https://luria-academy.org Luria Academy Mon, 28 Apr 2025 18:29:15 +0000 https://luria-academy.org en https://luria-academy.org/Splash-Page Thu, 14 Mar 2019 02:54:02 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Splash-Page Welcome to Luria!A school for students aged 2 through 8th Grade where curious minds and Jewish life grow together. Schedule a Tour https://luria-academy.org/Our-School-V2 Mon, 28 Apr 2025 18:29:15 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Our-School-V2 Why Luria At Luria, your child will learn that curiosity is a way of life. Through our individualized approach to teaching and learning, your child will understand they’re in a lifelong, dyanimic relationship with themselves: who they are as learners, as Jews, and as community members. They are prepared for a lifetime of possibility. &nbsp; &nbsp; https://luria-academy.org/Icons Sun, 17 Mar 2019 19:05:40 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Icons <img width="6251" height="6250" width_o="6251" height_o="6250" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1eeb9150d00e15a8d41d48c1fc9044f9fbbf1c4c9fd66f67eb0c7cfc528de359/Four-Commitments.png" data-mid="246538844" border="0" data-scale="20" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1eeb9150d00e15a8d41d48c1fc9044f9fbbf1c4c9fd66f67eb0c7cfc528de359/Four-Commitments.png" /> FOUR COMMITMENTS All members of the Luria community —students, staff, and parents — are immersed in the values of the Four Commitments for Unconditional Respect: I will be Kind, I will be Curious, I will be Strong, I will Contribute. These commitments guide our interactions and provide a framework to allow us to be thoughtful citizens of our community and the world around us. <img width="2534" height="2617" width_o="2534" height_o="2617" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/a937730ea972cf971b2cb67055409a07a5385e32ac4138a4f66f40c2b9afbbd2/icons-12.png" data-mid="38971901" border="0" data-scale="20" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/a937730ea972cf971b2cb67055409a07a5385e32ac4138a4f66f40c2b9afbbd2/icons-12.png" /> ACADEMICS Luria’s rigorous curriculum encourages critical and analytic thinking, academic excellence, peer cooperation, and personal responsibility. Students progress is carefully tracked based on a combination of New York State Common Core Learning Standards, LHILI Tanakh Standards, and ACTFL proficiency guidelines. <img width="2534" height="2617" width_o="2534" height_o="2617" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/afeccbe1a230d4b37241ac0c1b8d0cc3f3b336206170b02beca109d40135ffc1/icons-14.png" data-mid="38971903" border="0" data-scale="20" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/afeccbe1a230d4b37241ac0c1b8d0cc3f3b336206170b02beca109d40135ffc1/icons-14.png" /> JUDAICS Luria’s approach to Judaic studies is rooted in Jewish law and tradition and studied in a dynamic, vibrant, and judgement free environment. Our students are in constant dialogue with modern values and ideas. We give our students the tools to independently access traditional Jewish texts and the knowledge to live full Jewish lives. &nbsp; <img width="6251" height="6251" width_o="6251" height_o="6251" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/db2eea83f9cd39fab2de8c8cab2cec0fac1aa7fd3dc0ec941b6795fe894633c0/Whole-Child.png" data-mid="246538845" border="0" data-scale="22" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/db2eea83f9cd39fab2de8c8cab2cec0fac1aa7fd3dc0ec941b6795fe894633c0/Whole-Child.png" /> THE WHOLE CHILD At Luria, we see the whole child. We get to know who they are, how they learn, and what they need. We design learning experiences to support and challenge each child, which creates a strong framework for lifelong learning, turning potential into power and growth into strength. <img width="2534" height="2617" width_o="2534" height_o="2617" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1a7464352d1aa89b7bc5cddef2f28fbf43869b73808fa27ae04733c8512ba176/icons-09.png" data-mid="38971898" border="0" data-scale="20" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1a7464352d1aa89b7bc5cddef2f28fbf43869b73808fa27ae04733c8512ba176/icons-09.png" /> MONTESSORI Our Montessori-inspired materials and prepared classroom environment encourage exploration and foster independence for students across all levels. Autonomy during Work Time gives students a sense of ownership, deep pride in their work and a sense of accomplishment in their individual learning. <img width="2534" height="2617" width_o="2534" height_o="2617" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bb9d876fbadd48ef26a5a9db997115456bd5f91ca0c18242f9a9a31b830ae1b8/icons-10.png" data-mid="38971899" border="0" data-scale="22" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bb9d876fbadd48ef26a5a9db997115456bd5f91ca0c18242f9a9a31b830ae1b8/icons-10.png" /> OUR STORY Luria Academy of Brooklyn was founded in 2006 by a group of parents working to provide a sophisticated Jewish education for their children, in a progressive educational environment. They designed a school that gave children the opportunity to be their best selves as learners, friends, and members of the Jewish people —embraced fully and without judgement. Our work today remains firmly grounded in this vision. https://luria-academy.org/Photo-Gallery Sun, 17 Mar 2019 19:25:30 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Photo-Gallery <img width="4090" height="2307" width_o="4090" height_o="2307" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/9c89b9497dcdac02487e2851439baa1e1b5913423259f3a48bee60dfb5b21bcd/elementary-3.jpg" data-mid="39184650" border="0" data-scale="83" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/9c89b9497dcdac02487e2851439baa1e1b5913423259f3a48bee60dfb5b21bcd/elementary-3.jpg" /> <img