Administration

Rabbi Jonathan Aaron, M.A.J.E, Head of School, Director of Education

Rabbi Aaron has a Masters Degree in Jewish Education from Hebrew Union College and has worked with children in educational settings for more than 20 years. A great part of his success and effectiveness as an educator is his special ability to connect with our students. All of our students know that, first and foremost, he is here for them. They often turn to him for advice about their academic and personal challenges. In addition, Rabbi Aaron is also a master storyteller; his “Shlomo” stories have become legendary at TEADS. Rabbi Aaron believes that “a well-rounded education, combining the best of our Jewish heritage and the latest educational theories with an outlet for creative expression, provides the finest preparation for secondary school and beyond.”

Rachel Sternheim, Assistant Head of School and Coordinator of Jewish Studies, MA ED.

Rachel has a BS in Education, an MA in Education from the University of Judaism, and a BA in Hebrew Letters from the Zeigler School. She was a teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District for many years before returning to her first love, Jewish Education. Rachel has worked as a Hebrew teacher, a family educator, and a Clinical Lecturer at the University of Judaism. Education is a family business for Rachel whose husband, Harvey, is an LAUSD special education teacher. They live in West LA with their two daughters. Rachel believes that “education is a process that requires teamwork. I enjoy the partnership of administrators, teachers, and parents that exists at TEADS.”

 

Judaic Studies

Aliza Dallalzadeh, Kindergarten, Hebrew, and Judaic Studies

Aliza received her teaching degree from Levinsky Education College and University of Tel Aviv in Israel. Aliza is a recipient of the 2003 Milken Award, a prestigious award given yearly to a few outstanding educators working in Jewish day schools in Los Angeles. She has a total of twenty years experience in teaching and loves teaching because it keeps her “young, beautiful, and motivated.”

Aviva Malinek, 6th Grade Judaic and Hebrew Studies

Aviva was born in Israel and moved to the U.S. in 1982. She has a B.A. in Social Work from Tel Aviv University and an M.A. in Jewish Education and Administration from the University of Judaism. "I began teaching at TEADS in 1989. I love being a teacher and feel fortunate to have the opportunity to teach my favorite subjects -- Jewish Studies, History, Bible, Israel, and Hebrew. I have two daughters, one of whom graduated from TEADS. My older daughter received her BA from Stanford, and her law degree from UC Berkeley School of Law. My younger daughter graduated from UC Berkeley and recently made aliyah to Israel. Emanuel Academy has been my home away from home for many years. I have particularly enjoyed the staff’s collaborative spirit and the warm, supportive atmosphere at our school.

 

Etty Rabb,1st Grade Judaic Studies and Hebrew Studies

Etty was born in Israel and graduated from Givat Washington, which is a teachers’ college near Tel Aviv. She worked as a teacher for 10 years in different levels of education.  She was administrator of the afternoon enrichment classes.  She was vice-principal of her elementary school during her last two years in Israel. After moving to Los Angeles, she began teaching at Stephen Wise Day School.  At the same time, she worked at various religious schools.  She began to work at Temple Emanuel in 1997.  “I enjoy working at Temple Emanuel very much because of the warm family atmosphere that is always present.  In addition, there is great cooperation from the parents.  The school is like a one big, happy family.”

 

General Studies

Gloria Kirschenbaum, 4th Grade and 5th Grade

Gloria has taught at TEADS since 1993. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Gloria received a B.A. degree from Towson State University, and an M.A. in Education from Xavier University. "My son and daughter are both Emanuel graduates. I am thankful to have the opportunity to help our children develop into outstanding, young Jewish students who will have a positive impact on the world. "Fourth Grade is an exciting year. The Social Studies curriculum comes alive as we focus on California history and geography. The Reading/Language Arts curriculum focuses on reading, writing, spelling, and vocabulary. Higher level reading comprehension skills are developed through the use of a reading textbook, novels, and other materials. The Mathematics curriculum emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking. Fourth grade mathematics skills include multiplication, division, fractions, geometry, algebraic expressions and the metric system. There is a focus on the development of mathematical reasoning. In addition to academics, there is an underlying emphasis in the classroom on the values, character development and the life-long ability to love learning and be an independent learner." "Fifth Grade is an exciting year. The Social Studies curriculum comes alive as we focus the history and geography of the United States. Fifth graders explore the world of literature by reading novels of various genres and use a variety of materials to enhance inferential critical thinking skills. Students learn to respond to the literature through activating prior knowledge, making connections, and interpreting the text inferentially. The Mathematics curriculum emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking. Fifth grade mathematics skills include multiplication, division, fractions, geometry, the metric system, algebra, and decimals. In addition to academics, social, emotional, and character development are nurtured as the students enter pre-adolesence."

Irit Jacob, Assistant

Irit likes “working with children; it keeps me happy.”

Judy Wollman, 6th Grade

Judy was born and raised in Los Angeles, earned a B.A. in History at CSUN, and completed the requirements for a California Life Credential at UC Berkeley. "I have been at TEADS since 1984. I love this school. It has been my home away from home. The people (staff, students, and parents) have been my second family. As a matter of fact, I am fortunate to have actual family here: my oldest daughter teaches Gesher and my sister teaches third grade. How lucky – and happy – I have been at this fantastic school! Sixth grade is an amazing adventure! In addition to our high level of studies in all academic areas, special programs have been developed over the years in English and Social Studies. As part of our English program, the students write poetry books. In social studies, our curriculum covers Early Humans and Ancient Egypt among other early civilizations. Our students are fully prepared for seventh grade math as well as standardized tests such as ERBs and ISEEs. Graduation at TEADS is an incredible experience for the students, parents, friends, and teachers. There is no other graduation like the one we have! Every child shines in a production written and performed by the 6th grade students. It is both personal and beautiful. Our students go on to excellent private and public middle schools. Many are in advanced classes. We are very proud of our students’ accomplishments here at TEADS and follow their progress as they continue their education elsewhere."

