engagement. Ronni is also the Director of Family Engagement for the Federation of Palm Beach County. She... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

2:00pm EDT

Classroom Strategies to Develop Perspective Taking
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Our Sages teach that there are “70 Faces of the Torah,” meaning that there are many levels of meaning in our Jewish texts. One of the most important life skills we can instill in our children is the ability to see other people’s perspectives. This workshop will explore 10 fun classroom techniques teachers can use to help their students learn.
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Levitt

Aaron Levitt

Executive Director, Jewish Educational Services, The Associated - Jewish Federation of Baltimore
Rabbi Aaron Levitt has served as a Jewish educator for over 25 years, teaching in Day Schools, Congregational Schools, Camps, Synagogues, and other settings. This experience includes serving as Judaic Studies Principal at Robert M. Beren Academy in Houston, Assistant Rabbi at Boca... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

2:00pm EDT

AI as Your Teaching Partner: Enhancing Jewish Education with Smart Tools
Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Discover AI's potential in Jewish education. ShalomLearning's session offers practical tools for lesson planning, content creation, and student engagement. Learn to leverage AI efficiently, addressing ethical concerns, and enriching classroom experiences.

Speakers
avatar for Shira Sender

Shira Sender

Director/Head of School, Director of Client Care and Teacher Support
TBD

Monday June 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

3:45pm EDT

Adaptive Leadership post 10/7: Navigating Change and Building Resilience in a Dynamic Educational Landscape
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
In today’s rapidly changing world, Jewish educators face unique challenges in leading schools, engaging students, and fostering strong community involvement. Adaptive leadership offers a proven framework that helps leaders and organizations navigate complex environments and address the evolving needs of students, parents, and communities. This session will introduce educators to the principles of adaptive leadership, a model that moves beyond traditional top-down or bottom-up approaches to provide practical tools for thriving in uncertain, ever-changing educational settings.


Speakers
avatar for Hana Bor

Hana Bor

Professor, Program Director, Founding Director for Education Centers, Towson University
Hana Bor is a Towson University professor in the Family Science Department and the Founding Director of The Sandra R. Berman Center for Humanity, Tolerance & Holocaust Education at Towson University. She is also the Program Director for the Holocaust Education Graduate Certificate... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

3:45pm EDT

#OnwardHebrew: For the curious or not (yet) convinced
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
#OnwardHebrew has been transforming Hebrew education for students in part-time/synagogue programs across North America. This workshop will explain and explore sound-to-print Hebrew learning, share success stories and cautionary tales, present research, and offer steps to help your educational program explore #OnwardHebrew’s power for your learners.

Speakers
avatar for Nachama  Moskowitz

Nachama Moskowitz

Director, #OnwardHebrew
Nachama Skolnik Moskowitz is the director of #OnwardHebrew, a national Hebrew learning initiative that is building student competence, confidence, and excitement in synagogue/part-time settings. Previously, she served as Director of Curriculum Resources for the Jewish Education Center... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

3:45pm EDT

How To Teach Any Subject Effectively
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Great teaching is both an art form and a science. Master teachers stand out because they employ five basic practices (and they know that 95% of classroom management challenges begin with the teacher). Whether you are a new teacher or a veteran, this session will sharpen your awareness and skills in achieving greater mastery of the craft.


Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Adult Jewish educator, Jewish Teachers Institute
Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld, PhD started teaching right out of college in rural Mississippi. With over 10 years of classroom experience and 20 years as an adult Jewish educator, he founded the Jewish Teachers Institute in 2016 which trains and mentors day school teachers, creates curricula... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

3:45pm EDT

Every Kippah has a Story
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
For egalitarian synagogues where students may wear head coverings. An intergenerational workshop on the reasons for wearing kippot, meeting and decorating kippot from previous life-cycle events. Every kippah owner tells a story to the "child" who chooses his or her event kippah. All followed by a "blinging" session.




Speakers
avatar for Karen Sacks

Karen Sacks

Interim Religious School Director, Congregation Habonim
Karen Sacks is the interim Religious School director at Congregation Habonim in NYC. She has worked as a music specialist in Jewish preschools, camps and religious schools and enjoys sharing her love of Judaism and education through music, creative programming, humor, and tradition... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

3:45pm EDT

Beyond the Gap: Connecting Effectively with Generation Z
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Connecting with today's youth creates transformative moments, yet demands dedicated skill and persistence. Learn from an innovative Youth Engagement Director's successful strategies for vibrant programming across different developmental stages. Through an interactive Gallery Walk and collaborative problem-solving, you'll leave with actionable ideas to immediately elevate your youth engagement initiatives.


Speakers
avatar for Jacob Ruby

Jacob Ruby

Youth Director, Jacksonville Jewish Center
Jacob Ruby is the Youth Director for the Jacksonville Jewish Center. With over 120 Youth ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade seniors, Jacob has been leading, connecting with, and developing successful programming for 4 years.
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

3:45pm EDT

Tot Shabbat with Savta Goose on the Loose
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Explore new ways to present Tot Shabbat using the Mother Goose on the Loose method! Tried and true techniques involving the flannel board engage children from birth to age four and their parents/ caregivers.
Speakers
BD

Betsy Diamant-Cohen

Dr. Betsy Diamant-Cohen developed the Mother Goose on the Loose (MGOL) early literacy program while working at the Israel Museum Youth Wing Library. MGOL has won numerous awards in the US; Betsy received the "Distinguished Services Award" from the Association for Library Service to... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

3:45pm EDT

Create Sensory Play Experiences and Build an Inclusive and Supportive Classroom
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
In this session, participants will experience the self-regulating magic of hands-on sensory play! Participants will come away with concrete tools to build inclusive experiences for learners with a diverse array of learning and social skills. Sensory integration also supports children’s complex behaviors and development. This is ideal for early childhood and elementary classrooms but can be used with learners of all ages. 


Speakers
EB

Erin Beser

Director of Whole Community Inclusion, Jewish Learning Venture
Erin Beser is the Director of Whole Community Inclusion at the Jewish Learning Venture. She also currently teaches 6th grade Jewish studies at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy in Bryn Mawr and is the founder and CEO of Adoughma Dough Play Events, a sensory education initiative working... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

3:45pm EDT

Turning Our History into Memory
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
In the limited hours we have each week to shape Jewish identity, how can we help students transform over 3,500 years of Jewish history into meaningful, lasting memory? Join IsraelLINK for an interactive workshop introducing a new educational methodology designed to help learners not only connect the dots of our shared story, but see themselves within it.
Speakers
IK

Ida Kahn

IsraelLink
 Before joining the IsraelLINK Team, Ida taught in both day and synagogue supplementary schools, bringing her talent for developing curricula to the classrooms. A life-long learner, Ida recently completed a master’s program in teaching Judaic studies. In her teaching as well as... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

3:45pm EDT

Glikl a Jewish Woman
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Glikl of Hamlyn may have lived more than 400 years ago, but in many ways her life’s ambitions and struggles mirror today’s issues. The Jewish woman, whose 20-year diary describes life in Europe’s 17th century, is being turned into a graphic novel by a husband-and-wife team of educators. Mat and Julie Tonti.  This project is aimed at making a digestible version for today.


Speakers
avatar for Julie Tonti

Julie Tonti

Educator, The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore
Mat and Julie Tonti live with their children in the Washington, DC area, where they both work in the field of education, Mat as a rabbi and educator at Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School, and Julie works at Jewish Educational Services at The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore... Read More →
avatar for Rabbi Matt Tonti

Rabbi Matt Tonti

By day, Rabbi Matisyahu Tonti, can be found teaching young musicians and Torah scholars at Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School in Washington DC. By night, he can be found dancing, drawing, and singing with his three children and wife.Rabbi Tonti has spent four years living and studying... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

3:45pm EDT

Unpacking the War and Navigating Current Events: Israel’s history is an ongoing saga that continues to capture the attention of the world.
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Current events in Israel are complicated and this session takes the most pressing issues taking place in Israel and unpacks the history, context and the wide contours of dispute surrounding the issue. This session will also share best practices for teachers for engaging students in discussions around these complicated events, using Israeli cartoons, music, and videos.

Speakers
avatar for Karen Horn

Karen Horn

Education Associate, Unpacked for Educators
Keren Horn is an Education Associate at Unpacked for Educators, a division of OpenDor Media. Unpacked for Educators is dedicated to exploring the Jewish story in all its depth, complexity, and intellectual richness. Keren holds a Master’s in Education from Rutgers University and... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

3:45pm EDT

The Creative Teacher’s Toolbox: 15 Essential Tools For Every Educator
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Discover 15 practical, imaginative tools that will reignite your teaching and energize your students. Whether you're in a classroom, synagogue, or community setting, this session will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to make learning more memorable.


Speakers
avatar for Sari Kopitnikoff

Sari Kopitnikoff

Educator, Digital Artist, and Content Creator, @thatjewishmoment
Sari Kopitnikoff is an experiential educator, digital artist, and content creator. She’s passionate about creating books, games, and shows that bring Judaism to life. She taught for over a decade and now runs programs and experiences all over for kids, teens, and adults. Find lots... Read More →
Monday June 23, 2025 3:45pm - 5:15pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02
 
Tuesday, June 24
 

TBA

Tuesday Morning Prayer Services
Tuesday June 24, 2025 TBA
Speakers
Tuesday June 24, 2025 TBA
Room JR-130

8:30am EDT

Free Speech versus Hate Speech: Role Playing as an Entry Point to Discussing Controversial Topics
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Should there be limits to free speech? In this workshop, we’ll use creative role-play to explore how people in the past tackled tough questions. We’ll look at the events in Skokie in the late 1970s and compare free speech in the U.S., Germany, and Israel.

Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Shargel

Rebecca Shargel

Professor of Education, Towson University
Rebecca Shargel is Professor of Education at Towson University.  She also designs and creates online simulations for the Jewish Court of All Time, for middle schoolers in Jewish schools (day schools and Hebrew schools) to deliberate on controversial topics. She researches collaborative... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

8:30am EDT

Mitzvah and Mystery: Using Intrigue and Curiosity to Bring Jewish Learning to Life
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Experience “The Stolen Speech,” a mystery game designed pre-teens and teens on their B'mitzvah journey -- and learn how mystery-based learning can make Jewish education more enjoyable and meaningful. Walk away with tools to build intrigue, encourage problem-solving, and deepen connection across age groups and topics.