width="4090" height="2307" width_o="4090" height_o="2307" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/90941009bd2229a38d274e441816e11a0aa525e4f7dbecf6e2b66aba774666b2/middle-4.jpg" data-mid="39184660" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/90941009bd2229a38d274e441816e11a0aa525e4f7dbecf6e2b66aba774666b2/middle-4.jpg" /> <img width="4090" height="2307" width_o="4090" height_o="2307" 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https://luria-academy.org/Head-of-School-Message Mon, 18 Mar 2019 14:12:28 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Head-of-School-Message <img width="5140" height="7706" width_o="5140" height_o="7706" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c3e6e6a761b39c65dc25f19cdc1e9e2cf7980fb241d4dc8a502e11af639d7018/A-Pogany.jpg" data-mid="246579989" border="0" data-scale="87" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c3e6e6a761b39c65dc25f19cdc1e9e2cf7980fb241d4dc8a502e11af639d7018/A-Pogany.jpg" /> Head of School MessageWelcome to Luria. We’re so glad you found your way to us. When you walk into a Luria classroom, you are overcome by the sights and sounds of something truly unique. In the elementary building, a room of 30 students and 4 teachers is calm, quiet and focused. Each student is invested in work that is stimulating, interesting, and challenging at just the right level for them. A first grader watches carefully as a second grader completes Subtraction Board 1 (a Montessori math tool). The second grader notices the onlooker and begins to explain to her friend what she is working on. In another room, a teacher works with a 6th grader in an individual writing conference, while others work independently or in pairs to review their writing. In the primary building, a group of 3-5 year olds is carefully preparing their own snack as they discuss the mathematics of slicing up an apple. Nearby, a teacher takes the students through the steps of snack preparation in Hebrew. In the backyard, the 2 year olds are carefully examining the leaves they collected with magnifying glasses. Montessori methodology provides an integrated model for learning life skills and social skills while students learn math, science, writing and reading. There is a natural progression that allows each individual student to challenge themselves continuously. Our students learn to be intentional, patient and self-reflective. They make choices and take responsibility for their own learning and their materials. Our approach to Judaics gives students the tools and skills they need to be thoughtful and sophisticated text learners, while at the same time exploring their personal relationship to living a Jewish life. Ours is a diverse community unlike any other Jewish day school. Children come to us from Williamsburg, Clinton Hill, Crown Heights, Prospect Heights, Park Slope, Flatbush, and even from Manhattan. Students learn together, asking questions of one another and working their way through differences, to a place of deep understanding and respect. Please take some time to explore our website and get a sense of the incredible gift that is a Luria education. We hope you will set up a time to come and visit us in person. We look forward to welcoming you! Amanda Pogany Head of School https://luria-academy.org/Jump-Scroll Mon, 25 Mar 2019 13:52:21 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Jump-Scroll OURPHILOSOPHY LURIA LEADERSHIP BOARD OF&nbsp;TRUSTEES https://luria-academy.org/Our-Mission Mon, 25 Mar 2019 14:22:31 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Our-Mission Our Mission At Luria Academy of Brooklyn, we are inspiring a new generation of leaders, creators, thinkers and engaged citizens. Through our individualized approach to learning and commitment to diversity as a core value, our students graduate with a deep love of learning, strong sense of self, and a passion to repair a fractured world. https://luria-academy.org/Our-Philosophy Mon, 25 Mar 2019 14:47:30 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Our-Philosophy <img width="3000" height="1652" width_o="3000" height_o="1652" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d2d57c98b16eb36b615b7825eafb236f922b053716f43674e94f1464aa559bdd/20190131_luria_60A9420.jpg" data-mid="38456758" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d2d57c98b16eb36b615b7825eafb236f922b053716f43674e94f1464aa559bdd/20190131_luria_60A9420.jpg" /> Our PhilosophyLuria is a progressive interpretation of the yeshiva day school. Our commitment to Jewish values, intensive text study, and Hebrew language immersion gives children deep roots. Through our uniquely integrated curriculum and Montessori-based materials, we foster exploration and discovery, developing creative, critical and analytical thinkers. By challenging students at their own individual level and nurturing social-emotional growth, our exceptional faculty guides each child towards academic excellence and their true potential. We embrace our religious and educational differences and teach our students to engage in respectful dialogue, creating a cultural mosaic reflective of our community and the world. https://luria-academy.org/Board-of-Trustees-25-26 Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:25:17 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Board-of-Trustees-25-26 Board of Trustees Michael Ross President Michael Ross is a partner in the Litigation Department at the law firm Jenner &amp; Block LLP, where his legal practice focuses on commercial litigation and regulatory and enforcement matters; he represents corporate clients from an array of industries including financial services, media, technology, and energy. Michael also serves as