Limor Magen, 2nd Grade General and Judaic Studies

Limor was born in Queens, NY, and moved to California when she was a toddler. She grew up in Studio City, CA. After graduating from high school, she moved to Israel and joined the Israeli Defense Force. She served for 2 years as a sergeant in a team of instructors. Upon completing her service, she attended college at Tel-Aviv University and Beit Berl College where she received her Bachelors of Education in Environmental and Earth Sciences. Limor completed her California Teaching Credential when she returned to Los Angeles. She has taught elementary school, and middle school science since graduating from college. "I've been involved in teaching for my entire adult life. Patience and experience with young children creates a calm inviting atmosphere in the classroom. I am extremely enthusiastic about joining the Temple Emanuel community and especially look forward to teaching the lovely 2nd grade class.”

Louise Robbins, 3rd Grade

Louise grew up in Los Angeles with her sister, Judy.  She attended UCSB, UCLA, and CSUN, earning a B.A. in History and an Elementary Teaching Credential.  She has two married sons, both of whom graduated from Emanuel.  She began teaching at TEADS in 1990.  “Emanuel is my second home, and colleagues are my second family.  The close relationship we have with our students and their families is filled with warmth and respect.  There is a feeling within these walls that would be difficult to find in other schools.  I can’t picture myself teaching anywhere else.”

Marnie Greenwald, 1st Grade

Several years after receiving her B.A. in Sociology from UCLA, Marnie Greenwald returned to obtain her Elementary Credential from the Graduate School of Education. She holds a Lifetime California Teaching Credential. In 2011, Marnie received the Milken Family Foundation Jewish Educator Award.

Marnie came to TEADS in 1990 as a 2nd grade general studies teacher. During her 21 years here she has also taught kindergarten and currently 1st grade. "Being a member of the TEADS family is a rewarding and exhilarating experience. Working with dedicated, creative colleagues who eagerly share ideas is a pleasure. Being able to integrate Jewish values with academics really allows for teaching the whole child. I wish every child had the opportunity to experience the warm, creative, challenging, supportive environment that is TEADS."

Orly Akouka, Day School Office Assistant

Orly has worked at TEADS since 1998.  She attended Mitchell College in New London, CT.  “What I love about working at TEADS is the interaction I get with the staff, children, parents, and grandparents.”

Tamara Deverell, Gesher

Tamara has been teaching the Gesher program since 2001. She was an assistant at TEADS from the time she was 18 until she was 23 while earning her degree. She graduated from CSUN with a BA in Early Childhood Development. “TEADS is my home. This is my favorite age to teach. Each day is a new adventure. I love watching the children learn and grow as individuals.”

 

Specialists

Arie Salma, Music

Arie is a graduate of Rimon Music College and has an A.A. degree in Computer Science.  “I like teaching because a teacher learns more than others through discussions with the students.”

Carla Sherman, Physical Education

Carla has had the “extreme pleasure” of teaching physical education at TEADS for 30 years.  After graduating from UCLA, she knew Emanuel was the perfect fit for her as well as for her son, a recent TEADS graduate.  “I have had the pleasure to see thousands of students nurtured, challenged, and blossomed into mature young adults.  I love the energy and excitement the students exude when learning new sports and games.”

Dan Gordon, Computer and Science

Dan received his BA in Marine Biology from UCSB.  He worked as a marine biologist with whales and dolphins for one year in New York and then returned to the State University of New York at Stony Brook to pursue a secondary education credential in biology and chemistry.  Dan taught biology, chemistry, and physical science for ten years.  He began teaching elementary school computers classes in 2000 and joined TEADS in 2003, creating a computer curriculum for Kindergarten through sixth grade.  In 2006, Dan took on the science program for the fourth, fifth, and sixth graders.  Dan enjoys “teaching the students to use the computer as a creative tool and teaching science as an adventure in discovery.”

Nili Kosmal, Drama Director, Theater Arts

Nili first came to Temple Emanuel in 1970.  She earned her BA at UCLA Theater Arts Department and her MA in Jewish Education and Administration from Hebrew Union College.  In 1995, she formed the Emanuel Arts Center to enhance the integration of the arts into the experience of Judaism.  While working as the Director of the Emanuel Arts Center, she created an annual intergenerational production, which brought together family members of all generations to sing, act, and dance in Jewish musicals.  Throughout her career as a teacher, principal, and drama director, she focused on the integration of all the art forms into the curriculum.  “My career in the performing arts and in education has been productive and rewarding.”

Ronda Rose, Library Director  

Ronda has been at Temple Emanuel as the librarian since 1977.  She became the director of the library in 2003.  She has a BA in Education from the University of Southern California.  She was the first person to be honored as the Aishet Chayil at the Day School.  The Association of Jewish Libraries of Southern California honored her with the Dorothy Schroeder Award. She is the immediate Past President of the Association of Jewish Libraries. She currently sits on the Board of the Bureau of Jewish Education. “I feel that our day school has been instrumental in forming leaders in our community.”

Roz Abraham, Art

Roz has taught at TEADS since 2004.  Roz has a graduate degree in Art History.  She also studied fine arts at the San Carlos Academy of Art in Mexico City.  “I love being able to pass on the passion I have for art to my students."