Pre-K Teachers

Grace Andrejev
I have worked with children of many ages and completed the Level Up early childhood teacher training program. In my classroom the environment sets a tone that supports relationship building and I love to help children learn to work as a team. In the classroom I love connecting with kids, getting to know each individual child’s interests and passions and building curriculum around them. I can often be found telling stories or setting up messy science experiments or sensory play for children to explore.

Liz Berkman
As an educator, I am committed to nurturing a lifelong love for learning in each and every one of my students. I aim to provide an engaging space where children can explore, play and discover in a safe and supportive environment. I believe that education is a collaborative journey that extends beyond the classroom. I am passionate about fostering meaningful connections with families and creating an inclusive and supportive learning community. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Early Intervention Specialist, I have over 25 years experience working with young children and their families and I am honored to be a part of their early educational experiences.

Beth Gilefsky
As a former fourth grade teacher in Needham Public Schools, watching my two daughters make their way through TBSCC inspired me to teach young children. I believe that children thrive in a child-centered environment that allows them to explore their interests while developing social skills. I strive to build a community that is warm, safe, and accessible for all children to learn and have fun. I enjoy getting to know all of my students' unique personalities and learning styles while nurturing their self esteem. Children should be encouraged to ask many questions and take risks. My primary goal is to develop enthusiastic, curious, lifelong learners. I have a Masters Degree in Education from Simmons College and a BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Leah Hough
I have over a decade of experience as a preschool teacher and hold CDA certification. I am also qualified as a Lead Teacher for both infant/toddler and preschool age groups. My teaching approach focuses on building meaningful relationships and fostering a strong classroom community. I encourage children to collaborate, learn from, and teach each other. Witnessing their growth and development is incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful to be part of their learning journey. In addition to teaching, I have been a nanny with my current family for the past nine years. Before arriving at TBS, I worked as a Pre-K teacher at Temple Shalom Nursery School in Newton for seven years..

David Kula
In working with families I strive to create a strong sense of Jewish community. I have served in curriculum development, Religious School Principal and teacher at many schools and synagogues. I am the founder and VP of inlingua Language Centers where I taught language skills to adult learners. I hold a BA in Psychology and Jewish Studies from University of Minnesota and also studied in Israel at both Haifa University & Hebrew University.

Ben Manchel
I have worked in several areas of education: Floater Teacher for infants and toddlers (JCC), Substitute and After School Teacher (Solomon Schechter) and a camp counselor (LINX & North Star). From all of my experiences, I have learned that education is not one-size fits all. My goal of being an educator is to be able to understand and motivate children on how they learn best. I have always felt that I have had a strong connection when working with children and creating an environment that is safe, accessible and equitable. I plan to continue expanding my knowledge and expertise as an educator.
I have a bachelor's degree in Educational Studies from Roger Williams University and plan to continue working with children for years to come.

Felicia Shimonov
I have worked in the early childhood setting for the last 10 years. I started my career in early childhood as a floater teacher and gained experience working with ages ranging from infant to pre-k. Since becoming a full time classroom teacher, I have taught preschool age children. Most of my career has been working at Jewish Community Centers, both in West Hartford, CT and Newton. I truly enjoy being able to bring my passion for Judaism and the Jewish holidays into the classroom. I have been both a dance and swim instructor and bring dancing and music into my classroom whenever possible! One of the most interesting aspects of working with children is watching them develop their social and emotional skills.

Margaux Teicholz
Before teaching full time at TBS, I was a substitute and summer teacher for many years. I am patient, take a loving approach and have a deep commitment to children and families. I have a degree from UMass Amherst and have been working with children, in a variety of roles, for the past 10 years.

Erica Hallanjaku
I am currently studying psychology and communication at Curry College. As a teacher I work to create a supportive and engaging learning environment, fostering student confidence and maintaining positive relationships with families. I have worked as a lead preschool teacher for the past two years.