Natalie Aroubus, Hebrew Studies Teacher, Kindergarten
Education & Training
BA, Hunter College
I became a teacher because...
I am a teacher because I enjoy helping children find success. I want my students to experience meaningful, interesting learning that applies to their lives. My teachers had a great impact on my life and success and I would like to do the same for my students.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
When my family immigrated to America from Israel I was in first grade. My first grade English teacher was determined to teach me the language. She took those extra minutes every day to sit with me separately and teach me everything from the base. My teacher was successful because she taught with patience and compassion. I will never forget my first grade teacher because I speak, read and write English today because of her.
I joined HLA because...
I joined HLA because I love the concept of integrating Hebrew as a language into the daily curriculum to a diversity of children. I have watched this concept become a reality this year and I want to be a part of it.
My vision for our children at HLA...
I want to see my students enjoy learning the Hebrew language and have the confidence to speak fluently in their environment.
Alan Cohen, General Studies Teacher, Kindergarten
Education & Training
BA, New York University
MA, Brooklyn College Graduate School of Education
I became a teacher because…
I have very strong, positive memories of my childhood. I always enjoyed playing with children, especially my nieces and nephews, as they were growing up, and some of my favorite experiences were when I was a counselor at day and sleepaway camps. I originally pursued a career in accounting and computers because I didn't make the connection of translating my love for working with children into a career. After 8 years in royalty accounting, I finally made the connection, shifted my career goals and am now excited to bring my experiences to HLA!
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
I don't know that I have a particular favorite memory, however, all of my prior jobs, which were in early learning centers, involved the transformation of a barren or low performing classroom into one that is thriving and high functioning. I like the idea of building from scratch, of starting up, which is an important part of HLA this year.
I joined HLA because…
I am an early childhood teacher who is secular and has a strong knowledge and love of the Hebrew language and culture. I live in Sheepshead Bay, which is relatively close to the school. HLA seems to have been tailor-made for me! I also feel that it's important to give back to the community in which I live by helping strengthen the learning institutions in the area.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I would like the children to develop a love and enthusiasm for learning, to not be shy to ask about and probe the world around them, to be open minded, to have the understanding that knowledge comes from everywhere, to "thrive," and to have fun while doing it!
Elana Weinberg, Hebrew Studies Teacher, Kindergarten
Education & Training
BA, Hebrew University
MA, City College
I became a teacher because…
I love working with children and love providing them with a warm and nurturing environment that facilitates learning. I have vivid childhood memories of certain teachers who always made me feel special and for whom I would successfully complete a task, even if it did not come easily. I also have memories of the teachers who did not know me and who made learning a chore. I learned early on how much a teacher can affect a child's learning experience. I decided that I wanted to try to emulate the teacher who had so positively affected me. There is nothing more exciting than seeing the face of a child when he or she achieves a task they previously couldn't acomplish. I love the way children think and really feel that I learn as much from them as they learn from me.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
Many years ago, I had a child in my class who loved music and dance. I enjoyed watching her enthusiasm in class when I played the guitar. I must have spoken to this child's mother about facilitating and encouraging her daughter’s love of music. I don't recall these exact conversations, but fifteen years later, this same girl, now a young lady, came to my classroom and thanked me for having encouraged her mother to give her music and dance lessons. She had decided to major in dance and was now a dancer. I rarely have the opportunity to see all of the children I have taught when they are grown, and don't know what it is they recall from preschool, but I will never forget how rewarding it was to encounter this young woman who felt that one of the reasons she had for choosing her path in life, began in preschool.
I joined HLA because…
HLA is a very exciting undertaking. Though there will likely be many challenges and hurdles to overcome, the opportunity to teach children Hebrew in a partial-immersion environment is a rare chance. I am also very excited about the diversity of the student body attending this school. HLA will enable children from the range of American backgrounds to learn about Hebrew culture and language
My vision for our children at HLA…
It is my hope that every child will love coming to school and learn through fun and enriching experiences. I can't wait until the end of this year when many of the children who entered the classroom not speaking a word of Hebrew will be able to understand and communicate in a way they couln't have imagined at the beginning of the year.
