DAVE GORDON

Yeshiva Bnei Shimon Yisrael and Talmud Torah of Kasho, both in Williamsburg, were informed by the New York State Education Department on February 11^th (after allegedly ignoring final warnings issued in December)that the institutions did not meet state mandated curricula requirements. Therefore, they were slated to lose state subsidies for meals, transportation, textbooks, and other services.

The yeshivot were sent letters in both English and Yiddish from the Education Department stating  that in addition to the lost funding, that parents were to enroll their children in other schools by July 1, as reported by Ynet and the New York Post.

“The yeshiva system provides a rigorous education, no less demanding than public schools,” community leaders responded in a statement.

The Education Department’s letter also stated that they reached out several times to the yeshivot and determined that each of the institutions were “no longer deemed a school, which provides compulsory education fulfilling the requirements of Article 65 of the Education Law.”

The following May, four other unnamed yeshivot were also facing the same situation, according to The Jewish Press.

These yeshivot were given a June 30 deadline, by which time they were required to show that they were offering curricula that was “substantially equivalent” to public schools, as required by state regulations adopted three years ago.

This marks the first time the New York State Education Department has taken such extreme action, ordering parents to find alternative educational arrangements for their children for the upcoming academic year.

According to the New York Post, that meant choosing a different religious school that meets legal requirements, homeschooling, or a public school.

Educational Standards

This past February, Ynet News reported that the issue initially arose as a result of a 2022 New York Times investigation, that claimed at least 18 publicly funded yeshivot failed to meet state educational standards.

Despite the controversy, Mayor Eric Adams said in response to the report, “Yeshivas provide a high-quality education that nurtures our children, and other schools should learn from them.”

Jewish News Syndicate (JNS) asked educational expert Moshe Krakowskito weigh in. He responded that these yeshivot were not falling short on the state’s expectations.

Krakowski is a professor at Yeshiva University’s Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration and is the Director of Doctoral Studies at Azrieli. He studies American haredi education and culture.

“There are many Chassidic schools that offer the basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, social studies, and civics through at least the seventh through eighth-grade level,” Krakowski told JNS, adding that they “spend most of their day in incredibly rigorous, high-level religious study – and it’s not like these kids are left truant.”

Politicians Get Involved

In an attempt to placate both sides, two local Jewish politicians have since become involved in the issue–City Councilman Simcha Felder and Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein (District 48).

Their efforts appeared to have initiated an anonymously sponsored Assembly draft bill on March 11^th, determined to revise the standards that religious schools must meet. As of press time, the draft bill has entered in the final stages of budget negotiations. Reportedly, it was tucked into a budget bill to ostensibly bypass the legislative process.

Simcha Felder issued a statement to Community Magazine saying that he was “pleased that the New York State budget includes a seven-year pause on the implementation of the State’s overreaching regulation of our nonpublic schools, including yeshivot.” He added that he remains “hopeful that the State’s willingness to reverse this policy permanently will continue to grow over time.”

Felder represented the 44th district on the New York City Council from 2002 to 2010, represented the 17th district in the New York State Senate from January 2013 to December 2022, and represented the 22nd district from January 2023 to April 2025. He won a special election for New York City Council in the 44th District in March.

Felder said that while he served in Senate, he “consistently made the case that New York’s diverse educational needs are not one-size-fits-all and that results, not timekeeping, are the only way to judge educational quality.” 

He added that Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris paid close attention to the community’s concerns and “recognized the vital role these institutions play in providing quality education for our children.”

Advocacy Group and Four Brooklyn Yeshivot Take a Stand

Following the state’s letter to the yeshivas, the advocacy group Parents for Educational and Religious Liberty in Schools (PEARLS) filed a federal discrimination complaint, alleging that New York’s actions interfere with the autonomy of yeshivot and constitute discriminatory practices. PEARLS is comprised of families of students. educators, religious leaders, and community members mostly from Borough Park, Crown Heights, and Williamsburg. The U.S. Department of Education’s civil rights office has not yet announced an investigation into these complaints, and no official statement from the administration has addressed the specific case of yeshiva funding cuts.

In January, the Times of Israel reported that four yeshivot in Brooklyn, Bobover Yeshiva Bnei Zion, Oholei Torah, United Talmudical Academy, and Yeshiva & Mesivta Arugas Habosem,filed a complaint with the US Department of Education alleging “targeted and discriminatory treatment,” by New York State. “Only the federal government can ensure that the yeshivas can pursue their missions free from interference,” the yeshivot stated. The yeshivot believed their Jewish studies curriculum were not accepted by New York authorities, and in doing so violated federal Title VI civil protection, that gave parents the right to choose their child’s education.

