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Tuesday, July 28
 

7:30am EDT

Morning Minyan
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 8:00am EDT
Student Union The StAJE

Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Har Zion in Chicago.  When he’s not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and Jewish storyteller.  David is also on the Board of the JEA and an MTEI graduate.  However, his most important role is husband to Miriam and Abba to 10-year-old... Read More →
avatar for Cantor Neil Schwartz

Cantor Neil Schwartz

Director of Education, Temple Har Zion; River Forest, IL
Cantor Neil Schwartz is a long-time CAJE and NewCAJE veteran, and he is retired from a long career as clergy in seven pulpits and as a chaplain.  He enjoys to opportunity to co-teach with his son David each year.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 8:00am EDT
Student Union The StAJE

7:45am EDT

Breakfast
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:45am - 9:00am EDT
Student Union Dining Hall

Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:45am - 9:00am EDT
Student Union Dining Hall

9:00am EDT

Navigating Any Negotiation
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 239
An educators job hinges on the ability to communicate others and create agreement often where there are shared or different and/or conflicting interests. These negotiations hinge on assumption, preparation, and research. In this session we are going to learn how to best prepare for negotiations based on literature from the business world and then workshop areas that you might want to negotiate for yourself.
Speakers
avatar for Stacy Rigler

Stacy Rigler

Non-Profit Staff/CEO, ARJE
Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE is CEO  of the Association of Reform Jewish Educators. She served as a Rabbi Educator at Keneseth Israel in Elkins Park, PA, then worked at the Foundation for Jewish Camp. Stacy volunteers with RAC-PA Onward Hebrew and Camp Harlam. She received her MAJE and... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 239
  Administration, B-Mitzvah

9:00am EDT

Cultivating Connection: Why Spiritual Development Matters at Every Age
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 202
Jewish tradition has been cultivating spiritual development for thousands of years, and Dr. Lisa Miller's research now demonstrates it is one of the most powerful protective factors for lifelong well-being. This workshop defines spirituality, examines the research, walks through the developmental stages, and equips educators with practical tools to nurture spiritual growth at every age. Participants will leave with language, a framework, clarity, and practices they can use right away.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Aronoff

Emily Aronoff

Dr Emily Celebrates
Dr. Emily Aronoff cultivates connection through songleading that sparks joy, makes meaning, & secures a Jewish future. With 25 years of practice, she leads music & movement with kiddos & their families, offers professional development, consulting, & curriculum to Jewish institutions... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 202
  Big Picture of Jewish Education, Spirituality/Tefilah

9:00am EDT

Purposeful Play in Every Setting
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 340
There is a difference between play as simply unstructured fun rather than a powerful tool for learning and connection. In this interactive session, participants will explore concepts of play including flow theory and the Reggio Emilia philosophy of the “100 Languages of Children,” and consider how these ideas can shape meaningful learning experiences in a variety of settings. Together, we will examine how purposeful play can support Judaic learning, strengthen social-emotional skills, spark creativity and curiosity, and foster a deeper sense of belonging and community. Participants will leave with practical strategies and inspiration for integrating playful, relationship-centered learning into their own work.
Speakers
avatar for Sasha Hass

Sasha Hass

Sasha Kopp Hass is the Senior Director of Education and Engagement at ElevatEd, where she helps strengthen and support the field of early childhood Jewish education across North America. She is a passionate Jewish educator, artist. Through all of her work, Sasha seeks to foster joyful... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 340
  Early Childhood Education, Family Education

9:00am EDT

High Holidays and Tikkun HaYam: Repair the Sea from Your Backyard
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 322
Is it Jewish to save the turtles? Microplastics and other pollutants are an increasing problem in our waterways and your students are likely very aware of the plight of sea turtles in the ocean. How can you use Jewish values to help students and families take action in your own community? Repair the Sea has a great program linked to Jewish holidays that you can use no matter where you are located!
Speakers
avatar for Tanya Wisoker

Tanya Wisoker

Adult Educator, Storyteller
Tanya Wisoker is a Jewish educator, playwright, and storyteller.
Tanya is a Board Member, Instructor, and Facilitator for Teach the Shoah, bringing the testimonies of those who experienced the Holocaust, their descendants, and anyone committed to the task of bearing witness to li... Read More →
Tanya Wisoker NewCAJE 2026 High Holidays and Tikkun HaYam pdf
Tanya Wisoker NewCAJE 2026 Setting up Your Event for Tikkun HaYam docx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 322
  Holidays, Teaching Tools & Techniques