co-chair of the Pro Bono Committee at Jenner &amp; Block, which is regularly recognized as having the leading pro bono program in the country. He previously served on the board and governance committee of the literacy focused non-profit, Literacy, Inc. Michael lives in Prospect Heights with his wife Yael Kohen, and are the proud parents of three Luria students. Michael chairs the Finance Committee and serves on the Executive and the Strategic Planning Committees. Elizabeth Ring Vice-President Elizabeth Ring has years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including consulting, technical assistance, fundraising and corporate engagement, and direct service. As a licensed social worker, she has worked in the fields of education, youth development, domestic violence/victimization services, and healthcare. She currently serves as the National Director of Career Programs at The Posse Foundation, overseeing career development programming for thousands of Posse Scholars at colleges and universities throughout the country. Prior to that, she served as the Director of Corporate Engagement at Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York City, supporting youth mentoring programs for NYC high school students. Elizabeth holds a BA in history from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and an MSW from the Columbia University School of Social Work. Elizabeth and her husband Josh live in Park Slope, and are the proud parents of two Luria students. Elizabeth co-chairs the Committee on Trustees and serves on the Executive and Strategic Planning Committees. Rebecca Chasan Secretary Rebecca Chasan has worked for the City of New York since 2006 on a wide-range of issues impacting citywide and agency operations and policy. Rebecca is currently the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and Special Counsel at the Department of Investigation where she serves as a liaison between the agency and elected officials, advances the agency’s legislative policy goals, and works on general legal matters. She previously served as an Assistant Director at the Mayor’s Office of Management and Budget, as a Senior Counsel for the Finance Division of the New York City Council, and as an attorney within the General Counsel’s offices of the Department of Education and the Police Department. Rebecca has a J.D. from the Fordham University School of Law and a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and is currently pursuing an MPA at CUNY’s Marxe School of Public and International Affairs. Rebecca and her husband Michael live in Crown Heights and are the proud parents of two Luria Academy students. Rebecca serves on the Executive Committee and the Committee on Trustees. Rob Weiss Treasurer Robert Weiss is the Chief Financial Officer at Fundamental, an alternative asset management firm dedicated to municipal and public purpose investing, with responsibility for financial management, accounting, taxation, financial reporting and operational functions. Prior to joining Fundamental, Robert served at Citi Private Equity Services as an Assistant Vice President in the Institutional Clients Group, managing financial reporting &amp; compliance for private equity funds, hybrid funds, and fund of funds. Before joining Citi, Robert held positions at both Cohn Reznick LLP and Ernst &amp; Young in their financial services assurance practices focusing on asset management clients. He received his B.S. in Accounting from the School of Management at Binghamton University, and is a Certified Public Accountant. Robert and his wife Shulie live in Park Slope and are the proud parents of three children, two current Luria students and one future Luria student. Rachel Brujis Board Member Rachel Brujis has worked in education technology, products and services for 15 years across Hong Kong, London, and New York. Most recently, she was Vice President and General Manager of Chegg Skills, an adult learning bootcamp that prepares individuals to transition into high growth technology careers. In addition, she was advisor to Hooked on Phonics. Prior to Chegg, Rachel worked at Pearson as Vice President, Product in their international education division and at McKinsey, where she advised higher education institutions, districts, states, and the federal government on education policy. She received her B.A. in Economics from Columbia University, where she wrote her thesis on the New York City Public School Scorecard implementation. She lives in Prospect Heights with her husband Daniel and their three children. Eleor Cohen Board Member Eleor Cohen is the managing partner of Cohen Liuzzo, a law firm focused on affordable housing and community development transactions nationwide. His practice concentrates on representing developers, owners, investors, and lenders in the financing, acquisition, development, and disposition of multifamily properties, including transactions involving tax-exempt bonds and low income housing tax credits. Prior to founding Cohen Liuzzo, Eleor practiced in a boutique affordable housing firm as well as Nixon Peabody LLP, a multinational law firm. Eleor lives in Prospect Heights with his wife Leatal. They are the proud parents of one Luria student and one future Luria student, as well as their Goldendoodle, Walter. Lana Fern Board Member Lana Fern is Director of Global Community Strategy at NEXUS, an international community of next gen philanthropists, impact investors, and social innovators bringing about the most promising global solutions of our generation. Prior to NEXUS, Lana founded White Light Strategies, a philanthropic advising practice that worked with innovative philanthropists to accelerate change and was Executive Director of Giving Circles Fund, an organization