Kindergarten Team
Grade One/Two Team
Grade Three and Four Team
Grade Five and Six Team
Specialists Team
Resource Team
Administration
Barbara Taragan, Kindergarten Hebrew Teacher (B.A. and teaching degree in Child Psychology and Elementary Ed., Univ. of Minn.; B.A. and teaching degree in English Literature from the Ben Gurion Univ.; M.A. in Jewish Studies from Gratz College), is beginning her 15th year at MJDS, including a sabbatical last year in which she participated in the Senior Educators Program at the Melton Centre at the Hebrew University. Barbara lived in Israel for twenty-five years where she taught English at the Eshel Hanasi High School. Since returning to the United States, Barbara has been teaching at MJDS and the Minneapolis Talmud Torah. She is the proud parent of three children, Maayan, Afek and Yamit.
Carol Hjulberg, Kindergarten General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Nursery, Kindergarten, and Primary Ed., Univ. of Minn.; M.A. in Jewish Ed., Hebrew Union College; Cert. In Gifted Ed., Hamline Univ.), is beginning her 14th year at MJDS. Carol taught kindergarten for four years in a Minnesota public school system and has 10 years experience teaching preschool, both at Adath Jeshurun’s Gan Shelanu and in secular settings. An avid learner, she has completed the course work for a master’s degree in Teacher Leadership at the Univ. of Minnesota. Prior to coming to MJDS, she was the Religious School Director for a synagogue in Southern California. Carol continues to be active in synagogue programs through her role as a team leader and fifth grade teacher at a local synagogue religious school, and the teacher of the Advanced Bar/Bat Mitzvah class at another. Carol serves as a member of the board for two community organizations. She has two grown children; one is a high school English teacher, and the other works in the field of quality control. Quiet reading times, usually spent in archaeology and physics, are frequently enriched with episodes of adventure and humor with her dog, Madison. Winnie the Pooh is Carol’s favorite storybook character and her classroom, as well as her home, reflects her devotion.
Jenny Krzykwa, Kindergarten General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., St. Cloud State Univ.), is beginning her third year at MJDS. Prior to joining the school Jenny worked for several years at the Sabes JCC as a lead teacher for the HaBonim program and as an art specialist, unit leader, and assistant director for Camp Olami. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, being crafty, and continuing her study of sign language.
Leah Rusakov, Kindergarten General Studies Teacher (B.A. in Elementary Ed., Moscow State Univ.; Minn. teacher’s license), is excited to begin her third year at MJDS. Her teaching experience goes back to Russia where she taught first grade and Hebrew. Leah has taught preschool and religious school at Adath Jeshurun Congregation.Having spent four years in Israel, she now brings that spirit and love of Israel into teaching.
Julie Ziessman, Kindergarten General Studies and Judaic Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., minor in Political Science, Univ. of Wisc.), is beginning her seventh year at MJDS. Julie started her career at MJDS teaching fifth grade and she has been a member of the kindergarten team for the past five years. This year Julie is looking forward to continuing to provide instructional support to all three kindergarten classrooms as well working with incoming kindergarten students throughout the screening process. In her spare time, Julie likes to spend time with family and friends, read, watch movies, and take long walks. She loves to travel, and has visited many places in the U.S. as well as Mexico, Canada, Israel, Morocco, and Russia. Julie is the proud parent of future MJDS students Emily and Zoe!
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Sara W. Bernstein, Grades 1 and 2 Hebrew and Judaic Studies Teacher (see resource team for complete biography).
Michelle Etzion, Grade 2 Hebrew and Judaic Studies Teacher, (B.S., Univ. of West Los Angeles), is beginning her first year at MJDS, however, she subbed at the school extensively last year. Having grown up as a child in Israel, Michelle has a solid knowledge of the Hebrew Language as well as Judaic Studies. Her teaching experience includes working at Los Angeles Unified School District, as well as teaching Hebrew at many supplemental Jewish schools in Connecticut. Michelle has also taught, and was the Director of Admissions at Maimonides Academy of Western Connecticut. She has just completed training for using the Tal Am Hebrew/Judaica Program. Michelle is married and has a current second and fourth grader at MJDS. Having moved to the Minnesota only one year ago, her family is enjoying getting to know the Twin Cities even better. Michelle has traveled all over the country as well as around the world, and is an avid dancer.
