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OUR PEOPLE

Expert educators who understand your child

Our teachers are subject specialists and dedicated mentors, rigorously trained and committed to bringing out the best in every child. They set high expectations while creating a warm, supportive environment where every student feels valued and seen. They forge close partnerships with parents, ensuring a strong team committed to your child's success.

Mrs. Haya Chodorov

Early Childhood Director
hchodorov@zjavalley.org
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Mrs. Haya Chodorov

Early Childhood Director
hchodorov@zjavalley.org

As a dedicated special educator, Mrs. Chodorov is passionate about cultivating inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive. With over seven years of experience in teaching, educational leadership, and special-needs support, she leverages her expertise to tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student. Her approach integrates academic evaluation, remedial techniques, and empathetic understanding, fostering a sense of belonging and academic confidence. She believes that every student deserves a supportive and challenging educational experience, and is committed to delivering high-quality instruction that ignites curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. As an educator, Mrs. Chodorov strives to make a transformative impact on the lives of my students and their families and is honored to join the ZJA community in this endeavor.

Mayan Benhamo

Administrative assistant
mbenhamo@zjavalley.org
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Mayan Benhamo

Administrative assistant
mbenhamo@zjavalley.org
Mayan Benhamo possesses extensive experience in child development, complemented by her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge. This academic foundation has equipped her with a deep understanding of human behavior and effective communication skills. Mayan's passion for working with children began early, evolving from babysitting and counseling roles to three years of experience in preschool education, where she cultivated supportive environments for diverse age groups. Through her various roles, she has refined her organizational skills, attention to detail, and multitasking abilities. Her psychology background provides valuable insights into child development and behavior, enabling her to craft safe, nurturing, and stimulating environments tailored to each child's unique needs. With a commitment to making a meaningful impact, Mayan joins Zucker Jewish Academy, eager to contribute her expertise and dedication to fostering young minds.

Odel El Hadad

kindergarten teacher
info@zjavalley.org
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Odel El Hadad

kindergarten teacher
info@zjavalley.org
Odel El Hadad, a devoted Jewish studies educator, brings a decade of experience and passion to the classroom. Originally from Paris, France, she has called the USA home for the past nine years. Teaching is more than a profession to Odel - it's a source of profound joy and fulfillment. This year, she eagerly anticipates exploring new learning opportunities, fostering growth, and nurturing curiosity. Odel firmly believes that a collaborative partnership between parents and teachers is vital for academic excellence. By working together, they can create a supportive environment that stimulates intellectual and personal development. She looks forward to joining forces with students, parents, and colleagues to make this year a transformative and successful experience.

Rachel Niknava

Nursery teacher
info@zjavalley.org
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Rachel Niknava

Nursery teacher
info@zjavalley.org
Rachel Niknava is a devoted and passionate preschool teacher, boasting 16 years of experience in early childhood education. She crafts nurturing and engaging environments that foster social, emotional, and cognitive growth in young children. With a child-centered, play-based approach, Rachel prioritizes building strong relationships with each student and their family. Dedicated to igniting a lifelong love of learning, she is thrilled to join each child's educational journey, witnessing their growth and development.

Geula Raveh

Teacher Assistant
info@zjavalley.org
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Geula Raveh

Teacher Assistant
info@zjavalley.org
Geula Raveh, originally from Israel, has called the United States home for the past decade. Building on her five years of experience as a teacher's assistant in Israel, she brings a profound appreciation for working with children, considering it a sacred and fulfilling mission. Geula recognizes each child as a unique individual, acknowledging their distinct growth patterns and developmental needs. She is committed to treating every child with respect, dignity, and personalized care. In partnership with the teacher, Geula is dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering a strong Jewish identity.



Yehoudit Levanon (Mar Yosef)

Toddler Teacher
info@zjavalley.org
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Yehoudit Levanon (Mar Yosef)

Toddler Teacher
info@zjavalley.org
Yehoudit Levanon (Mor Yosef) is a seasoned early childhood educator, certified in her field, with 20 years of experience. A devoted wife and mother of four, Yehoudit holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Achva College in Israel. Her extensive background spans early childhood and kindergarten settings in Israel's Ministry of Education and Jewish schools/preschools in the United States. Yehoudit's passion for education empowers her to instill vital values during pivotal developmental stages. She specializes in art therapy, integrating creative outlets like art, music, and theater to foster holistic growth. Emphasizing experiential learning, Yehoudit believes children discover the world through play and adult role-modeling.
EMPOWERED LEARNING

Building skills, retaining knowledge