Dov Hikind Weighs In

Meanwhile, Dov Hikind, former New York State assemblyman, took a nuanced approach to state expectations and how the yeshivot could handle future similar issues.

He said he “knows all of the players, the yeshivas of Brooklyn, the main leaders” as he was a Brooklyn-based New York State assemblyman from 1983 to 2018.

“I think while things have improved over the years, we still have a way to go,” he said. He believes there is, however, common ground to be found.

“I think everything in the world should be done to work things out in a reasonable way where funds are not withheld, and there are some serious improvements in certain areas, period,” Hikind told Community Magazine.

Hikind attributes the slow pace of change in part to educators growing accustomed to the status quo.

Common ground is “actually the answer” he said. “I don’t think the state is so dug in… I think there needs to be movement on both sides.”

Hikind concedes that there may be a possibility that there are bad actors in the political system that have a chip on their shoulder, and have ideological reasons for opposing the yeshivot.

“Are there are people in the state who have motivations that are not kosher that want to sort of stick it to some of these schools? I wouldn’t be shocked by that, but I would say that overall, I think the goal is that there are rules, and those are good things.”

He has only warm words for the Jewish religious institutions, moreover, that he said are doing well in developing young minds.

“I love all these yeshivas. They’re great… [the students are] getting educated in very many ways,” said Hikind.

Sam Sutton

The 2025 M&S Softball season has arrived – and it’s louder, deeper, and more competitive than ever. With over 50 names on the waiting list, one thing’s crystal clear: if you’ve got a spot this year, you earned it.

This offseason wasn’t just about stretching hammies and oiling gloves. It marked a cultural reset. A new energy. A different intensity. Every captain came locked in, and the draft room felt more like a war room. No picks were wasted. No names taken lightly. And as the rosters took shape, so did the storylines.

Let’s break down the squads that’ll write the next chapter of M&S:

King Salomon Part Deux
Captain: Michael Sabon Salomon
Sabon set the tone for the entire draft by pulling off a pre-draft trade to acquire the #8 overall pick – giving him the coveted 1-and-8 combo. He used his top selection on Zack Ashkenazi, widely considered the best all-around player on the board. At #8, he snagged Yitz Sutton, the top arm in the draft – giving his team a bona fide ace from Day One.

From there, Sabon stacked the deck with playoff experience and big-game DNA. He reunited the veteran duo Teddy Ishak (TI) and Sammy Esses, a pairing with years of chemistry and hardware. He brought back Morris “Mo” Shamah, one of the league’s most dependable bats, and added Eric Cytryn, a respected defensive anchor and proven playoff performer.

Vandelay Industries
Captain: Sammy Seruya
Rookie captain – rising star. That’s the book on Sammy Seruya, the slick shortstop with who hit superstar status. But Seruya wasn’t shy on draft night – he took a big swing on unproven slugger Howie Hoffman, betting on upside and power. And he’ll be riding with rookie pitcher Abraham Benhamu to anchor his defense and set the tone on the mound.

Backed by key pieces like Sauly Esses, Jimmy Malakh, Bernie Pindek, and Yossi Abramson, Vandelay is an intriguing mix of high potential and proven leadership. It’s a team that could click fast – or grow into a monster by playoff time.

Texas Longhorns
Captain: Max Yedid
A familiar face is back in the saddle – Max Yedid, former M&S Cy Young winner and championship pitcher, makes his return to the captain’s chair. He drafted a veteran-heavy roster built to win. Names like Allie Marshall, Butchie Cohen, and Maurice Haber headline a squad that’s been there, done that, and knows how to get it done when it counts. Max is back – and so is the fear factor that comes with playing against his team.

Sephardic Bananas
Captain: Edmund “The Phenom” Beyda
The reigning World Series champ is back and looking to repeat. Last year, Edmund “The Phenom” Beyda captained a magical playoff run, and this year, he ran it back with a nearly identical core. His draft centerpiece? None other than his clutch companion David “Buca” Cohen. With names like Isaac Sasson, Jack Sutton, and Alan Jemal rounding out the roster, the Bananas have chemistry, confidence, and championship DNA.

