NewCAJE15: Full Schedule

4:00pm EDT

Shabbat Art

Decorate a kiddush cup that will sweeten each sip and enhance your NewCAJE shabbat experience and beyond.

Speakers

Barbara Birenbaum

Barbara Birenbaum teaches creative arts, academics and Jewish studies to children and adults. She holds a California Teaching Credential, a Master of Arts in Jewish Education, and has been growing her passion leading Israeli folk dance, teaching weekly sessions of “On Your Feet... Read More →

Friday July 26, 2024 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Blanton Hall Lobby

6:00pm EDT

LEEP Session 1

Speakers

Eliana Light

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 →

Friday July 26, 2024 6:00pm - 6:30pm EDT
Presidential Dining Room

LEEP

6:30pm EDT

Kabbalat Shabbat

Egalitarian Kabbalat Shabbat services. Elie Kaunfer will speak. His topic will be: What if the words of prayer extend beyond the sense-meaning? How did tradition look at the sounds of words, and the use of words beyond conveying information? We will explore some examples in Kabbalat Shabbat.

Speakers

Cantor Evelyn “Ms. Eve” Goldfinger

Jewish Educational Theatre Director, Torahtron, Jewish Educational Theatre

Cantor Evelyn Goldfinger, also known as "Ms. Eve," is a spiritual leader, performer, playwright, best-selling author, storyteller, and Jewish educator. Evelyn brings her interactive and educational shows, workshops, and "Words From My Heart" approach to spirituality and Jewish prayer... Read More →

Helene Kates

The Baal Shem Tones, Peradam Productions

Helene Kates, lead singer and songwriter with The Baal Shem Tones, tours internationally providing concerts and Jewish Educational Programs for all ages. Ordained as a Maggida-Omanit, Kates works with individuals and their families to explore and strengthen their intrinsic bond to... Read More →

Elie Kaunfer

Andrea Shupack

Cantorial Soloist

Andrea Shupack is a cantorial soloist, musician, educator, and storyteller. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and is studying at AJR New York to be a Rabbi/Cantor. She returned Thursday from a year at Pardes in Jerusalem where she was an Arts Fellow. She used her fellowship to compose... Read More →

Friday July 26, 2024 6:30pm - 8:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

8:00pm EDT

Shabbat Dinner

Friday July 26, 2024 8:00pm - 9:30pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

9:30pm EDT

Friday Night Farbrengen

Farbrengens (Yiddish; “joyous gatherings” ), are joyous; they have the potential to lift us up and beyond our perceived limitations. Join our table. Come say a l’chaim or two, share a sacred story, give a blessing and help each other reach ‘higher’ so that even after we end the time, we can draw closer to “Ivdu et Hashem B’simcha” (serving G-d with joy) Worry not if you don’t have a story prepared, just come and trust that the right story or melody will rise up. All are welcome—listeners, too!

Speakers

Helene Kates

The Baal Shem Tones, Peradam Productions

Friday July 26, 2024 9:30pm - 10:30pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

8:00am EDT

Shabbat Breakfast

Saturday July 27, 2024 8:00am - 9:30am EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

9:30am EDT

Tefillah Options - Egalitarian Shacharit

Traditional, Egalitarian service

Speakers

David Schwartz

Director of Education, Temple Har Zion

David Schwartz is the Education Director at Temple Har Zion in Chicago.He is also a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and a Jewish storyteller. However, his most significant role is husband to Miriam and Abba to 7-year-old Shira. He is excited to share the NewCAJE experience with his father... Read More →

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

9:30am EDT

Tefillah Options - Shabbat Morning Magic

Come as you are for a mindful, musical morning. We'll sing a few meaningful melodies, taking our time with the liturgy and inviting it to open our hearts. There will be breath, movement, silence, and song. All are welcome!

Speakers

Eliana Light

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am EDT
University Hall Courtyard

9:30am EDT

Tefillah Options - Torah Study

Davening not your style? Join Chana Stein for a morning of study. We will explore Breishit 1, seeking the Tree of Life.

Speakers

Chana Stein

Maggida-Omanit

Magidda-Omanit Chana Stein has been a Jewish educator her entire adult life. She has taught every age from two-year old to elders, elementary, middle and high school. She has written stories, modern midrashim, and developed educational programs incorporating story, art, and text... Read More →

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am EDT
Presidential Dinng Room

10:30am EDT

Torah and Musaf Services

Elie Kaunfer will speak on the topic: How can we bless God? The meaning(s) of Barukh Atta Hashem.
Every blessing begins with the phrase: Blessed are you, God. What could that possibly mean? We will explore the possible understandings of this phrase, and focus on the daring messages that underlie this seemingly simple phrase.

Speakers

Elie Kaunfer

Neil Schwartz

Saturday July 27, 2024 10:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

12:30pm EDT

Shabbat Lunch

Saturday July 27, 2024 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

2:00pm EDT

Break

Saturday July 27, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

2:00pm EDT

Your Own Mini Vacation in Your Favorite Spot

Back by popular demand! Join Stephanie for a relaxing hour of guided meditation. Through the use of different scripts, you will be guided into relaxation and reflection that allows your mind to let go of worries and concerns. You will walk away rested and renewed.

Speakers

Stephanie Marshall

Jewish Education Manager, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston

Stephanie Marshall, RJE is the Jewish Education Manager at the Houston Federation. She works closely with congregational school principals, teen engagement professionals and teacher-mentors. A gifted curriculum writer and teacher trainer, she is a member of cohort 2 of RISE and will... Read More →

Saturday July 27, 2024 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

3:15pm EDT

A New Approach to Interpreting the Siddur

We will analyze the first blessing of the amidah as a way of approaching the question: are traditional prayer formulas able to express my own values/ideas of prayer? What do you do when you "disagree" with the prayer's content? We will analyze the original Biblical context to help us connect to the prayer.

Speakers

Elie Kaunfer

Saturday July 27, 2024 3:15pm - 4:45pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

5:00pm EDT

Devarim is the Book of "Words"

Devarim is the Book of ”Words”—what words? Whose words? What does the Torah’s last book add to what has come before? What would the Torah be without it?

Speakers

Everett Fox

Everett Fox is the Allen M. Glick Professor of Judaic and Biblical Studies at Clark University. He is the translator of The Five Books of Moses and The Early Prophets. He is currently finishing up a new translation and commentary on the Book of Isaiah. Everett and Cherie are the proud... Read More →

Saturday July 27, 2024 5:00pm - 6:15pm EDT
UNIV 2006

5:00pm EDT

Done with Numbers, BH! Or....

It's possible to read Numbers as chiefly a census report, or as a chronicle of the faithlessness of Am Yisrael. As we conclude the reading, however, can we look at it another way? This will be an exploration of literary structures and themes, working toward an understanding of it as a process of healing and redemption.

Speakers

Paul Solyn

Executive Director, Jewish Center & Federation of the Twin Tiers

Paul Solyn is an adult educator in Elmira, NY, where he was executive director of the Jewish Center and Federation of the Twin Tiers until his retirement on June 30th. He studied adult learning at Boston University and holds an M.J.Ed. degree and family-educator certificate from Hebrew... Read More →

Saturday July 27, 2024 5:00pm - 6:15pm EDT
UNIV 2002

5:00pm EDT

Kamtza and Bar-Kamtza: A 3-Act Story

Why would G-d let the Temple be destroyed? According to the Rabbis, it is because of somebody who never shows up, rabbis who don't speak up, and a cow that doesn't get burnt up. Whether you know the story yet or not, join us as we explore the relevance of this Tisha B’Av tale for our own times.

Speakers

David Schwartz

Director of Education, Temple Har Zion

Saturday July 27, 2024 5:00pm - 6:15pm EDT
UNIV 2004

5:00pm EDT

LEEP Session 2

Speakers

Eliana Light

Saturday July 27, 2024 5:00pm - 6:15pm EDT
UNIV 2007

LEEP

6:30pm EDT

Seuda Shelishit

Saturday July 27, 2024 6:30pm - 8:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

8:00pm EDT

Rise with Story!

Come experience the beauty and magic of Story, where our NewCAJE RISE 2 Storytelling Initiative graduating Cohort plus other Storyteller faculty and friends share stories to help us linger in the last light of Shabbat. Then, enter further into the world of Story through a participatory part of the evening, leading us into havdalah.

Speakers

Peninnah Schram

Storyteller

Peninnah Schram Professor Emerita at Yeshiva University, is a Jewish Storyteller. Author of 14 folktale books: Jewish Stories of Love and Marriage: Folktales, Legends & Letters (with Sandy Eisenberg Sasso). Her biography is Peninnah’s World: A Jewish Life in Stories, authored by... Read More →

Cherie Karo Schwartz

Storyteller, Author, Educator, (self)

Cherie Karo Schwartz is a Storyteller, Author & Educator in Denver, who has performed and taught across the USA & abroad. This is her 42nd CAJE/NewCAJE ! Cherie shares spirit-filled stories with all ages in shuls & schools. She is Founder/Co-Director of RISE (3 Cohorts strong), training... Read More →

Saturday July 27, 2024 8:00pm - 9:15pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

9:15pm EDT

Havdalah

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:15pm - 9:45pm EDT
University Hall Courtyard

9:45pm EDT

Evening Program

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:45pm - 11:00pm EDT
University Hall Courtyard Lounge

8:00am EDT

Breakfast

Sunday July 28, 2024 8:00am - 9:30am EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

9:00am EDT

NYC Immigrant Experience Intensive

Join us for a trip to New York City, via train and subway. We will visit the Eldridge Street Synagogue Museum and the Tenement Museum, and experience life like many of our grandparents did when they first came to America. This intensive will involve a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs. An extra fee of $85 will cover lunch, museum admissions, and transportation. We must have at least ten people to make this intensive happen.

