Rabbi Scott Babendir
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher and Student Activities Coordinator
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Psychology (Hebrew Theological College), Semicha (Hebrew Theological College)
Joined the HT Family in
2018
Grades & Subjects
8th grade Dinim, 7th grade Talmud, and 6th grade Mishna
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when
My 5th grade teacher helped me feel like I wasn’t on the outside, and I want to help other children feel that too.
I love coming to work every day because
“Every day I have so much fun being around the students, and I’m thrilled that I get to spend time every day thinking of what students are going to enjoy and what is meaningful to them, inside and outside of the classroom.”
Carly Brandwein
K-2 Science Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Elementary Education (University of Illinois)
Joined the HT Family in
2013
Grades & Subjects
K-2 Science
ALL THE WAY FROM
Northbrook, Illinois
I love coming to work every day because
Of my students’ smiles and positivity.
Noa Brief
3rd Grade Judaic Studies, Middle School Judaic Studies
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors in education from Seminar Hakibbutzim
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2021
All the Way From
Talmon, Israel
Grades & Subjects
3rd Grade Lashon, 6th grade Lashon, 8th Grade Lashon
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when…
When I worked with teens in Israel.
I love coming to work every day because…
I can be creative at school.
People would be surprised to learn that…
I had a motorcycle in Israel
Rachelle Brumer
Middle School Math Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, (University of Manitoba)
Teaching Certificate, K – 12 (University of Manitoba)
Joined the HT Family in
1992
ALL THE WAY FROM
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Grades & Subjects
5th and 6th Grade Math
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
I played school with my brother and our friends. Somehow I was always the teacher!
I love coming to work every day because
I love the kids!
Amy Chaimson
Middle School Social Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Secondary Education (Indiana University), Masters, Curriculum and Instruction (National Louis University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2021
Grades & Subjects
8th Grade Social Studies
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when
My mom is a teacher and I wanted to be just like her!
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be?
Paper and coloring supplies….at the very least we could create geographically accurate maps of the island!
Leah Dubovick
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Judaic Teacher Certificate from Yavne Seminary
Torah Umesorah Teacher’s License
ATT Teacher’s License
Joined the HT Family in
1996
ALL THE WAY FROM
Minneapolis, MN
Grades & Subjects
5th Chumash, 6th Chumash, 7th Navi
My educational motto:
הפך בה והפך בה דכולא בה! Delve into the Torah because you’ll find everything in it.
Robin Dvorin
Kindergarten Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Elementary Education (Northeastern Illinois University)
Joined the HT Family in
2018
Grades & Subjects
Kindergarten
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when…
I was influenced by a wonderful teacher when I was growing up.
I love coming to work every day because…
I love being with children!
My educational motto:
Make education fun!
Aviva Farkas
2nd Grade General Studies Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Judaic Studies (Hebrew Theological College), Masters, Humanities (University of Chicago)
Joined the HT Family in
2020
Grades & Subjects
2nd Grade General Studies
Something you didn’t know about me
I am an HT alumna, class of 2002
Alison Fink
2nd Grade General Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Education Studies (Brandeis)
Bachelors, International and Global Studies (Brandeis)
Masters, Education (Dominican University)
Joined the HT Family in
2015
ALL THE WAY FROM
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Grades & Subjects
2nd Grade General Studies
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
I used to play “teacher” with my younger sister when I was little and I started wearing overalls everyday just like my 3rd grade teacher!
Rabbi Michael Friedman
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher, Primary Judaic Studies Student Services
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Psychology (Yeshiva University)
Masters, Education (Touro Graduate School of Education)
Semicha, (RIETS/Yeshiva University)
Joined the HT Family in
2019
Grades & Subjects
5th Grade Mishna, 6th Grade Mishna, Primary Judaic Studies Student Services
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
My teachers inspired me to want to learn, I knew I wanted to pass that on.
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be?
The Mishna and a stack of Post-It Notes
Tali Garden
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Psychology (Queens College)
Masters, Jewish Education (Azrieli Graduate School)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2018
grades & subjects
7th Navi/Dinim/Chumash, 8th Chumash
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when
We had teacher-student switch day in 11th grade for Purim and I taught a class to my peers. I then realized I loved teaching.
Noah Goldman
Educational Technology Specialist
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Astronomy and Physics (University of Maryland)
Masters, Science Education (Illinois Institute of Technology)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2016
Position
Educational Technology Specialist
MY EDUCATIONAL MOTTO
I teach students, not information.
if i were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items i’d need to teach successfully would be
A good night’s sleep and my mind.