Shelley Fogelson, Grade 1 Hebrew and Judaic Studies Teacher (B.A. in Psychology & Political Science, Leeds Univ.), is beginning her seventh year at MJDS. Shelley brings us extensive teaching experience, including participating in the development and pilot study of the Tal Am Hebrew/Judaica Program, which is currently used in grades one through three at MJDS. She has also worked in early childhood education for six years in Israel, taught Jewish History and Hebrew in grades one through six for four years in Nashville, and taught first grade Hebrew for five years at the Solomon Schechter School in Atlanta. Shelley enjoys reading, exercising, knitting and crocheting. This year, Shelley joined the MJDS Educational Leadership Team and serves as the Professional Development Coordinator. She is the proud parent of a son who attends the University of Wisconsin, a senior at Hopkins High School and a current fourth grader at MJDS.
Hanna Galili, Grade 1 and 2 Hebrew and Judaic Studies Teacher (Major included study in Hebrew literature and language, art, mathematics and physics; Early Age and Young Childhood Ed., Wingate Teacher’s College at the Wingate Institute; Certificate in Jewish Studies, Gratz College, working toward a M.A. in Jewish Studies), is beginning her eighth year at MJDS. Hanna has completed the courses for the Tal Am Hebrew/Judaica Program. She taught Hebrew and general studies for grade two at Mizphe Ramon Elementary and Hebrew in South African day schools. She served in the Israeli army for two years in between her studies leading to teaching. Hanna really loves teaching Hebrew to young children through creative movement and music. She enjoys travel, boating, and learning about different cultures and different learning styles.
Sheree Goldblatt, Grade 1-2 General Studies Teacher (B.S. with Distinction in Elementary Ed., Univ. of Minn.; M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction and ED.S. in Ed. Administration, University of St. Thomas), is returning for her ninth year at MJDS. Prior to joining the team at MJDS, Sheree taught for four years in the public schools and at West Suburban Summer School for Gifted and Talented. She enjoys incorporating her “life experiences” of seventeen years in corporate and non-profit marketing and communications into her classroom teaching, including her work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In addition, Sheree brings to life her driving curiosity about other cultures, sharing with students her amazing adventures on all of the seven continents.
Paige Abramson Hirsch, Grade 1-2 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Psychology, Tufts Univ.; J.D., Univ. of Minn.), is thrilled to begin her second year on the Grade 1-2 team. Paige’s undergraduate coursework focused on elementary teaching and child development; for her law degree her concentration was in education law. Next summer, Paige will receive her M.A. in Ed. Policy and Administration from the Univ. of Minn. with concentrations in data-driven decision-making and educational leadership. Paige taught second grade in New York City with Teach for America and English in an elementary school in Paris. She is fluent in French. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and their dog, Scout. She enjoys running, yoga, reading, and travel.
Ann Hunegs, Grade 1-2 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., Univ. of Minn.), is starting her eighth year at MJDS and has been involved in elementary education for over 30 years. Her teaching experience includes St. Louis Park classroom, Title One, early entrance assessment, private and ESL tutoring, and substitute teaching. Ann has sat on the National Young Women’s Leadership Cabinet of UJA. A former Tychman Leadership Award winner, Ann currently serves on the executive committee of the Hillel Advisory Board, the steering committee for the Louis Herman Israel Experience Fund, and the Women’s Division Campaign Cabinet. Ann’s family was one of MJDS’s “pioneering” families, enrolling a child in MJDS’ first class.
Karen Malka, Grade 1-2 General Studies Teacher (B.A. in Hebrew and Semitic Studies, Univ. of Wisc.; M.A. in Elementary Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, Univ. of St. Thomas; Minn. Teaching License K-6), is beginning her 11th year at MJDS. Her teaching experience includes Meadowbrook Elementary, Park Valley Catholic, and Hale School in Minneapolis. She has taught at Adath's Jeshurun's Gan Shelanu and Talmud Torah. Karen has a strong connection to Israel. She studied for a year at Hebrew Univ. in Jerusalem, and she taught English to Israeli children at a summer camp in Givat Olga. Karen likes being able to share Shabbat and other Jewish customs with children in the community. She loves taking part in helping each child reach their full potential. Karen has two daughters, the elder of whom is entering first grade at MJDS. She is fluent in Hebrew, and enjoys nature, music, and being with her family.
Sue Norton, Grade 1-2 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., Univ. of Minn.; over 60 graduate credits at Univ. of Minn.), is starting her sixth year at MJDS. Sue retired from the Robbinsdale School District, but found she missed her connection with children. Sue has lived in St. Louis Park for nearly 30 years with her husband, and has three children and two basset hounds. She enjoys biking, walking around the lakes, trying new restaurants and hockey games.