Kaboom!
Captain: Uri Adler
Let’s just say… Uri changed it up this year – and it might be his best build yet. Gone is the typical Uri mold. In its place is a sleek, powerful new roster led by Sol Fallas, Nadav Auerbach, and Abraham Saka. On paper, Kaboom has speed, power, arms, and attitude. It’s a no-nonsense team that could light up the scoreboard or lock down your offense. If the vibes hold, this group is a serious title threat.

Thundering Hooves
Captain: Gabriel Abadi
Gabe Abadi did what Gabe does – drafted a crew full of high-character, high-talent, high-vibe guys. With Mark Barsano, Carlos Abadi, and Ricky Rothstein in the mix, Thundering Hooves are built for deep playoff runs. Gabe’s squads always play loose, play hard, and play for each other. He’s still searching for that elusive first title – but don’t be surprised if this is the team that finally delivers it.Stayin’ Alive
Captain: Michael Melech Solomon
He’s back. A former fan-favorite captain, Melech Solomon returns with a roster full of loyalty and edge. He went straight to the well early, drafting his longtime guys – Steven Gindi (SJG), Joe Sefaradi (Joe S), and Saul “Soco” Cohen. But what makes this team fascinating is the youth infusion. Melech rolled the dice on wild-card youngsters like Sol Assis, one of the most polarizing players in the league. High ceiling, high volatility – and if they click, Stayin’ Alive might stay alive deep into the postseason.

By Paulette Cohen and Frieda Schweky

Years ago, I (Paulette Cohen) received news that would permanently shift the course of my family’s life – my daughter was diagnosed with serious food allergies to nuts and sesame, along with environmental and animal allergies. At the time, the medical world offered very little support. We got a diagnosis, a prescription, and were sent on our way. No roadmap, no reassurance. I remember feeling completely overwhelmed. It was lonely, scary, and disorienting.

But like many parents in crisis, I turned that fear into action. First, I made it my mission to protect my daughter. Then I realized – if I was going through this, other parents must be, too. And maybe, just maybe, I could make their path a little smoother.

Since then, I’ve spent years educating myself, creating allergy-safe routines at home, and learning how to navigate a world that often doesn’t fully understand or accommodate food allergies. I started sharing my journey through a blog, which resonated with fellow allergy moms in ways I never expected. It helped them feel seen, supported, and not so alone. That sense of community is what keeps me going.

Today, I continue this work through my Instagram platform and by working directly with families to develop allergy-safe household systems. From meal planning and emotional support strategies to communication tips and action plans, I help families feel more confident and in control.

With summer approaching, we thought it would be the perfect time to share some practical advice on keeping kids with allergies (and asthma) safe during camp, parties, and social gatherings. Whether you’re an allergy parent or not, we hope this article helps you be more aware, more prepared, and more supportive of those navigating this challenge daily.

Camp Safety Prep

Summer camp is supposed to be a magical time – filled with friendships, adventure, and memories. But for allergy and asthma families, it can also be a major source of stress. The good news? With some advance planning, communication, and confidence-building, your child can have a safe and fun experience.

Before Camp: Preparation Checklist

Notify the Camp Early: Don’t wait until drop-off day. Contact the camp weeks ahead of time to discuss your child’s allergies or asthma and any needed accommodations.

Submit a Medical History: Include previous reactions, hospitalizations, known triggers, and medications. The more detailed, the better.

Provide an Action Plan: Give the camp a written allergy and/or asthma action plan from your doctor. This should explain symptoms, triggers, and how to respond in an emergency.

Stock Up on Meds: Send at least two complete sets of medications (EpiPens, inhalers, antihistamines) – one for the camp nurse and one for your child or their counselor. Double-check expiration dates!

Label Everything: Food containers, medications, clothing, backpacks – use waterproof name labels so nothing gets misplaced.

Emergency Instructions: Include medication usage, dosage, storage instructions, and step-by-step emergency protocols.

Communication with the Camp: Speak with the camp director or nurse about their emergency procedures, proximity to medical care, and who is trained in CPR or EpiPen use.

Be prepared to ask the right questions such as:  Are staff trained in anaphylaxis and asthma management? Do they monitor air quality? Can your child get pre-exercise asthma treatment?

Food Allergy Safety at Camp

Food is often the trickiest part of summer activities. Here’s how to set your child up for success:

Speak with the Kitchen Staff: Understand their food prep protocols, ingredient sourcing, and cross-contamination measures. Ask about baking activities – many allergens hide in baking ingredients!