Debra Goldstein
Fine Arts Instructor
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Education (National Louis University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2018
position
K-8 Fine Arts Instructor
I KNEW I WANTEd TO BECOME A TEACHER WHEN
I realized my passion, making art, could become my profession. I also love the creative energy children bring to art.
if i were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items i’d need to teach successfully would be
Scissors and some glue, a bit of glitter would be nice, too!
Katie Goodman
Preschool Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Fashion Merchandising (Indiana University)
Masters, Elementary Education (University of Maryland)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2017
grades & subjects
Preschool Teacher
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when
I worked at a day camp for preschoolers. They stole my heart!
Abby Green
1st Grade General Studies Teacher, Middle School Science Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Speech-Language Pathology ( Indiana University), Masters, Elementary Education (Loyola University Chicago)
Joined the HT Family in
2021
Grades & Subjects
1st Grade General Studies, 5th Grade Science
I love coming to work every day because
of the collaborative work environment and wonderful students!
Sarah Gryka
Middle School Math Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Education with a Minor in Math (Knox College)
MBA, (Keller Graduate School of Management)
Joined the HT Family in
2015
ALL THE WAY FROM
Schaumburg, IL
Grades & Subjects
6th grade Math, 8th Grade Algebra
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, The two items I’d need to teach successfully would be?
Everlasting chalk (is that a thing?) and a surface to write on.
Hannah Halpert
4th Grade General Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Elementary Education (University of Maryland)
Masters, Reading Specialist (National Louis University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2015
grades & subjects
4th Grade General Studies
ALL THE WAY FROM
Houston, Texas
MY EDUCATIONAL MOTTO
Hands-on educational experiences are important for students to be able to engage with their learning.
Rabbi Chaim Helman
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Lifshizt College and Sha’anan College, Israel
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2019
grades & subjects
Chumash, Lashon, Chidon Ha’Tanach
All the way from
Israel
I love coming to work every day because
To see and to be a part of my students’ progress and growth
Lior Helman
Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors of Education from Shaanan College in Israel
Joined the HT Family in
2018
ALL THE WAY FROM
Maalot, Israel
Grades & Subjects
4th Grade Ivrit and Judaic Studies, 5th Grade Ivrit
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when:
I realized that I LOVE it!
I love Coming to Work Every day Because:
I love to see my students learn new things.
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be?
Google Classroom and Talam books.
Debbie Jacoby
Library/Story time
Email
[email protected]
Background
BA in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania, MA in Reading and Language from National Louis University.
Joined the HT Family in
2011
Grades & Subjects
Library – Nursery through Fourth Grade
I Knew I wanted to become a teacher
From the time I was a little girl.
I love coming to work every day because
I love sharing books and stories with Hillel Torah students.
Lea Mazal Kabaei
Nursery Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
TA Certificate (Newcastle College)
Joined the HT Family in
2018
All the way From
Born in Paris and raised in Los Angeles
Grades & Subjects
Nursery
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when…
My first teaching job started as a job ‘for now’ and I fell in love!
Lior Kakon
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher, 7th Grade Girls Advisor
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Educational Management (Ben Gurion University)
Masters, Public Policy and Management (Ben Gurion University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2000
grades & subjects
6th Lashon, 7th Lashon, 8th Lashon, 7th Grade Girls’ Advisor
I LOVE COMING TO WORK EVERY DAY BECAUSE
There is always a new and exciting project or program to do!
Eris Katz
Nursery Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Hebrew and Judaic Studies (Rabbi A Zlotnick Hebrew Teachers Seminary)
Masters, Education (Rabbi A Zlotnick Hebrew Teachers Seminary)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2008
Position
Nursery B Teacher
ALL THE WAY FROM
Johannesburg, South Africa
I LOVE COMING TO WORK EVERY DAY BECAUSE
I enjoy seeing my students excited to learn and stay active.
Robbin Katzin
School Librarian
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Hebrew Studies (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee)
Masters, Library Science (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
1995!!
POSITION
School Librarian
my educational motto
Using the school library is as much about learning responsibility as it is about developing a love of books and reading.