Susan Vlodaver, Grade 1-2 General StudiesTeacher (B.A. in Child Study, Tufts Univ.; coursework toward M.A. in Public Affairs, Univ. of Minn.), is thrilled to be joining the 1-2 team. She is not a stranger to the MJDS community, having been a parent in the school for the last seven years. Previously Susan taught for several years in early childhood programs in the Boston area. She also has studied child and family policy at the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the Univ. of Minn. and has worked as a policy analyst for the State of Minnesota. Susan enjoys reading, knitting, biking, and spending time with her family.
Nechamit Yaari, Grade 2 Hebrew and Judaic Studies Teacher (Graduate, Levinsky Teachers Seminar, Tel Aviv, Israel; B.S. in Ed., Univ. of Wisc.), is entering her 10th year at MJDS. While continuing her 32 years of teaching at the Minneapolis Talmud Torah, she has been a consistent contributor to its curriculum development program. Nechamit has also been a member of the Talmud Torah’s Education Board and Education Committee. Nechamit has taught Hebrew and Jewish Traditions classes. This year she won the Vivian Mann Jewish Educator of the Year Award and the Grinspoon-Steinhardt Award for Excellence in Jewish Education. She has an ongoing interest in incorporating dance and music into the classroom. Recently, Nechamit has taken classes on differentiated instruction.
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Patti Baskin, Grade 4 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., Kean College, Union NJ; M.A. in Special Ed., Univ. of St. Thomas), is beginning her ninth year teaching at MJDS. Patti previously taught in the St. Louis Park schools and at Kenwood Elementary. She was a Title One administrator and consultant in the Edina School District. She is past president of the Hennepin County Library Board and served on the board for six years. Patti is a teacher representative for the MJDS Parent Teacher Organization, and truly values the caring community at MJDS. She is a voracious reader and enjoys taking walks with her dog, Teddy; but her first loves are her husband, three daughters, and four beautiful grandchildren, Sammi, Ben, Julia and Charley.
Nathalie Benjamin, Grade 4 Hebrew Teacher (B.A. in English Literature and Second Language Acquisition, Teacher’s Certificate, Haifa Univ.; Educational Social Coordinator degree, Oranim College, Israel), is beginning her first year at MJDS. Prior to joining the school Nathalie worked for four years as a public school English teacher at lower and upper levels and at an adult school in Israel. She loves Italian food and enjoys spending time with her two daughters. This is Nathalie’s first year of teaching in the U.S. and her second year of living in the U.S.
Lisa Bottolene, Grade 3 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., St. Cloud State Univ, M.A. Education, St. Mary’s Univ.), is beginning her fourth full year as a teacher at MJDS. She was a substitute teacher in St. Louis Park for several years before joining the MJDS staff. Lisa is married to Scott, and has a daughter named Ava who was born last May . In her free time, Lisa enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing games, taking her dogs for walks, watching sporting events, and shopping.
Sara W. Bernstein, Grades 3 and 4 Hebrew Teacher (see resource team for complete biography).
Michelle Etzion, Grade 3 Hebrew Teacher (see grade 1-2 team for complete biography).
Ilena Ginzburg, Grade 4 General Studies Teacher (B.A. in Art History, Brandeis University, M.S. in Elementary Education, Fordham University), is beginning her fifth year at MJDS. Ilena has transitioned from being the technology teacher for the past four years, to general studies teacher and is very excited about this new role. She brings to the school four prior years of teaching experience including teaching in New York City public schools. Ilena is committed to creating a nurturing and caring environment for her students. Beyond technology education, Ilena enjoys reading and attending cultural events. Ilena looks forward to another wonderful year at MJDS.
Rabbi Julie Gordon, Spiritual Life Director and Grade 4 Judaic Studies Teacher (see administrative team for complete biography).
Roz Kaplan, Grade 3 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., Univ. of Minn.), is beginning her 10 year at MJDS. She has been working with kids for over 30 years as a classroom teacher in the Robbinsdale School District; as a substitute teacher in Robbinsdale, Osseo, and St. Louis Park supervising as a teacher of a before and after-school-age child care program and as a tutor. She and her husband have two wonderful daughters, two great sons-in-law and two precious grandsons, Will and Jack. One of her daughters is also a third grade teacher in the Mounds View School District. Roz’s favorite pastimes are reading, walking around the lakes, knitting, craft projects, travel, and babysitting for her grandsons. She has enjoyed the MJDS experiences and friendships made over the last nine years.
