The Jewish Educational Center was at center stage this month as the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest-sponsored Quest for Teaching Excellence Program convened at the school for a collaborative meeting.

Representing each of the four day schools in the federation’s catchment area were the deans who lead the faculty and professional development efforts in the respective organizations.

Leading the JEC’s program was Minna Heilpern, director of professional development, and she greeted her guests with a welcome breakfast and tables set to maximize collaboration and dialogue.

The group meets monthly in an effort to collaboratively plan and provide inspiring professional development opportunities for educators in Greater MetroWest’s four day schools. To date, faculty at the JEC have taken advantage of an ever-increasing menu of opportunities that has translated into improved and increased productivity, creativity and innovation both in and out of the classroom.

Also participating in the meeting were Rebecca Hindin, manager, Greater MetroWest Day School Initiative, Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest; Dr. Shira Hammerman, deans coordinator, Quest for Teaching Excellence Program, Jewish Federation of Greater Metrowest; Minna H. Heilpern, director of professional development, JEC; Nurit Lev, Judaic studies teacher, professional development coordinator, Gottesman RTW Academy; Tammy Anagnostis, dean of faculty, Golda Och AcademyLS; Rosemary Steinbaum, dean of instruction, JKHA.RKYHS; Flora Musleah, Judaic studies chair, dean of professional development, Golda Och Academy; Nancy Delman, general studies teacher, professional development coordinator, Gottesman RTW Academy.