inspiring a lifelong habit of philanthropy by empowering communities to give together. She received a B.S. in Business Administration from Washington University in St. Louis. Lana lives in Prospect Heights with her husband, Adam. They are the proud parents of two Luria students. Isaac Green Board Member Isaac Green is a Brooklyn native who has spent 25 years in the music industry. He is currently Senior Vice President of A&amp;R at Warner Records where he is responsible for discovering and developing talent, with a focus on country music artists in Nashville. Prior to Warner, he spent 11 years at Columbia Records where he signed and developed millennial favorites Foster the People and Passion Pit. Before that Isaac ran US operations for Quest Management covering artists Arcade Fire and Bjork. Isaac’s particularly proud of his years running NYC indie rock label Startime International, which he founded in 2000 and operated out of a garden apartment down the block from present-day Luria Academy. Isaac and his wife Shannon live in Prospect Heights and are the proud parents of two Luria graduates. David Henschke Board Member David Henschke serves as Head of Capital Markets for the Commercial Real Estate Group at Benefit Street Partners, a credit-focused alternative asset management firm. Prior to joining Benefit Street Partners, he was a Managing Director and Co-Head of Securitization at Ladder Capital. Earlier in his career, he served as a Director in the CMBS Group at S&amp;P Global. David received his B.A. from Wesleyan University and is a CFA Charterholder. A Brooklyn native, he lives in Crown Heights with his wife, Shanna, and their four children. Two of their children currently attend Luria, and one is an alumnus. Mollie Isaacson Board MemberMollie Isaacson is a public sector and nonprofit executive with nearly two decades of leadership experience managing large-scale humanitarian and community-serving initiatives. Most recently, she served as Chief Program Officer at itrek, a nonprofit that connects industry leaders with Israel through experiences that foster cross-cultural exchange, dialogue across difference, and stronger ties between U.S. and Israeli civil society. Prior to that, Mollie spent 17 years with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, in the Refugee, Asylum &amp; International Operations Directorate, where she served as the Director of the Newark and Manhattan Asylum Offices, and led strategy, operations, and oversaw the adjudication of tens of thousands of asylum and refugee cases. She holds a Joint Honours B.A. in Political Science and International Development from McGill University and an M.A. in International Affairs from The George Washington University. A lifelong Brooklynite, Mollie lives in the West Midwood neighborhood with her husband and their two children. Louis Lipner&nbsp; Board MemberLouis Lipner is the Head of Strategic Partnerships at Google Fiber, the Alphabet Inc.-owned internet service provider, where he leads efforts to bring fast, reliable internet service to more communities. Before joining Google, he practiced law at Cleary Gottlieb Steen &amp; Hamilton LLP for several years, with a focus on business restructuring for corporate, financial, and sovereign clients. He has a JD degree from New York University School of Law and an AB from Brown University in Urban Studies. Louis and his wife Annika Goldman live in Clinton Hill, and are proud parents of two Luria students. Louis co-chairs the Strategic Planning Committee. Naomi Portnoy is an experienced educator who is dedicated to the growth and development of students with diverse learning styles and backgrounds. Naomi began her career as a New York City Teaching Fellow over a decade ago. She spent many years at an inner-city high school, teaching English and History to students with special needs and students at risk of academic failure in inclusive classrooms. Most recently, Naomi was a Learning Specialist at SAR High School, where she worked directly with individual students to help them become confident, skilled, and successful learners. Naomi is also an independent provider of Special Education Teacher Support Services through the NYC Department of Education. She has a Master’s in Adolescent Education from Pace University, and a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Pennsylvania. Naomi and her husband Ori live in Prospect Heights and are proud parents to three Luria students. Naomi serves on the Committee of Trustees. Carmel Mushin Board Member Carmel is the General Counsel of Away, a leading luggage and travel brand, where she advises on strategy, risk management, and growth. A proud member of the Jewish community and the daughter of Israeli parents, Carmel is passionate about Jewish culture, Hebrew language, and helping strengthen the next generation’s connection to Israel and its heritage. She grew up in Texas, earned her undergraduate degree from McGill University, and completed her law degree at Emory University. She and her husband, Ariel, are the proud parents of two current students at Luria. Naomi Portnoy Board Member Naomi Portnoy is an experienced educator who is dedicated to the growth and development of students with diverse learning styles and backgrounds. Naomi began her career as a New York City Teaching Fellow over a decade ago. She spent many years at an inner-city high school, teaching English and History to students with special needs and students at risk of academic failure in inclusive classrooms. Most recently, Naomi was a Learning Specialist at SAR High School, where she worked directly with individual students to help them become confident, skilled, and successful learners. Naomi is also an independent provider of Special Education Teacher