Cassandra Schimel, Grade 3 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed., Minnesota State University, Mankato), is beginning her first year of teaching at MJDS. Previously, she taught fifth grade for two years in Los Angeles. For the past year she has been a teacher at Sylvan Learning Center in Burnsville. Cassie enjoys spending time with her family and friends and being outside. She just recently moved by Lake Calhoun and enjoys running, walking, and rollerblading around the lake. Cassie is very excited to begin teaching at MJDS.
Yefet Zadaka, Grades 3 and 4 Judaic Studies Teacher (Certificate of Teaching and Special Ed., Seminar HaKibbutzim, Israel; Certificate of Literature/Language, Levinsky College for Ed., Israel; Music Degree, Academy of Music, Univ. of Tel Aviv), is entering his 17th year of teaching at MJDS. He was an assistant principal in Israel and has taught preschool to adult-age classes for over 30 years in Israel and at the Minneapolis Talmud Torah. Yefet is a walking resource guide for the entire community in the area of Torah study, teaching students from schools and home. In addition to writing, producing, and directing the school’s annual Torah plays, he is an accomplished musician. Yefet plays the accordion and the cello. He brings music and Israeli dance to life for his students. He recently completed a Holocaust course in Israel and training for using the Tal Am Hebrew/Judaica Program. Yefet is also in the process of publishing a Hebrew curriculum book for elementary grades as a teachers’ resource guide. He is the “Abba” of a large family, to which he devotes much of his time and energy in directing them to become the Jewish leaders of tomorrow.
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Nathalie Benjamin, Grades 5 and 6 Hebrew Teacher (see Grade 3 and 4 team for complete biography).
Bat Sheva Berman, Hebrew Coordinator and Grade Six Hebrew Teacher (see administrative team for complete biography).
Jenna Gordon Budda, Grade 5 General Studies Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Education, minor in English, Univ. of Wisc.), will be joining the fifth grade team this year. Jenna has taught sixth grade in Chicago at the Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School for the last four years. She also taught in an inner city Chicago school. Jenna is happy to be returning to her roots in Minnesota and now lives in St. Louis Park with her husband. She enjoys reading, spending time with her family, biking, playing softball, camping and just about anything that will allow her to spend time outdoors. When she is indoors Jenna loves to cook and attempt new recipes, as well visit as many new and interesting restaurants as possible. She will also be serving as MJDS’s Athletic Coordinator for intramural sports programming.
Danielle Conhaim-Bader, Grade 5 Hebrew Teacher (B.A. in Cultural Anthropology, Minor in Jewish Studies, Smith College; Undergraduate study at Haifa and Hebrew Universities; Graduate Fulbright Scholar at Hebrew Univ.), is thrilled to join the MJDS team. Previously, Danielle directed an experiential Jewish educational program for refugees from the former Soviet Union at the Minneapolis Jewish Federation. She has taught Hebrew and Jewish studies at Temple Israel and Talmud Torah of Minneapolis. A student of many languages including Russian, Amharic, Arabic, and Spanish, Danielle has a great passion for bringing together people of different cultures. She enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, cooking, and listening to music.
Rabbi Julie K. Gordon, MJDS Spiritual Life Director and Grade 6 Judaic Studies Teacher (see administrative team for complete biography).
Elly Becker, Grade 6 General Studies Teacher (B.A. in Judaic Studies and B.S. in Elementary Ed., Univ. of Minn.; graduate coursework in building classroom communities and middle school education at Hamline Univ.), is entering her 17 year at MJDS. Elly lived in Israel for five years and considers the experience formative in shaping her outlook and values. She loves to travel, meet people and enjoy new adventures. Elly has visited 34 states and has her sights set on the remaining 16. She has a passion for the political process and has worked as a volunteer on a number of local and national races. Elly enjoys the dynamic activities and curriculum associated with sixth grade.
Chad Kampe, Grade 5 General Studies teacher (B.A., Macalester College), begins his third year at MJDS this year. He truly enjoys the exciting and energetic team at MJDS. Chad has taught for four summers at the Exploration Intermediate Program at Wellesley College, a summer program for eighth- and ninth-graders. Chad has also served as a writing assistant and a mentor at Macalester College. This summer he has completed the Klingenstein Summer Institute for Teachers in Independent Schools. He incorporates a strong background in creative dramatic arts into the classroom. Besides teaching, Chad is an avid international traveler and wannabe food critic. You may run into him at your favorite restaurant. Chad also enjoys spending time outdoors and reading.