Hannah Kowitt
Middle School English Language Arts Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Humanities and Religious Studies (Maimonides College)
Masters of Education, Administration and Supervision (Loyola University) Masters of Arts, Teaching (North Park University)
Joined the HT Family in
2019
Grades & Subjects
Middle School ELA, ELA Curriculum Coordinator for grades 1-8
I knew I wanted to become a Teacher when
I was in 4th grade. I used to take notes on my own teachers’ teaching styles to help prepare myself to be a great educator
Carly Krawetz
Social Worker
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors in Social Work and Master in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Joined the HT Family in
2019
ALL THE WAY FROM
Northbrook, Illinois
I love coming to work every day because
All the students and staff are warm and welcoming
I knew I wanted to become a social worker because
I realized that I loved helping others and having new challenges each day.
Saretta Lazovsky
Primary School Judaic Studies Student Services
Email
[email protected]
Background
Masters, Special Education (National Louis University)
Joined the HT Family in
2019
Grades & Subjects
Students Services in Judaic Studies for Primary School
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when
My good friend and I assisted in a Sunday School throughout high school. I veered off the path, but eventually came back
I love coming to work every day because
I love seeing how happy the students are. I am so happy to be part of the team.
Rabbi Aaron Leibtag
Middle School Judaic Studies Teacher, 8th Grade Boys Advisor
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, History (Yeshiva University)
Masters, Education (Azrieli Graduate School)
Semicha (RIETS)
Joined the HT Family in
2011
Grades & Subjects
7th Talmud, 8th Talmud and Navi/Dinim
All the way From
Baltimore, MD
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
I was in high school! My grandfather, whom I am named for and never got to meet, was a well-known teacher in Baltimore.
if I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be
Tissues (Hillel Torah students use a lot of tissues), more tissues
I love coming to work every day because . . .
Each day is new and exciting.
Jessie Lerer
Preschool Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors in Psychology from Touro College
Degree in film and television production from New York Film Academy
Joined the HT Family in
2018
Grades & Subjects
Pre-Nursery
People would be surprised to learn that …
I worked on 12 different Broadway productions
Lee Matanky
Nursery Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
BA from Stern College/Yeshiva University, MA in Early Childhood Education from Bank Street College of Education.
Joined the HT Family in
2001
Grades & Subjects
Nursery
Leah Miller
Middle School Judaic Studies Student Services
Email
[email protected]
Background
Masters, Education (Loyola University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2012
Grades & Subjects
Middle School Judaic Studies Student Services
all the way from
Baltimore, Maryland
i love coming to work every day because
It’s such a friendly atmosphere.
Ashira Ozarowski
Nursery Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Psychology (Stern College for Women)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2001
grades & subjects
Nursery
I knew I wanted to become a teacher when
My kids were in preschool. I thought, “I would love to do that!”
FAVORITE PRESCHOOL ACTIVITY
Dancing freestyle to music together with the kids.
Nechami Peysin
1st Grade Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
תעודת הוראה ממכללת בית רבקה בכפר חב”ד
Joined the HT Family in
2012
All the way from
ירושלים
Grades & Subjects
1st Grade Judaic Studies
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be?
My SmartBoard and Pawel
My educational motto:
You don’t make mistakes, mistakes make you.
Shainy Peysin
4th Grade Judaic Studies Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Associates (Oakton Community College)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2017
Grades & Subjects
4th Grade Judaic Studies Assistant Teacher
ALL THE WAY FROM
Hadley, Massachusetts
I LOVE COMING TO WORK EVERY DAY BECAUSE
Everyone at Hillel Torah makes me feel special and valued.
Laurie Pinchot
Middle School General Studies Teacher, Names, Not Numbers © Program Coordinator
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, History (Barnard College)
Joined the HT Family in
2007
Grades & Subjects
5th Social Studies, 7th Jewish History, 8th Jewish History, Names, Not Numbers © Program Coordinator
I KNEW I WANTED TO BECOME A TEACHER WHEN
I wrote a musical about the Fall of Rome in 7th grade Social studies. I realized that being a creative, passionate teacher makes students love learning. (I still remember the lyrics!)
I LOVE COMING TO WORK EVERY DAY BECAUSE
Hillel Torah is a place where teachers genuinely care about the “whole” student, not just the math problem or historical facts they are teaching!
Shevy Pressburger
Nursery Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
BA, English Literature (Queens College), Masters Early Childhood and Special Education (Touro College), Certificate in ESL (Teachers College, Columbia University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2021
grades & subjects
Nursery
I love coming to work every day because
Engaging with everyday materials through the eyes of children is truly miraculous!
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be
Train tracks because the possibilities are endless! and playdough.