9:00am EDT

Unpacking and Previewing the 2026 Israeli Election
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Maria Hall Multipurpose 2
This session will provide educators the space to think about the 2026 Israeli election. After a brief overview of the political system. participants will think about the views of key figures through primary source quotes and political ads.
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Golden

Jonathan Golden

Dr. Jonathan Golden is a Senior Educator at OpenDor Media who works in the Unpacked for Educators and ConnectED divisions. He teaches at the Hebrew College in Boston and for the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America. Previously, he served as the Israel Curriculum Coordinator and... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Maria Hall Multipurpose 2
  Israel, History

9:00am EDT

The Tefilah Reboot Project
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Graduate Lounge
You CAN transform your Tefilah program. We'll learn how to:
• Identify strengths and opportunities for growth
• Set clear, achievable goals for your Tefilah program
• Train and empower faculty as confident, creative Tefilah leaders
• Integrate emotional and spiritual wellness practices into traditional prayer
Speakers
avatar for Joshua Cahan

Joshua Cahan

Joshua Cahan is a writer and tefilah consultant from Riverdale, NY. He is the author of The Yedid Nefesh Bencher, The Yedid Nefesh Haggadah, and a new series of siddurim for camps and schools. He has rabbinic ordination and a Ph.D. in Rabbinic Literature from the Jewish Theological... Read More →
The Tefilah Reboot Project docx
Tefilah Reboot pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Graduate Lounge
  Spirituality/Tefilah, Teaching Tools & Techniques

9:00am EDT

Moments of Memory: Using Storytelling to Enhance Your Holocaust Education Program
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 319
This workshop would include a discussion of what constitutes age-appropriate content/curricula and examples of useful resources and websites. The next part of the workshop would cover the use of stories and anecdotes to enhance a Holocaust lesson, and how to find stories that are both factual and appropriate. There would also be a discussion on how to present stories without having storytelling experience. The workshop would finish with the development of a rough outline for a Holocaust lesson plan that attendees can take with them.
Speakers
avatar for Cathy Polakoff

Cathy Polakoff

Storytelling Director, Teach the Shoah
Cathy Polakoff is a Storytelling Director at Teach the Shoah. She has held a variety of roles in education since earning her M.Ed in 2014. She now focuses on guiding people in telling factual stories to educate others about the Holocaust. Cathy frequently volunteers at her synagogue... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 319
  Storytelling, History

9:00am EDT

Level Up Your Classroom: The Power of Team-Building Games
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 348
Unlock the potential of play to transform your learning environment. This session explores how teambuilding games serve as more than just "icebreakers"—they are essential tools for building a strong, inclusive community where every student feels they belong. Beyond social connection, you’ll learn how to seamlessly integrate these activities into your existing curriculum to increase student engagement. Discover creative strategies to use games to reinforce core lesson content and turn learning into an interactive, high-energy experience. Wear comfortable clothes as we will learn and build kehillah by participating in these games.
Speakers
avatar for Jill Eisen

Jill Eisen

Jill Eisen is the Director of Program Partnerships at Pearlstone, the Headquarters of Adamah. She has her BA from Penn State and two Masters from Baltimore Hebrew University. Working at Pearlstone entwines the environment and Jewish values she holds dear. Each day holds a new adventure... Read More →
NewCaje TeamBuiling in Classrrooms docx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
College Hall Rm 348
  Teaching Tools and Techniques, Classroom Management

9:00am EDT

Vayikra for Vegetarians: Teaching Objectionable Texts
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Maria Hall Yoga Room
Both young and adult students raise objections, sometimes stringently, to many texts from the Tanakh. We do no one any favors by avoiding all such texts, but how do we respond to valid ethical objections and teach the texts successfully? We'll explore issues ranging from animal sacrifice to women's rights and genocide and work together to develop a consistent framework for teaching them.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Solyn

Paul Solyn

Adult Educator
Paul Solyn is an adult educator in Elmira, NY. He received an M.J.Ed. degree and family educator certificate from Hebrew College, Boston, and a graduate certificate in eco-spirituality from Hartford International University.
Vayikra for Vegetarians pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Maria Hall Yoga Room
  Text/Bible/Theology, Teaching Tools & Techniques

11:00am EDT

Hebrew Games to Promote Learning and Fun!
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 322
For games and instructions CLICK HERE!

Add engagement, enthusiasm, and energy to your Hebrew decoding and prayer lessons through games! This session will demonstrate many different games that will add excitement to your Hebrew classes (both in-person and virtual) while reinforcing decoding and prayer learning. Leave with ready-to-use games as well as ideas to create your own.