Sunday July 28, 2024 9:00am - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

Intensive

9:00am EDT

Rebuilding Early Childhood Education

NewCAJE Early Childhood Intensive presented by Paula Hoffman, Early Childhood Consultant and facilitator of Early Childhood Jewish Educators Facebook group and Allison Charapp, Education Director, Tree of Life Preschool at Kol Shalom, Annapolis, MD
Rebuilding Early Childhood Education Through the Natural World
We believe that the Earth was created by G-d and gifted to humankind. G-d has entrusted us to be caretakers of the planet for future generations. The silver lining to the COVID-chaos is having the distinct privilege of rebuilding the foundation of early childhood experiences through nature. As educators working with our youngest minds and bodies, we will explore a variety of potentials offered by our planet through the Jewish lens.
Everything that we teach and learn occurs naturally outdoors. Nature is science, nature is language, nature is mathematics, nature is art, nature is social, nature grows with us. Children blossom in nature.
Together through conversations and sharing, we will address the diverse ways educators can introduce children to experiences, explorations, and independence in our Jewish indoor and outdoor environments.
Weather permitting (so dress appropriately), our day will include discovering connections to the outdoor world via walks, ephemeral art experiences, conversations, challenges, sharing of our own practices, and so much more. Our goal is to collectively create and provide concrete plans that can be implemented into your own sites. Everyone will feel confident in taking fresh steps moving forward on a new path in the year ahead.

Speakers

Paula Hoffman

Sunday July 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm EDT
Presidential Dining Room

Orientation

12:00pm EDT

Lunch

Sunday July 28, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

12:15pm EDT

Orientation

Speakers

Cherie Koller-Fox

Sunday July 28, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm EDT
Presidential Dining Room

Orientation

1:30pm EDT

What's the "new normal" in our post-Covid world?

Will things ever be back to "normal?" (and what's "normal" anyway?) While many of us pre-covid wondered how to effect change in our schools - the covid years forced the issue upon us - EVERYTHING changed. Whether you've been in the same position for years - or assumed a new role just pre/during/post Covid - you're most likely dealing with the unprecedented (at least in recent times) break in the flow of Jewish education. What did we learn during the lock-down years? How can our schools/communities/students/teachers benefit from what we've learned . . .and how do we move forward? Come join in a discussion of learning to let-go of the past and embrace the future. This session is designed for Directors/Administrators.

Speakers

Amy Ripps

Amy Ripps has worked in both Reform and Conservative communities in the DC area and served as Director of Lifelong Learning in Raleigh, NC, for 19 years. Recently she served as interim ed director in Roanoke, VA, and is currently serving as interim ed director at Beth El Synagogue... Read More →

Sunday July 28, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
UNIV 2013

Administration/School Directors

1:30pm EDT

Two Haftorot, Two Isaiahs

While the psychological aspects of Bar/Bat Mitzvah are central to the experience - learning the difficult hebrew words and the trope, and "performing" in public - it's also vitally important to teach the powerful messages and poetry of these passages. We will focus on two haftarot: for Parshat Noach and Parshat Yitro. Why might these have been chosen? What are the links between the Torah reading and the Haftarot? And why do they reflect two entirely different historical circumstances, a century and a half apart.

Assistant Academic Dean, Academy for Jewish Religion

Sunday July 28, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
UNIV 2004

Values and Ethics Teaching Tools & Techniques

3:00pm EDT

Break

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Second Floor Foyer

Meals and Breaks

3:30pm EDT

Help! I Need Guidance to Reimagine Jewish Learning in My School

A Strategic Planning Framework that includes gathering data, gaining buy-in, and structuring a process leads to reimagining how you engage with learners and their families. Our formal education often did not include this training. In this session, we will present the key components of Strategic planning. If you have been tasked with creating a vision and mission by your congregation or know that reimagining Jewish learning is critical to the success of your school, this session is for you. Presenter has implemented this process successfully in congregational schools, academic institutions, Jewish communal organizations, and for-profit businesses.

Speakers

Ronni Ticker

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 →

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2013

Administration/School Directors

3:30pm EDT

Useful Basics for Lay-led Liturgy and Bible Chant

What are the basic elements that a lay leader can find useful for chanting various services and Biblical sections? We will review some unusual Hebrew details, the structures of our Jewish liturgies, our basic musical modes and how they are used to chant various services, and the six versions of Biblical Trope. Resource lists include sources of printed music and audio files. If you lead services or chant from our Bible, or if you teach others to do so, this workshop will have useful information for you.

Speakers

David Schwartz

Director of Education, Temple Har Zion

Cantor Neil Schwartz

Neil Schwartz graduated as a Cantor from JTS and has an M.A. in Religion and Culture, and Chaplaincy Training. Recently retired from a 42-year career, Neil taught Trope and Nusach online for Hebrew College. He notated prayer-music for "Tefillah Trainer" teaching software, and is preparing... Read More →

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2040

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tefillah/Prayer Adult Education

3:30pm EDT

Jewish Values are Human Values: How Jewish values are integrated into emergent curriculum.

Early childhood Jewish education lays the foundation for children’s Jewish identity. Learn how to pull out the big ideas and values behind the children’s interests, questions and thoughts. We will do this by looking at documentation, videos, audio clips, and children’s play from a 4'5/'s class. No matter what the curriculum topic ends up being about, the principles of fostering critical thinking, problem solving, and caring for the community are the consistent values that guide our decisions as educators. Values that are not only Jewish values, but human values.

Speakers

Allie Baylson

Allie Baylson has been a teacher at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue Early Childhood Center for 12 years and taught both the 3’s and 4’s/5’s. She traveled to Reggio Emilia with other Jewish educators where she experienced the Reggio Emilia approach firsthand. Allie is currently a... Read More →

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2010

Early Childhood Education Values and Ethics

3:30pm EDT

Hebrew Reading Techniques from the Field

Hebrew reading can seem so difficult to teach in the limited time we have. Learn some ideas and techniques that will help make the learning stick. This will be a hands on session which will draw on Orton-Gillingham ideas which work. The presenter is trained in OG techniques for Hebrew. This session will be useful for those who teach in person and those who teach online.

Speakers

Cheryl Cash-Linietsky

HTM/Hebrew Reading Specialist Jewish studies grades 2/3, Park Slope Jewish Center/Yeshivat Bitachon

Batsheva Frankel

Educational Consultant, New Lens Ed

Veteran educator Batsheva Frankel, MAT, founded New Lens Ed. through which she designs curricula and gives workshops, courses and coaching for educators internationally both in person and online. She’s the author of The Jewish Educator’s Companion (Behrman House) and the host... Read More →

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Teaching Tools & Techniques

3:30pm EDT

Stopping Temper Tantrums In Their Tracks: What Martin Buber and Dr. Haim Ginott Taught Me About Behavior Modification in the Classroom and in the Home

This workshop is about using the teachings of Martin Buber and Jewish child psychologist Dr. Haim Ginott to understand and work with children behaving badly, whether they be abled or disabled. We’ll discuss how Jewish values are used to work with children, build a connection, a kesher, as the basis for remedying bad behavior. We’ll learn about how Jewish values lead us to empathize, and understand the underpinnings of temper tantrums. Participants will be asked to bring their experiences (with full respect for confidentiality) to share to understand what was done correctly, and what needed correction. Through sharing these experiences, we can learn to build a framework of calm in the classroom, and shalom in the bayit.

Speakers

Helene Mann

Helene Mann worked with abled and disabled children for over 50 years, and is an expert in behavior interventions, presenting at international conferences. She has a master’s in special education; and retired as an autism consultant for the Hawaii DOE. She also served as the Director... Read More →

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2004

Teaching Tools & Techniques Inclusion Values and Ethics

3:30pm EDT

Beyond Your Wildest Nightmares - Community Service Projects for Tweens & Teens That Succeed Every Year

Come learn about the nuts and bolts of running successful yearly community service and fundraising programs for tweens and teens. Attendees will receive electronic materials to replicate each program in their community, as well as accesss to personal support from Cantor Devorah.
-7 small & 1 large community service projects will be presented..
-2 small & 1 large fundraiser will be presented.

Speakers

Devorah Gartner

Youth & B'nai Mitzvah Director, Temple Beth-El

Devorah Gartner holds an Artist’s Diploma in Vocal Performance from New England Conservatory of Music, a BA in Religion and Education and an MA in Business and Educational Administration from Columbia University. She has designed and run B’nai Mitzvah and award-winning Youth Group... Read More →

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2009

Teens Bar/Bat Mitzvah Social Justice

3:30pm EDT

Story the Psalm

The Psalms, or Tehillim, are a core part of the Hebrew Bible. Many are integral parts of our prayers (Kabbalat Shabbat on Friday evening, Hallel on holiday mornings, for example), and many stand on their own. During our session, we will explore some familiar psalms and focus on the story behind each one.

Speakers

Chana Stein

Maggida-Omanit

Sunday July 28, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2008

Tefillah/Prayer Bible/Text

5:15pm EDT

Opening Ceremonies

Sunday July 28, 2024 5:15pm - 6:15pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Opening and Closing

6:15pm EDT

Dinner

Sunday July 28, 2024 6:15pm - 7:45pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

7:30pm EDT

NewCAJE Shir Hallelu Chorale Practice

Speakers

Ellen Allard

Sunday July 28, 2024 7:30pm - 8:00pm EDT
UNIV 2042

Chorale

7:30pm EDT

Mincha/Maariv

HebrewGlyphics: B'nei Mitzvah Tutoring Solutions

This session is targeted to people who train students for their B’nei Mitzvah. We will focus on mnemonics and technology to provide new, creative and fun ways for students to master the needed skills.
Creative ways of presenting the material can help every learner internalize and retain new material, despite any learning challenges they may have. We will show you how to help every learner build confidence in their ability to participate in Jewish community.