Mindy Reiss
1st Grade Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Judaic Studies and English/Communications ( Stern College, Yeshiva University)
Masters, Jewish Education (Azrieli Graduate School, Yeshiva University )
Joined the HT Family in
2018
ALL THE WAY FROM
Randolph, New Jersey
Grades & Subjects
1st Grade Judaic Studies
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
I was a little girl and I would arrange all my stuffed animals in a makeshift “class” and taught them the World Book Encyclopedia!
I love coming to work every day because…
I love to learn and challenge myself and grow, and help the students grow into themselves and love themselves and Hashem and Torah.
If I were stranded with my class on a deserted island, the two items I’d need to teach successfully would be?
A computer which has on it the Tanach with meforshim, an ability to write and save on Google Docs, and it would need to be solar charged. And the second thing would be a boat or plane to be able to go home at the end of the experiment.
Chaim Safier
Math Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Finance (Yeshiva University)
Masters, Adolescent Education (St. Johns University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2017
grades & subjects
3rd Math, 4th Math, 5th Math, 7th Math
All The way from
Memphis, TN
i love coming to work every day because
I get to laugh.
Mina Schanowitz
Judaic Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Beit Chana Seminary For Teachers (Tzfat, Israel)
Bachelors, Education (Judische Religion padagogische Akademie,Vienna, Austria)
Masters, Hebrew Language (Lille University, France)
Joined the HT Family in
2014
ALL THE WAY FROM
A suburb of Paris called Brunoy
Grades & Subjects
4th Grade Chumash and Parsha, 8th Grade Chumash
IF I WERE STRANDED WITH MY CLASS ON A DESERTED ISLAND, THE TWO ITEMS I’D NEED TO TEACH SUCCESSFULLY WOULD BE
A chumash and a marble jar.
Miriam Schneiderman
Kindergarten Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Early Childhood Education (Northeastern Illinois University)
Joined the HT Family in
2013
Grades & Subjects
Kindergarten
I love coming to work every day because…
I love seeing the smiles on the children’s faces.
Melanie Shandalov
Nursery Assistant Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Joined the HT Family in
2005
Grades & Subjects
Nursery
I love coming to work every day because…
It’s one fantastic play date! I get to paint, play with toys and clay, and dance to fun music with 15 of my friends!!
Amy Spotts
Resource Special Education Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Education (Western Illinois University)
Masters, Education Reading (National Louis University)
Joined the HT Family in
2016
ALL THE WAY FROM
I moved around quite often as I was growing up. My favorite places that I lived are Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Go Packers!) and Normal, Illinois.
Grades & Subjects
Resource teacher in Kindergarten and 4th grade, Title I Academic Coach
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
I became a teacher assistant in a Special Education classroom and fell in love with the students and SpEd community.
I love coming to work every day because…
Every day is different! There is never a dull moment as a teacher.
Rachel Teitcher
3rd Grade General Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Childhood Education and Special Education ( New York University)
Masters, Childhood Education with a Specialization in Math and Science (Hunter College)
Joined the HT Family in
2019
ALL THE WAY FROM
Skokie, IL (attended Hillel Torah from Nursery through 8th Grade)
Grades & Subjects
3rd Grade Math, Reading, Writing
I knEw I wanted to become a teacher when
I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. When I was little, I used to play “school” in my grandmother’s basement with my cousins. She had an old fashion desk and a chalkboard.
I love coming to work every day because…
I love my students.
Samantha Toljanic
Middle School General Studies Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
Bachelors, Communications (University of Illinois)
Masters, Secondary Education (National Louis University)
Joined the HT Family in
2011
Grades & Subjects
6th Social Studies, 7th Language Arts, 8th Language Arts
my educational motto
Everyone can learn, it’s my job to figure out how.
Would you rather have a third leg or a third arm?
I’d want the arm so I could grade papers, record the grades, and file them all at the same time!
Kerry Zeman
Middle School Science Teacher
Email
[email protected]
Background
BS Elementary Education, Endorsement in Middle School and Science, Masters in Psychology (Northcentral University)
JOINED THE HT FAMILY IN
2021
Grades & Subjects
6-8 Grade Science
I love coming to work every day because…
Middle school students are never boring! I love that they challenge me every day to be my best, they are genuine and affectionate. In return, I enjoy challenging them to be independent learners and to reach for goals above and beyond what they think they can achieve. The satisfaction gained from watching them reach these goals and grow every day is the best part of being a teacher.
What would I like to see my students accomplish in the future?
As a science teacher, I hope to help them become lifelong learners, to ask questions always, and to use their talents and skills to make the world around them better.