Provide Safe Meals (If Allowed): Send allergen-free meals or snacks as a backup, even if the camp says they can accommodate your child’s needs.

Teach Food-Sharing Boundaries: Make sure your child understands never to share food or drinks, no matter how “safe” something seems.

Collaborate on Meal Planning: If the camp chef is open to it, plan substitution options in advance.

Confirm Staff Is Trained: Make sure someone on-site is trained to use an EpiPen and respond to allergic reactions.

Managing Asthma at Camp

Check Equipment: Make sure inhalers, spacers, and nebulizers are clean and in good working order.

Discuss Triggers: Let staff know your child’s specific asthma triggers -whether it’s exercise, pollen, cold air, or stress.

Monitor Outdoor Activity: Ask if the camp tracks air quality and adjusts activities accordingly.

Action Plan Awareness: Confirm staff can recognize early asthma symptoms like tight chest, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

Empowering Your Child

Getting ready for camp is not just about medical preparedness – it’s about emotional readiness, too.

Practice Scenarios: Role-play how your child should respond if they feel symptoms or are offered unsafe food.

Identify Allies: Help your child know who to turn to – counselors, nurses, friends – if something feels wrong.

Medical ID Jewelry: Consider a medical ID bracelet or necklace to alert staff in emergencies.

Teach Self-Advocacy: Let your child know it’s okay to speak up. It’s okay to say no. Their safety always comes first.

Party Time: How to Navigate Summer Celebrations

Now let’s talk about another summer favorite: parties. BBQs, birthdays, bar and bat mitzvahs – so much fun, but also loaded with food risks.

Younger Kids and Birthday Parties

As a parent, it’s heartbreaking to see your little one feel left out at a party. One of my favorite tricks? Pre-bake or buy allergy-safe cupcakes in advance and freeze them. When a birthday invite comes along, pop one out and bring it with you. That way your child can still have their special treat when the cake is served.

Go through party favors together and teach your child how to read ingredients. Even if they’re young, use these as teachable moments. Make it a rule: never eat anything from a goodie bag until we go through it together.

Older Kids and Social Events

As children get older, it gets harder. They become more aware of what they’re missing – and it’s tough to see friends enjoying things they can’t have. Summer bar and bat mitzvahs are a perfect example. It may not be realistic for your teen to bring a full meal or dessert, so I recommend feeding them ahead of time to avoid hunger and temptation.

Before the event, shift the conversation away from food. Talk about what they can enjoy.  Help them focus on fun, not food. Remind them that their worth isn’t measured by what they eat, and that avoiding unsafe foods isn’t missing out – it’s making an empowered choice.

Most importantly, normalize saying “no” to things that don’t feel safe. Even if it’s awkward. Even if everyone else is doing it. Their safety is always the priority, and they should never feel bad for choosing to protect themselves.

Sun & Skin Allergy Protection

Summer sun and sensitive skin can be a tricky combination for allergy and eczema families. Start by selecting a truly hypoallergenic, mineral-based sunscreen (look for zinc or titanium oxide, fragrance-free, and labeled “for sensitive skin”). Test any new lotion on a small patch of your child’s skin 24 hours before a full application—especially if they have a history of contact dermatitis. Encourage lightweight sun-protective clothing: long-sleeve UV shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and swim leggings can dramatically reduce both sunburn risk and exposure to potential irritants in topical products. After a day in the sun or pool, soothe skin with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or an oat-infused calming balm. If your child develops redness or itchiness, apply a cool compress and let their skin air-dry before re-moisturizing.

InsectSting & Bite Precautions

Even kids without a known sting allergy can experience painful or swelling reactions – and for allergic children, stings can be life-threatening. Choose an insect repellent that’s both effective and gentle – DEET-free formulas or those based on oil of lemon eucalyptus are often less irritating than heavily scented sprays. Apply sparingly, avoiding the hands and faces of little ones. Pack a “sting kit” that includes an antihistamine, a cold-pack, soothing calamine lotion, and, if prescribed, an EpiPen. Teach older children to recognize early signs of a serious reaction  – hives, swelling beyond the sting site, difficulty breathing – and to immediately alert an adult. Dressing kids in light-colored, snug-fitting clothes can also deter bees and wasps.