Speakers
avatar for Sari Kopitnikoff

Sari Kopitnikoff

Educator, Digital Artist, and Content Creator, @thatjewishmoment
Sari Kopitnikoff is an experiential educator, digital artist, and content creator. She’s passionate about creating books, games, and shows that bring Judaism to life. She taught for over a decade and now runs programs and experiences all over for kids, teens, and adults. Find lots... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

8:30am EDT

Rewards Without Candy: Using A System of Positive Reinforcement to Manage Behavior and Build Classroom Community
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Explore a positive behavior reinforcement plan, with meaningful rewards and elements applicable to most classroom settings, that gets kids from grades 2-7 to "buy in." We’ll also discuss ways to build relationships through classroom management and take time to share our own strategies, challenges, and successes.

Speakers
avatar for Greg Sager

Greg Sager

Religious School Teacher, Temple Shalom
Greg Sager is a religious school teacher at Temple Shalom in Newton, Massachusetts. A second-generation educator, he has over 20 years' experience working with children in every grade from K-12 in supplemental school, camp, and youth group settings, with a focus on upper elementary... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

8:30am EDT

Tiny Hands, Big Blessings: Meaningful Tefillah with Little Learners
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Explore meaningful ways to introduce Judaic prayers in the early childhood classroom. This training will provide engaging strategies to make tefillah interactive, age-appropriate, and joyful, fostering connection and understanding.

Speakers
avatar for Elyssa Brinn

Elyssa Brinn

Director of the Early Years Program, Strelitz International Academy
Elyssa Brinn is currently the Director of the Early Years Program at Strelitz International Academy in Virginia Beach, VA. Elyssa has over 30 years of experience in ECE, specializing in preschool ages, spending most of her career in Jewish education. An ECE administrator for 10 years... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

8:30am EDT

Having Fun With Our Youngest Learners
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Teaching the pre-kindergarteners is a whole new world of fun. Come fill your bag with tricks and tips for working with four and five year olds in this workshop filled with hands on activities including cooking projects and craft ideas perfect for reaching this exciting age of children.

Speakers
avatar for Marcia Berneger

Marcia Berneger

Torah School Teacher, Temple EmanuEl
Marcia Berneger teaches Torah School at Temple EmanuEl in San Diego. Her class is filled with 18 adorable 4 year olds--little sponges waiting to absorb all the love and Jewish fun she can provide. She's taught every grade level from Kindergarten through sixth grade, but has found... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

8:30am EDT

Ometz Lev - A Strong Heart: Cultivating Resilience through Creative Movement and Expressive Arts
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Where can we find “Ometz Lev,” a strong, resilient heart?  Through creative movement!  We  will “move” and “be moved by” its Hebrew letters, explore their kabbalistic meaning, and further our understanding via drawing/journaling.  Learn my holistic approach to teaching Hebrew letters, whose gestural, spatial designs connect us to Jewish spirituality.  For both children and adults!
Speakers
avatar for Davida Adelberg

Davida Adelberg

Teaches Jewish Studies and Beginning Hebrew, Congregation Sinai
Davida Adelberg teaches Jewish Studies and Beginning Hebrew at Congregation Sinai in San Jose, CA. She enjoys creative movement and Jewish spiritual connection, uniting both in "moving" the Hebrew letters with the gestural Alef-Bet, created by Stan Tenen, z"l. Davida is blessed with... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

8:30am EDT

From Survivor Memory to Living Teller: Training a New Generation to Take Up the Role of Holocaust Witness
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
The window to experience living Holocaust survivor testimony is closing. In 2024, 9 young adults interviewed 8 survivors and learned to tell their stories. We will hear about this project, listen to some of the stories, and have a panel discussion with participants - storytellers, survivors, and instructors.

Dr. Steve Salzberg, Survivor Henry Weil, and Storyteller Maddi Ruiz - session panelists

Speakers
avatar for Deborah Fripp

Deborah Fripp

Executive Director, Teach the Shoah
Dr. Deborah Fripp is the Executive Director of Teach the Shoah. Teach the Shoah’s mission is to train people of all ages, generations, and backgrounds to share testimony-based stories and lessons of the Holocaust. Deborah is the author of Light from the Darkness: a ritual for Yom... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

8:30am EDT

Israel Education: Crisis Management or Foundational and Grounding Adaptability
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Curriculum must be regularly reviewed to ensure relevance, include updated pedagogy, and embrace evolving diversity in your Jewish community. Sometimes these changes are gradual, but sometimes our instincts as Jewish educators pull us toward more drastic actions. Narratives change, resources improve, world events impact understanding.
Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Michal Morris Kamil

Rabbi Michal Morris Kamil

Rabbi, Congregation Beth El-Ner Tamid, Broomall, PA
Rabbi Michal has led Beth El-Ner Tamid in Broomall, PA since September. With experience for over three decades in both formal informal Jewish education in Israel, New Zealand, England, and the USA, she was ordained as Rabbi in 2022 in AJRCA. A Sabra, who has worked in building bridges... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

8:30am EDT

Skills Share: Tools for Student Self-Assessment and Self-Directed Learning
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Learn how to harness the power of self-assessment and self-directed learning to increase student engagement and success, from writing group songs to learning prayers to being loud and slow when reading from the bimah. You will come away with specific tools that can be adapted to learners of all ages.

Speakers
avatar for Rory Michelle Sullivan

Rory Michelle Sullivan

Artist-in-Residence
Rory Michelle Sullivan’s work as singer/songwriter, songleader, musician, composer, educator, curriculum writer, and consultant with a range of Jewish communities and ages inspires spiritual connection, growth, and joy through healthy, authentic, creative, and constructive relationships... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

8:30am EDT

Working in the Playground of Neurodiversity
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Children with scattered minds LOVE to be creative!  This experiential workshop will provide encouragement and specifics for working with young inventors, builders, crafters, artists, performers and musicians whether teaching the parasha or the holidays.  The workshop includes one play break to move freely before returning to more structured play.

Speakers
avatar for Debbie Rittner

Debbie Rittner

Hebrew/Judaic Studies Teacher, Congregation Beth El of the Sudbury River Valley; Sinai Brookline
Debbie Rittner is a Hebrew/Judaic Studies teacher, artist and performing artist whose specialty is students who need more support, including students with ADHD, students on the autism spectrum, and students with mental health challenges.  She has worked as a b'nai mitzvah tutor... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

8:30am EDT

Louder! Louder! Give Voice to Our Stories Using Drama in the Classroom
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Lift stories off the page and onto the stage! We will explore how to write simple scripts for the classroom. Use drama to lead your students in making connections with Torah characters, content, and each other! Take away tips for writing and using your own short skits for classroom use.

Speakers
avatar for Tanya Wisoker

Tanya Wisoker

Adult Educator, Storyteller
Tanya has been telling stories her whole life, starting with reading to her little sister.  She worked with preschoolers, as a museum interpreter, and as a Religious School principal.  Tanya was a Day School science teacher and drama coach for 11 years before retiring to pursue... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

8:30am EDT

Wool Needle Felting and the Energy of Separation
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Learn how to needle wool felt 2D and 3D objects while text studying about the holiness of separation including shatness, the mitzvot of not combining linen and wool, and a modern scientific study that proves our ancestors knew what they were talking about.
Speakers
Tuesday June 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 251

10:30am EDT

Filling the Faculty Toolbox: Setting Your Teachers Up for Success
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
How can we empower our teachers to thrive? This session reveals concrete strategies for supporting educators through targeted development, personalized coaching, and strategic observations. Learn how proven approaches can transform school culture, overcome implementation obstacles, and equip teachers with essential tools for success.

Speakers
avatar for Ronni Ticker

Ronni Ticker

Classroom Teacher - Elementary, Classrooom Teacher - Middle School, Consultant, Self Employed
Ronni Ticker, Founder & Chief Imagination Officer of Jewish Learning Central, is a creative strategic thinker consulting with synagogues and non-profits to reimagine learning and engagement. Ronni is also the Director of Family Engagement for the Federation of Palm Beach County. She... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

10:30am EDT

Level Up Your Tw-Teen Education or Engagement Program
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
As a lingering effect of Covid-19, many middle and high school youth-serving professionals have struggled to get their programs rolling again. Participation and enthusiasm have waned. Some professionals have figured out the problem and the solution in their communities, but many are still working hard at figuring it out. For those who are still trying to figure it out, you are not alone! Whether your focus is Hebrew high or youth group or teen philanthropy or service learning or something in-between, this workshop will explore a multitude of ways to reset and reinvigorate your middle and high school education or engagement program.

The goals for our time together are:
• Discuss what is working and what is not working in your community
• Learn about best practices in the field
• Engage in a collegial brainstorm/idea share

* Have an understanding of successes, challenges, and best practices in the field.
* Create a community of professionals to learn with and connect with after the conference.
 
Speakers
avatar for Erica Hruby

Erica Hruby

Senior Manager, National Teen Education Initiatives, The Jewish Education Project
Erica Hruby, M.A. is a master Jewish educator with nearly 30-years of teaching, curriculum writing, and professional development experience in Jewish community, academic, and residential environments. Erica serves as Senior Manager, National Teen Education Initiatives at The Jewish... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

10:30am EDT

B’Yahad: Living Our Judaism Together…Combining Experiential Education with a Spiral Curriculum for Small Schools
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Do the traditional Religious School curriculums no longer work for your small school?  Examine what one school did to solve this problem with all-school activities, flexibility and individualization and come away with tools and ideas to create a curriculum that better suits your school.

Speakers
avatar for Nichole Chorny

Nichole Chorny

Education and Youth Director, Congregation Anshei Israel
Nichole Chorny has been serving as the Education and Youth Director at Congregation Anshei Israel in Tucson, AZ since 2020 and as the full-time Cantorial Soloist since 2014. As a clergy/educator, she values the importance of cutting down silos between the education department and... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

10:30am EDT

Sarah and David’s Read Hebrew Now: A fun, focused and systematic approach to Hebrew reading
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Hebrew reading is a key objective of Jewish education.  Sarah and David’s RHN is designed to build reading skills and confidence for beginners of all ages.  Techniques like 'beans, beats and baskets’ and a consistent approach from book-to-book and year-to-year enable students to build accuracy and fluency for Bar/Bat Mitzvah and beyond.

