Dr. Adina Silberman joined Gan and Bnos Aliya Montessori as executive director, bringing over a decade of experience in education, leadership and community engagement. Dr. Silberman holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Stern College for Women and a doctor of dental medicine from the University of Pennsylvania, where she also earned a master’s in higher education.
Professionally, Dr, Silberman has balanced her career in general dentistry with a passion for education, most recently on the faculty of Touro College School of Dental Medicine. She has also made significant contributions to the kosher culinary world, with over 250 original recipes published in Fleishigs Magazine. Her connection to Gan (18 months to 6 years) and Bnos Aliya (first through eighth grade girls) began when her daughters enrolled, and she quickly became an active member of the school community. She is passionate about Montessori education and Rabbi Jonathan Rietti’s Al Pi Darko approach, philosophies that align perfectly with the school’s mission. In her new role, Dr. Silberman will oversee operations and educational programs, working closely with faculty to uphold both schools’ high standards. She looks forward to fostering a rigorous, Torah-centered environment and contributing to the thriving Gan and Bnos Aliya community.
Mrs. Tzipporah Fruchthandler has been a middle school Judaic studies teacher for over 20 years and holds a teaching degree from the Israeli Ministry of Education. Her passion for teaching and deep expertise in Judaic studies create a dynamic, interactive classroom that fosters a love for Torah and mitzvot. Mrs. Fruchthandler emphasizes self-discovery and individualized learning, encouraging students to explore their unique strengths and take ownership of their knowledge. Her hands-on, engaging teaching style inspires lifelong learning and helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Mrs. Fruchthandler will teach limudei kodesh subjects, including Navi, parsha, lashon haTorah and dikduk, to upper elementary and middle school students (grades four through eight) at Bnos Aliya.
Mrs. Niva Marmer grew up in Ofakim, Israel, and holds a bachelor’s degree in basic medical sciences from Ben Gurion University. She began her career as a counselor at a religious high school in Ofakim, supporting at-risk teenage girls from troubled families. After moving to New York City and later settling in Riverdale, Mrs. Marmer taught Hebrew at SAR Academy and Westchester Torah Academy and privately tutored children and adults. She is a dedicated educator who believes every child can succeed with the right support.
In addition to her teaching, Mrs. Marmer is a certified yoga instructor specializing in prenatal yoga and yoga for kids. She is also passionate about nutrition, holds a certificate in nutrition, and writes a health and nutrition column. Mrs. Marmer is excited to join the Bnos Aliya community. She will teach spoken Ivrit, Zumba and yoga at Bnos Aliya.
