NewCAJE17: 50th Anniversary: Full Schedule

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9:00am EDT

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT

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

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

Company Early Childhood Education
Audience Early Childhood, Lower Elementary, Teachers
Track ECE
Type Main

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

Shelley Stein

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

Company Spirituality/Tefilah, Teaching Tools & Techniques
Audience Early Childhood, Lower Elementary School, Upper Elementary, Middle School, Teachers, Principals
Type Main

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

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

Company Spirituality/Tefilah, Self-Care/Wellbeing
Audience Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Adult Students, Teachers, Principals
Type Main

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

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

Company Music
Audience Early Childhood, Lower Elementary School, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Adult Students, Teachers, Not Age-Specific
Type Main

NewCAJE17: 50th Anniversary

9:00am EDT

Sasha Hass

11:00am EDT

Shelley Stein

Melissa Pescatore

3:00pm EDT

Jill Eisen

4:45pm EDT

Emily Aronoff

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