(Courtesy of TCA) Tenafly Chabad Academy is thrilled to welcome three new educators to its community.

Lisa Breen

Lisa Breen has a rich background and an impressive journey in the field of education and brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role.

Hailing from Richmond, Virginia Breen earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Stern College. Her pursuit of academic excellence led her to Hunter College where she obtained a master’s degree in special education.

In her role as reading and writing specialist and curriculum director for grades one-four, Breen’s impact will be far-reaching. With over three decades of experience in public school, she has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment and a genuine passion for guiding students toward success. Breen’s dedication to nurturing young minds aligns seamlessly with the school’s values and mission.

Breen’s expertise shines particularly in her approach to teaching reading. Through the integration of the Preventing Academic Failure (PAF) phonics program and Guided Reading Levels, she empowers students from kindergarten to eighth grade to unlock their true potential as confident learners. Her adeptness at cultivating essential literacy skills is a testament to her effectiveness as an educator.

Breen is married and a proud mother of three married children, Savti to her adoring grandchildren. Her dedication to education is only rivaled by her love for spending quality time with her family, particularly her grandchildren, and immersing herself in the joy of their company.

Michal Kahan

Michal Kahan will be taking on the role of fifth grade general studies teacher this academic year. With an illustrious teaching career spanning over 25 years, Kahan’s expertise and commitment to education promise to enrich the learning experience for all students.

Equipped with a master of science degree from the esteemed Bank Street School of Education, Kahan brings a deep understanding of teaching and particularly with a focus on special education. Her academic background reflects her unwavering dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where every student can thrive.

Kahan’s enthusiasm for nurturing young minds extends beyond the traditional classroom subjects. Her genuine passion for children’s literature serves as a catalyst for sparking curiosity and imagination among her students. Moreover, her emphasis on social and emotional learning woven into all aspects of the curriculum ensures that students develop not only academically but also as well-rounded individuals prepared for the complexities of the modern world.

In her approach to teaching, Kahan embraces the concept of educating the “whole” child. This holistic perspective underscores her commitment to addressing not only academic needs but also the emotional, social and psychological well-being of her students. By fostering a safe and supportive learning environment, Kahan empowers her students to become confident, empathetic and resilient individuals.

Khan and her husband David are parents to four children and have strong ties to Congregation Shaare Tefillah in Teaneck.

Sari Joskovitch

Sari Joskovitch is Tenafly Chabad’s exceptional new Ivrit teacher. Joskovitch’s unique background and rich experiences bring a vibrant and dynamic dimension to the school’s Hebrew language program.

Born and raised in Israel, Joskovitch’s roots are deeply intertwined with the land and culture she proudly represents. She earned her bachelor of arts degree from Ariel University. Two years ago, she embarked on a new chapter, relocating to the United States with her family.

Joskovitch’s dedication to Hebrew education shines through her involvement with the TalentEducators project, supported and in partnership with the State of Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and the Jewish Agency for Israel. She has taught in Ann Arbor’s Hebrew Day School in Maryland, where she ignited a passion for Hebrew language and culture in her students.

Before embarking on a career in education, Joskovitch was a professional swimmer, representing the Israeli national team. Now as a devoted wife and nurturing mother of three, she embodies the values of family, commitment and perseverance. Her decision to embark on this journey with Tenafly Chabad Academy reflects her passion for fostering a deep connection to Hebrew language and heritage within the next generation.