Beverly Moore, Grade 6 General Studies Teacher (B.A. in Literature, minor in Biology/Mathematics, Franklin Pierce College, New Hampshire; M.A. in Literature, Western Ill. Univ.; M.A. in Gifted Ed., Univ. of St. Thomas; coursework towards M.A. in Judaic Studies, Gratz College), begins her third year at MJDS. Bev has been actively involved in Jewish education in the Twin Cities for the last 17 years, written curriculum, and taught grades K-12. She has also been involved with Minneapolis Federation Education Bridge for the last six years. Bev currently runs the High Holiday education program for grades K-8 at Beth Jacob Synagogue. She enjoys spending time with her husband, Marv, and two Basset Hounds (Porthos and Penelope). Her hobbies are reading, traveling, swimming, jazz, and movies. She also collects turtles.
Robert Portnoe, Grades 5 and 6 Judaic Studies and Math Teacher (B.A. and M.A. in History, Univ. of Penn.; B.S. in Economics, Univ. of Penn. Wharton School; Juris Doctor, National Law Center of George Washington Univ., Washington DC; coursework toward M.A. in Ed., Univ. St. Thomas), is beginning his 13th year at MJDS. He has been involved in teaching Jewish education to Twin Cities first-graders through adults. Rob spent part of the summer studying the teaching of ritual at the Shalom Hartmann Institute in Jerusalem. He currently teaches adult education for the St. Paul Jewish Community Center in the Melton Mini-school Program and Congregation Darchei Noam. Rob chairs the Curriculum Committee and is a member of the Educational Leadership Team.
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Jay Dworsky, Physical Education Teacher (M.A. in Kinesiology, K-12 PE Licensure, Coaching Certification, Univ. of Minn.), is beginning his sixth year on the MJDS staff. Jay is always excited to teach new games, yoga, dance, and sports. He loves “getting in there” and playing with the kids at MJDS, and being a daddy. Jay recently participated in a bicycle ride and race for autism awareness, and started bikeforautism.org in honor of his son, Leo.
Kelly Lindquist, Physical Education Teacher (B.S. in Developmental Adaptive Physical Education, St. Cloud State Univ.; B.S. in Municipal Recreation, Mankato State Univ.; Water Safety Instructors Certificate, American Red Cross), begins his second year at MJDS. Previously Kelly taught developmental adaptive physical education for nine years in the Eden Prairie school district. He has coached swimming and diving for 19 years and sat on the judges’ panel for the Minnesota State High School League for 15 years. Kelly and his wife, Kim, have three children, Rose, Madeline and Joe.
Juli Gordon Olson, Technology Teacher (B.S. in Elementary Ed./Minor in Library and Information Science, Univ. of Wisc., MA Education, St. Mary’s Univ.), is extremely excited to join the specialist team and MJDS family this year. Prior to coming to MJDS, Juli taught third, then sixth grade in the Wayzata schools before enjoying nine-years at an educational materials company where she developed supplemental educational materials for children ages 3–14. Her Master’s project focused on Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences and developing a website relating to the topic. Juli looks forward to finding new and exciting ways to integrate classroom curricula and technology. She lives in Maple Grove with her husband Dave and daughter, Adeline.
Aimee Orkin, Art Teacher (B.A. in Art, Univ. of Wisc.; AS in Architectural Drafting, Mpls. Technical Institute; MFA in Scenic Design, Brandeis Univ.), is beginning her 12th year at MJDS. She enjoys inspiring students, adults, and children throughout the community to create and learn a process to design. Aimee’s murals can be seen at Mount Zion, the Minnesota Zoo, the Minneapolis Jewish Federation, Sonny’s Ice Cream, Adath Jeshurun’s Gan Shelanu, Sabes JCC’s Early Childhood Center and many residential interiors. Her artwork has recently been shown at Intermedia Arts Gallery, the Keghouse Collective and Beit Igal Alon Museum in Israel. Aimee recently participated in the Israeli and Twin Cities women artists “In the Book” art exhibit, the College of St. Catherine’s “Creating and Connecting: Jewish Women’s Art Show” and the Minneapolis and St. Paul JCCs’ “Union: The Art of Ketubot.” In January 2007 she will have an exhibit at the Sabes JCC Tychman-Shapiro Gallery on the theme of using art to explore life changes. Aimee and her husband have two daughters enrolled at MJDS.
