Faculty

Rena is the Interim Head of School and Principal at Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School. Now entering her 25th year at the school, she has served in multiple and varied teaching and leadership roles. In her years at Paul Penna DJDS, she has felt privileged to watch the school grow and thrive. Rena earned her undergraduate degree in psychology, Jewish studies and art history at the University of Toronto. She holds a Masters of Education and Principal Qualification from OISE at the University of Toronto. Rena is passionate about Jewish education, and continues to be inspired by the community and core values at Paul Penna DJDS. In her free time, Rena enjoys reading, walking and spending time with her family and friends.

rmarkus@djds.ca

Elana proudly serves as Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School’s Director of Institutional Advancement. Elana earned her undergraduate degree at McMaster University, a Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University and a Master Degree in Education and Leadership at the George Washington University. She is a lifelong learner, taking courses and attending professional conferences for development professionals regularly. Elana loves that her role in her school allows her to interact and form close relationships with our wonderful current families, extraordinary alumni, dedicated grandparents and a myriad of other school supporters and friends. She is awed by and grateful for the time, treasure and talent given to the school by our many generous volunteers and donors. When she’s not at the corner of Bloor and Spadina you can find Elana volunteering at her temple, walking with friends, listening to podcasts, buried in a book or just hanging out with her husband and two children.

epaicelidsky@djds.ca

Cheryl is the school’s Director, Operations & Finance and is responsible for managing the business and daily financial operations of the school as well as coordinating the office admin team and liaising with MNjcc facilities staff. Before assuming these responsibilities in 2019, Cheryl spent her first 9 years at Paul Penna DJDS in the front office developing strong relationships with our students and their families. Cheryl joined the school in 2010 and came to us with a background in corporate financial management. A graduate of Ryerson’s business school, she brings with her 25+ years of business experience in a variety of arenas and together with her deep commitment and affection for the school she views her job a true labour of love. During her years at Paul Penna DJDS Cheryl has rediscovered her love of learning and reaffirmed her roots in her Jewish identity, extending the latter to her home life and sharing it with her husband and 3 adult children. She is extremely proud and grateful to be a part of the Paul Penna DJDS community and looks forward to seeing the school continue to flourish and grow.

cfine@djds.ca

Jaime is thrilled to be back as the Vice Principal of the Lower School. Jaime is entering her fourteenth year at Paul Penna DJDS, where she has worked in SK, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 5 classrooms. She additionally served as the Middle School Core Curriculum Coordinator, supporting teachers in the development and delivery of joyful, rigorous teaching and learning. She has a Master of Teaching from OISE/UT, where her research focused on Math Anxiety in Girls. When she is not teaching, Jaime can be found reviewing soccer stats with her son, Nathan, or singing and dancing with her daughter, Nova. She loves reading fiction, taking long walks, and a good cup of coffee.

jsaltz@djds.ca

Jeremy is excited to start this year as Vice Principal of the Middle School. While this is his first year in his new leadership role, it marks his eleventh year at Paul Penna DJDS. He will also continue teaching Science and Social Studies and directing the school musical. When he’s not at school, Jeremy spends his time in a few different places. Closer to home, you’re most likely to see him in his garage-turned-woodshop or walking his dogs, Chip and Mashed Potato, with his wife, Julie. Over the summers, he loves spending time up north camping, canoeing, fishing, and taking photographs.

jpowell@djds.ca

Francine has been the school counsellor at Paul Penna DJDS since 2017. Since completing her studies at Ryerson University in 1995, Francine has spent the last 30 years working with children, youth, and families to maximize their various developmental and social-emotional abilities. She is a Registered Social Worker, Behaviour Consultant, and Certified Professional Coach. Francine has taken her experience and knowledge of evidence-based practices of child development to provide on-going training, consultation, coaching, counselling and resource development to families, educators and other professionals. Having worked in clinical and educational settings throughout Ontario and across eastern Canada, Francine has a strong understanding of the importance of collaboration among families and professionals, to ensure that children and youth are fully included into the fabric of the community.

francine@djds.ca

Robyn Beallor is a graduate of the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics and serves as the Senior Marketing, Communications and Social Media Coordinator at Paul Penna DJDS. She is also continuing her role as the PA Coordinator aiding with administration for the Parents’ Association. Robyn has a passion for aligning aesthetic design principles with business strategy. She has always adored working with children, and with a background in marketing, advertising, and user experience design she is delighted to bring her experience to a school environment. In her spare time, Robyn can be found skiing, baking and heading to the mountains to hike whenever she can.