Speakers

Channa Schachet-Briskin

Channa Schachet-Briskin (she/her/hers) is a graphic designer and Jewish educator. Channa teaches music at Temple Shaari Emeth's Early Learning Center and Religious School. She and her brother Micah create funny and educational videos on Jewish holidays called "Parshah Puppets." Channa... Read More →

Wally Schachet-Briskin

Cantor, Temple Shaari Emeth of Manalapan, NJ

Cantor Wally Schachet-Briskin is a California native, has been a proud Reform Jew since birth, and has spent more than 40 summers in liberal Jewish camps. He is an award-winning composer with three original albums. His Master’s Thesis on the Music of Reform Jewish Youth has been... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2011

Bar/Bat Mitzvah

9:00am EDT

Bar/t Mitzvah: A Deep Dive

In this session we will take a close look at the child/teen transition that happens around the coming of age ritual, we call Bar/t Mitzvah. Why do we teach them the things that we do? How do we understand the role of Mitzvot in the process? What role does the ceremony play in the life of the child and their extended family? Why is this event so important in the Jewish identity of a child and their family? How can we best support the teen and their family during the preparation and on the day of their becoming a Bar/t Mitzvah. This session is geared toward Bar/t Mitzvah tutors, cantors, rabbis and teen professionals and anyone with a child about to become a Bar Mitzvah.

Speakers

Cherie Koller-Fox

Monday July 29, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2031

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Teens

9:00am EDT

Taking Miracles Seriously: A Journey to Everyday Spirituality

In this workshop, we will examine some textual examples of miracles in the Torah. It is more than a subtle curiosity that every time the Torah describes a miracle, no one seems to draw the “obvious” lesson, which may be the most important lession of all. This is strange because all of us divide our experiences in life as either ordinary or extraordinary. We will explore Judaism’s unique point of view as to how to celebrate the sacred nature in the commonplace. If we were to take life’s ordinary events for granted less, our lives would be much richer. This methodology may assist especially young people, to be open to the deeper meanings in Torah—the ones that are hiding “in plain sight”. We will learn how to bring that openness into our classrooms.

Speakers

Senior Managing Director, ShalomLearning

Heidi Lovitz, a seasoned Jewish educator with 20+ years of experience, is the Senior Managing Director at ShalomLearning. She leads a team of talented educators and collaborates with partner organizations to develop and implement cutting-edge Jewish educational programming worldwide... Read More →

Shira Sender

Relationship Manager, ShalomLearning

Shira Sender is the Director of Client Care and Teacher Support with ShalomLearning. As a Jewish educator for more than 14 years, Shira is passionate about supporting and inspiring a lifelong love of Judaism and Hebrew. From ECE through High School, and from the physical classroom... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2004

Shalom Learning

9:00am EDT

Big Idea Activation: Making Learning Dynamic and Meaningful

Every lesson has an essential, enduring understanding or big idea that we want our students to truly internalize. How do we get them to connect to and feel the lesson’s main idea in a deep and relevant way? In this collaborative workshop, we will explore Big Idea Activation, an approach that identifies important questions and themes of the Torah stories, prayers, holidays, etc. and matches them with experiential activities that promote student inquiry and discussion. Participants will acquire tools and ideas for creating exciting experiential lessons that make learning more meaningful.

Speakers

Batsheva Frankel

Educational Consultant, New Lens Ed

Monday July 29, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2010

Teaching Tools & Techniques

9:00am EDT

The Sydney Taylor Shmooze: How to Run a Mock Sydney Taylor Award to Get Your Students Excited about Jewish Children's Books!

Have you heard of a Mock Caldecott or a Mock Newbery? Many public and private school classes invite their students to vote on the books that might win these prestigious children's literature awards in any given year. But what about Jewish children's books? For those, we have the prestigious Sydney Taylor Award and an exciting new blog called The Sydney Taylor Shmooze. In this session you will learn how you can use the Sydney Taylor Shmooze as a resource to help you and your students run your own Mock Sydney Taylor Award!

Matching Jewish stories to Jewish values: an interactive exercise

Using story to teach Jewish values is a long rabbinical tradition. Stories serve as the teacher. In this class, we will explore the world of Jewish values as portrayed in story throughout the ages. Using a set of 34 Jewish values from a variety of sources and matching them with stories taken from a variety of Jewish texts, we will dive into the themes of community, hospitality, peace, humility, justice, and Tikkun Olam, among others. Utilizing different teaching styles, we will demonstrate ways to reach the different learning styles of our students.

Speakers

Joanie Calem

Disability Awareness Advocate and Musician, Kodem Kol Kavod - First of All, Respect

Joanie Calem is a singer-songwriter, storyteller, and an inclusion advocate. Joanie grew up in Israel and worked as a musician and in Jewish-Arab relations. Joanie’s second child was born with autism, so she now works at the intersection between music and community building. Her... Read More →

Edith Harris

Torah Reader, TBI Blue Bell PA

Edie Harris, a Jewish educator for 45 years, specializes in group singing for students from age eight through High School. She has been a USY advisor and worked with post b'mitzvah students. Edie has attended CAJE/NewCAJE for over twenty years! She is happily participating in the... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2006

Values and Ethics Storytelling Inclusion

10:30am EDT

Break

Monday July 29, 2024 10:30am - 11:00am EDT
Second Floor Foyer

Meals and Breaks

11:00am EDT

Congratulations – You’re in Charge. Now What? A workshop for Newer Ed Directors

What’s your stance? What are the core values of your school? Is there a plumber on call for when there’s a flood in the bathroom on a Sunday morning? These, and more, are all questions you should be able to answer. Join me for a tachlis session about running a successful school/program, including some philosophy and some “nuts and bolts.” There will be plenty of take-away materials and ideas to add to your “tool box.” Appropriate for all size schools/programs in all sorts of locations and at all sorts of budget levels.

Speakers

Amy Ripps

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 3052

Administration/School Directors

11:00am EDT

Lost and Found in Translation: A conversation with Dr. Everett Fox and Rabbi Barry Schwartz

The Hebrew Bible has been translated more than any other written word in human history. At Sefaria, one can access over a dozen English translations of the Torah, including Dr. Everett Fox's The Five Books of Moses and various translations from the Jewish Publication Society. Additionally, Sefaria proudly hosts The New JPS Tanakh: Gender-Sensitive Edition and Dr. Fox's translation of the Early Prophets. Join Rabbi Barry Schwartz, Director Emeritus of JPS, and Dr. Everett Fox, professor at Clark University and biblical translator, in a discussion facilitated by Sefaria's Learning Coordinator, Justin Goldstein, on why access to diverse translations is a benefit to Jewish education, and how modern translations support your teaching.

Speakers

Justin Goldstein

Learning Coordinator, Sefaria

Justin Goldstein is the Learning Coordinator for Sefaria.org, the digital home of 3000 years of Jewish texts. Before joining Sefaria in 2022, he co-founded a Jewish farming project in Western NC and previously served as rabbi for congregations in Asheville, NC and Bangor, ME.

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 3048

Bible/Text Technology

11:00am EDT

A Hidden Treasure in Plain Sight: Grandparents in Your Community

Grandparents can make any intergenerational family experience stronger. They bring wisdom, unconditional love for their grandchildren, and the gift of time. Terry Kaye invites directors of family engagement, educators, clergy, and anyone who works with families to discuss the ways grandparents can enrich your educational programs.

We will explore the essential roles grandparents play; the benefits of intergenerational and “skip-gen” (grandparents only, no parents) programs; and challenging family dynamics to be aware of when planning intergenerational programs. Together we will do an activity that weaves in telling family stories
through treasured objects.

You will learn key principles for creating your own intergenerational programs and will take home sample program guides.

Speakers

Terry Kaye

Associate Director, Jewish Grandparents Network

Terry Kaye is Associate Director and Director of Creative Partnerships at the Jewish Grandparents Network, a national organization that educates, connects, and supports grandparents as essential partners in enriching Jewish life. Terry has worked in Jewish education for 35+ years... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 2011

Family Education

11:00am EDT

Using Hebrew Vocabulary to Catapult Reading Fluency and Comprehension

Today, as Jewish educators, we stand upon giants' shoulders. From the science of reading, to our traditional approach to kriah, the maps have been drawn. Now more than ever, it has become feasible to pave a smooth road for all kinds of learners to achieve Hebrew literacy success. Let’s explore how we can harness our confidence, talents and resources to create real solutions and reliable systems for curricula and instruction. Come learn how to evaluate resources based on learners' needs, explore ready to use resources or learn how to create resources yourself.

Speakers

Nechamy Segal

Nechamy Segal is the founder of Hebrew Scouts-Kriah. Our mission is to help all children be successful Hebrew readers. Before Hebrew scouts, Nechamy was a classroom teacher, special education coordinator, clinical interventionist, graduate-level professor of reading, and mom of six... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 2004

Hebrew

11:00am EDT

Looking In, Looking Out: Understanding our Individual and Collective Jewish Identities Through a Facing History Lens

Participants in this workshop will examine the concept of multiple identities, with an emphasis on what it means for young people to be Jewish in the US. Educators know that students learn best when they feel safe in their school environment. That sense of safety extends not only to their physical wellbeing but to their ability to show up as their full, complex selves. Adolescents seek to understand how they view themselves, how other people see them, and how their multiple identities interact with one another. When students engage in this type of exploration, they begin to exhibit increased empathy for others. Young people in Jewish educational settings hold multiple complex identities, both in their Jewish contexts and as citizens of a larger world. In this session, you will learn to recognize identities your students hold and how they decide what parts of themselves to share and what pieces to keep hidden.

