As ElevatEd approaches its second anniversary, we are proud to celebrate the 285 emerging educators who have completed our yearlong curriculum and, in many cases, their first years as early childhood teachers.

"I went from engineer to educator, which shaped my life,” reflects Yuellitte Lizarazo from Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center in Boston, MA—one of many educators whose professional lives have been transformed through ElevatEd. “I've found purpose in serving the Jewish community, learning from mentors, and passing on Jewish teachings.”

Yuellitte is remarkable, but not unique in her experience. These educators have not only grown professionally—they have gained the confidence, skills, and community they need to thrive in one of the most meaningful and demanding roles in Jewish education.

ElevatEd: A Bold Response to a National Challenge

ElevatEd is a pioneering initiative addressing the critical shortage of early childhood educators in Jewish settings. Launched through a visionary partnership among the Jim Joseph Foundation, Crown Family Philanthropies, and the Samuels Family Foundation, and implemented in collaboration with JCC Association of North America, Jewish Federations of North America, and the Union for Reform Judaism, ElevatEd is demonstrating that strategic, community-based solutions can yield tangible results.

Operating in 12 communities nationwide, ElevatEd is transforming the field by:

The Reality of Early Childhood Teaching—and the Power of Support

Early childhood education is deeply rewarding, but undeniably demanding. ElevatEd's emerging educators are full-time professionals working in JCCs, synagogues, and day schools with children from birth to age five. Their work is physical, highly relational, and emotionally complex—supporting the cognitive, social-emotional, and developmental needs of young children while managing their own well-being.

Our research has shown that most new educators entering the field have no formal background in education, and over 60% do not hold a college degree. Despite these challenges, they are eager to grow. ElevatEd meets them where they are and provides structured, meaningful support that leads to real progress.

"This program has helped me learn the skills and tools to be a more educated and well-rounded teacher. It's increased my confidence in curriculum planning, leading, and gaining my students' respect as an authority figure, rather than just a helper," shares Rebecca Lee from Solon Chabad Preschool in Cleveland, OH.

The power of the ElevatEd approach lies in its integrated design, bringing together diverse early childhood educators from across the country for a shared learning journey.

Together, this integrated model of learning and mentorship results in measurable growth, with gains in teacher confidence, classroom effectiveness, and sustained engagement in the field.

Educator Reflections: Stories of Transformation

At the close of the program year, ElevatEd participants were invited to write thank-you notes to the funders and partners who made this experience possible. While we collect and analyze quantitative data on the program's impact, these heartfelt notes offer a powerful glimpse into the deep professional and personal transformations our educators experienced.

"As a new Jewish educator, participating in this program has been incredibly valuable. It has provided me with practical ideas, inspiring resources, and the confidence to grow into a more thoughtful and effective teacher," shares Tami Orell-Petler from Gan Shelanu at Solomon Schechter in Boston, MA.

For Mandy Funk at The Weinstein School at Marcus JCC of Atlanta, GA, the program reinforced her calling: "Being a Jewish educator is more than a job; it's a calling. I am eager to grow further, and this program has truly made a difference in my journey."

The program's impact extends beyond professional development to career clarity and confidence. As Michal Ulanovsky from Gan Yalduti ETC in Seattle, WA, explains: "ElevatEd made me feel more confident and helped me realize this is exactly what I want to do with my career. The resources are endless."

Looking Ahead: Growing Opportunities Nationwide

Thanks to the demonstrated success of the program, ElevatEd is expanding. Schools in our pilot communities are actively hiring for the upcoming year, and many communities are seeking passionate new educators to join the ElevatEd program. Participants receive professional development, mentorship, stipends, and the support of a national network.

If you or someone you know is interested in entering or advancing in the field of early childhood Jewish education, explore open positions and learn more about joining the ElevatEd community at ElevatEd Careers.

Together, we are elevating the future of Jewish education—one educator at a time.