Support Services through the NYC Department of Education. She has a Master’s in Adolescent Education from Pace University, and a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Pennsylvania. Naomi and her husband Ori live in Prospect Heights and are proud parents to three Luria students. Naomi serves on the Committee of Trustees. Sam Raymond Board Member Sam Raymond is Of Counsel at Gibson, Dunn &amp; Crutcher LLP. He represents traditional financial institutions, cryptocurrency exchanges, and other financial technology companies, as well as individuals in related fields, providing counseling and white collar criminal and civil defense. Prior to joining Gibson Dunn, Sam served as an Assistant United States Attorney at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, where he prosecuted a broad range of federal criminal violations, focusing on money laundering, anti-money laundering, cryptocurrency, and terrorism offenses. Earlier in his career, Sam worked at a different law firm and clerked for two federal judges. He received his B.S. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and his J.D. from New York University School of Law. Sam lives in Prospect Heights with his wife, Shari. They are the proud parents of three Luria students. Maayan Roth Board Member Maayan Roth is VP of Engineering at Crux Climate, an early-stage startup building financial tools for the clean energy transition. She has over 15 years of experience leading software engineering teams across startups and Fortune 500 companies, spanning industries from climate tech and healthcare to search and social media. Maayan received her BS in Computer Science and PhD in Robotics from Carnegie Mellon University. In her free time, Maayan enjoys making pottery and is active in helping to organize kids’ programming at Altshul. Maayan and her husband Fred live in Park Slope and are the proud parents of two Luria students. Kseniya Schemo Board Member Kseniya Schemo is the program director of the Goddard Riverside Community Center Law Project, a civil legal services organization. She has experience as a housing attorney representing tenants in housing court and acting as lead counsel in several trials. In her current role, she manages the grants and funding for the program and oversees case strategy and advocacy, strategizing on outreach and grassroots education. Kseniya, and her husband Jesse live in Park Slope and are proud parents of two Luria Students. Kseniya co-chairs the Committee on Trustees. test text test text r Yona SilvermanBoard Member Dr. Yona Silverman is a psychiatrist in private practice in Brooklyn. She was previously Medical Director of the NYU Medical Student and House Staff Mental Health Clinic, where she treated physicians in various stages of training. She completed her undergraduate and medical training at the University of Pennsylvania, while simultaneously receiving a Masters in Bioethics. She then did her residency in general psychiatry at NYU, where she was a chief resident, and continued on to complete a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship. She is currently pursuing psychoanalytic training at NYU’s Postdoctoral Program in Psychoanalysis. Yona is a fourth generation NYCer, and lives in Clinton Hill with her husband, Marcus Cohn, and their four children, two current Luria students and two future Luria students. Ray SeigelBoard Member Ray Siegel is a freelance writer, editor, brand consultant, and an advocate for screen-free childhood. After a decade-long career in publishing, Ray pivoted towards advocacy work with the Jewish Parents Forum, where she helped launch the Wait Until 8th initiative for the Jewish community. She’s responsible for fundraising efforts as well as working directly with parents and administration within the Jewish day school network. Previously, she was hired to consult at Estée Lauder as a partner in brand development and copywriting. Prior, she served as an editor, published writer, content creator and social media director for various Condé Nast and Hearst titles, such as Vanity Fair and Harper’s Bazaar. She received her B.S. in Management and Consumer Studies at Syracuse University. Prior to joining the board, Ray served as Luria’s Parent Association Co-Chair for the past two years. Ray lives in Williamsburg with her husband, Jordan Friedman. They are the proud parents to two Luria students. Harry Etra is the Managing Director of HXE Partners, a Morrow Sodali company. Harry's experience is in advising public and private companies on their sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies. As a Principal at CamberView Partners, he helped companies prioritize their sustainability disclosures and prepare for engagements with institutional investors. Previously as a Director at CodeGreen Solutions, he advised companies on ESG best practices with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Harry holds an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School and a B.A. in history from Yale University. Harry and his wife Dani live in Prospect Heights and are proud Luria parents. Ora Weinberg has over a decade of professional experience in strategic planning, specializing in philanthropic advising, grants management and organizational development. Ora has worked as a consultant to early and mid-stage non-profits helping them lift the standard of excellence surrounding their organizational practices. She has guided organizations through a variety of internal planning processes, including program development, fundraising strategy, evaluation design, staff management, and board development. She is dedicated to helping her clients build confidence in their mission and become more pragmatic in how they operate their organizations