Speakers

Staci Rosenthal

Program Associate, Jewish Education Program, Facing History and Ourselves

Staci Rosenthal is a Senior Program Associate on the Jewish Education team at Facing History and Ourselves, where she provides professional development for teachers in Jewish settings across the country. She holds a Master's in Anthropology which she combines with deep knowledge of... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Jewish Identity History/Holocaust/Antisemitism Teens Bar/Bat Mitzvah

11:00am EDT

Jewish Placemaking: Exploring Jewish Text for Empathy Building

Jewish Placemaking is the pedagogy in development at Makom Community's Lab School in Philadelphia. When our learners engage with Jewish wisdom from a place of personal relevance, joy, and a deep willingness to question and challenge, both the learners and the text are transformed. We will share the guiding principles for Jewish Placemaking, invite you in to experience text study for empathy as a participant, and ask you to reflect on what you’ve learned and how this modality could be powerful in your setting. Come ready to play, question, and add your voice to the long line of interpreters of Jewish tradition. This session will provide you a framework to strengthen text in your schools, at faculty meetings, and for engaging families.

Speakers

Beverly Socher-Lerner

Beverly Socher-Lerner is the founder and Executive Director of Makom Community in Philadelphia. Beverly received a B.A. in Jewish Studies from the University of Maryland and an M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania in Jewish Education. As Beverly continues building community... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 3052

Models of Jewish Education Bible/Text

11:00am EDT

What does it mean to be a learner? The Ten Commandments of Learning, Teaching and Growing

What does Jewish tradition tell us about effective learning, teaching and growth? We'll explore a plethora of texts to ground ourselves in the very relevant ancient wisdom of our tradition to deepen our own openness to learning and growth and to help the learners (and everyone) in our lives approach their learning with openness, humility, bravery, collaboration, diligence and more!

Speakers

Abby Eisenberg

Founder & Lead Educator, Judaics Tutoring NYC

Abby Eisenberg is founder and lead educator of Judaics Tutoring NYC, where she and her team of tutors work with curious learners of all ages, facilitating personalized text-based Jewish learning. Abby teaches adults at the 92NY, Manhattan JCC, My Jewish Learning and officiates lifecycle... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Pedagogy Torah L'shma

11:00am EDT

Storytelling for young learners

Join Jewish storytellers and educators Morah Leora and Ms. Eve as they share techniques for creating interactive and
engaging storytelling experiences for young learners. These techniques can be incorporated into lesson plans for both Judaic and secular curriculums. We will explore finding, shaping and the sharing of stories and ways to apply storytelling in the classroom.

Jigzi: Explore Jigzi - the new innovative platform and tool to make learning in your school engaging, inspiring and fun.

Easily find and share interactive lessons that will enrich your Judaic and Hebrew lessons. Easily create your own interactive games with Jigzi’s game generators for any level! Easily design digital resources using Jigzi’s automatic design for every Jewish Holiday and thousands of Israel, Hebrew and Jewish stickers! Delivered in English. Suitable for Judaics and Hebrew teachers K-6th Grade.

Speakers

Sammy Morhaim

Global Community Director, Jewish Interactive

Sammy Morhaim is the Global Community Director & Senior Educator at Jewish Interactive (Ji) and manages Ji's training services and content development & delivery. Sammy was previously Head of Jewish Studies at the King David School Manchester, an outstanding school, where he also... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 3051

Teaching Tools & Techniques Hebrew Technology Product

11:00am EDT

It’s Positively Torah! The Magical Elixir of Torah & Positive Character Strengths

What do Abraham, Miriam, and other bible heroes teach us about becoming our best selves? You will learn about the VIA Institute’s 24 positive character strengths and how we, like bible heroes, use these strengths. This positive strength-based approach explores Torah narratives while enriching our understanding of how our personal strengths impact us, our relationships, our world, and deepen our connection to Judaism. You will sample activities and discussions from our student text Positively Torah, designed for grades 5-8. You will leave with practical ideas and strategies to empower each of your students and transform your classroom culture and curriculum to uncover and nurture what is best in each of us.

Speakers

Susan Tessel

Susan Tessel is the co-creator of "Positively Torah" which combines positive psychology and Torah Study. She completed doctoral work at JTS. She has taught in Day school, Public school and Supplementary schools. Susan served as Director of the Westchester Teacher’s Center, and at... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 2008

Values and Ethics Bible/Text Product

11:00am EDT

Grounding Ourselves in the Earth: New Approaches to Jewish Ecological Awareness

As our community and world come to grips with the realities of climate change, we have a well of traditions and practices to draw upon to more deeply root ourselves in our place Jews who care about the Earth. In this session, Rabbi Andrue Kahn (editor of the new book The Sacred Earth: Jewish Perspectives on our Planet from CCAR Press) will share theologies, practices, and prayers to help us guide our intergeneration communities toward a new, more vital orientation and relationship with the Earth.

Speakers

Rabbi Andrue J. Kahn

Rabbi Andrue J. Kahn (he/they) is Associate Director of Yachad and Adult Education and Congregation Beth Elohim in Brooklyn, NY. Rabbi Kahn is the editor of The Sacred Earth: Jewish Perspectives on Our Planet (CCAR Press, 2023) and was ordained at Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
UNIV 2012

Values and Ethics Social Justice

12:30pm EDT

Cohort Lunches

Monday at lunch is going to be a great opportunity to get to know others who do the same kind of work you do. This is a social occasion and there is no leader at the table. Talk among yourselves.
There will be signs on each table. Find your people.
Early Childhood
Day School teachers
Hebrew Teachers
Bar Mitzvah tutors
Cantors
Rabbis
People from Small Jewish communities
People in the Arts
Supplementary School Teachers (2 tables)
Supplementary school Principals (2 tables)
Independent Schools
Entrepreneurs
Teen Educators
LEEP
Miscellaneous

Monday July 29, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
Student Center Café

Meals and Breaks

2:05pm EDT

The Future of Independent Jewish Education Initiatives in America

Join a panel discussion with independent Jewish educators Debbi Ballard, Abby Eisenberg, Carla Friend, Debbie Jaffe, and Beverly Socher-Lerner. Learn about each of these passionate Jewish educators' initiatives, as well as their successes and challenges. How do their initiatives differ (and how are they similar) to synagogue and other programs? Can independent Jewish education and synagogue-based education initiatives collaborate in some ways? How can different kinds of Jewish education settings learn from each other and offer deeply meaningful and rich Jewish experiences?

Speakers

Debbi Ballard

Cantor Debbi Ballard has been an innovator of Jewish education since the age of 13. Today, as an Independent Cantor, Debbi creates personalized lifecycle events for self directed families around the world, and in 2008, she created Edjewcation Station, a modern approach to Independent... Read More →

Abby Eisenberg

Founder & Lead Educator, Judaics Tutoring NYC

Carla Friend

Founder & Executive Director, Tkiya Music

Carla Friend is the Founder & Executive Director of Tkiya, an organization with the mission of creating joyful Jewish connection through participatory music experiences. Her team of 16 help thousands of families across the country find their unique connection with Jewish culture and... Read More →

debbie jaffe

East Coast Director, Hebrew Helpers

Debbie Jaffe is the East Coast Director of Hebrew Helpers. Debbie has been teaching kids how to read Torah since she was 15 years old and has mentored hundreds of students for their Bar/Bat mitzvah services in Philadelphia, New York, and Los Angeles since 2000. Her mission is not... Read More →

Beverly Socher-Lerner

Monday July 29, 2024 2:05pm - 3:05pm EDT
UNIV 2008

The Summit on the Future of Jewish Education

2:05pm EDT

The Key Issues Facing Early Childhood Education

Join Paula Hoffman, Tamar Andrews and Allison Charapp as we discuss and explore the current Jewish teacher shortage in early childhood education along with the impact of public schools offering preschool programs as this impacts enrollment in our Jewish ECCs. We will also chat about the values and challenges of current educational approaches in ECE.

Speakers

Paula Hoffman

Monday July 29, 2024 2:05pm - 3:05pm EDT
UNIV 2010

The Summit on the Future of Jewish Education Early Childhood Education

2:05pm EDT

The Future of Jewish Education in America: From Census to Possibilities

Join a dialogue between Rabbi Jennifer Ossakow Goldsmith and Debbie Niederman focusing on the research done by the Jewish Education Project of Jewish supplementary schools in America. This report reveals new census data showing significant changes and presents deep insights and opportunities to move the field on an exciting path forward. This session will include an overview of the national data. Jennifer was in charge of this research, and Debbie will probe her about the conclusions. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and to respond from your experience in the field.

Speakers

Jennifer Goldsmith

Rabbi Jennifer Goldsmith is the Managing Director, Professional Development & Growth (National) at The Jewish Education Project in New York. Jennifer received her BA from the University of Michigan and rabbinic ordination and MA in Religious Education from HUC-JIR. Jennifer’s work... Read More →

Deborah Niederman

Monday July 29, 2024 2:05pm - 3:05pm EDT
UNIV 2002

The Summit on the Future of Jewish Education Models of Jewish Education

2:05pm EDT

You Can Be The Future of Jewish Storytelling: NewCAJE RISE Continuation Ceremony and Conversation

We are indeed the People of the Story. We warmly invite all of you to come kvel with NewCAJE RISE: the Renewing Initiative for Storytelling in Education. Experience the Continuation Ceremony of our third Cohort of Jewish Educators who have learned about Jewish Story and Storytelling and how it can infuse new life into teaching at all age levels. After the ceremony, we will talk with all who may be interested in joining this dynamic program. We invite our past two Cohorts to join us, too, in conversation celebrating the central place of Story in Jewish education and life. Hear from RISE Cohorts and Faculty about NewCAJE RISE future programs, ask questions, and consider your own possibilities. We RISE in Story!