Stephanie Lotito, General Studies Teacher, Kindergarten
Education & Training
I graduated and earned my Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from the State University of New York at Oswego in May 2006. I received my Masters Degree in Literacy Education from The College of Saint Rose in December 2007. I was trained in the Fountas and Pinnell guided reading program, as well as the Wilson Fundations program. I also have experience using the Reading Recovery program.
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher to inspire young individuals to accomplish more than they ever thought possible. Every student has potential for success. I love that each year there are new challenges, and with those challenges new potential. Watching a student learn new concepts and knowing you were part of that learning is exhilarating!
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory from teaching came during my time in a first grade classroom. I was working with a small reading group when I noticed a student wasn't progressing. I could tell she was becoming frustrated with the stories we were reading and decided to try something different with her. After several weeks of working together in a one on one capacity she was able to independently read the stories not only with me but had the confidence to being reading aloud to the rest of her group and eventually the whole class. Watching a student work hard and seeing the concepts finally click is one of the most rewarding experiences I have encountered.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because I believe in the school's mission. Not only are the students educated with a dual language program, but also "we help our students learn social and civic responsibility through the integration of community service and service learning into their classroom studies, and diversity, tolerance and openness are emphasized throughout the curriculum and school life." These are skills will help to mold the future!
My vision for our children at HLA…
I hope to help create life-long learners, who not only love coming to school but who continue to learn in all aspects of their lives.
Lerone Beroukhim, Hebrew Studies Teacher, First Grade
I became a teacher because...
So many of society's problems and the world's conflicts are caused by a lack od education. I believe that there is nothing more powerful than giving even one child the power to use the skills that you taught them to make a positive impact on society.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
Last year, I taught at a school for students with severe learning disabilities. I had one student in particular who struggled greatly in mathematics, and had a really difficult time with fractions. For the first half of the unit, she barely put any effort into learning, and used her disabilities as an excuse for why she could not succeed, and therefore did not even want to try. Eventually, through the use of many different manipulatives and a fraction focused cooking lesson, she started participating, and was able to successfully complete the unit. If this is not amazing enough, I later saw her tutoring another student in our classroom who was struggling with fractions. This was one of the most rewarding experiences for me as a teacher, and I was really able to see the power of education first hand.
I joined HLA because...
I have a strong passion for Hebrew, which was my first language. My Masters in Special Education focused on creating multi-sensory lesson plans that reach all learners, especially those who struggled with language. Learning a second language is not an easy task, and I am eager to apply all that I have learned to create meaningful and enjoyable lessons so that all students can succeed in Hebrew.
My vision for our children at HLA...
I want HLA students to be proud of the knowledge that they receive in our classrooms. I truly believe that if our children believe that they are capable of achieving success in the classroom, then they will be successful. It is thus our goal at HLA to teach to every student's strength, and through that empower them to have faith in their abilities and succeed. I also believe that learning a foreign language and culture gives children the understanding that they are part of a community that is larger than themselves. It also promotes tolerance for people who come from different backgrounds, but share similar experiences.
Hulya Dogan, General Studies Teacher, First Grade
Education & Training
City University of New York @ Brooklyn College
Master of Science in Education
Special Education Certificate Program
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher because I always knew that I wanted to play an essential role in the lives of young children and influence them in a positively. I further desired to be a teacher, because I found it to be a rewarding experience for each time I witnessed a child light up as they made positive gains. As a teacher, I have opportunities to make learning fun and exciting so that students can take lead in their own learning and positively interact with new ideas. It is especially important to me to set up a learning environment that is inspiring and empowering so that children learn and explore further.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory from teaching and learning that I best remember are all from the times that students would raise questions and show great interest about a particular topic, where I in return would inquire further into the topic, leading us into a new discovery process. I believe that the process of teaching and learning is a reciprocal relationship between teachers and students, I am continuously learning from students as they are learning from me. I know that from my own memories that my best teachers were those that assisted me in finding the direction I wanted to go in, and supported me in my learning process.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because it is an excellent school community. I especially respect the fact that HLA strives to build a community of students that are active participants in their own learning process. Additionally, HLA's rigorous curriculum still allows teachers the flexibility to differentiate its curriculum based on students' needs.