Speakers
avatar for Linda Duke

Linda Duke

Teacher, Congregation B'nai Shalom
Linda Duke is a teacher/Hebrew Coordinator at Congregation B'nai Shalom (Westborough, MA) and a Master Hebrew Through Movement (HTM) teacher.  She co-facilitates HTM Communities of Practice and was a member of the 2023-2024 Onward Hebrew Think Tank.  She received a Grinspoon Award... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 322
  Hebrew/Yiddish, Teaching Tools & Techniques

11:00am EDT

Resilience: Amazing Courageous Stories of Young Holocaust Survivors
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 319
Resilience is an educational program designed for educators to bring themes of strength, survival, and hope into the classroom through poetry, art, and testimony inspired by young Holocaust survivors. It provides age-appropriate materials, discussion guides, and reflective activities that help students connect history to empathy, resilience, and personal responsibility. Educators are empowered to facilitate meaningful conversations about the Holocaust while fostering critical thinking compassion and deeper understanding of human dignity and resilience in today’s world.
Speakers
JA

Jennifer Alembik

Cheryl is an educator and advocate for Holocaust remembrance and youth empowerment. She is the Founder and President of the Holocaust Youth Survivors Legacy Foundation, Inc., where she creates arts- and poetry-based programs that bring survivor voices to students. Her work is dedicated... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 319
  History, Storytelling

11:00am EDT

Music That Rocks the Preschool Classroom, part 2 (Tu B'shvat to Yom HaAtzmaut)
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 202
Come sing the songs that ROCK with preschoolers! Early childhood music specialist, Lisa Baydush, will share the songs that delight and engage her students throughout the year. Learn how to make these songs POP! and get dozens of ideas to energize your music program. In addition to teaching repertoire, Lisa will discuss how to plan a set list that achieves your goals. This session will focus on holidays in the second half of the year, Tu B’shvat – Shavuot. (Just to let you know in case you’ve taken Lisa’s workshops before, this workshop will have NEW repertoire!)
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Baydush

Lisa Baydush

Early Childhood Music Specialist, Temple Beth Ami (Rockville, MD), Congregation B'nai Tzedek (Potomac, MD)
Lisa Baydush is an engaging early childhood music specialist who delights in transmitting the values, stories and traditions of Judaism through the medium of Jewish music.  A dynamic teacher and Tot Shabbat service leader at two congregations in Maryland, Lisa is also a prolific... Read More →
Music That Rocks the Preschool Classroom song list pdf
Music That Rocks the Preschool Classroom, 2026, NewCAJE pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 202
  Music, Early Childhood Education

11:00am EDT

NewCAJE Chorale
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE
Come be a part of the NewCAJE chorale and practice for a grand performance at evening programs on Tuesday night! All are welcome, musicians and non-musicians alike.

Resources for chorale can be found at:
tinyurl.com/NewCAJEChorale
Speakers
avatar for Michelle

Michelle

Cantor, B'nai Vail
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE
  Music, Torah Lishma

11:00am EDT

Comparing Shabbat Service Sections
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Maria Hall Yoga Room
You may have been to Shabbat services, but have you thought about how the different services on Shabbat work? In this section we’ll explore how the different Shabbat services are similar, comparing structures, prayers, and nusach (traditional chanting). You’ll leave with a new appreciation and understanding that will enrich your Shabbat service experience from now on!
Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Har Zion in Chicago.  When he’s not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and Jewish storyteller.  David is also on the Board of the JEA and an MTEI graduate.  However, his most important role is husband to Miriam and Abba to 10-year-old... Read More →
NS
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Maria Hall Yoga Room
  Spirituality/Tefilah, Torah Lishma

11:00am EDT

Igniting Tefilah Leadership
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 340
Leading supplementary school Tefilah can be intimidating, especially if you're unsure about your singing voice or you don't have training as a prayer leader. Come learn strategies to make prayer come alive for your students, including infusing movement and hand motions, and dream about what Tefilah could be in your setting. You'll leave this workshop inspired to lead Tefilah with newfound confidence and joy!
Speakers
SS
avatar for Melissa Pescatore

Melissa Pescatore

Director of Youth Learning and Engagement, Temple Shaari Emeth
Melissa Pescatore is the Director of Youth Learning and Engagement at Temple Shaari Emeth in Manalapan, NJ. Serving as Education Director in the congregation where she grew up, she is passionate about instilling a love of learning and building a strong, positive Jewish identity in... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 340
  Spirituality/Tefilah, Teaching Tools & Techniques

11:00am EDT

Magic the Gathering for Your Classroom
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 239
Are you looking for a way to connect your students more deeply with your content? Do your students struggle with engagement? Magic the Gathering may be the way! This popular longstanding trading card game offers many opportunities to engage students in Jewish learning of all types. Show up to learn more about this useful (and fun) format!
Speakers
avatar for Nora Gorenstein