Speakers

Karen Golden

Cantor Evelyn “Ms. Eve” Goldfinger

Jewish Educational Theatre Director, Torahtron, Jewish Educational Theatre

Leora Lazarus

Batya Podos

Maggidah Batya Podos is a storyteller and educator who brings Jewish stories to life in the classroom and communities. She is Director of Education for Nahalat Shalom in Albuquerque and Co-Director of the NewCAJE RISE Storytelling Initiative. Batya directs the annual NM Jewish Storytelling... Read More →

Cherie Karo Schwartz

Storyteller, Author, Educator, (self)

Monday July 29, 2024 2:05pm - 3:05pm EDT
UNIV 2006

The Summit on the Future of Jewish Education Storytelling

2:05pm EDT

The Future of Online Jewish Education: Building Connections, Inspiring Minds

Discover the transformative power of online Jewish education. Join us for a panel discussion featuring Atlanta Hebrew Connection's skilled online educators. Explore the research, insights from parents, students, and educational leaders, and learn about the engagement, measurable results, and community benefits of online learning. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation and embrace accessible, high-quality learning in the digital age.

Speakers

Rafi Glazer

Kelli Haar

Heidi Lovitz

Senior Managing Director, ShalomLearning

Ella Metuki

Manager, Online Educational Content, The Jewish Education Project

Ilissa Nelson

Amy Ripps

Monday July 29, 2024 2:05pm - 3:05pm EDT
UNIV 2004

The Summit on the Future of Jewish Education Technology

3:05pm EDT

Helping Learners Thrive: Jewish Education at its Best

Jewish education at its best helps our learners to answer: Who Am I? How do I understand being in relationship and community? How do I understand my responsibility in the world? And how do I understand my relationship to God and spirituality? At this workshop, participants will explore a new framework, MAP (My Aspirations Playbook) that articulates the ways in which Jewish education can respond to a young person’s questions about themselves and the world they live in. This framework offers educators a set of outcomes that incorporate a depth of knowledge, the opportunity for meaning making, and guidelines for thriving. After exploring the framework, participants will have the opportunity to brainstorm ways to apply this tool in their communities.

Speakers

Jennifer Goldsmith

Monday July 29, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Jewish Identity

3:30pm EDT

And Rahel Cried -Infertility and Pregnancy loss

How do we support those dealing with Infertility and pregnancy loss as a community and within our institutions? Come explore and share our personal stories and what is available in the Jewish community today. There are a lot more resources out there now. How do we get the larger community to support those who need it? Most of all it will be a chance to share our stories and how our Jewish communities supported and failed to support us. How can we make a change?

Speakers

Cheryl Cash-Linietsky

HTM/Hebrew Reading Specialist Jewish studies grades 2/3, Park Slope Jewish Center/Yeshivat Bitachon

Monday July 29, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2012

Self Care

3:30pm EDT

Werewolves, Demons, and Magic: The Fullness of Jewish Storytelling

The mysticism, magic, and variety of characters in Jewish Folktales reflect the richness of the human imagination, as well as the tapestry of cultures and history that is woven into Jewish storytelling. Gerald Fierst is a well known storyteller who has been featured at CAJE and Limmud, as well as at schools, festivals, and organizations around the world. Join him to hear the unexpected and to discuss how Jewish storytelling can be used to entertain and educate all ages.

Speakers

Gerald Fierst

Monday July 29, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Storytelling The Arts

3:30pm EDT

A Student-Centered Approach to Hebrew Learning: Meeting Today’s Learners In A More Accessible Way

Today’s Jewish Educators recognize the demand for accessible, engaging Hebrew education that is student-centered, adaptable, and renders positive results. This hands-on session will explore some of the tools and techniques. ShalomLearning educators have mastered engaging students online and on-site in the physical classroom using fun interactive tools that meet today’s students' interests. We will also examine digital tools for student-directed assessment.

Speakers

Shira Sender

Relationship Manager, ShalomLearning

Brianna Caplan Sayres

Intergalactic Afikoman

Monday July 29, 2024 3:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
UNIV 3048

The Arts

5:00pm EDT

Break

Monday July 29, 2024 5:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Second Floor Foyer

Meals and Breaks

5:30pm EDT

So You Want to be a Rabbi or Cantor

Colleagues, have you been thinking of becoming a rabbi or cantor? Has it ever crossed you mind? Join the Academy for Jewish Religion (AJR) as it hosts a round table discussion of seminary life leading to a rewarding career as members of the clergy. We are inviting representatives of the other major seminaries to join the discussion so you can have the conversation you want to have with the institutions you are considering. Hear what it is like to be a second or third career learner and allow yourself to dream!

Speakers

Matthew Goldstone

Assistant Academic Dean, Academy for Jewish Religion

Matthew Goldstone is the Assistant Academic Dean at the Academy for Jewish Religion where he teaches advanced classes in Talmud and Jewish law.

Michael Kasper

Dean of Cantorial Studies and Dean of Student Life, Academy for Jewish Religion

Michael Kasper is Dean of Cantorial Studies and Student Life at the Academy for Jewish Religion (AJR). As someone who has had careers as a dancer/choreographer, social worker/psychoanalyst, and Cantor he is acutely aware of the anxieties, joys, and dreams of the adult student wanting... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Adult Education Self care

5:30pm EDT

Torah Cantillation 101

How do folks who know how to chant from the Torah learn what the melody is supposed to sound like? What are those funny little markings in the Torah study texts that are not consonants or vowels? Could I decode those markings too? Discover the basics of the Torah chanting system developed many centuries ago which continues to reveal Torah’s beauty and meaning today, using fun and interactive approaches!

Speakers

Channa Schachet-Briskin

Wally Schachet-Briskin

Cantor, Temple Shaari Emeth of Manalapan, NJ

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2004

Bar/Bat Mitzvah Adult Education

5:30pm EDT

From Sacred Text to Big Ideas: Philosophical Inquiry with Bible

Philosophers of all ages inquire into the meaning of contestable concepts in order to understand the ethical dimensions of our experience, to make sound judgments, and to take appropriate action. Engaging Texts engages young people in communities of philosophical inquiry that combine rigorous exploration of Biblical texts with community building and rich Jewish content knowledge. This workshop combines studying a text ourselves this way with watching a video of students doing so and reflecting on the experience. Participants will learn practical strategies for deepening Bible inquiry in their contexts. This session is relevant for Teachers, Education Directors, Rabbis, and Cantors.

Speakers

Jen Glaser

Dr. Jen Glaser is founder of Engaging Texts (www.engagingtexts.com), offering professionaldevelopment and a network for Jewish educators seeking to create educational environmentsthat empower students to construct meaningful identities, a sense of purpose, and activeengagement in... Read More →

Maughn Gregory

Prof. Maughn Gregory directs the Institute for the Advancement of Philosophy for Children atMontclair State University—the world’s oldest organization devoted to young people’sphilosophical practice (www.montclair.edu). He co-edits the Routledge series Philosophy forChildren... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2012

Bible/Text Teaching Tools & Techniques

5:30pm EDT

The fun of Hebrew & Shabbat for Preschoolers. Developing identity & Belonging.

This workshop is intended for teachers who teach pre-school and the early grades. The goal is to teach Hebrew and Shabbat in an intensive and fun way that makes an impact on their Jewish identity. In this session, we will share the methodology that we use at Congregation B’nai Israel in Milburn, New Jersey. You will learn how to teach Shabbat and Hebrew songs by creating games, puzzles and crafts. We will share how we set tasks for the children in the classroom and how to use Hebrew name tags, a shabbat kit and Tzedakah box to reinforce their learning.

Speakers

Maya Bloom

Maya Bloom was born and raised in Jerusalem. Currently teaching at Congregation B’Nai Israel in Millburn, NJ. She has masters degrees in Science and Education from Hebrew University in Jerusalem. With over 40+ years teaching experience at Hebrew Schools throughout the US to different... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2010

Early Childhood Education Hebrew Holidays/Lifecycle

5:30pm EDT

Grabbing the Brass Ring and Holding Tight: Connecting Families to your Synagogue, Jewish Life & Learning, and Each Other

This session is geared for those who have family education programs or who are in the process of implementing family ed in their school. Are you planning to strengthen family engagement this year? Wondering what little and big things you can do that will make a difference? Do you have a successful family engagement program and are willing to share what you have learned? This session will focus on the latest understanding of what works and what doesn’t in family education and some best practices in this critical part of our sacred work.

Speakers

Ronni Ticker

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2011

Family Education

5:30pm EDT

Hebrew Through Movement: Bring your teaching to the next level!

If you have been teaching Hebrew Through Movement for at least a year then this session is for you! Together we will explore the successes and challenges of teaching HTM and focus on the more advanced skills of teaching holiday and prayer-related vocabulary. Sample pages from the updated HTM curriculum guide (free download) will be shared. It's a great opportunity to begin planning for the fall. Education directors and supervisors are also welcome. NOTE: This session is not for newbies to HTM; we are starting from an advanced beginner or intermediate level.

Speakers

Nachama Skolnik 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 July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 3051

Hebrew

5:30pm EDT

Tools for Creating Engaging Holocaust Commemorations for Jewish and Interfaith Audiences

In this time of rising antisemitism, it is crucial that we make the story of the Holocaust feel relevant and resonant to everyone. Almost 80 years since liberation, the Holocaust can seem like ancient history. In this workshop, we will discuss and demonstrate how to create engaging Holocaust commemorations for Jewish audiences and, separately, for interfaith audiences. We will base these commemorations around a new ritual entitled Light from the Darkness: a ritual for Holocaust remembrance. We will demonstrate how to use this ritual in combination with storytelling, music, poetry, and targeted audience-participation questions to create a commemoration that is not only powerful and moving but actually draws the audience into the conversation.