Kerri Kelty, English Teacher, First Grade
Education & Training
BS in Elementary Education
State University of New York at New Paltz
MS in Literacy
Adelphi University
I became a teacher because…
Ever since I can remember, my parents have always stressed to me the importance of education. As a child, I had always loved going to school and being involved in the school community. I had a perfect attendance record from first through twelfth grade because I never wanted to miss out on a day of school! It has been this drive for academic excellence which had led me into the profession of teaching. Being brought up to value education is something that I hope to pass on to all of my future students.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
There is not one moment in particular that I would consider a "favorite", however there are many moments that have made teaching and learning such a rewarding experience. For the past few years, I have had the opportunity to be a reading teacher in various school districts. As a reading teacher, I had the responsibility of working with students who had literacy difficulties and often times were reluctant readers. My favorite moments were usually at the end of the year, when I could see the amazing progress and strides made by each of these students in reading!
I joined HLA because…
HLA offers a unique education through its dual language approach. HLA promotes a "global" community and teaches students the importance of diversity and tolerance.
My vision for our children at HLA...
I have always possessed a love for reading. Reading is the fundamental building block of all subjects in education. It is my vision for my students to share the same love that I have for books. I want them to become lifelong readers!
Cheryl Regina, English Teacher, First Grade
Education & Training
Hunter College, New York,
NY Masters in Childhood Education
State University of New York, Albany,
NY Bachelors of Arts in Economics
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher because prior to teaching I worked in advertising; however, I had always felt that there was something more I could do. Teaching offered me the opportunity to not only be creative, but to do something positive within my community.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory from teaching is when, as an assistant teacher, I was asked to work closely with a student that was struggling. To see this student really learn something from me was exhilarating and reinforced my desire to change careers and teach.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because right away, I felt that there was a strong sense of community within the school. I could see that the teachers work together and from the very first day, I knew that I had made the right choice.
My vision for our children at HLA...
My vision for my students is that they become life-long learners who are inspired to become their best self.
Rachel Reyz, Hebrew Studies Teacher, First Grade
Education and Training
MA in Education
I became a teacher because...
I have a natural love for children. I love to observe children's interactions with each other as well as their thought processes. Creativity is one of my most valued strengths and I love incorporating it into learning. I genuinely enjoy spending time with children and facilitating their growth and knowledge.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
Is seeing my students enjoy things they once thought they disliked. In the beginning of each year, I encourage my students to open up a book. Over the course of the year, they "suddenly" fall in love with reading and it brings me pleasure to see them choosing books as a "fun activity."
I joined HLA because...
This school upholds academic excellence while teaching one of the oldest languages in the world and promoting cultural diversity.
My vision for our children at HLA...
Our students will graduate with a solid foundation for further academic learning and become profitable and ethical members of society in our global community.
Leemor Schickman, Hebrew Studies Teacher, First Grade
Education & Training
BA in Art, Brooklyn College
MA in Art Therapy, Hofstra University
MS in Education and Special Education, Touro College
I became a teacher because...
I love working with children and watching them grow and achieve.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
Watching a child learning to express himself using his words.
I joined HLA because…
Joining HLA is a unique oppurtunity for me to work with students and teach, while utilizing the Hebrew language within the curriculum.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I hope to see my students utilizing the Hebrew langauge in day to day life, and learn to enjoy learning.
Natalie Zadok, Hebrew Studies Teacher, First Grade
Education & Training
BA, Touro College, School of Human Services
MA, Touro College, School of Psychology & Special Education
I became a teacher because…
As a teacher I believe that I am playing a significant role in shaping children's learning, play, academics, and emotional development. I am proud to hold such an essential position in their lives.
I joined HLA because….
I have a genuine love for the Hebrew language and all of the cultural, artistic, and historical components associated with Israel and its native language origins.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I would love to see the students at HLA enjoy an enriched Hebrew/English curriculum that will expand their developmental process to the fullest.
Anu Antony, English Teacher, Second Grade
Education & Training
BA, York University
MA, D'Youville College
I became a teacher because...
