Emma Schnur (School Director):A graduate of Gan Shalom Preschool herself, Emma has worked in the field of Jewish early child education for over ten years. For three years she served as a teacher and a Jewish Resource Specialist (JRS), a leadership program put on through the San Francisco Federation’s Jewish Early Childhood and Family Engagement Initiative. As the JRS, she worked to deepen Jewish learning and engage families in Jewish life. Her passion is helping children lay the foundation upon which they can build their Jewish identity. Emma can be reached at (510) 848-3298 or director@ganshalomberkeley.org

THE ADAMAH CLASSROM (3-5 year-old)

Natalie Levanda (Lead Teacher): I have worked in other Jewish preschools in the Bay Area for over 10 years, most recently at Temple Sinai. I also worked with children on the autism spectrum as a program manager for 13 years. My passion for working with young children and exploring their curiosity led me to earn an MS degree in early childhood education. When I am not working or teaching Hebrew, I like to take walks with my dog, dance, watch foreign films, practice  puppetry, and spend time with loved ones.

THE SHAMAYIM CLASSROOM (2 year-old)

Iris Greenberg-Smith (Lead Teacher): Iris is the mother of four daughters who all attended Gan Shalom and who have fond memories of rainbows and cinnamon challah.  Iris served on the Gan Parent Advisory Committee (PAC), co-chaired a director search committee, and helped write an Alameda County grant for the new Gan building.  She has a bachelors degree in social science, and a masters in journalism.  Originally from Israel, Iris is now very excited to be back at Gan as a Shamayim teacher, a job which lets her play with beautiful little people and share all those Hebrew songs she remembers from her childhood.  In her spare time, Iris loves traveling, beading, and making art.

Priscila Diaz Da Silva Vaz (Assistant Teacher):  I have been surrounded by children my entire life, among my family and friends. I became very intrigued and sensitive about how parenting works in both my home country Brazil, and here in the USA. To pursue my  interest in children’s education, I volunteered on Sundays at a church, then enrolled in a Children Training course focused on kids’ emotions, behavior, thinking, and how to help them while facing difficulties. This all came to fruition when the chance to join Gan Shalom came about, where I now find myself in the best place to practice what I love and learn more about the education of our little ones. With experience as a pharmacist holding a master’s degree in medicinal plants, I also hope to explore the world of flora with projects designed for kids.

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Joelle Yzquierdo, Preschool Administrator
Joelle makes sure everything runs smoothly. Joelle can be reached at (510) 843-5246 or office@cbiberkeley.org