as well as how they impact the community around them. Ora has also held volunteer leadership roles in a number of organizations whose primary focus is creating inclusive school environments for children of all backgrounds, abilities and disabilities. Ora is the co-chair of the Capital Campaign Committee. Former Board Presidents Sam Boymelgreen Daniel Septimus Shannon Green Mamie Kanfer Stewart Founders of Luria Academy Moshe Banin Sam Boymelgreen Alisa Boymelgreen Jacob Septimus https://luria-academy.org/Faculty-Staff-26-27 Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:33:44 +0000 Luria Academy https://luria-academy.org/Faculty-Staff-26-27 Luria Leadership ADMINISTRATION <img width="4455" height="4455" width_o="4455" height_o="4455" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7059120f0c37497be2ee35741f445026fe06c769761acbe3a8705b0da94d202e/A-Pogany.png" data-mid="246580051" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7059120f0c37497be2ee35741f445026fe06c769761acbe3a8705b0da94d202e/A-Pogany.png" />Amanda PoganyHead of School Amanda@luria-academy.org Amanda Pogany is in her fifteenth year as the Head of School at Luria Academy of Brooklyn. Amanda is a graduate of the Pardes Educators Program, has a Masters in Jewish Education from Hebrew University, a BA from Barnard College, and is a candidate for Rabbinic Ordination in December through the Shalom Hartman Institute. Amanda is an alumna of the Wexner Field Fellowship and is a recipient of the 2020 Covenant Award. She is on the advisory board of the Lookstein Journal of Jewish Educational Leadership and is a Jewish education consultant to Sesame Street. She co-founded Altshul, an independent egalitarian minyan in Brooklyn, in 2005. Amanda lives in Crown Heights with her husband Aaron Bisman and their three children, Asher (Class of 2023), Maisie (Class of 2025) &amp; Dar (9-11). <img width="500" height="500" width_o="500" height_o="500" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/babcee5209e849593c61267866a27efa622e3cd84011d8e3b0b779fe397e888e/1.png" data-mid="216353806" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/500/i/babcee5209e849593c61267866a27efa622e3cd84011d8e3b0b779fe397e888e/1.png" />Keith MChief Business &amp; HR Officer KeithM@luria-academy.orgKeith D. Morton is returning to Luria for his fifth year. He is a graduate of Brooklyn Technical High School and Hunter College. While at Hunter he worked full-time as an office administrator at a non-profit social services agency that provided mental health services to adults, and therapeutic case management to children in foster care. After five years serving those vulnerable populations, he moved on to Children’s Aid where he began his career in the early childhood education sector as Operations Manager at Rhinelander Children’s Center. He was soon promoted to Deputy Director of Operations for Early Childhood Programs serving over 2,000 students in pre-k and Head Start across 11 sites in the Bronx and Manhattan. Seeking opportunities for growth, he took on the role of founding Finance Director at a charter school in the Bronx, then later joined a finance and operations consulting firm working with dozens of schools and non-profit organizations in all five boroughs, Connecticut, Hawaii, Louisiana (and several other states) for eight years before returning to direct services as Senior Director of Operations for a charter school in SoHo. Keith lives with his family in Queens. <img width="4444" height="4444" width_o="4444" height_o="4444" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/74542e8c90f7c9c1bb47c15d1b7670d59d0a3d6bc0c2e8a646442712952b918a/SPV-2952.png" data-mid="251161217" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/74542e8c90f7c9c1bb47c15d1b7670d59d0a3d6bc0c2e8a646442712952b918a/SPV-2952.png" /> Tiphanie ShoemakerAssociate Head of School, Teaching and Learning TiphanieS@luria-academy.orgTiphanie Shoemaker is returning to Luria Academy for her fifteenth year. She began her teaching career at Luria in 2009, after the completion of her Masters Degree in English Education. In 2016, Tiphanie moved out of the classroom and into the role of Director of the Upper School and High School Admissions Coordinator. During a brief hiatus away from Luria in 2019, Tiphanie served as Director of Education at Civic Spirit, where she built their teacher coaching model and co-created the Student Delegate program and has been a guest lecturer at their annual Summer Institute at the New York Historical Society. Tiphanie led the national launch event of the Girl Scouts of America Civics badge and consulted on their civics curriculum in its early stages. She is a former board member for Youth Revive, chairing the Programs Committee. Tiphanie is a graduate of Bar Ilan's Educational Leadership Advancement Initiative and Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Accelerating Instruction: Principals Leading Instructional Improvement program . She is a trained mentor through the Jewish New Teacher Project, is a trained facilitator of dialoguing across differences through Essential Partners, and is trained in Citizen University’s Citizen Redefined program. Tiphanie has been trained in numerous research-based curricula such as The Hochman Method and PAF. She lives in Park Slope with her husband Steve and their children Silas (5-7 Year 1) and Parker (Garinim). <img width="4136" height="4136" width_o="4136" height_o="4136" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/be514e6ffd7897299aef5bc89a5d56a6f5f078409e86852a8c1270e2b5d95a76/SPV-2556.png" data-mid="246580067" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/be514e6ffd7897299aef5bc89a5d56a6f5f078409e86852a8c1270e2b5d95a76/SPV-2556.png" /> Hadley RolfChief Advancement