My tenth grade teacher played a key role in my life as she always challenged me to be a better learner. I knew someday, I wanted to make a difference in a child's life just as she did with mine. Being a teacher is one of the most important professions there is, as you are not only changing the lives of students but the future of all humanity. I strive to become a part of that change.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
My favorite memory from teaching is during one of my days as a student teacher in a grade one class. During a math lesson, a caterpillar made its way to the carpet. The class immediately turned into chaos. Instead of adding to the mayhem, I decided to turn it into a teachable moment. Later that week, we had a mini-lesson on living things discussing the anatomy of a caterpillar. It has been my favorite memory thus far.
I joined HLA because...
I joined HLA because I think it's wonderful that there is an integration of two languages in a school.
My vision for our children at HLA...
My hope is to motivate students to reach their full potential. I want to create a standard for my student that is attainable, giving them the support they need to find themselves in a more skilled identity.
Sarit Delouya, Hebrew Studies Teacher, Second Grade
Education & Training
BA, Oranim College (Israel)
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher because I love children. When I was a child, I always taught other children and always wanted to be a teacher. It was my dream to help other children.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
I had a great teacher who spoke to our class through the eyes of a child. She taught us Hebrew grammar and prepared us for the final exam.
I joined HLA because…
HLA has a great combination of Hebrew/English learning. This was a dream come true for me because I am able to teach and speak Hebrew in New York.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I want my students to speak Hebrew naturally, in their environment, especially those without a Hebrew background.
Tehila Ioinovitch, Hebrew Teacher, Second Grade
Education & Training
Bar Ilan University, Israel
BA, Touro College
MA, Touro College
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher because teaching students is a passion of mine and a profession in which you don't stop learning. The students are my teachers as well as I am theirs, and it is an honor to be in such a profession. Seeing these children develop their potentials, utilizing the knowledge and learning experiences, and applying them while growing into successful adults is the most rewarding and exciting feeling for me.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because I find it exciting and stimulating to be part of a new school that offers a foundation in both the American and Israeli cultures. I believe the unique concept of teaching in an environment of dual languages can expand the opportunities for both teachers and students.
My vision for our children at HLA…
HLA is a new school that is building its curriculum from the bottom up. I hope to contribute to the students' growth in academics as well as towards open-mindedness, tolerance and cultural diversity. I would also love to see our students fluent with the Hebrew language. I want my students to become fluent Hebrew speakers.
Yana Landsman, Hebrew Teacher, Second Grade
Education & Training
I became a teacher because…
I've always loved working with children. I believe that educating children who will be our future generation is the most rewarding work. I became a teacher to help better educate our young children and give them the knowledge they need for the outside world.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
I loved learning while being in school. I believed that as we learn we become more knowledgeable about our world. Being educated in our world is very important and I love to help our children learn.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because I want to be engaged and teach our children Hebrew. I believe that this language will be very useful for our young children, and I am eager to teach it to them every day.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I want our children at HLA to gain the most from the Hebrew language. I believe that our children have the fullest potential to learn this new language. I am happy to see them gaining more knowledge every day. That's what make me happy and motivated to continue to teach our children at school.
Maria Surdo, General Studies Teacher, Second Grade
Education & Training
MA, Adelphi University
BA, Adelphi University
I became a teacher because...
During elementary school I was a struggling reader and had given up on myself, convinced that I was a "bad" student. None of my teachers bothered to say anything until I reached fourth grade. There my teacher worked with me as much as she could and even vouched for me to see the reading teacher a couple a times a week. In a few months I was reading better than I had ever before. I knew how much my fourth grade teacher loved the profession and truly cared for the growth of her students. She made such a difference not only in my education but in my life as well. From that young age I knew I wanted to join the profession and do the same for my students. I want to do my very best to make the same sort of impact on my students and help them on their way to success.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
While student teaching I worked with a student who was a struggling reader. She automatically caught my attention because of my prior difficulty with reading in elementary school. I worked alongside the reading teacher and resource room teacher to assist her in not only improving her reading skills but to build up her confidence to believe in herself as well. On my last day she came up to and thanked me for making learning fun. It was a great feeling knowing that I helped a student not only learn and grow but enjoy herself along the way.
I joined HLA because...