rbeallor@djds.ca

Karen is returning for her 7th year at Paul Penna DJDS as the Office Manager. She has been working in the Jewish not-for-profit sector since 2013. Karen spent a year in Jerusalem studying at Hebrew University and later spent another year at Tel Aviv University completing her Master’s in Trauma, Crisis and Stress. She is passionate about working in the Jewish community, especially with students, and looks forward to the Jewish holiday celebrations each year. Outside of work, Karen enjoys spending time at her family cottage and attending film festivals.

schooloffice@djds.ca

Candace has joined the team as our Institutional Advancement and Admin Support. Candace holds a Master’s in Primary/Junior Education from Griffith University in New South Wales, Australia. She is dedicated to supporting every member of the PPDJDS community—staff, parents, and students alike. In addition to her role at the school, Candace runs a successful group fitness business. She skillfully blends her teaching expertise with her business acumen to support the administration at Paul Penna DJDS. Outside of work, you’ll find her leading fitness classes with her signature warmth and enthusiasm, and spending quality time with her husband and two children.

ccramer@djds.ca

Shawna is thrilled to be entering her fourth year at Paul Penna DJDS as Manager of Admissions and Community Engagement. She works with incoming families to guide them through the enrollment process, ensuring a smooth, warm and welcoming experience. She also plays a key role in fostering relationships with prospective families, and building community amongst the school's alumni, faculty, students and their families. She is dedicated to ensuring a positive and supportive experience for every member of the school community. Shawna is also the proud parent to two daughters in JK and Grade 3 at Paul Penna DJDS.

smaron@djds.ca

Lucky has been a member of the Paul Penna DJDS family since 2002 - as a parent, parent volunteer, volunteer Art teacher assistant, part-time Administrative support, and now full time Front Office Administrator in Middle School. She is so proud of the growth this ‘little’ school has made, and of the amazing teachers and administrative staff she gets to work with every day. She is so happy to be spending the days with Middle School students - most of whom she has known and worked with since they were in Senior Kindergarten! When she is not at work, she enjoys making music, playing in her garden, and doing all manner of word puzzles.

lhale@djds.ca

Drawn to administrative roles by calendars, planning, spreadsheets, and being of service to others, Erika has accrued 12 years of experience across a variety of fields before arriving at Paul Penna at the very end of the 2025-2026 school year. Learning is Erika’s absolute favourite thing, and in formal settings she has earned her BA with an Area of Concentration in International Development from the University of Guelph, as well as a diploma in Recreation and Leisure Services and post-graduate certificate in Therapeutic Recreation, making her a Recreation Therapist. Seeing children learn and helping to make it happen, especially in a Jewish setting, is truly a dream for her! Reading, powerlifting, writing, working on various arts and crafts projects, and spending time with her dog, Gia, are just some of the things Erika enjoys when she isn't enjoying office life.

esaari@djds.ca

Assaf Mordachay has been working in the Jewish community for the past 14 years and is excited to begin his second year at Paul Penna DJDS as IT Manager. He has always had a passion for technology and enjoys finding creative ways to use it to support teaching, learning, and everyday school life. Assaf enjoys helping staff and students with their technology needs and finding solutions that make technology easier and more useful for everyone. He is always interested in learning about new technology and finding ways it can make a positive difference. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

amordachay@djds.ca

Kaitlyn is excited to be returning for her second year as a Middle School teacher. After a wonderful first year at the school, she is looking forward to another year of learning, growth, and connection with students, families, and colleagues. Kaitlyn graduated from Brock University’s Concurrent Education program, where she focused on mathematics education. She is passionate about helping students build confidence in their learning and discover that math can be both meaningful and enjoyable. Outside of the classroom, Kaitlyn enjoys travelling, reading, swimming, and spending time with her playful puppy. She is grateful to be part of such a welcoming school community and is excited for the year ahead.