Speakers

Deborah Fripp

Deborah Fripp is the Executive Director of Teach the Shoah. Our mission is to ensure that the story of the Holocaust lives and remains relevant and resonant to everyone. She is the author of Light from the Darkness: A Ritual for Yom HaShoah. She blogs about the Holocaust for the Times... Read More →

Jennifer Zunikoff

Storyteller. Educator. Coach, Grow Us a Jewish Story

Jennifer Zunikoff is a Jewish storyteller who blends traditional texts with her original interpretations. She is a poet, educator, author, facilitator, and storytelling coach. She is the Storytelling Director for Teach the Shoah and the founder/director of The Golden Door: Storytelling... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 3048

History/Holocaust/Antisemitism Product

5:30pm EDT

Educational Sleuthing: Uncovering Participant Needs and Building Relationships with Families

Responding to the diverse needs of children and teens in formal and informal settings, takes a careful intake process and ongoing contact that engages with families and dials down parental fear. It’s thoughtful detective work to understand the situation from both angles - the family’s and yours. We’ll talk about getting parents on board as support partners by listening to their wishes and concerns. We’ll discuss practical ideas for asking the ‘right questions,’ as well as how to read between the lines of intake information in order to find out what you need to know for building relationships that will mean successful inclusion.

Speakers

Jennifer Saber

Jewish Education Coordinator, ORT America

Jennifer Saber is Jewish Education Coordinator for ORT America and Consultant for Shutaf Inclusion Programs. She served as Inclusion Specialist for Milwaukee Jewish Federation. Jennifer received a Master’s Degree in Jewish Communal Service, concentrating in Jewish education, from... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2013

Inclusion Administration/School Directors Bar/Bat Mitzvah

5:30pm EDT

"Whoever saves a soul is considered as if they saved the entire world": a look at modern Israel's values in action

How has Israel, both secular and religious, incorporated Jewish values into the day to day lives of the people and the legal system? We will examine the idea that "Whoever saves a soul is considered as if they saved the entire world". Where does this idea originate? How is this idea embodied in Israeli culture? We will also see how this value appears in other religions, cultures and countries, and (being Jews), we will end the session with an optimistic story

Speakers

Ary Shaviv

Ary Shaviv, born and raised in Israel, is a Mathematician. In 2019, upon completing his PhD in Mathematics at Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, he moved to New Jersey with his wife and (then 2) boys, where he spent 3 years conducting research and teaching at Princeton University... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Israel Values and Ethics Adult Education

5:30pm EDT

Positively Torah & More! The Magical Elixir of Jewish Learning & Positive Character Strengths

How can we adapt any lesson to nurture our learners’ positive character strengths and help them become their best selves? In this session, we will apply methods used in Positively Torah by studying various subject areas through the lens of character strengths.This approach elevates Jewish studies to leverage positive character strengths to shape classroom culture and build community. We will explore how Jewish values, such as Hakarat Hatov (recognizing the good), can be incorporated into your classroom to promote supportive relationships. This workshop provides practical ideas and strategies that are the foundation for a magical elixir combining Jewish values and positive character strengths to help your learners thrive.

Speakers

Susan Tessel

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2008

Values and Ethics Bible/Text product

5:30pm EDT

Maggid, Melody, And Mussar: The Transformational Path To Healing And Wholeness Through Story And Music Workshop, Part I

The Maggid tells a story. The melodies emerge and lead us to discover our path to healing and wholeness.

Come join Maggidot Helene and Chana in a playful journey through Reb Nachman’s The Water Palace. Together we will discover the remedies hidden within the story. Our mouths, hands, eyes and ears will help our souls reveal the Mussar work we each need to do to refine our middot (characteristics) and begin to transform the confusing labyrinth of life into a glittering light filled path to healing and wholeness.

This two-part workshop culminates in the team creation of music and art. If you miss part one, please contact us in order to see if we can catch you up for part II.

Speakers

Helene Kates

The Baal Shem Tones, Peradam Productions

Chana Stein

Maggida-Omanit

Monday July 29, 2024 5:30pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2006

Values and Ethics Spirituality Storytelling The Arts

7:00pm EDT

Dinner

Monday July 29, 2024 7:00pm - 8:15pm EDT
Student Center Café

Meals and Breaks

7:45pm EDT

Mincha/Maariv

Monday July 29, 2024 7:45pm - 8:15pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Prayer and Gathering

8:30pm EDT

Monday Evening Concert

Helene Kates - Daniel Cainer
Joanie Leeds
Leora Lazarus & Evelyn Goldfinger
Nefesh Mountain

Monday July 29, 2024 8:30pm - 10:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Evening Program

8:30pm EDT

Draw Your Own Torah Comics

Have a wonderful evening learning to draw comics from the Torah with Andrew Galitzer. No experience required!

Speakers

Andrew Galitzer

Creator, TORAH COMICS

Andrew, aka AND-i-DREW, is passionate about teaching Torah through comics. In 6th-grade, he started drawing Torah Comics, educational comic strips for every Torah Portion. Last year, he fulfilled his dream by publishing the Torah Comic Book! He loves to visit schools to teach cartooning... Read More →

Monday July 29, 2024 8:30pm - 10:00pm EDT
UNIV 2002

The Arts Torah L'shma

7:00am EDT

Breakfast

Tuesday July 30, 2024 7:00am - 8:00am EDT
Student Center Café

Meals and Breaks

7:00am EDT

Morning Minyan

Tuesday July 30, 2024 7:00am - 8:00am EDT
UNIV 2002

Prayer and Gathering

8:30am EDT

It is not far from you: How Sefaria empowers students and educators

For most of Jewish history access to traditional literature was limited to a select few, but today Sefaria gives access to hundreds of titles and millions of words in Hebrew, English, and more languages. While being introduced to Sefaria’s library and resources, participants will be shown dynamic ways to use Sefaria’s website and app that can be used to deepen the learning experience, and give ownership over thousands of years of Jewish literature, for students, their families, and educators alike. No background in Hebrew language text or digital technology necessary.

Speakers

Justin Goldstein

Learning Coordinator, Sefaria

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2008

Bible/Text Technology

8:30am EDT

Jewish Family Engagement through a Values-Based Lens

As early childhood educators and family engagement professionals, we have a strong sense of what those in our community need, seek and desire - but what can happen when we ask those families in our community for their feedback - and how can our efforts grow when our lay and professional partners support our efforts in meaningful and tangible ways? In this session, we'll unpack these questions and many more as we examine our work through a values-based lens, and together, we can grow and strengthen our communities.

Speakers

Explore the overlap between the ancient healing practice of Qigong and Judaism. We will learn how to become more present in our bodies, increase mindfulness, and connect more deeply with our spirituality. Engage in a series of easy, fluid, meditative movements, combined with prayer and Jewish philosophy. All ages and fitness levels are welcome.

Speakers

Mark Getten

Cantorial Soloist, Congregation Beth David

Mark Getten is Cantorial Soloist at Congregation Beth David, San Luis Obispo, CA and principal of the synagogue's school. He is a certified teacher of Qigong and loves to teach others this ancient healing practice. He believes strongly in taking a holistic approach to caring for our... Read More →

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2031

Self Care

8:30am EDT

Top Dos and Don'ts of the Job Search Process in the Jewish Space (and Beyond!)

Will you be looking for your next employment opportunity in the near future? Are you in charge of hiring team members to join your organization? Many candidates have talents to share but need help showcasing their best selves. There are many useful hints, dos and don'ts that help the job search and hiring processes to be highly successful and professional. In this session, we will explore some of the mistakes candidates make when applying for positions, and we will look at some of the best practices that yield successful employment matches. Whether part or full time, working in the Jewish community is rewarding and meaningful. Let's discuss how to optimize the job seeking experience and help applicants to get the job offers they want the most.

Speakers

Rabbi Beth Kramer-Mazer

Rabbi Beth Kramer-Mazer is the Director of Placement & Assistant Dean of Student Life at the AJR New York. She served in the Reform congregational setting for over twenty-five years, bringing dynamic leadership to Jewish life, as both an educator and Rabbi. She fondly remembers traveling... Read More →

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2012

Self Care

8:30am EDT

Using ShalomLearning’s Torah Aura Hebrew Program (ShalomLearning Educators Only)

This session is for educators using ShalomLearning’s Torah Aura Hebrew program this fall. Participants will receive hands-on training to prepare for their first class and access materials. Connect with other ShalomLearning educators, gain from the experience of long-time ShalomLearning partners, and have fun!

Speakers

Heidi Lovitz

Senior Managing Director, ShalomLearning

Shira Sender

Relationship Manager, ShalomLearning

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2004

Shalom Learning

8:30am EDT

Maggid, Melody, And Mussar: The Transformational Path To Healing And Wholeness Through Story And Music Workshop, Part II

Speakers

Helene Kates

The Baal Shem Tones, Peradam Productions

Chana Stein

Maggida-Omanit

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2006

Spirituality Storytelling Values and Ethics Storytelling Spirituality The Arts

8:30am EDT

PUNCH AND JUDAISM - Using stories and puppetry for Imagination training.

In this interactive workshop you will learn about the uses of puppets—an ancient art form, to engage and educate your students by using stories to teach values and history --all the while having fun in the Jewish classroom. Using simple materials that are hardy yet easily obtainable, Marilyn will show you how to stretch the imagination of all your students so that they begin to relax into their lessons and make the subject their own. You will learn how to draw upon current issues and the rich offerings of Judaism past and present with humor and an emphasize on your student’s ability to achieve.

Speakers

Marilyn Price

Marilyn Price is an international award-winning storyteller/puppeteer, educator, author and partner in a non-profit educational foundation, www.tribraining.org. that provides professional development and research in differentiated learning. She tells across the country in libraries... Read More →

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2011

Storytelling Teaching Tools & Techniques The Arts

8:30am EDT

Putting the Learner at the Center: Lesson Planning for Today

We love to engage children in learning, yet that job is getting tougher. Attention spans are way down. Distraction is way up. How do we choose what to prioritize? This session presents a 4-part lesson planning template that gains student buy-in to the learning and provides a framework that teaches Jewish content, incorporates experiential learning, and intentionally provides opportunities for reflection. This framework has been used successfully with all ages and stages from kindergarten through adult learners.