Nora Gorenstein

Educator, Jewish Community of Amherst
Nora Gorenstein is an experienced Jewish educator with a broad range of experience in classroom teaching, fundraising, nonprofit leadership, and program design. She is passionate about ensuring that every individual and family is supported on their journeys and has access to opportunities... Read More →
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Passover the Gathering 20260724 103725 0000 pdf
Mtg sample lessons docx
Passover%20Villains%20Variant%20Rules pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 239
  Teaching Tools & Techniques, Teens/Youth Engagement

11:00am EDT

Stirring Up Engagement: Culinary Programming for Youth and Teens
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 348
Food is an evergreen tool for building community, developing leadership, and getting kids excited. In this session, I'll share programs I've run—from teen-catered kiddush luncheons and challah bake fundraisers to cooking chuggim, recipe-testing events, and even entire pop-up restaurants. Whether you have a handful of children or more hands than you'd know what to do with, this session will provide practical ideas, lessons learned, and ready-to-use materials for creating meaningful, engaging, and even revenue-generating culinary programs.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Catalano

Emily Catalano

After accidentally gaslighting a rabbi, Emily Catalano, a bartender, found a fulfilling career in Jewish engagement and education. Now a seasoned youth director and educator, she has worked with children and teens of all ages (infants, too!) for nearly a decade. She works at PJTC... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 348
  Teens/Youth Engagement, Jewish Life & Identity

11:00am EDT

Amos, Scraper of Sycamore Figs
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Graduate Lounge
Despite his self-characterization as a simple shepherd and farmer, Amos is one of the first “literary” prophets in ancient Israel. He is a poet of particular power, often warning Israel about impending doom but also holding out some possible hope for the future. We will closely read (in translation) some of the prophet’s more memorable passages, focusing on his imagery and the rhetorical force of his language.
Speakers
avatar for Everett Fox

Everett Fox

Clark University
Everett Fox is the Allen M. Glick Professor of Judaic and Biblical Studies at Clark University, Worcester, MA. He is the translator of The Five Books of Moses and The Early Prophets. He has been to most CAJE and NewCAJE conferences since 1976.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
College Hall Graduate Lounge
  Torah Lishma, Text/Bible/Theology

12:30pm EDT

Dine and Dialogue about Anti-semitism (Lunch Activity)
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:30pm - 12:45pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE
 If you are new to the conference or if you  just don't like the noise in the dining hall, please consider coming to this pre-sign-up lunch. This is a chance to meet people and to talk about this important and confusing topic.  
     NewCAJE is a pluralistic organization where we come to discussions with curiosity about how other people think about things and never to defend our own position except to explain why you feel the way we do. 
Why has antisemitism returned with such a fury.? What does it do to your sense of security? What would have to happen for you to consider leaving the country? What can we do to combat this now? And any other questions you'd like to raise on the topic?
We believe that people are not having enough chances to talk about Israel today and would welcome the chance to do so.    Get your lunch and come into the STAGE which is right next to the dining hall. 

There are limited seats so if you'd like to reserve a space click here to sign up. It is a free option in the conference extras pag

Speakers
avatar for Cherie Koller-Fox

Cherie Koller-Fox

NewCAJE
Rabbi Cherie Koller-Fox is well known in the Boston area and beyond. She was ordained by the Academy for Jewish Religion in New York which is a pluralistic Jewish seminary. She has served as rabbi at Congregation Eitz Chayim in Cambridge, Temple Emanuel of Marlborough, Newton-Wellesley... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:30pm - 12:45pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE
  Jewish Life & Identity

12:30pm EDT

Lunch & Table Topics
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
Student Union Dining Hall
At lunch today we will have job-alike tables plus tables where you can learn more about the Academy for Jewish Religion and Association of Reform Jewish Educators!
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
Student Union Dining Hall

1:45pm EDT

Our Present and Our Future: Jewish Education in an Era of Change
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE
North American Jewish education is navigating profound changes—from shifting family expectations and new educational models to the rise of AI and an increasingly polarized political landscape. Following a brief introduction that challenges us to distinguish meaningful change from innovation for its own sake, a panel of leading practitioners will explore some of the most pressing questions facing the field today: What is Jewish education for? Which long-standing assumptions still deserve our confidence, and which need to be reimagined? Together, we'll consider what Jewish education needs to become in order to meet the realities of the next generation.
Speakers
avatar for Beverly Socher-Lerner