Catherine Orkin Oskow, Librarian (B.A. in English and American Literature, Brandeis Univ.; M.A. in Professional Writing, USC; Secondary English Teaching Certificate, Univ. of St. Thomas; coursework at St. Cloud State Univ. in Information Media), is beginning her 10th year at MJDS. Previously, she taught English and reading for 10 years at Inver Grove Heights Middle School, where she also founded and advised an award winning literary and arts magazine. Cathi writes fiction, screenplays, newspaper articles, children’s stories, and poetry. She is a member of the National and Minnesota Societies of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the Minnesota Screenwriters’ Workshop, and has won state and national awards for her own writing. She is currently working on the rewrite of her first novel, Star Jumper, as well as the rewrite and marketing of a screenplay. Cathi also breeds and shows world-class Canaan Dogs, the only breed originating from Israel. Cathi loves the combination of books, children, and Jewish community that are part of being MJDS librarian. Cathi and her husband are the proud parents of two MJDS graduates.
David Shaw, Music Teacher (B.A. in Music Ed., Western Illinois Univ.; M.A. in Ed. Administration, Univ. of St. Thomas; MN K-12 Classroom and Vocal Music Licensure), is beginning his sixth year at MJDS, bringing 22 years of professional educational experience to the music program. David enjoys teaching and delivering the music curriculum. He has received advanced training in the Orff method of teaching, as well as in the Kodaly and Dalcroze music approaches. David also greatly enjoys working with students who participate in the MJDS choir and looks forward to directing those students who are interested in this co-curricular activity. He serves as a member of the MJDS Educational Leadership Team where he has been extensively involved with our accreditation process with the Independent Schools Association of the Central States. He is also the specialist team leader, edits the Kesher, and works with all teachers in preparing their newsletters for the MJDS website.
Victoria Thor, Art Teacher (B.A. Magna cum Laude, Univ. of Minn. in Art History & Studio Arts, minors in Jewish Studies and Spanish), is in her seventh year at MJDS. She is the art teacher for grades three and four; fifth and sixth grade art electives; and sixth grade art history. Vic also coordinates MJDS’s Art Adventure program, an art appreciation and history program in conjunction with the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. She is particularly interested in integrating art with other areas of study such as science and math. Beyond children and art, she is interested in travel, gardening, reading, and flamenco music. Vic is the proud parent of two MJDS alumni.
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Sara W. Bernstein, Hebrew Resource Teacher (B.A. in Theater, minor in Hebrew, Univ. of Minn.; B.A. in Jewish Letters, M.A. in Education and Administration, Univ. of Judaism; related coursework in Special Ed. and Second Language Ed., Brain Research, Multiple Intelligences and Learning Styles), is beginning her 15th year at MJDS. After graduating from the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, Sara held positions with the Jewish Community Centers Association of Greater Los Angeles, taught in the LA public schools, and worked at the Bureau of Jewish Education directing two programs for eighth and ninth grade students. She enjoys helping children discover they can succeed—even when it is difficult!
Michael Brown, General Studies Resource Teacher (B.A. in Sociology, Univ. of Ill.; Elementary Ed. 1-6 Certification and Learning Disabilities and Emotional Behavioral Disorder Licensures, Colorado and Minnesota; M.A. in Learning Disabilities, Mankato State Univ.; Certificate in Gifted Ed., Hamline Univ.), is beginning his 14th year at MJDS. Michael likes being a valued asset of the MJDS community, helping children with special needs, and teaching chess to kindergarten classes. He has two children, ages 21 and 11, and enjoys hiking, biking and canoeing.
Char Kucera, General Studies Resource Teacher (B.A. in Elementary Ed., minor in Psychology, College of St. Catherine; L.D. certification Bethel College), is beginning her sixth year with MJDS. Char enjoys working with special needs students and sees their progress as a rewarding experience. When not at school, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Jim, reading, working out, gardening, traveling, and socializing with friends.
Christine Yussen, Resource Teacher (B.S. in Foundations of Education, Univ. of Minn., 5th year Initial Licensure Program/M.Ed. work, Univ. of Minn. ), is beginning her second year at MJDS. Previously she has worked nearby in the Hopkins Public School District for three and a half years. During her time in Hopkins, Christine worked with special needs children as a learning resource teacher, reading tutor, and long-term substitute in first grade and ELL. She enjoys seeing her students’ progress through the personalized, small-l group learning opportunities MDJS provides. Christine is a native of the Twin Cities and enjoys spending time with family and friends, singing in choir, playing the trombone, being active around the city lakes, gardening, and traveling.