From the moment I entered through the front door I felt a comforting sense of community and knew I wanted to be a part of it. I believe the schools integration of the Hebrew language is a great asset to the community. The teaching of a foreign language contributes to a child's overall education and fosters understandings of diverse cultures. I find the schools' mission to be truly inspirational and am honored to be a part of it.
My vision for our children at HLA...
I want to assist my students in acquiring the learning skills that will help them be successful in the real world. My vision for them is to become responsible and respectful citizens of the communities they are a part of. I would also like to help them become not only good learners but good people.
Rebecca Vyskocil, General Studies Teacher, Second Grade
Education & Training
BA, CUNY Queens College
I became a teacher because...
I want to have an influential impact on my students' educational, emotional and social growth. As a teacher I want to lead my students to discover their unique talents and attributes. Education is not just the learning of basic facts. It is about becoming a knowledgeable and responsible member of our society, building upon our experiences, and discovering the exceedingly high expectations we must all have for ourselves. I want to help my students reach their highest potentials!
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
I don't know if I can narrow it down to a single memory. However, the best days for me as an educator, are the days that I feel that I have learned something new through the eyes of a child. Children are naturally curious and inquisitive. I have learned to open my eyes to the world the way children do, and never be afraid to ask, "Why?"
I joined HLA because...
I want to be surrounded by a school community that is supportive, inspiring, and encouraging! Hebrew Language Academy offers a learning environment that lovingly supports and welcomes its students, teachers, parents and community. It is a great place to learn and grow for all who are a part of our school!
My vision for our children at HLA...
Is that all of our classrooms are filled with students communicating and learning in both Hebrew and English every day. That our students come to school ready to learn, and happy to be part of our school community!
Yaron Gal-Zur, Hebrew Studies Teacher, Third Grade
Education & Training
BA, Hunter College
MA, Hunter College
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher to make a difference in the world. We have too many conflicts going on in the world because of the lack of education. I believe through education, children will become better persons and citizens.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory is from when I returned to the first-grade classroom where I student-taught. The children were so excited that they got out of their chairs and came to greet me. The fact that they all remembered me and were thrilled to see me made me realize that I had been able to influence their lives even though I was only the student teacher.
I joined HLA because…
I joined the HLA team because I strongly believe in the school’s mission. Teaching students the Hebrew language together with Hebrew culture will give students a great opportunity to learn about this fascinating culture, which also happens to be a part of who I am.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I envision that all of my students will take great interest in learning Hebrew, become fluent Hebrew speakers, and continue to pursue the language in their later years.
Nitzan Graham, Hebrew Studies Teacher, Third Grade
Education & Training
BA, Adelphi University
MA, Adelphi University
I became a teacher because…
I became a teacher because as a student, I learned that a teacher can either help a student grow and strive to become a better human being or wilt and fade. I plan to help our students grow into caring and successful human beings.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
I love when a student "takes the ball and runs with it," owning and being in control of what I taught him or her! There is no better feeling.
I joined HLA because…
I think that at our core, all humans share common ideals. We want to go to work in the morning and see the sun shining on our children's faces and to come home, knowing that our family is safe. I believe that when we discover how much we all have in common, we'll stop being so angry with each other. That is why I welcome the opportunity to teach at this school where cultural diversity and respect is central to our mission.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I want my students to realize that in diversity, we have strength.
Marie Lekic, English Teacher, Third Grade
Education & Training
BS, St. Johns University
MS, St. Johns University
I became an teacher because...
To make a difference every day is the most rewarding gift you can get out of a career. I became a teacher because of this reason. I would like to think that I have an impact on students' and parents' lives.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
My favorite memory from learning is from when I was in Kindergarten. I still remember my teacher giving me that one on one attention and giving me the confidence to tackle a new language, English. She taught me what a great teacher is like.
I joined HLA because...
The opportunity of teaching in a school that has high academic standards and teachers that are devoted and motivated was why I chose to join HLA.
My vision for our children at HLA...
"Ms. Lekic, I love coming to school!" is my vision for my students. Students to be excited and eager to learn, explore, and value themselves by giving it their best is all I ask for from my family at HLA.