Officer HadleyR@luria-academy.orgHadley Rolf joined Luria Academy of Brooklyn as the Chief Advancement Officer in Fall 2022. As Chief Advancement Officer, Hadley oversees Admissions, Enrollment, Communications, Community Engagement, and Development. She also serves as the Staff Liaison to the Board of Trustees. With over a decade of experience at both schools and synagogues, Hadley came to Luria from Park Avenue Synagogue where she was their Director of Development. A member of Cohort 5 of the Ruskay Fellowship, Hadley also serves as a Read Ahead mentor. Originally from Kansas, Hadley graduated with a B.A. in Art History from Wake Forest University. She now lives in Windsor Terrace with her husband, Zach, their daughter, a Luria Upper School student, and dog, Wylie. <img width="3072" height="3072" width_o="3072" height_o="3072" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/5a997c9da23fee782f72ff15761dd14ff9f4b3f3ce595c9177d031e1b0eb5558/sashaheadshot.png" data-mid="251160783" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/5a997c9da23fee782f72ff15761dd14ff9f4b3f3ce595c9177d031e1b0eb5558/sashaheadshot.png" /> Sasha SternDirector of Admissions and Enrollment SashaS@luria-academy.org Sasha joined Luria’s administration team in 2019, bringing 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and arts sectors. Before coming to Luria, she worked with a wide range of corporate, cultural, and private clients, including Neuberger Berman, Pfizer, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and prominent private art collections. At Luria, Sasha co-led the school’s NYSAIS accreditation process, has served on accreditation committees for other schools, and has presented at Prizmah conferences. Sasha is a graduate of SAR Academy and Ramaz High School and received her BA from Barnard College. She lives in Crown Heights with her husband, Raphi, and their children, Rose (Middle School) and Isaac (7-9). <img width="562" height="562" width_o="562" height_o="562" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/fb2928312729fd0b3d1828d8e31d7f173c0f50d590830837ded8fadabd552496/86259F2A-2597-4A88-93C5-4F2FF0F9B72C.png" data-mid="251161245" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/562/i/fb2928312729fd0b3d1828d8e31d7f173c0f50d590830837ded8fadabd552496/86259F2A-2597-4A88-93C5-4F2FF0F9B72C.png" />Jenn LaytinLower School Director JennL@luria-academy.org Jenn is returning to Luria for her tenth year. She spent six years as a Team Leader in 7-9 and 5-7, two years on the Advancement Team and she is excited to be joining the Educational Leadership team as the Lower School Director. She graduated from Columbia University with a B.A. in comparative religion, and JTS with a B.A. in Tanach Studies. She received her Masters in Jewish Education from Pardes and Hebrew College. Before coming to Luria she worked for 10 years as a head teacher and the Jewish Studies Coordinator for grades 1-4 at the Rodeph Sholom School in Manhattan. In 2014 Jenn received the Grinspoon award for Excellence in Jewish Education. Jenn lives in Park Slope with her husband Michael Laytin and their children Sam (6th Grade) and Amelia (3-5). <img width="4521" height="4521" width_o="4521" height_o="4521" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b9de655461efd63fe1d07dc76b01525e96fb1c56c60021edfd0c8378edb8e322/Mel.png" data-mid="251160788" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b9de655461efd63fe1d07dc76b01525e96fb1c56c60021edfd0c8378edb8e322/Mel.png" />Mel HumePrimary Director MelissaH@luria-academy.orgMel is returning to Luria for her sixth year. She joined our team from the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue Early Childhood Center where she started her career more than a decade ago as an Assistant Teacher, then a Head Teacher, and finally the Assistant Director. She has a Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education from NYU and is currently pursuing her Masters. She has received multiple awards including the Grinspoon Award for Excellence in Jewish Education and the Jewish Education Project's Young Pioneers Award. Mel was a member of Cohort 10 of the Mandel Teacher Educator Institute (MTEI) and is an active member of the MTEI graduate network. <img width="2156" height="2156" width_o="2156" height_o="2156" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4f15ba235fb6217d9b662b37cf9aa9b7469fc625b893ef17813b619ed89fb365/IMG_3806.png" data-mid="251160792" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4f15ba235fb6217d9b662b37cf9aa9b7469fc625b893ef17813b619ed89fb365/IMG_3806.png" />Kate Cechak Upper School Director Katec@luria-academy.org Kate Chechak joins Luria Academy of Brooklyn as Upper School Director, bringing more than 25 years of experience in independent schools, curriculum leadership, student support, teacher development, and divisional program design. Originally from Rochester, NY, Kate holds a master’s degree in Education and School Building Leadership. Kate's career has spanned a wide range of roles across independent and public education. She began as a teacher at a project-based learning public school in Virginia sponsored by the George Lucas Edutopia Foundation, before moving to New York City as a founding teacher at The School at Columbia University. She went on to serve as a math curriculum coordinator at both Ethical Culture Fieldston School and The Dalton School, and later as Director of Academic Support at Indian Mountain School. Most recently, she held two successive positions at The Hewitt School: Middle School Curriculum Coordinator and then Assistant Head of Middle School. Kate lives in Sugar Hill, Harlem, with her husband, two children, and their dog, Winnie. <img