Emotional Wellbeing and Peer Support

Allergy and asthma management isn’t just physical – it’s emotional, too. Help your child build confidence by creating a small circle of “allergy allies” at camp or home: friends and counselors who know how to help in an emergency. Celebrate every success – surviving a pool party without incident or trying a new allergen-safe recipe – and reinforce their resilience. Encourage them to join a local or online allergy support group where they can share experiences, swap tips, and realize they’re not alone. Above all, remind them that advocating for their health (saying “no,” asking questions, wearing a medical ID) is a powerful and positive choice.

Final Thoughts from The Nut Job Mom

Whether it’s summer camp, a backyard BBQ, or a bat mitzvah dance floor, the truth is: allergy safety is never off-duty. But it doesn’t have to steal the joy from summer. With the right prep, support, and mindset, your child can have a magical, safe, and confidence-boosting season.

ELLEN GELLER KAMARAS

“My vision as a young adult? I always wanted to be a principal and make a big impact on education. Instead, after teaching for twenty-seven years, I became a teacher coach, principal mentor, and workshop presenter. I speak nationwide.” ~~ Etti ~~

Please meet Etti Siegel, an adjunct professor, a teacher coach, principal mentor, an educational consultant and workshop presenter, a master teacher, and a writer.  Etti radiates energy and passion for her work.

Roots

Etti grew up in Philadelphia and is one of nine children, the second to the oldest. It’s not surprising that she became an educator since both her parents, Shmuel and Khana Globman, were both teachers.  Etti learned sign language as a child since four of her siblings are deaf, their deafness ranging from moderate to severe.  Etti employs sign language in her classroom. For example, she has made pesukim (verses) in Humash come alive with sign language and often includes sign language when she teaches the Ma Nishtana.

The Globmans sent their children to yeshivot in Philadelphia.  When Etti’s high school closed during 10^th grade, her parents sent her to board with family friends in Brooklyn.  She studied at Prospect Park Yeshivah where her close friend from Camp Sternberg, Rivkah Cabasso Dahan, also was a student.  “It was a dream to be able to hang out with Rivkah.  I ate my first Syrian food at her house, yum!” 

As a child, Etti was either studious or a troublemaker, depending on her teacher.  She loved reading and drama, and was often pushed into the spotlight to interpret for her brothers.

Journey to Queens

After graduating high school, Etti began her college studies and taught in day schools in Philadelphia for two years.  On a visit to her sister in Queens, Etti’s naseeb, Chaim Siegel, was visiting a family on the same block.  Her brother-in-law thought it would be a good idea to set them up. They immediately clicked and the rest is history.  Etti moved to Queens and taught close to home at Bais Yaakov of Queens in the mornings for twenty-five years, and at Yeshiva Tiferes Moshe in the afternoon for six years. 

In addition to teaching, Etti held positions as head counselor at Simcha Day Camp for nine years and Camp Dina overnight camp for four years. She and Chaim worked together for approximately 13 years at these camps.  When Etti became a coach, she stopped running camps.

Etti is proud of her husband’s first position as a successful rebbe for 19 years and his second career as a Physician Assistant/Associate at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, a world-renowned trauma hospital.

Etti’s Evolution

After 18 years of teaching, Etti returned to school to complete her training and finally get her master’s degree in educational leadership.

It seems Etti was meant to be a teacher, as Hashem sent the Siegel’s their own little class to raise when Etti gave birth to triplets. Although their two-year-old little helper always underfoot, Chaim and Etti enjoyed this new challenge, and Etti gained a lot of insight into preemies, multiples, and the world of intervention. Though Etti and Chaim were so grateful for all the beneficial therapies, they were thankful that as the triplets grew, they no longer needed the extra help. This experience enabled Etti to help others later.

Chaim describes his wife as passionate, energetic, caring, a creative thinker, and a problem solver.  She is also dynamic, driven, organized, and outgoing. Etti says she’s an extrovert who is also an introvert at times.  When she comes home from a long day of work, she needs down time and a quiet break before she heads out again.

Fulfilling Etti’s Life Dreams

With six young children at home and almost two decades of teaching under her belt, Etti decided she wanted to complete her bachelor’s degree and then continue for a master’s degree specializing in teaching, learning, and educational leadership.

“The little girl in me always wanted to be a principal.  Instead, after many years of teaching, I became a teacher coach, principal mentor, and workshop presenter.  I am doing what I always wanted to do.  I just didn’t realize that principals don’t do what I do, they are too busy! They call me in to help them.”