Speakers

Ronni Ticker

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 2002

Teaching Tools & Techniques

8:30am EDT

Saying Yes, And: Bringing Improv and Theatre Games into your Classroom

Improv and theater games are a wonderful way to infuse playfulness into any setting, and a powerful tool in creating a sense of community and belonging among learners. In this session for K-5 educators we will learn some basic improv rules, experience how they play out through games, and then reflect on how these might empower us and our learners, and how we can apply them to any subject. Each participant will have a chance to create and practice leading a short warm-up game designed for their own classroom. This is a hands-on, up-on-our-feet, learning-by-doing workshop. so come prepared to play and learn together!

Speakers

Ella Metuki

Manager, Online Educational Content, The Jewish Education Project

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
UNIV 3048

Teaching Tools & Techniques The Arts

10:00am EDT

Break

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
Second Floor Foyer

Meals and Breaks

10:30am EDT

Our Sacred Text as a Tool for Understanding the Science of Pedagogy

Do you ever wonder where you can go to learn about how to be the best teacher you can be? In this workshop, we will travel through time to learn from the Rabbis of our sacred tradition. Our ancient texts are rich with applicable lessons to our work today. It turns out that the rabbis were brilliant pedagogues who really thought about the most effective (and affective) ways to meet learner needs. You will leave with a new understanding of how best to teach your students.

Speakers

Deborah Niederman

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 2012

Bible/Text Pedagogy Torah L'Shma

10:30am EDT

Writing Your Own Torah: Creative Expression as a Source for Personal Discovery - Torah Through Arts

This last commandment in the Torah, (Deut. 31:19) tells us to each write our own Torah, to teach it, and bring it to the mouths of others. Art is a powerful tool to bring our unique selves into the text and to engage our students. Writing our own Torah empowers us and our students to find our voices and deepen our understanding and connection. Andrea will share from her new Torah song cycle “She Flows From Eden," and share her writing process. Then, after small group text study, participants will be guided to tap into their artistic expression, discovering and sharing new insights gained through individual writing. "Torah Through Arts" includes this session and Hillel Smith’s Parsha Posters session, both of which explore art making as a tool for deeper Torah study. Attendance at both is encouraged, but not required.

Speakers

Andrea Shupack

Cantorial Soloist

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 3048

Bible/Text The Arts

10:30am EDT

Shake Your Sillies Out: Movement Songs for Kids Who Can’t Sit Still

Everybody has at least one kid in their music class who cannot sit in one place for very long. Let’s meet these kids where they are by choosing songs that will musically engage them and give them a way to shake their sillies out. It will decrease the amount of time you spend disciplining and increase the engagement on the part of every child in your class. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Speakers

Ellen Allard

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 2010

Early Childhood Education The Arts Teaching Tools & Techniques

10:30am EDT

I do that and its Jewish?: Engaging the entire family in hands on mitzvot

Family engagement in middle school is essential and can lead to stronger involvement for teenagers.In this session, you will learn how to make meaning out of becoming a Jewish adult through mitzvot. We will cover how to connect your learners to their families, their classroom community and the larger community. You will see how to engage middle school families in hands on learning and mitzvot. You will learn how to meet each teen where they are and teach the entire child and not just their Jewish self.

Speakers

Ilene Cohen

Director of Youth Education & Engagement, Temple Sholom

Jennifer Zunikoff

Storyteller. Educator. Coach, Grow Us a Jewish Story

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 3051

Storytelling History/Holocaust/Antisemitism

10:30am EDT

The Puppet Panel

Something magical happens when you bring out the puppets. They provide a bridge into learning and sharing that few other “teaching tools” can. In this class, you will meet puppeteers and learn the ways they use puppets in the classroom. You will create and enliven your own puppet from simple materials, and gain skills to teach your students to do the same as you bring puppets into your curriculum and into your work with all ages of students. You will leave with resources to pursue puppetry further.

Speakers

Cantor Evelyn “Ms. Eve” Goldfinger

Jewish Educational Theatre Director, Torahtron, Jewish Educational Theatre

Leora Lazarus

Batya Podos

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 2006

Storytelling Teaching Tools & Techniques Early Childhood Education

10:30am EDT

It’s All Under Control: How to Manage Your Classroom Effectively (Without Changing Your Personality!)

Many teachers take on the classroom with little to no training in effective classroom management, leading to frustrating days of teaching and a likelihood of fast burnout. Explore effective measures to create a calm, safe, and positive learning environment where students feel motivated and inspired to learn and there is mutual respect all around. Topics include but are not limited to: establishing and maintaining rules and procedures, gaining students’ trust and respect, and dealing with difficult behavior challenges. Leave the session more confident and prepared to teach your next group of students.

Speakers

Sari Kopitnikoff

Creator, That Jewish Moment

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 2004

Teaching Tools & Techniques

10:30am EDT

Getting at the Core: The “Why” of t’fillah with school-age kids

We take it for granted that it’s important to do t’fillah with our young people- but why? Looking at the science of spirituality, we’ll explore how t’fillah has the incredible, counter-cultural potential to strengthen the spiritual core of our students. Why does this matter, and how can we make it happen? We’ll ask questions, go deep, and dream big about the potential for t’fillah transformation.

Speakers

Eliana Light

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Tefillah/Prayer

10:30am EDT

Content is important (of course), but relationships with your students are more important

In this session I will share what I learned from illness about being a better teacher and a better Jew. Not everything that happens to you is positive, but you can certainly learn from every experience. Join me to hear how I gained a new perspective on my Jewish practice and on the prayers I read every day. I will share with you the methods I now use to create authentic personal connections with students which lead to better student outcomes.

Speakers

Eric Yaakov Traiger

Rabbi Eric Yaakov Traiger was ordained in 1995 by RRC and earned two private semichot as well. He has been a Middle School Judaic Studies teacher for over 30 years. Currently he teaches Talmud and Halacha to grades seven and eight at the Golda Och Academy in West Orange, NJ.

Tuesday July 30, 2024 10:30am - 12:00pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Tefillah/Prayer Teens Teaching Tools & Techniques self care

10:30am EDT

Judaism’s 10 Best Ideas

Tuesday July 30, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
UNIV 2010

Early Childhood Education

2:15pm EDT

Beit Midrash in the Beit Am: A Mastery-Based Approach to Prayer Learning

During and immediately after the year we were on Zoom due to COVID, we noticed a significant drop in the Hebrew skills of our students. We experimented with a variety of approaches to the problem. Over the course of about 6 months, we moved our 4th-7th grade Hebrew from a grade-based classroom experience to a mastery-based beit midrash experience. In this session we will share how we did it, including space considerations, staffing needs, tracking devices and other aspects of the program. Our students are now motivated and confident when they approach a new prayer. They also work with and support one another. This program is now the focal point of our midweek classes and our students truly enjoy walking into the Beit Am to start their day.

Speakers

Cathy Kaplan

Director of Religious School & Family Programming, Beth Meyer Synagogue

Managing Editor, Pitome Publishing, LLC

Stephanie Marshall

Jewish Education Manager, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston

Tuesday July 30, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
UNIV 2006

Storytelling Values and Ethics

2:15pm EDT

Supporting Students in Owning and Expressing Their Learning

In this workshop, teachers will learn how to create effective, engaging activities that furnish a full view of students’ understanding and knowledge of the content. Giving students an opportunity to “show what they know” in creative and authentic expressions of learning and allowing a wide range of intelligences to be expressed, provides a more comprehensive view of the students’ understanding of the material. It also gives them the chance to exercise critical thinking skills and aid them in application of the content. Additionally, because they provide an enjoyable means for conveying information, students will have positive associations with their Jewish education and retain information.

Speakers

Batsheva Frankel

Educational Consultant, New Lens Ed

Tuesday July 30, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Teaching Tools & Techniques

2:15pm EDT

Teaching Boys

This session will explore the social pressures on boys, the complicated nature of boyhood in the current moment, and strategies for teaching boys that give them a sense of agency and purpose. In addition to exploring this element of the gender code, we'll look specifically at a Jewish model of masculinity outlined in Maimonides Hilchot De'ot and how it speaks to the challenges many boys are currently facing.

Speakers

Daniel Brenner

Tuesday July 30, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
UNIV 2008

Teaching Tools & Techniques Teens Bible/Text Bar/Bat Mitzvah product

2:15pm EDT

Meaningful Ways to Engage Your Madrichim in the Classroom

Want to enhance your religious school classroom? One way to do this is by engaging your madrichim as committed classroom assistants. This session will provide you with ways to more successfully utilize madrichim in your classroom, not simply as an extra set of hands, but as a partner in educating your students. Learn about the success of the National Madrichim Fellowship as a model and indicator of how an investment in professional development for madrichim can lead to a more highly engaged classroom...and may even create future teachers!

Speakers

Erica Hruby

Erica Hruby is the Executive Director of JTEEN, the national network of Jewish teen professionals. She is also the founder of Anchored Parenting, serving as an educator and coach for tw/eens and parents. She is the Co-leader of New CAJE’s Madrichim training program. Erica has an... Read More →

Melissa Pescatore

Director of Religious Education, Temple Shaari Emeth

Melissa Pescatore is the Director of Religious Education at Temple Shaari Emeth in Manalapan, NJ. Serving as principal in the congregation where she grew up, she is passionate about instilling a love of learning and building a strong, positive Jewish identity in her students. She... Read More →

Tuesday July 30, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
UNIV 3048

Teens Administration/School Directors Bar/Bat Mitzvah

2:15pm EDT

Creating Creative Judaica

How can we design Jewish ritual objects that are meaningful as well as beautiful? How can we use art to encourage creative thinking about Jewish ritual and the holiday cycle? Artist Hillel Smith will speak about his creative process and considerations when making Jewish art projects of his own, and how he uses those frameworks to craft workshops he leads for participants of all ages. In between discussing various approaches to Jewish art-making, he will guide participants through brainstorming Judaica of their own.