Speakers
avatar for Diana Yacobi

Diana Yacobi

Ed Director - retired, Read Hebrew Now
Diana Yacobi  has completed a Masters in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary.  She served as the Educational Director of synagogue schools and published articles about after school Jewish education. She is a product of synagogue school education and created Read... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

10:30am EDT

Ezekiel Comes Out of the Vision: A Prophet’s First Message
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Ezekiel opens with a bizarre, stunning vision of the divine which the prophet experiences in Babylonia: supernatural beings, a fiery hovering vehicle, and the “radiance” of God. How does he process it, and what follows? What does this have to do with his calling as a prophet? We’ll take a close look at how the book proceeds.
Speakers
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

10:30am EDT

Music That Rocks the Preschool Classroom, part 1 of 2 (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Chanukah)
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Come sing songs that ROCK with preschoolers!  Early childhood music specialist, Lisa Baydush, will share the songs that delight and engage her students throughout the year.  Learn how to make these songs POP! and get dozens of ideas to energize your music program. In addition to teaching repertoire, Lisa will discuss how to plan a set list that achieves your goals. This session will focus on holidays in the first half of the year, Rosh Hashanah – Chanukah.  (Just to let you know in case you’ve taken Lisa’s workshops at NewCAJE before, this workshop will have NEW repertoire!)

Speakers
avatar for Lisa Baydush

Lisa Baydush

Early Childhood Music Specialist, Temple Beth Ami (Rockville, MD), Congregation B'nai Tzedek (Potomac, MD)
Lisa Baydush is an engaging early childhood music specialist who delights in transmitting the values, stories and traditions of Judaism through the medium of Jewish music.  A dynamic teacher and Tot Shabbat service leader at two congregations in Maryland, Lisa is also a prolific... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

10:30am EDT

Using Storytelling to Process Intergenerational Trauma in Children of Holocaust Survivors
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Growing up as the child of Holocaust survivors (being a 2G) can be difficult. Learning to tell their parent’s story gives 2Gs the opportunity to process this passed-down trauma. Hear from psychotherapists about storytelling’s effect on intergeneration trauma and from 2Gs about their experiences learning to tell their parents’ stories.

Dr. Steve Salzberg, Dr. Rachel Miller, Dorothy Gold, Judy Gartner, Bob Lowy, and Berly Hershkovitz - panelists
Speakers
avatar for Karen Webber

Karen Webber

Adult Educator, Artist, Cantor, Clergy Educator, Entertainer, Musician, Online Tutor (Hebrew or Judaica), Spiritual Leader, Specialist, Storyteller
Karen Webber is a liturgical, teaching and performing artist who builds theatre/music pieces for elder care facilities, mental health centers, public parks and the bimah. An ordained cantor since 1990 (HUC-JIR), Karen is also an accredited teaching artist and a certified Peer Support... Read More →
avatar for Deborah Fripp

Deborah Fripp

Executive Director, Teach the Shoah
Dr. Deborah Fripp is the Executive Director of Teach the Shoah. Teach the Shoah’s mission is to train people of all ages, generations, and backgrounds to share testimony-based stories and lessons of the Holocaust. Deborah is the author of Light from the Darkness: a ritual for Yom... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

10:30am EDT

Combating Anti-Semitism: Teaching Zionism
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Zionism concerns both the right of Jews to a homeland and the question of what Judaism should be in the modern world. This session provides an easily understood and teachable framework for studying Zionism and in the process constitutes a strong response to antisemitism. 

Speakers
avatar for Rabbi David Starr

Rabbi David Starr

Lead Congregation, Mishkan Tefila
Rabbi David Star leads Congregation Mishkan Tefila in Brooklline, MA. He was a Research Associate at Brandeis University and earned a Ph.D. at Columbia University. He is the author of a forthcoming biography of Solomon Schechter, and was the founder of the Me’ah program.
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

10:30am EDT

Everyone Needs Recovery - only some are brave enough to admit it…
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
There are no Jewish addicts, right? Wrong. Are the 12 Steps of recovery Jewish? Why do so many suffer in silence, and what can we do to get help to those in need? What tools does Judaism offer those who experience the disease and pain of addiction? How can we better serve those crying out for help? Where is hope to be found?

Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Ilan Glazer

Rabbi Ilan Glazer

I work with Our Jewish Recovery, creating learning and healing opportunities for anyone impacted by addiction in the Jewish community. I also am the part-time rabbi of Adat Chaim in Owings Mills, MD, the lead teacher for Baltimore's Intro to Judaism program, and a musician, storyteller, and prayer leader in a few other communities., Founding Rabbi & Executive Director
Rabbi Ilan is dedicated to helping others embrace recovery, heal the grief they carry, and find music, blessings, and spiritual growth even in the difficulties of life. Ilan is the founder of Our Jewish Recovery, author of And God Created Recovery, rabbi of Adat Chaim, musician, educator... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

10:30am EDT

Inclusive Classrooms: Differentiation with Accessible Tools
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Explore practical differentiation strategies and inclusion techniques using Matan and ShalomLearning's Accessible Differentiation Tool. Through case studies, learn to effectively support diverse learners in Jewish educational settings.

Speakers
avatar for Shira Sender

Shira Sender

Director/Head of School, Director of Client Care and Teacher Support
TBD
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

10:30am EDT

What Does Being an Emissary of the Shechinah Mean?
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Using texts, stories and songs, we will explore bringing the energy of the Shechinah into our lives and our classrooms every day. Come prepared to learn and to share.
Speakers
avatar for Marge Eiseman

Marge Eiseman

Marge Eiseman has been learning and teaching most of her life. Whether it’s in a classroom, on Zoom, or in a chance encounter, she believes there’s power in the stories we tell and the language we choose.Singer/songwriter, Storahtelling Maven, purveyor of zesty spiritual programs... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

10:30am EDT

NewCAJE Chorale #1
Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Come be a part of the NewCAJE chorale and practice for a grand performance at evening programs on Wednesday night! All are welcome, musicians and non-musicians alike. Please plan to attend both sessions and a short rehearsal before Wednesday's evening program. Note that this workshop will run until 1:00 p.m. THis is the first of two session. The second one is on Wednesday, 1:00 - 1:50 p.m.

Tuesday June 24, 2025 10:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

4:15pm EDT

Torah in Our Lives, Our Lives in Torah
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
This session will introduce Rabbi Leila Gal Berner's Kriat ha-Kodesh, "Reading the Holy," method of Torah study, a reflective approach that builds connections between the Torah and individuals' experiences and values. It will include a model study unit on one parashah, discussion of the experience, and exploration of the methodology.

Speakers
avatar for Paul Solyn

Paul Solyn

Adult Educator
Paul Solyn is an adult educator in Elmira, New York. He received an M.J.Ed. degree and family-educator certificate from Hebrew College and is an ordained maggid-educator. In May he received a graduate certificate in eco-spirituality at Hartford International University.
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

4:15pm EDT

The Gematria of Tzitzit: Bringing the Mitzvah of Tallit Alive for our Students
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
The idea of placing our tradition on the shoulders of our B'Mitvah students through wearing a tallit can feel like a lot to a thirteen year old adolescent. Join me in one of my students' favorite lessons! Together, we will learn about gematria, the mystical math tradition of the Hebrew letters and how it relates to tzitzit. Study the texts that instruct us to wear fringes and then we will then learn how to tie tzitzit. You'll leave with one of your very own to tie on a backpack, attach to a keychain, or hang on a bulletin board to be a reminder of the mitzvot. In turn, you'll be able to teach it to your own students!
Speakers
avatar for Jeri Robins

Jeri Robins

Cantor / Director of Education, B'Mitzvah Tutors, Cantor, Classroom Teacher - Elementary, Classrooom Teacher - Middle School, Director/Head of School
Boston-based Cantor Jeri Robins serves as the Cantor at Beth El Temple Center in Belmont, Director of Education at Temple Chayai Shalom in Easton, and teaches at Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline, as well as working with students privately. A graduate of Hebrew College with cantorial... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

4:15pm EDT

If My Talit Could Talk...?
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT

Many young people first wear a tallit at their b'rit mitzvah services . How can we encourage them to find meaning in a cherished tradition? This session will demonstrate how seeking personal answers, based on traditional prooftexts, can bring a young person closer to the past and more connected with Jewish ritual.

Speakers
avatar for Dina Shtull

Dina Shtull

Head of School Emeritus, Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor
Dina Shtull is Head of School Emeritus at the Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor.  She currently teaches Torah trope privately and at the school to all the 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. She is the author of three children's books, all available on Amazon.
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

4:15pm EDT

Crafting the Mishkan: Reimagining Terumah and Vayakhel
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Many people think these two parshiyot are boring list of supplies. Our modern world has distanced us from the skills and techniques used in the creation of the Mishkan. Through a discussion of ancient techniques and modern related crafts, people will find stronger links to our ancestors and the work they did to create Adonai's earthly home. Participants will be able to bring this into their classrooms and make these parshiyot real and relatable to people of all ages.

Speakers
EH

Emily Howard Meyer

Composer
Rabbi Emily Howard Meyer is a recent ordinee from the Academy of Jewish Religion.  An accomplished composer and musician, Emily's compositions are performed by orchestras and in synagogues throughout the US.  Emily loves to work with her hands and is a prolific weaver, spinner... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

4:15pm EDT

Draw your own Torah with Parsha Posters
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
How can we make Biblical stories relevant today? How can we use art to explore themes and characters in the Torah? Hillel created Parsha Posters--a series of graphic illustrations for each Torah portion--to find meaning in the Biblical text, and believes in visual art as a powerful way to share personal midrash. He leads this workshop with groups of all ages to provide the tools for greater understanding through artistic expression. We will begin with a brief talk about the fundamentals of minimalist design and about his inspiration for the project. Small groups will then read and discuss assigned Biblical texts. Finally, everyone will design and present their own posters as a way of reflecting visually on the Torah they just learned.

Speakers
avatar for Hillel Smith

Hillel Smith

Artist
Hillel Smith is an illustrator and designer who expands the boundaries of Jewish art through contemporary media. He paints Jewish murals around the world and founded the Jewish Street Art Festival. He has created art for PJ Library, BBYO, and HIAS. He leads art workshops and teaches... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

4:15pm EDT

Inviting God into our Classrooms
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Children are natural philosophers, full of questions about life, faith,Torah, God. Sadly, our system often supresses those questions, robbing children of their curiosity, rendering them silent. How can we turn this around and give them permission to inquire, imagine and probe the dimensions of religious truth? How can we raise a new generation of Jewish explorers?
Speakers
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

4:15pm EDT

Conquering the Challenge of Hebrew Decoding
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Are your Hebrew students struggling? Doing things like forgetting Hebrew letters and vowels, mixing up look-alike letters, decoding Hebrew prayers slooooowly and laboriously and/or making errors that seem impossible to eliminate? Join us to learn a wide variety of easy-to-implement research-based strategies for conquering these challenges.