Beverly Socher-Lerner

Executive Director & Founder, Makom Community

avatar for Daniel Brenner

Daniel Brenner

Chief of Education and Program, Moving Traditions
Daniel Brenner is a rabbi who serves as the Vice President-Education for Moving Traditions.
avatar for Jonathan Krasner

Jonathan Krasner

Mandel Associate Professor of Jewish Education Research, Brandeis University
Jonathan Krasner's 2020 book, Hebrew Infusion: Language and Community at American Jewish Summer Camps (Rutgers University Press), co-authored with Sarah Bunin Benor and Sharon Avni, was the recipient of the 2020 National Jewish Book Award in Education and Jewish Identity. His 20... Read More →
avatar for Eliana Light

Eliana Light

Educator, Musician, and 2025 Covenant Foundation Family Education, The Light Lab
Eliana is working towards a world of One-ness, guided and inspired by Jewish heritage. She focuses on translating liturgy, prayer practice, and g?d-concepts in ways that are deep and accessible for all people at any age. Eliana’s music, gatherings, and teaching reflect a spirit... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE

3:00pm EDT

Beyond the Workshop - Conference Partner Spotlight
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 319
We hope you will visit the conference partner tables in the cafeteria. But a chat that lasts a few minutes tableside isn't always enough to learn what these amazing partners have to offer our schools and our students. These sessions are designed to allow for deeper exploration. Stop by for a sequence of 20-minute presentations, and enjoy a sweet cold treat while you learn!

Tuesday's Conference Partners include:
MTEI ~3:10pm
Jewish Future Promise ~3:30pm
The Anne Frank Center ~3:50pm
IsraelLink ~4:10pm
Speakers
avatar for Deborah Peretz

Deborah Peretz

Deborah Peretz is an Israel educator and AJU doctoral student focused on language in Israel education. In her role with IsraelLINK, she designs curriculum, leads trainings, and works with educators across the Northeast and Canada. She’s passionate about creating spaces that are... Read More →
avatar for Deborah Niederman, RJE

Deborah Niederman, RJE

Leader of Recruitment, Mandel Teacher Educator Institute
Deborah Niederman, RJE is the Leader of Recruitment for the Mandel Teacher Educator Institute (MTEI) and Director of Education at Temple Shalom in Dallas, TX. With over 30 years in Jewish education, she is passionate about mentoring leaders, fostering innovation, and integrating learning... Read More →
avatar for Danielle Glass

Danielle Glass

Danielle Glass is educator with extensive experience in Jewish community programming. She holds a master's degree in education and is a self-taught artist. Danielle strives to inspire students through engaging and interactive learning experiences and brings her passion for teaching... Read More →
JS

Josh Schalk

Jewish Future Promise
Josh is an experienced non-profit professional, having most recently served as a Regional Director at BBYO. Additionally, he has experience working in retail management, high end luxury sales, and customer service.A native of Herndon, VA, Josh is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 319

3:00pm EDT

Beyond the Workshop - Create, Move, Explore
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
An afternoon shift combats the notorious mid-day energy dip. Using your brain differently, incorporating physical activity, or pushing out of your comfort zone dramatically boosts knowledge retention and prevents cognitive exhaustion. It's also a great time for networking and will give you renewed energy for the rest of the day.

Check out our Beyond the Workshop activities listed separately. Several options are drop-in, so you can take advantage of more than one. 
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

Beyond the Workshop - Wool Needle Felting and the Energy of Separation
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 340
This unique study combines the tactile, meditative art of wool needle felting with a deep dive into the holiness of separation—a principle rooted in the biblical prohibition of mixing wool and linen. The Art of Wool Needle Felting is a dry-sculpting technique that uses specialized barbed needles to tangle animal fibers—typically sheep’s wool—into solid forms. The repetitive motion of "strategic stabbing" is often described as a relaxing, stressfree creative outlet.
Speakers
avatar for Jill Eisen

Jill Eisen

Jill Eisen is the Director of Program Partnerships at Pearlstone, the Headquarters of Adamah. She has her BA from Penn State and two Masters from Baltimore Hebrew University. Working at Pearlstone entwines the environment and Jewish values she holds dear. Each day holds a new adventure... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 340
  Administration, Self-Care/Wellbeing

3:00pm EDT

Beyond the Workshop - Relationship Status? Its Complicated…
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 202
Relationship Status? It's Complicated…
Exploring questions of peoplehood and the Jewish connection to Israel. Understanding the importance of Israel in Jewish Education
Deputy Consul General Liron Finkelstein

Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 202
  Israel

3:00pm EDT

Beyond the Workshop - Walking Tefilah
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
Meet Outside Student Union
Stretch your legs while exploring ways to bring Jewish learning into the outdoors. This walk will include parts of a "Walking Shacharit" that I do with my middle school students several times each year. 
Speakers
avatar for Cathy Kaplan

Cathy Kaplan

Director of Religious School & Family Programs, Beth Meyer Synagogue
Cathy Kaplan is the Director of the Religious School & Family Programs at Beth Meyer Synagogue in Raleigh NC. After a decade in a different career path, she entered Jewish communal service in 2009. She has served as lay leader, religious school teacher, b-mitzvah tutor, school administrator... Read More →
Walking Tefilah NewCAJE17 docx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
Meet Outside Student Union
  Spirituality/Tefilah, Teaching Tools & Techniques

3:00pm EDT

Beyond the Workshop - Shalom Learning AI Sandbox
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 239
ShalomLearning invites NewCAJE attendees to an open sandbox, a drop-in space where teachers, administrators, and school leaders can explore and experiment with AI tools being used right now in Jewish education. This is not a lecture. There are no slides. Come for 15 minutes or stay for an hour. We will showcase the AI integrations we have built directly into our own curriculum, and share the broader practices and tools that any congregational school can adopt. 
Speakers
avatar for Shira Sender

Shira Sender

Director of Client Care and Teacher Support, ShalomLearning
Shira Sender is the Director of Client Care and Teacher Support with ShalomLearning, where she collaborates with, supports, and trains educators and educational leaders to ensure Jewish education is accessible and engaging for today's learners. With over 20 years of experience in... Read More →
avatar for Heidi Lovitz

Heidi Lovitz

[email protected], ShalomLearning
Heidi Lovitz is the Senior Managing Director of ShalomLearning, where she leads curriculum development, program delivery, and strategic operations to bring innovative Jewish education to students and families in diverse communities. With 20+ years of experience, she holds a Master's... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
College Hall Rm 239
  Technology, Teaching Tools & Techniques

4:45pm EDT

Onboarding for Productivity and Retention
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
Maria Hall Multipurpose 2
Join ElevatEd for a workshop for educators in any educational setting! Together we will discuss strategies to create effective onboarding experiences that boost productivity and foster long-term retention. Participants will explore best practices for welcoming new staff, setting clear expectations, and creating a supportive environment that encourages growth and connection. Through interactive discussions and practical tools, attendees will leave with actionable steps to enhance their onboarding processes, ensuring a smooth transition for new team members and a stronger, more cohesive teaching staff.
Speakers
avatar for Sasha Hass

Sasha Hass

Sasha Kopp Hass is the Senior Director of Education and Engagement at ElevatEd, where she helps strengthen and support the field of early childhood Jewish education across North America. She is a passionate Jewish educator, artist. Through all of her work, Sasha seeks to foster joyful... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
Maria Hall Multipurpose 2
  Administration, Early Childhood Education

4:45pm EDT

Cooking and Art Fun for Pre-Kinder Kids
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 322
I've taught Transitional Kindergarten (TK) students at Torah school and have filled an entire suitcase with simple art and cooking projects perfect for our 4 and 5 year olds. Come prepared to create amazing things from simple materials and ingredients. Handouts will include ideas that span an entire year's curriculum of fun!
Speakers
avatar for Marcia Berneger

Marcia Berneger

Torah School Teacher, Temple EmanuEl
Marcia Berneger teaches Transitional Kindergarten (TK) at Temple Emanuel in San Diego. She has developed many projects and programs to help these young students enjoy learning about the Jewish holidays and traditions. She brings a full "bag of tricks" to share with preschool and TK... Read More →
Jewish Projects For Little Hands docx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 322
  Early Childhood Education, Jewish Life & Identity

4:45pm EDT

Experience the Fun and Power of Hebrew Through Movement
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 348
Hebrew Through Movement (HTM) is a powerful curriculum that can be used for both younger and older children. Besides providing connection to the Hebrew language, it can reinforce holiday lessons, prayer learning, and print literacy. Best of all, every student can be successful! If you currently teach HTM, this session will provide ideas to bring your teaching up a notch. If you are curious about the program, this session will answer your questions.
Speakers
avatar for Linda Duke

Linda Duke

Teacher, Congregation B'nai Shalom
Linda Duke is a teacher/Hebrew Coordinator at Congregation B'nai Shalom (Westborough, MA) and a Master Hebrew Through Movement (HTM) teacher.  She co-facilitates HTM Communities of Practice and was a member of the 2023-2024 Onward Hebrew Think Tank.  She received a Grinspoon Award... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 348
  Hebrew/Yiddish, Teaching Tools & Techniques

