Educators of Other Faiths
Educators of Other Faiths in Jewish Early Chilhdood
December 11, 2025
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By
Orna Siegel
Jewish early childhood education is more than a venue for transmitting tradition; it is one of the most powerful gateways families have into Jewish life, shaping long-term patterns of engagement and belonging. In these settings, educators influence how children and parents encounter Jewish values, ritual, and community in real time, often serving as their most consistent touchpoint with Jewish institutions. As centers increasingly rely on non-Jewish teachers, what this project calls educators of other faiths (EOFs), understanding what nurtures these educators’ professional identity and motivation has become a strategic priority for early childhood directors, institution executives, and communal leaders seeking to sustain vibrant Jewish early childhood programs.