kbalter@djds.ca

Michelle brings over two decades of experience as an elementary educator in Jewish Day Schools to her role. She is thrilled to continue her work as the Primary Jewish Life Coordinator and is excited to expand her impact as a Grade 2 Core Teacher and Shinshin Site Supervisor. Michelle graduated with honors from York University’s teaching program, earning an advanced certificate in Hebrew and Judaic Studies, and holds a "Specialist" degree from OISE, ensuring she spots and supports the unique needs of every student. When she’s not inspiring minds in the classroom, Michelle is usually outdoors, either proudly cheering on her sons Coby and Josh at the hockey rink, cycling with friends, or chasing summer adventures by the water.

mbernstein@djds.ca

Hayley has over 10 years of teaching experience, bringing inquiry and student voice into her teaching. She is excited to take on the role of Middle School Teacher and Student Life Coordinator. Hayley graduated from Western University's Faculty of Education with a Primary/Junior focus and holds a Mathematics Specialist qualification. She strives to create a classroom that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and independence, while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Outside the classroom, Hayley enjoys reading, walking her dog Sammy, travelling, and spending time chatting with family and friends.

hbongard@djds.ca

Hannah is very excited to be returning for her sixth year at Paul Penna DJDS. After having been the Grade 2 Associate Teacher and both the Primary and Middle School French Teacher, Hannah will be teaching Grade 5 Core again this year! She has a Master of Teaching from OISE in the Primary/Junior division, and has previously completed a graduate diploma in Child and Youth Work. In her free time, Hannah enjoys doing pilates, travelling, and reading mystery novels. Hannah is looking forward to another wonderful year at Paul Penna DJDS!

hbrown@djds.ca

Michelle has been teaching Visual Arts for over 20 years, and has been part of the Paul Penna DJDS faculty since 2000. She graduated from York University in 1998 from the Concurrent Education Program and Jewish Teacher Training Program, and also completed her Visual Arts AQ course. Michelle has always tried to provide a safe, flexible and fun learning environment where she encourages students to focus on the creative process in Visual and Integrated Arts. When Michelle isn't teaching, she is creating wedding ketubot for couples, trying new recipes, reading or pulling herself away from a puzzle.

mcohen@djds.ca

Mark is the Music Teacher at Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School. Mark has extensive experience with students in the city across a wide variety of musical programs. In addition to being a singer/songwriter/performer, Mark teaches 1-on-1 music lessons privately, runs infant/toddler music classes, conducts school choirs, is a music producer, leads family services at synagogue, and was the musical director on the March Of The Living from 2009-2012. He is proud to have envisioned and sourced equipment for the Music Studio at Paul Penna DJDS, created in 2019. Mark is also the musical director for the annual Middle School Play, and has deeply enjoyed teaching the music of Schmaltz (A Very Grease-y Musical), Fiddler On The Roof, Newsies, and High School Musical, where he wrote and recorded the cast recording. More recently, Mark has assumed the role of co-musical director of annual Zimriyah music festival, a gathering of choirs across Toronto Jewish Day Schools that takes place every February and includes our students. His passion for music is matched only by his passion for music education, and the combination of those factors bring a unique and creative learning atmosphere to his classes.

mfeldman@djds.ca

Moshik was born and raised in Rishon Lezion, Israel. He lived in Jerusalem for more than 14 years, studying and working at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Moshik holds an MA in Public Administration, specializing in Environmental Management, from Hebrew University, and a diploma in teaching Hebrew as a second language. He also served as a combat medic and a commander in the Israeli Marine Corps. After moving to Canada, Moshik spent a decade working as National Director of Academic and Student Affairs for the Canadian Friends of Hebrew University. Moshik brings to the role of Grade 4 Hebrew Teacher more than 25 years of experience in formal and informal Jewish education, as well as active involvement in the Jewish community in Israel and Canada. He loves spending the summer at camps teaching outdoor education and extreme sports, cruising on his bike, camping, and canoeing. Moshik lives in downtown Toronto with his wife, Heather; two teenage kids, Tayva and Eytan (Paul Penna DJDS alumni); a very large dog, Stevie and a little black cat named Franky.

mgalanty@djds.ca

Hilary is thrilled to be back for her 11th year at Paul Penna DJDS as the JK teacher. After earning her Bachelor of Education and Master of Education, Hilary has taught JK, SK, Grade 1, Grade 2 and Technology during her 14 year teaching career. Creating a calm, engaging and accepting classroom environment is one of her biggest strengths and she is excited to meet the incoming JK students. Hilary places an emphasis on her students to display open communication, respect and mensch-like behaviours toward one another. With a passion for organizing, Hilary loves to teach her students how to better take care of their belongings and to create a space that is predictable, functional and neat. When she is not teaching, Hilary is a mom to her two daughters, Mikki and Kyle. She loves spending time with friends and family, and running her children's clothing brand Mikki Rae Little Ones.