Speakers
avatar for Linda Duke

Linda Duke

Teacher, Congregation B'nai Shalom
Linda Duke is a Hebrew Through Movement (HTM) Master Teacher and co-facilitator of the national HTM Community of Practice. Linda’s experiences teaching Hebrew in three synagogue Hebrew programs contribute to #OnwardHebrew’s research on Hebrew decoding. Linda was honored with a... Read More →
avatar for Nachama  Moskowitz

Nachama Moskowitz

Director, #OnwardHebrew
Nachama Skolnik Moskowitz is the director of #OnwardHebrew, a national Hebrew learning initiative that is building student competence, confidence, and excitement in synagogue/part-time settings. Previously, she served as Director of Curriculum Resources for the Jewish Education Center... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

4:15pm EDT

Empowering Educators: ShalomLearning's Inclusive Curricula & Support
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Discover ShalomLearning's comprehensive Jewish Values and Hebrew curricula, designed for impactful learning. Explore accessible, inclusive materials and robust professional development that supports educators in creating engaging and meaningful Jewish educational experiences.

Speakers
avatar for Shira Sender

Shira Sender

Director/Head of School, Director of Client Care and Teacher Support
TBD
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

4:15pm EDT

Teaching Hebrew in Part-Time Setting: Juggling Diverse Student Needs and Abilities
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Explore tools and strategies that foster content mastery, give students autonomy, and nurture joyful learning at Hebrew School.

Speakers
avatar for Eileen Sadowsky

Eileen Sadowsky

Educator Director, Temple Emanu El
Eileen Sadowsky is the Educator Director at Temple Emanu El in Cleveland Ohio since 2019.  She holds masters’ degree’s in religious education from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) and in management of human services from Brandeis University.  She also... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

4:15pm EDT

Musical Prayer Writing Workshop
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Experience writing a musical prayer together as a group! Together, we will choose a text, translate it, and decide how to set it to music. We’ll take a quick stab at co-writing, then discuss how you can use this approach to deepen meaning and engagement with prayer for your learners.

Speakers
avatar for Rory Michelle Sullivan

Rory Michelle Sullivan

Artist-in-Residence
Rory Michelle Sullivan’s work as singer/songwriter, songleader, musician, composer, educator, curriculum writer, and consultant with a range of Jewish communities and ages inspires spiritual connection, growth, and joy through healthy, authentic, creative, and constructive relationships... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

4:15pm EDT

The Art of Amazement
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
This session will teach you how to "reverse engineer" Jewish liturgy, so that instead of learning deductively, students will learn it inductively - that is, experientially. You will learn how to make tefilah of any sort electrifying for your students!

Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Adult Jewish educator, Jewish Teachers Institute
Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld, PhD started teaching right out of college in rural Mississippi. With over 10 years of classroom experience and 20 years as an adult Jewish educator, he founded the Jewish Teachers Institute in 2016 which trains and mentors day school teachers, creates curricula... Read More →
Tuesday June 24, 2025 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50
 
Wednesday, June 25
 

8:30am EDT

Using Coaching as a Supervisory Technique
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
The concept of coaching isn’t just for the business world, the Jewish communal world can benefit too! This session will teach the fundamentals of one coaching model and demonstrate how implementing coaching strategies can elevate all aspects of the organization through building confidence, competence, and commitment. Come ready to learn and practice.

Speakers
avatar for Erica Hruby

Erica Hruby

Senior Manager, National Teen Education Initiatives, The Jewish Education Project
Erica Hruby, M.A. is a master Jewish educator with nearly 30-years of teaching, curriculum writing, and professional development experience in Jewish community, academic, and residential environments. Erica serves as Senior Manager, National Teen Education Initiatives at The Jewish... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

8:30am EDT

Two strange Torah passages: The Nephalim and the goat for Azazel
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
The story of the Nephalim and the description of the "scapegoat" which was sent to Azazel may seem strange in the context of the Torah, which we generally consider to be a monotheistic document. In this session we will examine these two stories and see how our various commentators have interpreted these passages. 
Speakers
avatar for Stuart Lewis

Stuart Lewis

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tutor, Congregation Beth Torah
Stu Lewis has been attending CAJE/NEWCAJE regularly for the past 34 years. He is an active member of Congregation Beth Torah in Overland Park, KS. His current involvement in Jewish education is as a Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutor.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

8:30am EDT

Beyond the Textbook: Engaging Combined-Grade Learners
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Teaching combined grade levels in Jewish congregational schools presents unique challenges and exciting opportunities. This interactive session will equip educators with practical strategies and creative approaches for designing engaging lessons that cater to diverse age groups and learning styles. We'll explore how to differentiate instruction while fostering collaboration and a sense of community among students.

Speakers
avatar for Shira Sender

Shira Sender

Director/Head of School, Director of Client Care and Teacher Support
TBD
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

8:30am EDT

Building Skills for Empathy in Jewish Tradition
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
How we can use Jewish text and tradition to foster and reinforce social, emotional, and spiritual learning? By exploring the six stages of questions used at Makom Community, you will bring home tools that help support your educators to embrace deep and thoughtful questioning among their learners. The result will be learners seeing studying Jewish text not as something from the past, but a living relationship that evolves with them as they experience their homes, school, and larger communities.

Speakers
avatar for Terri Soifer

Terri Soifer

Terri Soifer is a strategic relationship builder who works at the intersection of Jewish education and fundraising. She spent her career strengthening Jewish community in Philadelphia. She completed her Master’s in Jewish Education from the Davidson School of Jewish Education at... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

8:30am EDT

Creating Classrooms that Support Inclusion, Behavior Management and Social-Emotional Learning
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Participants will explore how to design inclusive learning spaces by understanding children's complex behaviors as a manifestation of neurodiversity and sensory needs. Learning can be positively affected from the moment a child walks into a room and then supported during challenges and transitions, using the space, lesson design, and teacher language. There will be sensory play for attendees!
Speakers
EB

Erin Beser

Director of Whole Community Inclusion, Jewish Learning Venture
Erin Beser is the Director of Whole Community Inclusion at the Jewish Learning Venture. She also currently teaches 6th grade Jewish studies at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy in Bryn Mawr and is the founder and CEO of Adoughma Dough Play Events, a sensory education initiative working... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

8:30am EDT

#10XSTRONGER: A 10-Day Challenge Like No Other! Strengthening Jewish Peoplehood, Identity, and Purpose
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Begin to build your students’ Jewish pride in as little as 10 minutes each day. The #10XSTRONGER 10-Day Challenge was developed as a successful response to the immediate and pressing issues of the war in Israel and rising antisemitism worldwide. Instead of retreating in fear or anger, we choose to stand up, strengthening our identity and purpose! Find out more and come away with the #10XSTRONGER digital booklet and teacher’s guide packed with engaging inspirations and challenges for learners of all ages.

Speakers
avatar for Nina Woldin

Nina Woldin

Adult Educator, Artist, Consultant, Exhibitor, Non-Profit Staff/CEO, curriculum writer, Chai Mitzvah
Nina Fondiller Woldin has worked in Jewish education for decades, creating student materials and programs for pre-K – adult. Her work has been published by Behrman House, Ktav, Kar Ben Publishing, Addison Wesley and Grolier. Back in the late 90s, she created one of the first online... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

8:30am EDT

Grandparents: A Hidden Treasure in Plain Sight
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Learn how to transform grandparents from an untapped asset into powerful catalysts for Jewish identity and family engagement. Discover ways to strengthen the vital bond between grandparents and their grandchildren (whether in person or at a distance) thereby ensuring a vibrant and enduring Jewish heritage for all families. This session offers a quick self-assessment of grandparent engagement in your program, as well as 10 ideas for engaging grandparents including intergenerational holiday programs.
Speakers
IV

Ilene Vogelstein

Ilene has extensive professional and volunteer experience in the Jewish community. Ilene conducted the first survey on the state of Jewish preschools in America (2000). She was the Coordinator of the Early Childhood Education Department at Baltimore Hebrew University and was adjunct... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

8:30am EDT

Building Learning Communities with Intention
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
An interactive session that offers a hands-on introduction to MTEI’s approach to building community. Through a variety of engaging exercises, you’ll experience how intentionally designed structures can foster playful, joyful, and risk-taking environments—what MTEI calls a “relational learning community.”  Together, we’ll explore how community-building is not only a goal of our work but also a powerful method for how we do our work. Come ready to learn, connect, and imagine new collective possibilities.

Speakers
avatar for Deborah Niederman

Deborah Niederman

Leader of Recruitment, Mandel Teacher Educator Institute
Deborah Niederman, RJE is the Leader of Recruitment for the Mandel Teacher Educator Institute. She has been a leader in Jewish Education for over 30 years, serving congregations, acting as a consultant, researcher, curriculum writer and mentor.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

8:30am EDT

Songs, Stories, & Props: Tools for Engaging Families & Young Children
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Explore some tools from the Tkiya Toolkit that will make your experiences for young children and their families more engaging, welcoming, and inspiring. Whether or not you are a musician, you'll leave with ideas you can implement right away, including tricks for keeping everyone in the room engaged, from the tiniest babies to the chattiest adults. This session is for anyone who works with toddlers, preschoolers, families, tot Shabbat, and early elementary groups.
Speakers
CF

Carla Friend

Carla Friend is the Founder & Executive Director of Tkiya, an organization with the mission of creating joyful Jewish connection through participatory music experiences. Through Tkiya, Carla reaches 15,000 people per year with her unique methodology of Jewish education and engagement... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

8:30am EDT

T’fillah as TORAH: Tools Of Resilience And Hope
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
The science is clear: A strong spiritual core is key to resilience in our fractured world. T’fillah in form and content is a powerful pathway for exactly this, but only if we teach it and lead it that way. Together, we’ll dive into the science, experience simple practices that make a big impact, and explore what this means for our students, our families, ourselves, and our world.