Etti creates her own workshops and helps in the areas where principals need her expertise and vibrant style.  This includes observing the teachers, guiding them to make use of the best educational practices, modeling, creating exciting lessons, and managing their classrooms. Etti determines what might be going wrong and how to address the problem. She shows teachers how to make teaching more enjoyable for both the teachers and their students.  She creatively employs her knowledge of literacy, science, history, classroom management, and social and emotional learning.

“It’s lonely at the top for principals and they appreciate my support,”  Etti says. She greatly admires both the teachers who are very idealistic and want to be the best educators and the amazing principals she meets who want to run the best schools possible.

A Job Well Done

Her proudest accomplishment is helping struggling teachers become master teachers.

Etti has mentored and worked with many principals and teachers as well as parents to transform difficult experiences in the classroom. After her intervention there is a significant improvement, leading to a positive year of growth in learning. Her personal thirst for growth constantly benefits those who learn from her.

Etti currently works in several Sephardic schools including YDE, Ateret Torah, and Shaare Torah, in Ashkenaz yeshivot and day schools, and in Chassidish schools.  Etti also teaches lesson planning and classroom management at Sarah Schenirer College.

Etti gets fired up about kids, adults, and education and making learning and schools great.  “The coolest part? The schools apply for government grants for the services my fellow coaches and I provide.  My childhood friend Rivkah Dahan was a coach first and got me my first paying coaching job.”

Role Models and Mentors

Etti’s role models include first her parents and then her sister Khavi Rosenshein, who is a principal at Bnot Yaakov, a Persian school in Great Neck.  “Bnot Yaakov is the ideal of what a school should be.”

Etti’s other mentors and role models are Mr. Richie Altabe, former Head of School at Shaare Torah and current principal at HALB. Etti had the zechut of working for him at Simcha Day Camp for nine years. Rav Sholom Kamenetzky, Rosh Yeshiva of Philadelphia Yeshiva, has been Etti’s parents’ friend and neighbor ever since she was a girl. Etti felt that living so close to such an esteemed person and his wife affected how she perceives the world, and she feels blessed to have that connection.

Balance and Community

Etti appreciates that her children have absorbed meaningful messages by hearing her coaching teachers over the phone or on Zoom.  Chaim and their children are very proud of Etti’s achievements.  Several of her adult children followed in Etti’s path and became top-notch educators.

Etti thrives on going to local exercise classes with neighbors and friends. To relax and recharge, she also enjoys reading and catching up with friends.

The Siegels enjoy their small, friendly community in Kew Gardens, Queens. “Everyone celebrates everything with each other. Even though there are a few shuls, people walk over to each simcha, to each event, as one.”

Etti gives women’s Pirkei Avot shiurim in the summer in Kew Gardens. 

Challenges and Secrets to Success

Referring to herself as a wandering nomad, Etti explains her challenges and success. “[I have] no office, no place to put my stuff down.  New teachers can be intimidated to work with me, but as the culture of coaching has become normalized, this has gotten a lot better. Now teachers request help, a new and exciting development.”

Etti’s secret to success is that she loves people and especially loves helping them. “I learn so much from the people I meet and work with.  I don’t see my work as a job, but as a real privilege.  I am so fortunate!”

As a person who loves learning, Etti consistently strives to enhance her skills and is always growing professionally. When Covid hit, she learned to operate Zoom quickly, because she was suddenly teaching teachers how to use Zoom effectively.

Etti writes for The Jewish Home weekly newspaper to help schools to understand parents, and parents to understand schools, and she answers school-related questions.

Etti has also written for  HaMechanech Magazine, and the Journal of Jewish Day School Leadership.  She writes on a wide variety of subjects, including the benefits of collaboration between schools and parents that is necessary for promoting student success and allowing kids to fail.  Be sure to check her pieces out!

Career Advice

“There is nothing as rewarding as teaching! It gives you a wonderful community and keeps your neshama in a learning and growing place.”

You can connect with Etti at Professorettisiegel@gmail.com.

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Ellen Geller Kamaras, CPA/MBA, is an International Coach Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach.  Her coaching specialties include life, career, and dating coaching.  Ellen is active in her community and is currently the President of Congregation Bnai Avraham in Brooklyn Heights.  She can be contacted at ellen@lifecoachellen.com (www.lifecoachellen.com).