width="1000" height="1000" width_o="1000" height_o="1000" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/53a6c2b4c14066deb6e248a43bc78fe3a282f66f2a32856873b1224697bcff21/Lana_Hadijiyska.png" data-mid="216353672" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/53a6c2b4c14066deb6e248a43bc78fe3a282f66f2a32856873b1224697bcff21/Lana_Hadijiyska.png" /> Iana HadjiyskaDirector of Middle School Student Life &amp; School-wide Events IanaH@luria-academy.org Iana is returning to Luria for her eleventh year. Before joining the Educational Leadership Team, Iana was a General Studies teacher and Team Lead in the Lower School for nine years. Iana has a B.A in Psychology with a Concentration in Sociology and Child and Family Studies from Stony Brook University. Iana earned her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education, Magna Cum Laude, from Hunter College. She holds a New York State Professional Teaching Certificate. She attended Columbia University’s Teachers College Reading &amp; Writing Institute, as well as, The Writing Revolution which supports teachers and school leaders in implementing the Hochman Method, an explicit set of evidence-based strategies for teaching writing. As a child, she was a part of the Metropolitan Opera Children’s Chorus and attended LaGuardia Performing Arts High School, majoring in Voice. She is currently enrolled in JNTP’s Administrator Support Program, a specialized, professional development program designed to help school leaders and administrators enhance their skills in teacher supervision, school culture, and educational leadership. Iana lives in Sunset Park with her husband, Max, and their son Shai. <img width="2440" height="2528" width_o="2440" height_o="2528" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/51996524ab0245079b85ead0df296bb4d62326654a772dfeb772fb84b3893d53/IMG_7914.png" data-mid="216353758" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/51996524ab0245079b85ead0df296bb4d62326654a772dfeb772fb84b3893d53/IMG_7914.png" />Esti Heller-NevenanskyDirector of Teaching and Learning, Hebrew Language &amp; Judaic Studies EstiH@luria-academy.org Esti is returning to Luria for her eleventh year. Before joining the Educational Leadership Team, she taught Hebrew in the Lower School and served as the Hebrew Instructional Lead, leading curriculum development and supporting Hebrew instruction. Esti earned her Teaching Degree from Beth Jacob Seminary in Lucerne, Switzerland, and is certified in Curriculum Development through the MOFET Institute in Israel. She researched, introduced, and led the implementation of the Even Kriah Hebrew literacy program, grounded in the Science of Reading, bringing a research-based approach to Hebrew literacy instruction. Her professional training includes ACTFL,(American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) Framework for communicative Hebrew language instruction. Standards &amp; Benchmarks, Pedagogy of Partnership (PoP), ELLOPA, Madyk, and JNTP, where she is both a Veteran Mentor and a graduate of the Leadership Program. Esti partners with faculty to strengthen instructional practice through curriculum development, coaching, and professional learning, with a focus on integrating Hebrew Language and Judaic Studies into one cohesive department that fosters Hebrew proficiency, Jewish literacy, and meaningful engagement with Jewish texts, traditions, and values. She lives in Bedsty with her husband, Joe, and their daughters, Emma (Fifth Grade) and Mia (Nitzanim). <img width="4389" height="4389" width_o="4389" height_o="4389" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/13a0df489958219f42cab227ca5a038f7644923a4aa3ce8e30ad640d5714431d/SPV-2429-1.png" data-mid="251161238" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/13a0df489958219f42cab227ca5a038f7644923a4aa3ce8e30ad640d5714431d/SPV-2429-1.png" />Bill MankeDirector of Athletics &amp; Head Specialist BillM@luria-academy.orgBill is returning to Luria for his ninth year. Bill brings over 25 years of experience in the education sector to his role as Director of Athletics at Luria Academy. A native of New Haven, Connecticut, Bill holds a BA in Psychology from Albertus Magnus College. Prior to joining Luria, he dedicated two decades to the Foote School, where he managed various programs and served in multiple capacities, including leading the after-school program, overseeing summer programs, teaching physical education, and contributing to the admissions office. Alongside his professional endeavors, Bill resides in Ditmas Park with his wife and their two children. <img width="4037" height="4037" width_o="4037" height_o="4037" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1e4ef121410663c6cc7d7fb20f1e4c8ebf3a3a1fae5a830548fcde3689558cd3/julia.png" data-mid="251160787" border="0" data-scale="53" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1e4ef121410663c6cc7d7fb20f1e4c8ebf3a3a1fae5a830548fcde3689558cd3/julia.png" />Julia Rolf Director of Student Support and Wellness JuliaR@luria-academy.org Julia is returning to Luria for her third year as the Director of Student Support. Julia holds a Masters in Public Health and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Before moving to New York for this role, Julia worked as an LCSW in Philadelphia. Over the course of her career, Julia has worked in a variety of roles with a consistent focus on children and families. Her most recent roles include In-Home Family Therapist, Social Worker at a specialty Clinic at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, the School Social Worker at The Miquon School, and the owner of Two Rivers Therapy which specialized in post-partum and perinatal mood disorders and family therapy. She lives in Ditmas Park with her husband and two children, Nessim (7-9 Y2) and Matan (5-7 Y2).