4:45pm EDT

Expanding Holocaust-Era Persecution: Jewish Experiences in the Middle East, North Africa, and Beyond
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 319
This session expands Holocaust education by examining the impact of Nazi persecution beyond Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on Sephardi, Mizrahi, and Maghrebi communities. Participants will explore case studies from the Balkans, North Africa, and the Middle East, and engage with resources such as JIMENA’s Sephardi & Mizrahi Educational Toolkit. The session equips educators with historical knowledge and practical strategies to integrate these narratives into curricula and connect them to contemporary antisemitism.
Speakers
avatar for Ty Alhadeff

Ty Alhadeff

Director of Education, JIMENA
Ty Alhadeff is Director of Education at JIMENA, where he leads initiatives promoting Sephardi and Mizrahi history, including the Sephardic Leadership Institute and projects such as Distinctions: A Sephardi and Mizrahi Journal, the Sephardi & Mizrahi Education Toolkit, and AIMEE, a... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 319
  History, Jewish Life & Identity

4:45pm EDT

Yearly Cycle of Festival Services
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Side Foyer
Religious services during the "Shalosh Regalim" (Pesach, Shavuot, & Sukkot/Sh'mini Atzeret) have much in common with Shabbat services, but the chants ("Nusach") are very different, and there are additional texts. Come explore these differences, both for your own understanding and to help teach these to your students.
Speakers
avatar for David Schwartz

David Schwartz

Education Director, Temple Har Zion
David Schwartz is the Education Director at Har Zion in Chicago.  When he’s not doing that he is a B’nai Mitzvah tutor and Jewish storyteller.  David is also on the Board of the JEA and an MTEI graduate.  However, his most important role is husband to Miriam and Abba to 10-year-old... Read More →
NS
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Side Foyer
  Holidays, Spirituality/Tefilah

4:45pm EDT

Why Singing Together Works: The Neuroscience of Music, Breath, and Bonding
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 340
Music is one of the most powerful pathways we have for Jewish engagement and education. For songleaders, music specialists, and educators who use music with kiddos and their grown-ups, this workshop teaches brain-based principles that turn song into strategy: preventative care, engagement enhancement, and chaos control. We explore how singing syncs breath, builds bonding, anchors memory, and supports mood modulation and meaning-making. Songs are modeled throughout to demonstrate each principle in practice.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Aronoff

Emily Aronoff

Dr Emily Celebrates
Dr. Emily Aronoff cultivates connection through songleading that sparks joy, makes meaning, & secures a Jewish future. With 25 years of practice, she leads music & movement with kiddos & their families, offers professional development, consulting, & curriculum to Jewish institutions... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 340
  Music, Jewish Life & Identity

4:45pm EDT

How the Right Siddur Can Open Doors
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
Maria Hall Yoga Room
Can a siddur crafted with your students in mind help transform your Tefilah culture? We will explore the new Yedid Nefesh siddur series and talk about how it can help kids connect to prayer in new ways.
Speakers
avatar for Joshua Cahan

Joshua Cahan

Joshua Cahan is a writer and tefilah consultant from Riverdale, NY. He is the author of The Yedid Nefesh Bencher, The Yedid Nefesh Haggadah, and a new series of siddurim for camps and schools. He has rabbinic ordination and a Ph.D. in Rabbinic Literature from the Jewish Theological... Read More →
02 Siddur Kabb Shab pdf
Torah rdgs for siddur pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
Maria Hall Yoga Room
  Spirituality/Tefilah, Teaching Tools & Techniques

4:45pm EDT

Built to Last: Jewish Practice and Lifelong Resilience
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 239
On hard days, our sense of mission can feel elusive. This session offers something grounding: evidence from neuroscience and epidemiology research that building ritual literacy, fostering belonging, and transmitting meaning can be directly linked to children's long-term ability to manage anxiety and depression, resist addiction, and recover from trauma. Your work as a Jewish educator is, quite literally, protective! We'll discuss empowering practical strategies for classroom choices and for parent communication aligned with these important findings.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Hirschfeld

Julie Hirschfeld

Dr.Julie Hirschfeld (MA, Oxon., PhD, NYU) is a clinical psychologist and founder of The Jewish Resilience Initiative, which promotes awareness of the mental health benefits of Jewish practice. Trained in family therapy, spiritually integrated psychotherapy, and Mussar facilitation... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 239
  Teaching Tools and Techniques, Big Picture of Jewish Education