Israela Shaked, Hebrew Studies Teacher, Third Grade
Education & Training
BA, Beth Berl College, Tel Aviv University, Israel
MA, Touro College, NY
I became a teacher because...
Teaching students is the best way to share professional experience and knowledge with them while studying from each student at the same time. It is amazing to realize how much the students learn from you and how much you learn from them at the end of every year.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
I remember the big smiles on the faces of my struggling students when they received their tests back with a high grades, after I helped on lunch break and after school. They were happy I didn't give up on them end dedicating extra time and energy to help them make it through.
I joined HLA because...
I strongly believe in the school's mission. I came to visit and fell immediately in love with the school. The combination of the warm atmosphere, Hebrew speaking students and the culture that I know give me a good feeling of familiarity and belonging.
My vision for our children at HLA...
My vision will become true at the first reunion of my HLA's students as successful adults, when they share their great time in HLA with each other students in fluent Hebrew.
Joelle Villani, General Studies Teacher, Third Grade
Education & Training
BA, College of Staten Island
MA, St. John's University
I became a teacher because…
I want to impact the lives of children and their parents. I also want to give back to the community that helped make me the person I am today.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory of education was in middle school. This is where I learned to accept myself as an individual and accept others for their differences. Middle school was also the time when I met the people I am still friends with today.
I joined HLA because…
I joined the Hebrew Language Academy because I want to be part of a team of individuals who truly love children and education, and it is clear to me that my colleagues share this ideal.
My vision for our children at HLA…
My vision for my students is that they become joyful learners who look forward to coming to school everyday. Also, I hope that my students have a sense of belonging to our "family" and classroom. I truly want HLA to be their "home away from home."
Grace Kelly
Education & Training
Dowling College, BS
State University of New York, Stony Brook, MA
I became a teacher because...
I believe that education is the key that unlocks success in all professions and occupations.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning...
I enjoy when learners recognize reading as a form of entertainment and practice reading everyday.
I joined HLA because...
HLA is a learner-centered academic community that reflects real-world diversity.
My vision for our children at HLA...
Is to inspire the students to achieve academic success both in Hebrew and in English.
Shira Lichtbron, English Teacher, Haifa
Education & Training
I became a teacher because…
I became an Early Childhood teacher because I love being part of the academic and social developmental stages that arise in the early years. In the early school years children are just beginning to put pen to paper. They are not only beginning to learn to read and write sentences, but they are also developing their social skills. By the end of the school year I will be proud of their academic and social growth development, as they will be well prepared for 1st grade.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory from teaching and learning is working with a child with learning disabilities. He could not keep up with the class as they progressed through the year. However, after working with him one on one and altering my teaching methods, I saw major success. Each day it gives me great pleasure to walk into the classroom and be greeted by the smiles of the students. The closeness that developed with the learning disabled student who finally achieved success and began to feel like part of the classroom is my greatest achievement.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because of its diversity and I am eager to take part in the dual curriculum program. I myself attended schools from K-12 where both English and Hebrew were taught. As I have traveled to Israel several times, I look forward to incorporating the Israeli culture into the curriculum.
My vision for our children at HLA…
My vision for our children at HLA is for them to enjoy coming to school each day. Learning should be multidisciplinary, resulting in learning from many different avenues, such as games, trips, art, songs, reading and writing. Children should reach their potential, while enjoying each step it takes to get there. I cannot wait to take this journey with them.
Megan Himel, Music Teacher
Education & Training
BM in Teaching Music, All Grades, New York University
I became a teacher because…
I love making music; as a singer and a flautist, I have always had multiple opportunities to perform. It wasn't until I began working with children that I realized there was something better than making music – empowering others to make music. I believe all children are able to attain a high level of artistry as musicians, and it brings me so much joy to be a part of that process.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
One year, I taught a mentally and physically disabled student with Down's Syndrome. She was on her second year in 1st grade, and was experiencing nothing but struggles and defeat in all of her classes. The first day I handed out maracas during our music class, she experienced success. Although she could barely speak, and could not clap her hands or tap her knees, she could shake a maraca exactly in time. She demonstrated that she could read and perform musical notation, when given the right tools.