Speakers
avatar for Eliana Light

Eliana Light

Songleader, Consultant, Musisian, Day School/Yeshiva, Synagogue Sunday or Afternoon School/Program, Early Childhood Center, Camp, Adult Education, Self Employed
Eliana is working towards a world of One-ness, guided and inspired by Jewish heritage. She is the founder and head T’fillahsopher at the Light Lab and the co-host of the Light Lab podcast. She is also a sought-after songwriter and performer of catchy, content-rich tunes for all... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

8:30am EDT

Back to School: Remarkable Facts Learned in Towson University’s Holocaust Education Certificate Program
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
For educators who want to take their Holocaust knowledge to the next level. Led by a current student in Towson University’s Holocaust Education Certificate Program, this session will uncover powerful stories of resilience, tragedy, and human spirit that are often left out of mainstream narratives. Participants will explore hidden histories, surprising facts, and remarkable individual experiences that shed new light on one of history's darkest periods. Prepare to be moved, challenged, and inspired by a presentation that brings the past vividly to life and deepens your understanding of the Holocaust in profound ways.

Speakers
avatar for Alana Snyder

Alana Snyder

Student, Towson University
Alana Snyder is an administrator and special educator with Baltimore County Public Schools. She also teaches a Holocaust course at Rosenbloom Religious School and founded the nonprofit 3G Baltimore, a local organization for grandchildren of Holocaust survivors. She is enrolled in... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

8:30am EDT

Dinosaurs and Other Derailments
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Great educators meet their students wherever they’re at.  If your students are into baseball and you can connect that to Judaism, you’ve hit a home run.  Come to this session with wild topics your students might be interested in, and I’ll show you how to make that work with your curriculum.  
 
Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Temple Har Zion in Chicago. When he is not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and a Jewish storyteller. David is also on the Executive Board of the Jewish Educators Assembly and an MTEI graduate. However, his most important role is... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

10:30am EDT

Davenning and Trope – What do you need to Learn?
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
For teachers of students from Adults to Pre-Teens:  if you teach "synagogue skills" – Liturgy, Nusach chants, and/or Trope – what do you want and need to learn from a new textbook and videos on these subjects?  What would best meet your teaching needs?

Participants will be introduced to new teaching resources that are "in-progress", and in turn, participants are invited to express the topics, concepts, and specific skills that they need from these new materials, which are in the "preliminary stages" of preparation. 
Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Temple Har Zion in Chicago. When he is not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and a Jewish storyteller. David is also on the Executive Board of the Jewish Educators Assembly and an MTEI graduate. However, his most important role is... Read More →
avatar for Cantor Neil Schwartz

Cantor Neil Schwartz

Director of Education, Temple Har Zion; River Forest, IL
Neil Schwartz graduated JTS in 1980; he has a Master of Arts in Religion and Culture, and 5 Units of Chaplaincy Training.  Cantor Neil retired after 42 years in 7 synagogues (3 as "Kol Bo"); he taught the IMUN Lay Leader program, and Trope and Nusach online for Hebrew College.  He... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

10:30am EDT

Learning Modalities: Thinking Beyond the Edible Sukkah
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
We encourage using various modalities to engage all our learners. And in the moment of lesson planning, teachers return to what they know. This seminar will support you by restocking teachers’ classroom toolkits with various modalities, increasing learners' engagement.

Speakers
avatar for Terri Soifer

Terri Soifer

Terri Soifer is a strategic relationship builder who works at the intersection of Jewish education and fundraising. She spent her career strengthening Jewish community in Philadelphia. She completed her Master’s in Jewish Education from the Davidson School of Jewish Education at... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

10:30am EDT

Tot-Shabbat Siddur (With Dino Stickers!)
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Come and get some new ideas for YOUR Tot-Shabbat Siddur, with manipulatives, and more new items than last year - share what has worked (and NOT worked) for you, and learn some more engagement strategies for parents as well as kids that will keep them coming each Shabbat!

Speakers
avatar for Shelli Aderman

Shelli Aderman

@Clal: Director of Program Administration and Operations; @T&V: Youth Educator (I lead all youth and family services, and teach in the Hebrew School), Clal - NYC; Town and Village Conservative Synagogue - NYC
Shelli Aderman, she/her has been fortunate to work as a theatrical stage manager, Jewish educator, and synagogue administrator for over thirty years. Her diverse career complements her role at Clal, where she is responsible for the logistical and administrative aspects of Clal’s... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

10:30am EDT

Songs to the Tune of…
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Are you a preschool teacher who feels daunted by the idea of singing with your students?  Are you searching for easy-to-remember repertoire to sing in your classroom? Come learn adaptations to classic songs with early childhood music specialist, Lisa Baydush, who will share simple but engaging songs that will delight your students! Bring your inner child and be prepared to have fun!  (This workshop is not intended for music educators, though they are most welcome.)

Speakers
avatar for Lisa Baydush

Lisa Baydush

Early Childhood Music Specialist, Temple Beth Ami (Rockville, MD), Congregation B'nai Tzedek (Potomac, MD)
Lisa Baydush is an engaging early childhood music specialist who delights in transmitting the values, stories and traditions of Judaism through the medium of Jewish music.  A dynamic teacher and Tot Shabbat service leader at two congregations in Maryland, Lisa is also a prolific... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

10:30am EDT

Bringing Nature into your Curriculum, Shomrei Adamah for ELC - 5th grade: Seedballs, Nature Mandalas and Pinecones
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Experience nature and its Jewish values through the eyes of a 3-year-old. Play with nature while creating mystical mandalas. Feed the earth and tree side neighbors by making seedballs and birdseed pinecones to take home. Hear the story of Pearlstone/Adamah and the Owings Mills JCC on our three-year journey to create an early childhood nature curriculum that teachers were comfortable to try and engaged the children's imagination. Educators are welcome to adapt these lesson plans for any age learner.
Speakers
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

10:30am EDT

Why Invest Time and Energy in Family Education?
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
We will begin by talking about why Jewish education must include the whole family to be effective. Teaching parents and other family members makes a difference in every aspect of a child's Jewish education. We will learn about the framework of family education, and how it connects to the holiday cycle, the life-cycle, and Mitzvot. Finally, we will talk about planning with the parents and the importance of spiraling the curriculum over at least seven years. Please plan to come back for the second session if you want practical advice and support.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

10:30am EDT

Making Space for the Divine: The Pedagogy of Cultivating Spiritual Meaning for Ourselves and Our Students
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
We live in a world where spiritual meaning is more important than ever. Students and educators alike yearn for more than just knowledge; they seek meaning, connection, and authenticity. In this interactive session, we will explore what it means to cultivate spiritual meaning in the classroom and in our own lives. Drawing on Jewish tradition and personal reflection, we’ll discuss how we talk about God, encounter the tension between transcendence and intimacy, and consider how spiritual growth can be modeled and nurtured through a pedagogy of presence, inquiry, and vulnerability.
Participants will leave with personal inspiration as well as the tools and curriculum to bring spiritual conversations into their teaching; Not as abstract theology, but as a living encounter with the Divine that invites both educators and students to grow. 
The session will draw from the Lookstein Center’s new free curriculum "Big Questions In Jewish Spirituality.”
Speakers
SS

Shani Sicherman

The Lookstein Center
For more than 15 years, Shani Sicherman has been teaching in a range of educational settings, creating engaging curricular materials, and training educators in all topics of Jewish education. She holds a BA in Special Education and Jewish History as well as a Teaching Certificate... Read More →
HB

Hyim Brandes

The Lookstein Center
Hyim Brandes has worked at the intersection of Jewish education and technology for more than two decades spearheading projects and initiatives focusing on student personalization and 21st century learning.  Hyim serves as the Director of Technology at The Lookstein Center for Jewish... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

10:30am EDT

Hebrew Through Movement - Insights from a Master Teacher
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Take Hebrew Through Movement (HTM) teaching up a notch, whether as an HTM teacher, education director, or just a curious colleague. Linda will share her expertise as an HTM Master Teacher and Nachama will place HTM within the bigger picture of Hebrew learning. Bring your curiosity and your questions!

Speakers
avatar for Linda Duke

Linda Duke

Teacher, Congregation B'nai Shalom
Linda Duke is a Hebrew Through Movement (HTM) Master Teacher and co-facilitator of the national HTM Community of Practice. Linda’s experiences teaching Hebrew in three synagogue Hebrew programs contribute to #OnwardHebrew’s research on Hebrew decoding. Linda was honored with a... Read More →
avatar for Nachama  Moskowitz

Nachama Moskowitz

Director, #OnwardHebrew
Nachama Skolnik Moskowitz is the director of #OnwardHebrew, a national Hebrew learning initiative that is building student competence, confidence, and excitement in synagogue/part-time settings. Previously, she served as Director of Curriculum Resources for the Jewish Education Center... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

10:30am EDT

This Is How You’ll Want to Teach the Holocaust: A Scope and Sequence for Middle School Holocaust Education
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Come learn from an experienced Holocaust educator how to design comprehensive and engaging lessons on this difficult subject. The session will also introduce five of the best interactive, multimedia resources that can help bring the history and lessons of the Holocaust to life for students. Effective strategies for fostering critical thinking and empathy will be provided.

Speakers
avatar for Alana Snyder

Alana Snyder

Student, Towson University
Alana Snyder is an administrator and special educator with Baltimore County Public Schools. She also teaches a Holocaust course at Rosenbloom Religious School and founded the nonprofit 3G Baltimore, a local organization for grandchildren of Holocaust survivors. She is enrolled in... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

10:30am EDT

Who is Dona Gracia de Nasi?
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Meet one of the most important women of the Renaissance, forgotten in the history books. Dona Gracia was an extraordinary secret Jew who was one of the richest women in the world. She saved hundreds if not thousands of Jewish lives while living as a practicing Catholic. What was it like to live in secret, to live in fear of being exposed? Discover this remarkable woman’s story and see how one woman could make such a difference. 

Speakers
avatar for Heléna Eilenberg

Heléna Eilenberg

Adult Educator, Consultant, Informal/Camp Educator, Online Tutor (Hebrew or Judaica), Storyteller, Merrick Jewish Centre
Heléna Geberer Eilenberg is an actress, a Jewish educator (Director of Education, principal) and a history teacher. In full character and dress, she portrays unique, fascinating women who are almost forgotten in our history books. For adults, middle and high school and upper elementary... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

10:30am EDT

A Curriculum of Wonder: The Educational Legacy of Abraham Joshua Heschel
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Wonder, taught Abraham Heschel, is the chief characteristic of a religious person’s approach to life. What’s the role of wonder in our religious life? Where’s mystery, awe, insight? Abraham Heschel opened a radical way to understand Judaism’s spirituality. His works are treasures of insight for the seeking Jew and his life a testimony of God’s closeness.
Speakers
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

10:30am EDT

Text as Texture
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Explore the use of letters and writing as an artistic element. Participants use a variety of media to create experimental typographic art informed by inspiration both Jewish and not. We'll begin by looking at art involving words and text, including Jewish art from across the centuries. Then everyone will have the opportunity to make word-based art of their own. No artistic skill required!