Gay Rosenthal, Staff Psychologist (B.A. Magna Cum Laude in Psychology, Washington Univ., St. Louis; M.A. in Educational Psychology, Univ. of Minn.; Licensed Psychologist, State of Minn.; Nationally Certified School Psychologist; Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis, Externship in Marriage and Family Therapy, Family Therapy Institute, St. Paul), is beginning her 19th year at MJDS. She is also a psychologist in private practice, where she works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She is a Family Law Mediator, Court Appointed Parenting Consultant, and a Qualified Neutral on the Minnesota State Supreme Court Roster. Her perspective in working with families is developmental and her approach eclectic. Her current interest is in family and organizational process. She values her relationship with the students, families, and staff at MJDS and is appreciative for her role in the community. Gay embraces the learning and teaching opportunities afforded in that role.
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Ofer Alphabet, Director of Information Technology (B.S. in MIS, Univ. of Tel Aviv ), is beginning his fifth year working with MJDS and the entire Barry Family Campus. Originally from Israel, he was a Captain in the Israel Defense Forces Intelligence Division. Ofer came to Minnesota in 1985 where he owned a computer consulting company and physical therapy clinics. After selling his companies, Ofer wanted to be more in touch with the Jewish community and came to work at the Campus. Ofer and his wife, Pam, are the proud parents of two daughters, Taylor and Sydney.
Diane Baumwald Substitute Coordinator (B.S. in Social Work, Mankato State Univ.), begins her eighth year with MJDS. Diane studied and worked in Israel for one and a half years and returned there on an Encounter Trip for Educators, through Minneapolis Jewish Federation’s Education Bridge initiative in summer 2005. She has been teaching Bar/Bat Mitzvah students for more than 30 years and has also worked as a cantorial soloist. Diane loves working with children, using her knowledge of the Hebrew language and being part of the MJDS community. Diane is the proud mother of Ari and Ilana, both MJDS graduates.
Bat Sheva Berman, Hebrew Coordinator and Grade Six Hebrew Teacher (Teaching degree, Teacher’s Seminar), is beginning her eighth year at MJDS. After high school, she served in the army for two years where she planned youth programs in development towns. She taught Hebrew and directed all holiday programs at Torah Academy for 21 years before coming to MJDS. Bat Sheva lives in St. Louis Park with her husband and three children. She is the winner of the Mann Jewish Educator of the Year Award and Grinspoon - Steinhardt Award for Excellence in Jewish Education. Bat Sheva developed the curriculum for Kol Ivrit, a new, a highly successful Hebrew immersion camp for students entering grades one to four, run jointly by MJDS and the Sabes JCC.
Susan Divine, Finance Director (Business Administration-Accounting, Univ. of Minn.; CPA), is beginning her 14th year at MJDS. Susan previously worked at Coopers and Lybrand LLP (now Pricewaterhouse Coopers), first as an auditor, then as a tax advisor specializing in non-profits and fiduciary tax work. Susan and her husband Alan have three children, all with past connections to MJDS and now enrolled in post-graduate studies.
Rabbi Julie K. Gordon, Spiritual Life Director (B.A., Univ. of Minn.; Rabbinic Ordination and Master of Letters, Hebrew Union College), is beginning her third year on the MJDS staff. Originally from Albert Lea, Minn., Rabbi Julie has lived in the Twin Cities since 1987. She served as a senior rabbi at Temple of Aaron and Director of Avodah B’Yachad/JCRC. Rabbi Julie has also taught the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School and at many synagogues. She serves as the Chaplain at the Minneapolis Veteran Administration Medical Center. Rabbi Julie is the proud mother of Shoshana, a senior at Brandeis Univ., and Ari, a senior at Highland Park High School and Post Secondary PSEO student at Concordia Univ. She enjoys biking, reading, cooking, working out, movies, and being with family and friends.
Andrea “Drea” Johnson, Office Assistant (Diploma in Office Administration, Office Services, KRS Computer Business School), “joined MJDS five years ago, and now has a total of eight years working in an office environment. Drea enjoys working with the students and feels that she is part of the close MJDS faculty family. She enjoys having this opportunity to be a part of MJDS’ growth and feels she is helping to contribute to the diversity of the community campus.