I joined HLA because…
Music reaches across all kinds of barriers, even across languages. I am thrilled that HLA crosses over linguistic barriers, and I want to be part of a community where cross-cultural education is the norm, rather than the exception.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I hope to see every student at HLA grow into a lover of music, and a self-sustaining musician. I want them to have all the tools they need to read and write music, create music, perform music, and express themselves through a medium that can reach farther into our hearts and minds than any other – music.
Elena Canaras, Special Education Teacher
Education & Training
BA, SUNY Plattsburgh
MA, Bank Street College
I became a teacher because…
As a child, I had a rough time learning and felt that I wasn't "as smart" as the rest of my peers. No child should ever feel that they aren't "good enough." Children should be inspired to make an impact and contribute to the society by building on their individual talents and skills. I trained in special education and became the teacher that I felt I never had in elementary school.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
In kindergarten, we were learning about dimes and were directed to color in two pictures of a dime. My kindergarten teacher told us that we had to color in the lines and then later cut out the dimes. I didn't understand why we would have to color in the lines so perfectly if we were just going to end up cutting the pictures out and so I proceeded to color outside of the lines. The kindergarten teacher was not happy and made me start all over again. This was when I realized the importance of purpose.
I joined HLA because…
I like the fact that HLA is a brand new school that challenges the way people typically view a school and its success. I feel lucky and eager to be a part of this movement.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I envision the students embracing cultural diversity within their studies and interactions. I strive to help them develop inquistive minds and work together as a community.
Bryan Rosen, Physical Education Teacher
Education & Training
Physical Education, State University of New York at Cortland
I became a teacher because…
From kindergarten through senior year of high school, my favorite teachers were always my Physical Education teachers. They constantly kept me active and smiling through their great activities and enthusiasm. They were my role models and I strive to be just like them.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite memory was watching my mom cry tears of joy the day I received my college diploma.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because of its warm, welcoming environment and commitment to teaching two languages.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I want all of my students to have an age appropriate, fun filled physical education class every time they enter the gymnasium.
Aliza Rosenblum, Special Education Teacher
Education & Training
BA, Barnard College of Columbia University
MA, Brooklyn College
Certifications, Awards, Specialized Study
Cum Laude, Barnard College
New York State Permanent Certificate, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and Grades 1-6
New York State Permanent Certificate; Special Education K-12
I chose to work in education because…
As the child of educators, I have learned first- hand the difference teachers can make in the lives of their students. I also know that I would not be the person I am today were it not for the support, nurturing and nourishment that I have received from my teachers..
My favotite memory as a teacher is...
I believe that education must open minds. When I was in elementary school, during and educational assessment to test readiness for first grade, my brother was asked to complete the following statement, "First is to second as third is to ______." He replied, "Home." According to the pre-established criteria, this was not the right answer but would be if you loved baseball as much as my brother. From this episode I learned the value of multiple truths and the importance of flexibility in understanding the learner.
I joined HLA because…
I found that at HLA, I will be able to apply my experiences in both special education and Hebrew day schools to help enrich the experiences of the students in a dynamic student-centered environment.
My vision for our children at HLA…
I aspire to foster and cultivate self-esteem while developing a supportive, success driven environment. I hope to be a part of a team that creates a learning community where people will run to get there in the morning and hate to leave at the end of the day, achieving all the personal and educational goals they set for themselves.
Qayyim Shabazz, Physical Education
Education & Training
BA, Long Island University/ CW Post
I became a teacher because…
For several years, I worked with nonprofit organizations that serve children in low-income communities. When I graduated from college, I began teaching as a substitute for New York City public schools. I immediately fell in love with teaching and now focus on physical education instruction.
My favorite memory from teaching and learning…
My favorite educational memory is from college. I will never forget walking across the stage to receive my diploma and how proud my family was when I graduated.
I joined HLA because…
I joined HLA because I believe in the school’s mission. It is exciting to be part of a new school because the opportunities for achievement are immense!
My vision for our children at HLA…
We live in a society that is very diverse, and that diversity is reflected in our community. I envision my HLA students using this diverse learning experience to guide their future endeavors throughout life.
HLA is now accepting applications for the 2012-2013 school year. Apply now!