hgeller@djds.ca

Neal is excited to be joining the Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School community as an Associate Teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Resource Practice: Child and Family from Humber College, and recently completed her Bachelor of Education at the University of Ottawa. Through her educational and professional experiences, Neal has worked with children in a variety of settings, including kindergarten classrooms, camps, and inclusive community programs. Most recently, she completed a Junior Kindergarten co-teaching role, where she helped create a positive, engaging, and supportive learning environment for young learners. Neal is passionate about fostering inclusive classrooms where all students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She looks forward to partnering with families and supporting students as they learn, grow, and thrive throughout the school year.

ngoldszmidt@djds.ca

David is so excited to be staying in the Middle School for his third year at Paul Penna DJDS. David graduated from Queen’s University with a BAH degree in English Language and Literature and completed his Master of Teaching degree in the Primary/Junior division at OISE. David has always had an aptitude for teaching and has been part of the MNjcc Aquatics team since 2012 where he continues to teach advanced lifesaving courses. He has a deep passion for visual art, fitness and loves to try new food. David is thrilled to continue being a part of the Paul Penna DJDS community teaching Middle School Core, Elementary Gym and coaching the Paul Penna Panthers!

dhagon@djds.ca

Naomi has been teaching for over 20 years across three countries: England, Israel and now Toronto. She teaches Israel Education and Tanakh (Bible) to Middle School, and is delighted to share her passion for both with her students, creating connections and context for the land of Israel and ancient Jewish texts. She also provides support to students in Hebrew, utilising her own experience of learning Hebrew as an additional language. She received her BA in English Literature and qualified as a teacher in the UK and then moved her life and home to Jerusalem where she lived for ten years. She came to Toronto to join her husband after meeting him at a Shabbat meal in Jerusalem. Naomi is passionate about word games and loves to challenge her classes in Wordle tournaments. When not teaching, she is playing with her own children, cleaning up after them or cooking up a storm.

nhass@djds.ca

Avee has been teaching Jewish Day School students in Toronto for over 20 years. He has taught a myriad of subjects and grades over the years, recently shifting his focus to Health and Physical Education and Judaic Studies. Avee is proud to have spent time overseas volunteering in underprivileged schools, and has a strong passion for Tikkun Olam and social justice, a core value of Paul Penna DJDS. He is a wonderful teacher of Hebrew and Torah and many of our oldest students have learned to chant Trope with Moreh Avee. He also facilitates school Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations in the chapel. Avee is looking forward to serving as Athletics Coordinator along with teaching in the Middle School. When he’s not running through the halls of school, Avee is Abba to two great Paul Penna DJDS students and one Paul Penna DJDS graduate, and enjoys coaching their sports teams.

ahelfand@djds.ca

Saya is very excited to be returning for her second year at Paul Penna DJDS. After having been the JK Associate Teacher and Hebrew teacher, Saya will be teaching Hebrew to both JK and SK. Saya has 2 decades of experience in the field of education and Jewish studies, including 5 years in Jewish schools and preschools in the San Francisco Bay Area. Before arriving in Canada, Saya was Head Teacher of a public kindergarten in Pardes Hanna, Israel. She is enthusiastic about working with kids, drawing on diverse educational approaches that she has studied over the years, including Montessori, Reggio Emilia, play and nature-based education. Saya has a B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, an early childhood Teaching Certificate from Oranim college, and a Professional Diploma in Music Therapy from Levinsky College (Israel). She has also trained in teaching Mindfulness to children. In her free time she enjoys practicing yoga and meditation, playing the piano, and singing with friends.

skedar@djds.ca

Kylie is excited to begin her second year at Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School and her new role as the Grade 4 Core Teacher. After spending her first year as an Associate Teacher, she is thrilled to take on this new opportunity and continue growing as an educator while building strong relationships with her students and families. A graduate of the Master of Teaching program at OISE, Kylie has sought out her AQ in intermediate math (Grade 4-10) providing her with a deeper understanding of math content and instructional delivery. Kylie is passionate about creating engaging, inclusive classroom communities where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to learn. She loves incorporating creativity into all areas of the curriculum and designing hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and foster a love of learning. Kylie is grateful to be part of the Paul Penna DJDS community and values the opportunity to teach in a Jewish day school, where she can thoughtfully integrate Jewish culture, traditions, and values into daily classroom life.