4:45pm EDT

The Jewish Future: Investing in Teen Leadership Development
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 202
This workshop is a crash course for educators, youth leaders, and program coordinators ready to take their teen programming to the next level. Participants will explore the question of how to get more teens invested in leadership and discover various structures for youth group boards and how teens can build overall ownership in their programming. By the end of this workshop, participants will walk away with a toolkit to strengthen the teen leadership within their communities.
Speakers
avatar for Brandon Gabay

Brandon Gabay

Youth and Teen Engagement Manager, Temple Sinai Atlanta
Brandon (he/him) serves as one of the Youth and Teen Engagement Managers at Temple Sinai in Atlanta, Georgia. Brandon is an alumnus of Florida State University, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in Communications in 2022. Brandon is a lover of all things books, baking, and... Read More →
The Jewish Future Slides pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Rm 202
  Teens/Youth Engagement, Teaching Tools & Techniques

4:45pm EDT

Waterworld or Desertville: Why Does Torah Tell Us Two Different Creation Stories?
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Graduate Lounge
Quickly: when and how were humans created, according to the Book of Genesis, Breisheet?
Did you know that there are two COMPLETEY different accounts of Creation: chapter one and chapter two?
Water-world and desert-scape. Humans last, then a human first.
What? WHY?! Which one is the “real” one??
Interested? Hope so – this is a tremendously valuable key to understanding basic Jewish theology regarding the connections between humans and the planet, human and humans, and humans and their Creator.
Bonus question: Where was Adam while Havah had the exchange with the serpent & ate the “fruit”? Learn about a certain cover-up conspiracy…
Speakers
avatar for Ruz Gulko

Ruz Gulko

Rabbi/Cantor/Educator, Gan Argaman
Ruz Gulko accidentally became a Hebrew teacher in 1986, and then a lay cantor / rabbi, thus proving that no matter how you plan your life, God always has some other interesting ideas. She has worked with most of the Jewish educational and religious institutions in the greater Seattle... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 4:45pm - 6:15pm EDT
College Hall Graduate Lounge
  Text/Bible/Theology, Teaching Tools & Techniques

6:15pm EDT

Dinner
Tuesday July 28, 2026 6:15pm - 7:30pm EDT
Student Union Dining Hall

Tuesday July 28, 2026 6:15pm - 7:30pm EDT
Student Union Dining Hall

7:45pm EDT

Evening Programming
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:45pm - 9:15pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE
Kick off the program with special never before seen footage of our beloved Debbie Friedman! 



Next, enjoy a brief performance from your very own NewCAJE Chorale. 



Then, settle in for an hour of music by a never-before-assembled ensemble of some of the most beloved musicians in contemporary Jewish music:



Ariel Wyner, Jacob "Spike" Kraus, Eliana Light, Carla Friend and Rick Lawrence. 



This evening is not to be missed! 
Speakers
avatar for Jacob Spike Kraus

Jacob Spike Kraus

Boston based Jacob ‘Spike’ Kraus is a 34 year old singer-songwriter, producer,
and educator. His music has been included in the cantorial curriculum of H.U.C. -
J.I.R., and is featured on Jewish Rock Radio and PJ Library. His music is inspired
by prominent pop, rock, and folk ar... Read More →
avatar for Cantor Rick Lawrence

Cantor Rick Lawrence

Education director, United Jewish School/Temple Emanuel
I'm a huge nerd in so many categories:Judaism (shocking)Music (also shocking)Jewish Music (cantillation, nusach, Infected Mushroom...)Games!Board gamesCard gamesVideo games (I have my Steam Deck with me)Tabletop Role Playing GamesTechnology/Computer stuffs (I have a little server... Read More →
AW
avatar for Eliana Light

Eliana Light

Educator, Musician, and 2025 Covenant Foundation Family Education, The Light Lab
Eliana is working towards a world of One-ness, guided and inspired by Jewish heritage. She focuses on translating liturgy, prayer practice, and g?d-concepts in ways that are deep and accessible for all people at any age. Eliana’s music, gatherings, and teaching reflect a spirit... Read More →
avatar for Carla Friend

Carla Friend

Founder & Executive Director, Tkiya
Carla Friend is the Founder & Executive Director of Tkiya, an organization with the mission of creating joyful Jewish connection through participatory music experiences. Through Tkiya, Carla reaches 15,000 people per year with her unique methodology of Jewish education and engagement... Read More →
avatar for Michelle

Michelle

Cantor, B'nai Vail
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:45pm - 9:15pm EDT
Student Union The StAJE

9:30pm EDT

Kumsitz/Late Night Hang Out
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30pm - 10:00pm EDT
Angela Hall Social Space
Come share your thoughts about the future of Jewish education by participating in a big poster activity
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:30pm - 10:00pm EDT
Angela Hall Social Space
 

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