Speakers
avatar for Hillel Smith

Hillel Smith

Artist
Hillel Smith is an illustrator and designer who expands the boundaries of Jewish art through contemporary media. He paints Jewish murals around the world and founded the Jewish Street Art Festival. He has created art for PJ Library, BBYO, and HIAS. He leads art workshops and teaches... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

1:00pm EDT

NewCAJE Chorale #2
Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Come be a part of the NewCAJE chorale and practice for a grand performance at evening programs on Wednesday night! All are welcome, musicians and non-musicians alike. Please plan to attend both sessions and a short rehearsal before Wednesday's evening program. This is the second of two sessions, the previous one being on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. 
Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

2:00pm EDT

What Does a Haftarah Text Have to Say to a Thirteen-Year-Old?
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Using Haftarat Va-yeshev (from the book of Amos) as an example, we will study the background of the haftarah and its connection to the Torah portion. After unpacking the poetry of the text, we will discuss how we would teach this Haftara, focusing on what will speak to a thirteen-year-old. Applicable to any haftarah; the session is not restricted to B-Mitzvah teachers.
Speakers
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

2:00pm EDT

Putting the LGBT in Inclusion
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
I regularly speak with educators who don't have or know about the tools or who think some students are just too young to address LGBT perspectives. This workshop will include a list of resources (including Jewish picture books) and ways to seemlessly integrate them into your religious school, day school, library, summer camp or early childhood center. Resources are inexpensive and the presenter does NOT get paid for the advertising or sale of these resources.

Speakers
avatar for Laurie Green

Laurie Green

Rabbi, Unemployed
Laurie Green is a rabbi, educator, activist, author and aspiring yogini.  She has been a Jewish educator for 30 years. Most recently, she ran a religious school in the DC suburbs of Maryland. She lives in Baltimore with her wife, their two children and three dogs.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

2:00pm EDT

From Sinai to Silicon: AI in Jewish Classrooms
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
What if you had a chevruta who could help plan your next lesson, write thoughtful parent emails, and check student comprehension? A hands-on workshop in AI —from simple time-saving tools to full-scale collaboration across schools and staff.

Recommended: bring a laptop (or phone) and ChatGPT account (free or paid).


Speakers
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101

2:00pm EDT

From Israel with Insight: Bringing Shlichut (Israel Emissaries) to Life in Your Community
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
How can a young Israeli emissary become a living bridge between your community and Israel? In this dynamic and interactive session, we’ll explore the transformative impact of the Jewish Agency’s Shlichut program. Co-led by a Jewish educator and a current community shlicha, this workshop will highlight how authentic relationships, meaningful conversations, and creative programming can deepen connection to Israeli culture, history, and current events—especially in times of complexity. Come ready to share, learn, and walk away with adaptable ideas for your own setting.

Speakers
avatar for Laura Naide

Laura Naide

Director of Congregational Learning, Temple Emanuel, Maryland
Laura Naide is the Director of Congregational Learning at Temple Emanuel, Maryland. She has a BA in  Psychology from CSULB, a JD from Georgetown, and a MA in Religious Education from HUC-JIR. Avia Halevi is the Educational Engagement Shlicha at the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

2:00pm EDT

Full Circle Storytelling: Bringing Your Stories to Life and the World (Zoom session)
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Discover how to turn meaningful family histories, powerful historical events, and important stories into published books that inspire the next generation. As students write to be read by others they enter a virtuous cycle of learning, self-expression, and cultural preservation. Whether you're capturing memories from a grandparent or reimagining pivotal moment is history, etc... this session will show how this kind of storytelling can enhance learning in your classroom. 
Speakers
JY

John Yen

John Yen is the CEO and Co-Founder of StoryJumper, a full circle educational technology platform that empowers students and adults to become published authors and share their books with the world. With a passion for making learning joyful and meaningful, John has helped millions of... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

2:00pm EDT

Music That Rocks the Preschool Classroom, part 2 of 2 (Tu B’shvat, Purim, Pesach, Yom Ha-atzmaut)
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Come sing the songs that ROCK with preschoolers!  Early childhood music specialist, Lisa Baydush, will share the songs that delight and engage her students throughout the year.  Learn how to make these songs POP! and get dozens of ideas to energize your music program. In addition to teaching repertoire, Lisa will discuss how to plan a set list that achieves your goals. This session will focus on holidays in the second half of the year, Tu B’shvat – Yom Ha’atzmaut and Shabbat.  (Just to let you know in case you’ve taken Lisa’s NewCAJE workshops before, this workshop will have NEW repertoire!)

Speakers
avatar for Lisa Baydush

Lisa Baydush

Early Childhood Music Specialist, Temple Beth Ami (Rockville, MD), Congregation B'nai Tzedek (Potomac, MD)
Lisa Baydush is an engaging early childhood music specialist who delights in transmitting the values, stories and traditions of Judaism through the medium of Jewish music.  A dynamic teacher and Tot Shabbat service leader at two congregations in Maryland, Lisa is also a prolific... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

2:00pm EDT

Amazing Nature / Ma Rabu!
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
This session will empower participants to use the wonders of nature in order to engage their students in any subject matter.
Takeaways 
"1. Understand the Rambam's guidance on using nature and science in order to engage Jewish learners.
2. One or more techniques for employing this strategy in your classroom."
 
Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Adult Jewish educator, Jewish Teachers Institute
Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld, PhD started teaching right out of college in rural Mississippi. With over 10 years of classroom experience and 20 years as an adult Jewish educator, he founded the Jewish Teachers Institute in 2016 which trains and mentors day school teachers, creates curricula... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

2:00pm EDT

g?d-talk and exploration for grade-age kids
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
God is the central character of the Torah and the subject of our prayers, yet we don’t often talk about what God is or how we relate to the Divine. Where can we start? Focusing on kids from K through B Mitzvah age, we’ll explore frameworks, strategies, songs, and stories for engaging with the idea of God in developmentally appropriate ways. We’ll put the “?” in g?d, expanding a limiting word and making room for our beliefs, struggles, and questions.
Speakers
avatar for Eliana Light

Eliana Light

Songleader, Consultant, Musisian, Day School/Yeshiva, Synagogue Sunday or Afternoon School/Program, Early Childhood Center, Camp, Adult Education, Self Employed
Eliana is working towards a world of One-ness, guided and inspired by Jewish heritage. She is the founder and head T’fillahsopher at the Light Lab and the co-host of the Light Lab podcast. She is also a sought-after songwriter and performer of catchy, content-rich tunes for all... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

2:00pm EDT

Echoes & Reflections: Foundations of Holocaust Education
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
This program is designed to enhance teachers’ knowledge and capacity to teach about the Holocaust. Educators will have the chance to explore classroom lessons, visual history testimonies and other resources that examine aspects of the history and its continued relevance today.  Resources will be highlighted that will expand upon your existing classroom approaches, in addition to providing foundational resources for new educators.
Speakers
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

2:00pm EDT

Holiday Programming to Leave Your Students Breathless and Sweaty (and Knowledgeable)!
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Years ago, I attended a workshop at NewCAJE by Barb Moskow (z’’l) that revolutionized how I approach holiday programming in my supplemental school. Imagine teams of students racing to complete holiday-related tasks – perhaps team members create a human dreidel, or an eight-line rhyming song with dance movements about latkes and Maccabees, or put together a chanukkiah out of recyclables. During this workshop, participants will develop a template to create fun, meaningful activities which weave together multi-sensory experiences for your students. These programs, designed for K-2nd grade groupings and 3rd-6th grade groupings, create team spirit among various ages and challenge students to take ownership of their own learning. Participants will receive complete program outlines for five holidays.

Speakers
avatar for Melissa Pescatore

Melissa Pescatore

Director of Religious Education, Temple Shaari Emeth
Melissa Pescatore just celebrated her 10th year as the Director of Religious Education at Temple Shaari Emeth in Manalapan, NJ. Serving as Educator in the congregation where she grew up, she is passionate about instilling a love of learning and building a strong, positive Jewish identity... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

2:00pm EDT

Sew Cool: Hands-on Learning for All
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Students love hands-on experiences.  Come learn to implement some easy hands-on Tefillah and holiday art projects, and a few songs, that can be used in various ways with preschoolers through fourth grade!  Participants will be able to make and take examples home.
Takeaways
1) How to make a Shema #1 pillow;
2) How to make hamantaschen out of construction paper; 
3) How to use a Holiday Box for preschool Judaics; 
4) How to build a Mi Chamocha Wall of Freedom  
Speakers
avatar for Karen Daniel

Karen Daniel

Teacher and music specialist, Beth Meyer synagogue Raleigh NC
Karen Daniel is a preschool music specialist and religious school teacher at Beth Meyer Synagogue in Raleigh, NC.  She has taught and performed for many years at CAJE and NewCAJE and has recorded the Teachable, Singable and Jewish series of educational music, and her songs have been... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G27

2:00pm EDT

Using Colored Scarves in Programs
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Colored scarves enhance programming for all ages. Learn different ways to use colored scarves and discover how you can expand the use of scarves in your programs.
Speakers
BD

Betsy Diamant-Cohen

Dr. Betsy Diamant-Cohen developed the Mother Goose on the Loose (MGOL) early literacy program while working at the Israel Museum Youth Wing Library. MGOL has won numerous awards in the US; Betsy received the "Distinguished Services Award" from the Association for Library Service to... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

4:00pm EDT

Advocacy for Educational Leaders
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Today's Jewish institutions sometimes feel like challenging places to work.  In this session, we will identify our wants and needs that would help us be more successful in our work.  We will then work together to recognize the barriers in our way, the competing tensions that may exist, and craft a plan to advocate for those needs or creatively address the challenges.

Speakers
avatar for Stacy Rigler

Stacy Rigler

Non-Profit Staff/CEO, ARJE
Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE is Executive Director of the Associatiom of Reform Jewish Educators. A lifelong learner, Stacy is passionate about inspiring excellence, advancing the field of Jewish education, and supporting fellow educators and students. Stacy serves as a member of the leadership... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G02

4:00pm EDT

Community Transformation in Fragile Times
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
CBent is in a period of deep transition with the recent change of Rabbinic leadership. The community is diverse and the divisions within it are clearly recognizable. No one wants the community of 65 years to die and yet consensus is difficult to achieve. We are one of many such communities in the USA and the dilemmas of the Rabbi and the lay and educational leadership are sadly not unique. We have come up with creative solutions and would like to share and hear from you! Come join Rabbi Michal's welcoming and supportive intention to create a community of practice and be ready to try on new lenses for big questions involving retention, growth, spiritual leaning, programming and prioritization. 

Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Michal Morris Kamil

Rabbi Michal Morris Kamil

Rabbi, Congregation Beth El-Ner Tamid, Broomall, PA
Rabbi Michal has led Beth El-Ner Tamid in Broomall, PA since September. With experience for over three decades in both formal informal Jewish education in Israel, New Zealand, England, and the USA, she was ordained as Rabbi in 2022 in AJRCA. A Sabra, who has worked in building bridges... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 121

4:00pm EDT

Uplifting Sephardi & Mizrahi Voices in Jewish Education
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
“Uplifting Sephardi & Mizrahi Voices in Jewish Education,” will highlight the Sephardi & Mizrahi Education Toolkit (free). This session equips educators and school leaders with resources and strategies to integrate the heritage of Jews from Muslim majority countries into curricula, fostering inclusive learning environments and expanding students’ understanding of global Jewish communities. The Toolkit provides recommendations for classroom teachers in Tanakh, Halakha, Holidays, Jewish Languages, Arts & Music, Literature, STEM, Jewish History, Israel, and Holocaust studies.

Speakers
avatar for Ty Alhadeff

Ty Alhadeff

Director of Education, JIMENA
Ty Alhadeff serves as the Director of Education at JIMENA, where he leads educational initiatives to promote awareness of the history and culture of Middle Eastern and North African Jewish communities. Recently Alhadeff created the free Sephardi & Mizrahi Education Toolkit, a compendium... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

4:00pm EDT

What do I need for Bar/Bat Mitzvah Preparation - Topics for Literacy: Sarah and David's Bar/Bat Mitzvah Book
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Participants will be able to broaden Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation to include an introduction to Tanakh, Torah, parashah, the structure of a service. Students can ground themselves in the geography of Tanakh to help see the big picture.  On the Hebrew side, students will have key prayers and overview of essential Hebrew reading skills. Attendees will receive a copy of the Sarah and David Bar/Bat Mitzvah Book.  

Speakers
avatar for Diana Yacobi

Diana Yacobi

Ed Director - retired, Read Hebrew Now
Diana Yacobi  has completed a Masters in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary.  She served as the Educational Director of synagogue schools and published articles about after school Jewish education. She is a product of synagogue school education and created Read... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G07

4:00pm EDT

Honey, I Became a Kid Again! - Creative Programs for Teen Engagement
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
This workshop is designed for educators, youth leaders, and program coordinators eager to create compelling and enriching experiences for tw/teens. We will explore programmatic challenges and create resources to help tw/teens take ownership and leadership in their programs. Participants will emerge with a comprehensive toolkit for creating engaging and impactful programming that empowers tw/teens to thrive, connect, and explore their passions in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Speakers
avatar for Brandon Gabay

Brandon Gabay

Youth and Teen Engagement Manager, Temple Sinai Atlanta
Brandon (he/him) serves as one of the Youth and Teen Engagement Managers at Temple Sinai in Atlanta, Georgia. Brandon attended URJ Camp Coleman and URJ Kutz Camp. He is a lover of all things books, baking, and Broadway and is excited for his third NewCAJE. 
avatar for Hannah Foleck

Hannah Foleck

Teen Engagement Manager, Temple Rodef Shalom
Hannah (she/her) serves as the Teen Engagement Manager at Temple Rodef Shalom (TRS) located in Falls Church, Virginia. Originally from Virginia Beach, she has resided in Northern Virginia for the past four years. Hannah holds a Bachelor's degree in Musical Theater from the University... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G11

4:00pm EDT

Let's Plan a Family Ed Program from Soup to Nuts or from Study to Production
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
In this session, we will plan a family event or two together and how to build on family education from year to year. We will share ideas for appropriate crafts, cooking, music, field trips and adult education and give you the tools to be able to plan the next steps for your community. You will be able to join a monthly support group that will help you through the first year of implementing  the ideas, inspired by these sessions and tailored for your own community. You can attend this session if you have been to the first one or taken a class from me previously on family ed. We won't be able to go into depth on the material of the first session if you only attend this one.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

4:00pm EDT

Curious about Yiddish? Get started with YiddishPOP!
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
YiddishPOP is a free, online language program built around short, animated videos that make learning Yiddish fun, visual, and accessible for all ages. Whether you have just a few minutes, want to integrate Yiddish learning into an existing class, or run an afterschool program, the materials are flexible, engaging, and easy to adapt to your setting. Veteran Yiddish teacher and YiddishPOP co-creator Brukhe Lang will share her experience from a recent YiddishPOP pilot for the 3rd grade at a Baltimore day school, and demonstrate the platform by teaching you some Yiddish! You’ll leave the session with practical ideas and inspiration for bringing Yiddish into your own classroom.
Speakers
BL

Beatrice Lang

Yiddish Language Program Director, Johns Hopkins University
Beatrice (Brukhe) Lang has been teaching Yiddish language and culture for over 25 years. She holds a doctorate in Yiddish Studies from Columbia University and is currently the Yiddish Language Program Director at Johns Hopkins University. Besides her university teaching, she is a... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

4:00pm EDT

Echoes & Reflections: Foundations of Holocaust Education (2nd occurance)
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
This program is designed to enhance teachers’ knowledge and capacity to teach about the Holocaust. Educators will have the chance to explore classroom lessons, visual history testimonies and other resources that examine aspects of the history and its continued relevance today.  Resources will be highlighted that will expand upon your existing classroom approaches, in addition to providing foundational resources for new educators.
Speakers
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - G01

4:00pm EDT

Six Ways of Chanting Trope During a Full Year
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
During the cycle of a Jewish Year, we use one set of Trope Symbols to chant six different ways:  Torah, Haftarah, High Holy Days Torah, Esther, Eichah, and RaKa"SH (Ruth–Kohelet–Shir HaShirim).  Learn how these melodies reflect the moods of each Book!
Takeaways 
How a complete set of Trope marks reflects the grammar, punctuation, and accentuation of each Biblical book, and how the specific set of melodies within a given Trope system reflects the ambience and mood of each different type of Biblical book. 
Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Temple Har Zion in Chicago. When he is not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and a Jewish storyteller. David is also on the Executive Board of the Jewish Educators Assembly and an MTEI graduate. However, his most important role is... Read More →
avatar for Cantor Neil Schwartz

Cantor Neil Schwartz

Director of Education, Temple Har Zion; River Forest, IL
Neil Schwartz graduated JTS in 1980; he has a Master of Arts in Religion and Culture, and 5 Units of Chaplaincy Training.  Cantor Neil retired after 42 years in 7 synagogues (3 as "Kol Bo"); he taught the IMUN Lay Leader program, and Trope and Nusach online for Hebrew College.  He... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

4:00pm EDT

Art for Non-Artists
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Does creativity make you queasy? Does “art” send shivers up your spine? You’ve come to the right place! In this workshop, we'll explore practical, easy-to-implement techniques to make your lessons come alive through visual arts, dance, poetry, and other creative projects. No artistic skills required—just a willingness to explore!

Speakers
EM

Emily Meyer

Rabbi Emily Meyer believes that creativity fosters a meaningful and enduring sense of belonging. She is the creator of Doodly Jew, a project designed to spark creativity in Hebrew learning and calls Temple Emanuel of the South Hills in Pittsburgh, PA home.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 130

4:00pm EDT

Engaging Meaningful Play in Religious School
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
How can teachers find a balance between creating a joyful classroom environment and covering meaningful Jewish curriculum? In this session, participants will explore the WHY of playful learning for grades K through 8, as well as actually creating many activities that can be utilized right away in classes.

Speakers
avatar for Meredith	Silverman

Meredith Silverman

Assistant Director of Education, Temple De Hirsch Sinai
Meredith is the Assistant Director of Education at Temple De Hirsch Sinai in Seattle, Washington. She has her Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and enjoys developing teachers in their careers. Meredith is also a Second Year participant in the LEEP program.
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

4:00pm EDT

Playing with words: Jewish Ekphrasis
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Ekphrastic poetry, derived from the Greek word for "description," uses words to interpret a work of art.  ‘Ekphrasis’ will be demonstrated through the instructors new book, Vessels of Light, a conversation between a poet and photographer,  written in this style. In this class, we will play with words, drawing vocabulary from Jewish prayer, Israel and the Holiday cycle to create small poems.

Speakers
avatar for Karen Webber

Karen Webber

Adult Educator, Artist, Cantor, Clergy Educator, Entertainer, Musician, Online Tutor (Hebrew or Judaica), Spiritual Leader, Specialist, Storyteller
Karen Webber is a liturgical, teaching and performing artist who builds theatre/music pieces for elder care facilities, mental health centers, public parks and the bimah. An ordained cantor since 1990 (HUC-JIR), Karen is also an accredited teaching artist and a certified Peer Support... Read More →
Wednesday June 25, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Van Meter Hall: VM - 101
 
Thursday, June 26
 

8:30am EDT

The Growth Mindset Educator
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Growth Mindsets to Unlock Communal Transformation
A growth mindset is crucial for both personal and organizational evolution. In this session, we’ll explore how to encourage curiosity, resilience, and persistence while also building a culture that values continual improvement. You’ll learn practical strategies to inspire others to experiment, learn from mistakes, and drive ongoing development, ensuring that your school community is one where everyone learns and grows.



Speakers
avatar for Stacy Rigler

Stacy Rigler

Non-Profit Staff/CEO, ARJE
Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE is Executive Director of the Associatiom of Reform Jewish Educators. A lifelong learner, Stacy is passionate about inspiring excellence, advancing the field of Jewish education, and supporting fellow educators and students. Stacy serves as a member of the leadership... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G46

8:30am EDT

Unaffiliated Teens : What Do We Owe Them? Deepdive into Rebuilding Community – How Dungeons & Dragons Worked for Us!
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Teens are disconnected and unaffiliated. USY’s regional support disappeared. Where do we go from here? Starting a Dungeons & Dragons Club for teens reinvigorated our local AAUSY chapter. Now, a year later, I have reflected on how and why other congregations could make this model work for them too!

