As Director of Education for all Zucker Jewish Academy schools, Dr. Laya Salomon oversees the school’s mission, vision, educational principles, curricula, and teaching and learning standards, ensuring all schools meet high benchmarks for academic success.

Dr. Salomon’s passion is for children and for educating with goals that are learner-centered. She believes in the innate joy of learning and the role of schools in cultivating that joy through targeted, challenging, and personalized learning experiences. She is honored to be a partner in building a network of schools that is committed to educational excellence and effective teaching practices, while rooted in strong Jewish values and beliefs.

In addition to her role at Zucker Jewish Academy, Dr. Salomon serves as the Director of the Master's Program and an Associate Professor at the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education & Administration at Yeshiva University, where she teaches graduate and doctoral-level courses in curriculum, assessment, lesson planning, teaching methods, mentoring, supervision, and leadership.

Ana Mandelbaum is an experienced teacher of 17 years in the NYC Department of Education. She has assumed various roles and taught a wide range of grades and subjects throughout her tenure. Mrs. Ana Mandelbaum was ranked as the top teacher of grades 3-5 in her school from 2007-2010 by the NYC Department of Education. She has also spent many years training and supporting teachers as an instructional coach and tracking and measuring student progress as a school data specialist. Mrs. Ana Mandelbaum received a B.A. in Psychology from Hunter College, an M.S. in Childhood Education from Brooklyn College, and a School Building Leader Administration Certificate from Baruch College completed with the prestigious NYC Department of Education Leadership in Education Apprenticeship Program. Presently Mrs. Ana Mandelbaum is a doctoral student at Drexel University in Educational Policy Studies.

Mrs. Ana Mandelbaum is thrilled to share her passion for teaching and learning, a love for children, and creative energy with the Zucker Jewish Academy community, ushering it forward into its bright future. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Marine Park, Brooklyn.

Rabbi Deutscher, a seasoned educator with twenty years of experience, has dedicated his career to fostering academic excellence and personal growth in students. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Queens College and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Touro College, concurrently receiving Rabbinical ordination from the Rabbinical Seminary of America. With fifteen years of teaching expertise in both Judaic and secular subjects, Rabbi Deutscher has served as Assistant Menahel and Principal at Yeshiva Tiferes Moshe. Renowned for his exceptional ability to connect with and understand his students, he is a sought-after leader, coach, and mentor. Rabbi Deutscher brings his unwavering dedication, warmth, and enthusiasm to Zucker Jewish Academy (ZJA) Valley Stream, poised to inspire and nurture the next generation.

Miri Nadata is excited to join Zucker Jewish Academy of the Five Towns as their Special Education Coordinator. In this role, she collaborates closely with parents, teachers, school districts, and providers to ensure seamless communication and support for students requiring individualized services. Miri guides families through the evaluation process, acts as a liaison between Zucker, the school district, and parents to expedite evaluations and compliance, and ensure that students receive services in alignment with their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Miri holds a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University and brings over 25 years of experience in the field of special education. Her extensive background as both a treating therapist and evaluator equips her with the expertise to address the diverse needs of the students. Known for her collaborative, team-centered approach, Miri is dedicated to creating an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

Shlomit Belilos, a dedicated educator, nurtures young minds and fosters educational growth through her extensive experience as a classroom assistant and teacher in early childhood education. Beginning her career supporting preschool and kindergarten teachers, Morah Shlomit developed a profound understanding of foundational learning principles and the developmental needs of young learners. She expanded her expertise across elementary and middle school settings, mastering versatile teaching strategies and tailoring educational approaches to meet each student's unique needs. Dedicated to continuous professional development, she stays updated on best practices, ensuring high-quality education. Morah Shlomit joins Zucker Jewish Academy, passionate about inspiring a love for learning and academic excellence.

Mrs. Wilk, a seasoned early childhood educator, brings nearly four decades of experience to the classroom. Born and raised in London, England, she later resided in Jerusalem, Israel, before settling in New York. A lifelong learner, Mrs. Wilk enhanced her expertise through a leadership course from the Lookstein Center and Bar Ilan University. She went on to become Preschool Director and Director of Admissions at Shulamith School of Brooklyn, while continuing to teach preschool. Her approach fosters a strong sense of self in children, nurturing growth in social-emotional, secular, and Judaic areas. With creativity, warmth, and dedication, Mrs. Wilk treats each child as a unique individual. She likens her role to polishing raw diamonds, helping children shine to their full potential. Mrs. Wilk is thrilled to join the Zucker community, eagerly anticipating celebrating students' milestones.

“Morah Amy” as she is known to generations of her beloved students from Shulamith School for Girls of Brooklyn, brings 20+ years of experience in both general and special education (including positions of head of STEM and resource room at Shulamith). She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Stern College for Women and received her Master’s in Special Education from Touro College. The ZJA Family is excited to have Mrs. Basch, whose reputation as a warm, energetic, passionate, and professional educator join the faculty.

Devorah, holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Mount Saint Vincent and is nearing completion of her Master's in Education. With a lifelong passion for education and child development, Devorah's roots in Jewish education run deep. Growing up in Las Vegas, Nevada, she witnessed her father establish and lead a thriving Jewish Day School, instilling in her a profound commitment to education and community building. With extensive classroom experience, Devorah champions every student's success. She fosters a warm, inclusive learning environment, empowering students to thrive. Devorah brings creativity, talent, and enthusiasm to Zucker Jewish Academy, eager to inspire and nurture young minds.

Mikah Samuni is a resolute and enthusiastic educator with extensive experience across diverse educational settings and grade levels. Born and raised in Hewlett, with a strong Israeli heritage, Mikah is passionate about positively impacting her community and instilling Jewish values and a love of Israel in future generations. A 2024 summa cum laude graduate of Muhlenberg College, Mikah earned a BA in Psychology and Early Childhood/Elementary Education. Her mission is to create a nurturing environment where students feel valued, safe, and supported, enabling academic and personal growth.

Ahuva Benayon is a resolute educator with a strong academic background and a passion for teaching. She graduated from Tomer Devorah Seminary and holds a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University. Ahuva is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Special Education, demonstrating her commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs. For the past year, Ahuva has served as a Guided Reading Specialist at Yeshiva Darchei Torah, utilizing her expertise to enhance students' reading skills and foster a love for learning.

Rochel Moskowitz, a devoted second-grade Judaics teacher, radiates a genuine love for every child, creating a warm and inclusive classroom environment. Raised in a family of educators, Rochel's passion for teaching and sharing Torah began at a young age. Holding dual Master's degrees in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis, Rochel expertly tailors her instruction to meet the diverse needs of all students. With four years of teaching experience spanning elementary, middle, and high school ages, her enthusiasm continues to grow through interactions with students of all ages. Rochel's innovative methods and heartfelt dedication foster academic success, empowering students to reach their full potential inside and outside the classroom.

Miriam Kahan is delighted to join the Zucker community as an assistant teacher, bringing a profound passion for education and child development. Her academic journey began at SKA High School, where she cultivated a love for learning that has only intensified over time. Following high school, Miriam spent a transformative year in Israel at Darchei Binah, deepening her understanding of Torah and experiencing significant personal and spiritual growth. With her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, Miriam is eager to contribute to a vibrant and enriching educational environment at Zucker, fostering the social, emotional, and academic growth of her students.

Evon Khallouf has been working in School Executive Offices since 2017, as Executive Secretary, Purchase Manager, and Event Coordinator. She loves to give a helping hand whenever it is needed! She strives to ensure that things run smoothly and efficiently!