Dr. Ray Levi, Head of School (A.B. Oberlin College; M.A. in Education, Claremont Graduate School; PhD in Music Education, Case Western Reserve Univ., focused on literacy development and original language and music composition by young children), is beginning his eighth year at MJDS. Dr. Levi came from Ohio, where he was the Head of the Agnon School, Cleveland’s Jewish Community Day School, for seven years. Prior to leading the Agnon School, Dr. Levi was a primary teacher in grades kindergarten through three in both public and independent schools. He is a Mentor on the faculty of an Avi Chai funded program at Jewish Theological Seminary, preparing prospective leaders for Jewish Day Schools. He chairs the Heads Council of the Minnesota Association of Independent Schools (MAIS), serves on the Executive Committee of RAVSAK, the Jewish Community Day School Network, and is on the Board of the Council for Spirituality & Ethics in Education (CSEE). Dr. Levi is a past member of the Board of Governors of the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS) and the Editorial Board of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Prior to coming to Minnesota, he has been an adjunct professor of Education, a director of special curriculum projects at University School, and a staff development consultant for the Institute for Educational Renewal.
Aaron Lichtov, Administrative Assistant comes to MJDS after six years working for Hennepin County Human Services as a communications technology/mobile worker specialist. He is excited to be working in a Jewish educational setting. Aaron and his wife (a public school teacher) enjoy cooking, gardening, reading science fiction, and outdoor activities with their Border Collie, Snuffy.
N. Melegari (Mel) Newman, Staff and Student Services Coordinator (B.S. in Communication Arts with a major in Theater and Dance, minor in Music, Univ. of Wisc.), is beginning her 11th year here at MJDS. Her previous office experience includes receptionist, executive assistant and financial operations for a mid-sized company and its two subsidiaries. She came to MJDS because she decided that facilitating the education of children (our future) was much more important and rewarding. Mel and her husband, Scott, have three children ranging in age from 17 to almost two years old.
Jeffrey Prottas, Development Director (B.A. in Psychology, Univ. of Judaism; MBA in Nonprofit Management with concentration in Jewish Communal Service, Univ. of Judaism), is beginning his first year at MJDS. Jeff brings extensive experience in Jewish agency work including positions with the Minneapolis Jewish Federation, the Sabes JCC, The JCC Association of North America, the JCC in Manhattan, the University of Judaism and the JCC’s of Greater Los Angeles. He has a passion for building community and has been committed to Jewish education for 20 years. Besides his work in the community, Jeff is an avid sports enthusiast, enjoys the theater, music, time outdoors and spending quality time with his family. He lives in St. Louis Park with his wife Dana (also a teacher) and two-year-old daughter, Ayelet.
Abbe Gordon Payton, Admissions & Outreach Director (B.A. in Journalism, Univ. of Minn.), is beginning her sixth year at MJDS. Her professional experience is in public relations, marketing, advertising, sales, publishing, and management. Abbe particularly enjoys working with prospective and new parents, and is looking forward to the addition of MJDS’s upper school program in 2007. She recently completed the two-year Florence Melton Adult Mini-school program, and her first on-line graduate class in Jewish communal leadership through Gratz College. Last school year Abbe served on an ISACS accreditation team and presented at the PEJE (Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education) Assembly. Abbe and her husband have two children, one who attends MJDS and another who is a graduate of the school.
Helen Siegel, Student and Teacher Services Director (B.A. and M.S. Ed., Queens College, City Univ. of New York), is beginning her 17th year at MJDS. She has enjoyed a wide range of teaching experiences in three different states, including over 14 years in public education in New York City. She has taught ESL, Spanish, junior high school English and more. Always involved in Jewish education as a supplementary school Hebrew and Sunday school teacher, Helen joinied the MJDS faculty as an opportunity to integrate general education with Hebrew and Judaic studies. At MJDS Helen served as a third grade teacher and Division Coordinator for grades 3-6, and now begins her fourth year as an MJDS director. She has presented workshops at MINNECAJE, served on an accreditation team for ISACS and is a member of the JCRC’s Speaker’s Bureau, educating the broader community about the Holocaust. As a master/mentor teacher for adult distance learners, she worked with local Jewish educators in the Gratz College Covenant Foundation’s Jewish Education Certificate program. She completed Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Principal’s Institute last summer and looks forward to another exciting year with students and families in the outstanding program at MJDS.
Ethan Tarshish, Administrative Assistant (Interdepartmental degree in Film Studies, Jewish Studies, and Writing, Univ. of Minn.), begins his second school year at MJDS. Ethan, an MJDS alumnus, has also worked closely with the Jewish community while acting as Advocate for Temple Israel’s Na’aseh V’nishma program for the past seven years. Besides his involvement with the students at Temple Israel, he regularly videotapes Temple programs. Ethan was recently married to Julie Brenn (A.K.A. Julie “Blarshish” Tarshish) this past July. Mazel Tov!