Speakers
ZS

Zoe Steiner

Education & Engagement Coordinator and Youth Advisor, Congregation Agudas Achim
Zoe Steiner is the Education & Engagement Coordinator and Youth Advisor at Congregation Agudas Achim in Austin, Texas. Over the last 2 years in this role she has worked to rebuild the community’s  inactive Chaverim, Gesher, and USY youth group membership and participation back... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

8:30am EDT

Making God Accessible through Activity and Prayer
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Using a meditation designed to open your eyes (and hearts) to a way to conceptualize God that your students will be able to relate to, we will then have a conversation about prayer. Who do we pray to and why? Do we expect that our prayers will be answered? Join us for this interactive workshop and you'll both expand your own understanding and walk away with ideas for how to share God with your students.
Speakers
avatar for Jeri Robins

Jeri Robins

Cantor / Director of Education, B'Mitzvah Tutors, Cantor, Classroom Teacher - Elementary, Classrooom Teacher - Middle School, Director/Head of School
Boston-based Cantor Jeri Robins serves as the Cantor at Beth El Temple Center in Belmont, Director of Education at Temple Chayai Shalom in Easton, and teaches at Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline, as well as working with students privately. A graduate of Hebrew College with cantorial... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
TBA

8:30am EDT

That’s Amazing! T’fillah with Kids & Families
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
How can we make t’fillah an exercise in spiritual core building? Together we’ll experience and discuss a frame for the morning service that aims to do exactly that. Great for K-5 but adaptable for older and younger kids and families, and works with whatever melodies you might do (we'll learn a few new ones too!)  Let’s laugh, sing, and wonder, together!

Speakers
avatar for Eliana Light

Eliana Light

Songleader, Consultant, Musisian, Day School/Yeshiva, Synagogue Sunday or Afternoon School/Program, Early Childhood Center, Camp, Adult Education, Self Employed
Eliana is working towards a world of One-ness, guided and inspired by Jewish heritage. She is the founder and head T’fillahsopher at the Light Lab and the co-host of the Light Lab podcast. She is also a sought-after songwriter and performer of catchy, content-rich tunes for all... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

8:30am EDT

Make a Plague Ball!
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Using just fabric, paper, and a needle and thread, make a plague ball that you can teach others to make to bring home as a part of their Seders. This session will teach you the art of "English Paper Piecing," as well as enjoying a dive into how to make the Ten Plagues educational with a physical object you've made yourself!

Speakers
avatar for Shelli Aderman

Shelli Aderman

@Clal: Director of Program Administration and Operations; @T&V: Youth Educator (I lead all youth and family services, and teach in the Hebrew School), Clal - NYC; Town and Village Conservative Synagogue - NYC
Shelli Aderman, she/her has been fortunate to work as a theatrical stage manager, Jewish educator, and synagogue administrator for over thirty years. Her diverse career complements her role at Clal, where she is responsible for the logistical and administrative aspects of Clal’s... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

8:30am EDT

Yom Kippur Through the Lens of Purim
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Yom Kippur is also called “Yom Kippurim”, which could be broken up to mean “Yom K’-Purim”, “a day like Purim”.  Can Yom Kippur be a happy day?  Can Purim be a holy day?   The answers are yes and yes — come explore how!

Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Temple Har Zion in Chicago. When he is not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and a Jewish storyteller. David is also on the Executive Board of the Jewish Educators Assembly and an MTEI graduate. However, his most important role is... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 251

8:30am EDT

Magical Musical Mindfulness: Tools for our youngest friends
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Practicing mindfulness can have a profound impact on children, specifically when it comes to feelings of anxiety, ADHD, sleep, and self esteem. Using original Tkiya music and content, we will explore how to use mindfulness as a tool in early childhood and elementary spaces through a Jewish values lens.

Speakers
avatar for Morgan Zweibel

Morgan Zweibel

Education Coordinator, Tkiya
Morgan is the Education Coordinator at Tkiya where she teaches, manages curriculum, and trains teachers, helping to bring joyful Jewish connection to thousands of families each year. She was chosen as a Jewish Rock Radio’s Jewish All Star for 2023-24. Morgan is thrilled to combine... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

8:30am EDT

Mahloket (Debate) Matters
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
This workshop will look at the Mahloket Matters Framework as a useful tool in your religious school classroom. Mahloket (debate) is a vital tool to generate discussion, critical thinking, personal growth, and the deepening of relationships. The workshop will introduce the Mahloket Matters framework and its connection to Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Jewish texts. Through these lenses, we examine how you can begin to help foster a culture of constructive disagreement with Jewish texts in Hebrew and English and with specific activities to apply them to real life situations. Emphasis will be on the “constructive conflict mindset,” as we explore it in Jewish tradition. Resources will be provided for those interested in future study.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Morris

Karen Morris

Karen Morris, Education Director of Dor Hadash Religious School just completed cohort 4 of the Pardes Senior Educator Learning Fellowship studying Mahloket Matters. Karen has been involved in Jewish education her entire career with work ranging from early childhood Judaics specialist... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G48

8:30am EDT

Unpacking Words to Action: Empowering Teens to Challenge Antisemitism (1st occurance)
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Join education expert Randi Boyette to learn about and participate in ADL's premier Jewish teen-facing program, Words to Action. In this session, you will participate in activities aimed to build student capacity to explore Jewish identity, identify and challenge antisemitism. 

Speakers
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277

10:30am EDT

Turning Difficult Conversations into Constructive Collaborations
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Educational leaders often struggle with challenging stakeholder interactions. This session transforms potential conflicts into meaningful partnerships through strategic listening and advanced preparation techniques. Discover how one leader evolved from managing contentious parent interactions to developing a groundbreaking "Parents as Partners" approach that fundamentally reshaped school culture.

Speakers
avatar for Ronni Ticker

Ronni Ticker

Classroom Teacher - Elementary, Classrooom Teacher - Middle School, Consultant, Self Employed
Ronni Ticker, Founder & Chief Imagination Officer of Jewish Learning Central, is a creative strategic thinker consulting with synagogues and non-profits to reimagine learning and engagement. Ronni is also the Director of Family Engagement for the Federation of Palm Beach County. She... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G46

10:30am EDT

The Earth is Hashem’s: Environmental Learning for All Ages
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Young students want to learn about nature and the environment, and mature students need to. This session will explore how these topics are presented and how to make them more prominent and meaningful. Participants will learn about a free downloadable curriculum for adults and will work together to create guidelines for incorporating ecological learning in their settings.

Speakers
avatar for Paul Solyn

Paul Solyn

Adult Educator
Paul Solyn is an adult educator in Elmira, New York. He received an M.J.Ed. degree and family-educator certificate from Hebrew College and is an ordained maggid-educator. In May he received a graduate certificate in eco-spirituality at Hartford International University.
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 246

10:30am EDT

Pickling: The Covenant of Salt and The Meditation of a Cucumber
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Learn about the holiness of salt and why preservation is important to Jewish traditions and your body while you are pickling fresh produce. Your pickles should be ready by the time you return home.  Disclaimer: The knives and cutting boards have been toiled with an OU Rabbi supervising, they are only used for pickling, however, these items are not OU supervised during programming.
Speakers
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
TBA

10:30am EDT

Body & Soul
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Everyone knows that it’s common sense to be healthy. But what does the Torah say about it? To what extent is it a mitzvah to eat healthy, exercise and everything else we should be doing?
Speakers
avatar for Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld

Adult Jewish educator, Jewish Teachers Institute
Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld, PhD started teaching right out of college in rural Mississippi. With over 10 years of classroom experience and 20 years as an adult Jewish educator, he founded the Jewish Teachers Institute in 2016 which trains and mentors day school teachers, creates curricula... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 251

10:30am EDT

You Have the Skills to Read, Understand, and Teach the Words of Torah as Written in Translation, and So Do 4th Graders
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
You read the Bible like you read Shakespeare or a book of poetry. In this session, we will take a text from the Torah, read it, read it again with comments and commentary, and figure out how to figure out what it means to you. We will then talk about teaching it to kids and adults, but that's the easy part!
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G50

10:30am EDT

Wee Jam for Justice
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Are toddlers too young to learn about diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ)? As it turns out, research shows us how important it is to scaffold these concepts from a young age. Together we’ll explore how Tkiya teaches DEIJ through a Jewish lens. Join in with participatory songs, stories, t’filah, and more. We’ll discuss why it is important to support families in having conversations about these difficult topics in ways that are developmentally appropriate and centered around Jewish values. You will have the opportunity to come up with ways small and large to bring these ideas back to our communities.
Speakers
CF

Carla Friend

Carla Friend is the Founder & Executive Director of Tkiya, an organization with the mission of creating joyful Jewish connection through participatory music experiences. Through Tkiya, Carla reaches 15,000 people per year with her unique methodology of Jewish education and engagement... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G48

10:30am EDT

Deepening Our Relationship with the Now (Using a Fun Call and Response Shehecheyanu!)
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Explore using this fun new musical Shehecheyanu setting as a tool for kicking off the new school year and Rosh Hashanah with more intention. Adaptable for early childhood education through adults, this Shehecheyanu setting incorporates breath, call and response, and focused awareness to bring our attention to ... this ... very ... moment.

Speakers
avatar for Rory Michelle Sullivan

Rory Michelle Sullivan

Artist-in-Residence
Rory Michelle Sullivan’s work as singer/songwriter, songleader, musician, composer, educator, curriculum writer, and consultant with a range of Jewish communities and ages inspires spiritual connection, growth, and joy through healthy, authentic, creative, and constructive relationships... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - G27

10:30am EDT

Embrace Your Weird!: Unlocking the Magic of Being Fully You
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
In this upbeat, interactive session, discover how embracing your weirdness can make teaching, leading, and learning more fun, more human, and more impactful -- in any setting.

Speakers
avatar for Sari Kopitnikoff

Sari Kopitnikoff

Educator, Digital Artist, and Content Creator, @thatjewishmoment
Sari Kopitnikoff is an experiential educator, digital artist, and content creator. She’s passionate about creating books, games, and shows that bring Judaism to life. She taught for over a decade and now runs programs and experiences all over for kids, teens, and adults. Find lots... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 278

10:30am EDT

Unpacking Words to Action: Empowering Teens to Challenge Antisemitism (2nd occurance)
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Join education expert Randi Boyette to learn about and participate in ADL's premier Jewish teen-facing program, Words to Action. In this session, you will participate in activities aimed to build student capacity to explore Jewish identity, identify and challenge antisemitism. 
Speakers
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
Julia Rogers: JR - 277
 
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