Speakers

Hillel Smith

Artist & Educator

Tuesday July 30, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
UNIV 2012

The Arts Holidays/Lifecycle Family Education

3:45pm EDT

Break

Tuesday July 30, 2024 3:45pm - 4:15pm EDT
Second Floor Foyer

Meals and Breaks

4:15pm EDT

It's in the book: what should (adult) Jews learn?

In this session we'll discuss goals for adult Jewish learning and define topics that should be included. We'll review attempts at comprehensive, defined curricula such as Melton and Miller, plus some of the literature on adult religious education, share our experiences--successful and not--and brainstorm about substance and sequence, format, and marketing, primarily in the setting of a congregation.

Speakers

Paul Solyn

Executive Director, Jewish Center & Federation of the Twin Tiers

Director, #OnwardHebrew

Tuesday July 30, 2024 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
UNIV 3051

Hebrew

4:15pm EDT

Empowering Jewish Education: Unlocking ShalomLearning's Jewish Values and Hebrew Curriculum

ShalomLearning is a leading provider of Jewish education resources infused with educational technology. Discover how ShalomLearning helps schools by integrating Jewish values and a comprehensive Hebrew curriculum, ensuring a meaningful and impactful educational experience for students. We will delve into the teacher training and support provided by ShalomLearning, equipping educators with the tools and knowledge to effectively engage students online and on-site in their Jewish learning journey. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how ShalomLearning can elevate your Jewish education programs and inspire a lifelong love for Jewish learning in your students. This is a showcase of ShalomLearning's products.

Speakers

Shira Sender

Relationship Manager, ShalomLearning

Tuesday July 30, 2024 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Hebrew Technology Values and Ethics

4:15pm EDT

Telling Their Story

In this session, I will share strategies learned at the 2022 Yad Vashem Supplemental School Seminar, to support educators in teaching the Holocaust to younger students in ways both accessible emotionally, and educationally. These methods provide tools and the training needed to develop the skills to create content for Shoah studies that can be used in a variety of settings and time constraints. We are obliged to tell the stories of the survivors in their voices even when they have left us. Starting with one family's story, participants will learn how using first person narrative, family pictures, and personal artifacts can amplify their voices so that their experiences are not forgotten.

Speakers

Ramona Brand

Tuesday July 30, 2024 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
UNIV 2032

History/Holocaust/Antisemitism

4:15pm EDT

Picture Book Perfect Lesson-Planning: How to Incorporate Storybooks Creatively into your Jewish classroom

Picture books are windows into unknown worlds for children. They are also mirrors reflecting the children themselves. In this session, we will consider how to use picture books to enhance classroom learning, to explore our diverse Jewish world and to delve more deeply into the values that we hold dear. We will consider different methods of introducing picture books, how to utilize a picture book as more than just an introduction or lesson supplement and how to build a lesson plan from a picture book. Numerous picture books, both Jewish and secular, will be introduced and participants will leave with a resources for choosing picture books in the future. The session will be interactive and workshop oriented. Come ready to explore!

Speakers

Deborah Bodin Cohen

Deborah Bodin Cohen is an editor at Behrman House Publishing and Apples and Honey Press. She also serves as rabbi and education director of Beth Chai in Bethesda, MD. Debbie has published over a dozen award-winning children’s books, including the Engineer Ari series, Nachshon who... Read More →

Tuesday July 30, 2024 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
UNIV 2010

Storytelling Teaching Tools & Techniques Early Childhood Education

4:15pm EDT

Jewish Humor and Storytelling…From the Ridiculous to the Sublime: How Humor Saves Us And Sustains Us.

There is much data on humor being one of the best tools a teacher has to convey a lesson and make a lasting impression. Together with humor, great storytelling is what makes a good teacher a superlative teacher. From Jewish jokes (which are very, very short stories) to the “Wise Men Of Chelm” and beyond, we’ll explore how to use humorous stories to teach our students, from middle school to high school, about our culture, and the joy of being Jewish. We’ll tell you some stories, and hopefully, you’ll laugh. You’ll learn some techniques to tell us a joke or two, and make us laugh.

Speakers

Shiraz Biggie

Shiraz Biggie is the Hebrew Curriculum Specialist at Brooklyn Heights Synagogue. She is an adjunct lecturer at Brooklyn College and NYU, teaching courses in Jewish theatre, children’s literature, and fairytales.

Tuesday July 30, 2024 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
UNIV 3048

Teens Product

4:15pm EDT

The Siddur as Time Machine

Every important prayer in our liturgy is built on a seminal event in Jewish history. If you know the backstories of these prayers, and what they mean, a whole new perspective opens up. You will never come to the prayer or blessing the same way again. And if you teach, neither will your students.

Speakers

Ruz Gulko

Rabbi/Cantor/Educator, Gan Argaman

Ruz Gulko is a freelance rabbi, cantor, and educator, who is pushing 70 and getting more radical as she ages. She is passionate about Jewish texts, children, the planet, and gently making good trouble. Ruz believes that learning Torah and eating chocolate together could bring about... Read More →

Tuesday July 30, 2024 4:15pm - 5:45pm EDT
UNIV 2008

Tefillah/Prayer

6:00pm EDT

NewCAJE Shir Hallelu Chorale Practice

Speakers

Ellen Allard

Tuesday July 30, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
UNIV 2031

Chorale

6:00pm EDT

Exhibitor Reception

Have a glass of wine and meet the wonderful exhibitors in our Exhibition Hall

Tuesday July 30, 2024 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
Student Center Ballroom

Exhibitors

6:30pm EDT

Dinner

Tuesday July 30, 2024 6:30pm - 7:45pm EDT
Student Center Café

Meals and Breaks

7:30pm EDT

Mincha/Maariv

Tuesday July 30, 2024 7:30pm - 8:00pm EDT
UNIV 2002

Prayer and Gathering

8:00pm EDT

Evening Program

Tuesday July 30, 2024 8:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Evening Program

7:30am EDT

Morning Minyan

Wednesday July 31, 2024 7:30am - 8:00am EDT
UNIV 2002

Prayer and Gathering

7:30am EDT

Breakfast

Wednesday July 31, 2024 7:30am - 8:15am EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

9:00am EDT

Creating a Curriculum, Where Do I Start?

In this session we will discuss how to approach curriculum development based on your students' learning styles. We will learn how to build a curriculum that is interactive, effective, and engaging.

Speakers

Rabbi Joyce Siegel

Rabbi Joyce Siegel has experience teaching children and adults, family education, Religious School Director at both Reform and Conservative synagogues and has created interactive and engaging curricula for all ages. She currently resides in Boynton Beach, FL.

Wednesday July 31, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 3052

Administration/School Directors

9:00am EDT

Parents, Can't Live With Them, Can't Live Without Them

The participation of tw/teens in Jewish youth education and engagement programming is highly impacted by the role their parents play as a supporter, promoter, sharer, social networker, and more. This workshop will: (1) teach the difference between parent involvement and parent engagement and the role each has in youth education and engagement programming, (2) explore a variety of ways that parents can be programmatic partners, even as their own constituency, and (3) begin mapping out ways to implement a parent involvement and parent engagement plan for the 2023-2024 year and explore how engaging and involving parents leads to tangible teen participation results.

Speakers

Rel. School Teacher, Congregation Sinai

Davida Adelberg joins her training as a modern dancer with her love of Judaism as expressed in the “Gestural Alef-Bet,” which she learned from the Embodied Jewish Wisdom Network, an organization based in Berkeley, CA. Currently in the EJW Advanced Teacher Training program, she... Read More →

Wednesday July 31, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 3051

Hebrew The Arts

9:00am EDT

Teaching children about Jewish death traditions

Many in the Jewish community lack basic knowledge of important Jewish traditions around death and mourning. In this session, I will present a new curriculum I am writing on this topic and ask for your feedback. The Jewish Association for Death Education is developing this six-part curriculum to teach students of all ages key elements to understanding Jewish death and mourning concepts, rooted in ancient practices yet enormously comforting and beneficial in today’s challenging world. The curriculum has six broad themes – appreciation, comfort, memory, honor, care and reflection. These can tie into your teaching about ethical wills, shiva, cemeteries, shmirah, burial, taharah and the afterlife.

Speakers

David Zinner

David Zinner is board chair of the newly formed non-profit – JADE – Jewish Association for Death Education. JADE provides Jewish end of life education and resources for the Jewish community. David recently retired after 22 years as Executive Director of Kavod v'Nichum, (Honor... Read More →

Wednesday July 31, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2008

Holidays/Lifecycle

9:00am EDT

Using ShalomLearning’s JLearnHub Hebrew Program (ShalomLearning Educators Only)

This session is for educators using ShalomLearning’s JLearnHub Hebrew program this fall. Participants will receive hands-on training to prepare for their first class and access materials. Connect with other ShalomLearning educators, gain from the experience of long-time ShalomLearning partners, and have fun!

Speakers

Heidi Lovitz

Senior Managing Director, ShalomLearning

Shira Sender

Relationship Manager, ShalomLearning

Wednesday July 31, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
UNIV 2004

Shalom Learning

9:00am EDT

Va-ani Tefilati/I Am My Prayer

King David offered the text and technique to profoundly connect with the Creator. What insights are available in the various sections of standardized prayer? How many of us actually look forward to 3x/day prayer sessions? How many of our students run away or space out during prayer? We will examine techniques to make daily prayers personal and meaningful with powerful insights handed down throughout millennia of Jewish mindfulness tradition.

Speakers

The Arts Adult Education

12:30pm EDT

Lunch

Wednesday July 31, 2024 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Meals and Breaks

12:45pm EDT

Closing Ceremonies

Come together at the end of the conference to share your experiences. Time to say goodbye to old friends and new, and send each other off with songs and blessings for the new year.

Wednesday July 31, 2024 12:45pm - 1:15pm EDT
Conference Center Ballroom

Opening and Closing

1:30pm EDT

LEEP Session 3

Speakers

Eliana Light

Wednesday July 31, 2024 1:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

LEEP