kkrupski@djds.ca

Esther is excited to be starting her 12th year at Paul Penna DJDS working as the Grade 1 and 2 Hebrew teacher! Esther completed her teaching degree at the University of Ottawa. She has completed the Ivriyon Hebrew Immersion Program for Jewish Day School Educators, as well as the Interfaces Program for Israel Education. Esther also holds additional qualifications in both Reading and Special Education. Esther has a passion for Jewish education, and loves seeing her students connect with Judaism and Ivrit in a joyful way. Before joining the Paul Penna DJDS community, Esther spent time teaching in Israel, working in informal Jewish education settings/camp, and in other schools in Toronto. Outside of school, Esther enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends .

elax@djds.ca

Yonatan is excited to be a part of the Paul Penna DJDS team as a Hebrew teacher in Middle School for the third year. Yonatan recently moved to Toronto with his partner, from the Galilee area of Israel. He comes to Toronto after gaining 7 years experience as an educator and a Hebrew teacher for special needs students in the Israeli educational system. Yonatan has educated Middle School students on the autistic spectrum, and also emotionally challenged young adults in High School. Yonatan believes that each student is characterised by unique strengths, interests and ambitions which are waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Yonatan truly loves his educational path at Paul Penna DJDS and he feels grateful for the opportunity. Besides teaching, Yonatan also loves listening to music (particularly musicals), singing, swimming and cooking Mediterranean vegan dinners.

ylevy@djds.ca

Karen has worked as a Registered Early Childhood Educator since 1996 in a variety of nursery school and elementary school settings. She returns to Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School for her Eighth year and is excited to be part of the JK team this coming school year after previously working as the Grade Two Associate Teacher. Karen received her Early Childhood Education Diploma from Seneca College in 1994 and completed a one-year Certificate in Advanced Studies in Special Needs at Humber College in 1995. Most recently, she completed training in the Sounds-Write literacy program, a science of reading-based approach that supports systematic literacy instruction. Karen also brings a strong sense of Jewish identity into her work and values the importance of teaching kindness, community, and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) within the classroom environment. During the summer months, Karen enjoys spending time with her family in Belle Ewart at their cottage. She loves reading, swimming, taking long walks to the beach, and playing with her dog, Blaze.

klipman@djds.ca

Eva is thrilled to join Paul Penna DJDS as the new French teacher and Theatre specialist. This marks her third year teaching Core French within the Jewish school system, building on her previous experience teaching French, English, and History in Ottawa's public French schools. A passionate arts educator, Eva has taught theatre through institutions such as the National Arts Centre and The Travelling Stage. Outside of the classroom, Eva loves to act and is a proud member of ACTRA (Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists).

emaccharles@djds.ca

With over 20 years of experience in the Jewish education system, Danna is thrilled to take on the role of Hebrew Lead Teacher for grades 3-8, and return to teach Grade 5 Hebrew. Danna completed a Bachelor of Art (Hon.) in Business Studies in York University and her Bachelor of Education at OISE at The University of Toronto. Danna believes in inspiring lifelong learning and herself enjoyed learning with the iCenter and מטח the CET - Center for Educational Technology, and the UJA Principal Qualification program for Jewish Day School teachers. This year she is excited to infuse all the learning she has completed in her recent course of Innovations in Israel Education. Originally from Israel, she has a passion for the Hebrew language and bringing Israeli culture to all learners. She is very excited to have her eldest child, Ethan enter Grade 7 and her youngest, Jordan enter Grade 4 at Paul Penna DJDS.

dmatthews@djds.ca

Nina is excited to enter her 19th year teaching Kindergarten in the Jewish Day School System. She is looking forward to continuing to share her love of learning with everyone at Paul Penna DJDS. Nina has a Bachelor of Education from McGill University and received her Additional Qualifications Specialist in Reading from OISE. Nina loves celebrating each of the Jewish holidays and enhancing student learning through these special times. When she is not in the classroom, Nina enjoys spending time with her husband, daughters, and their beloved dog, Carter. Whether at school or in the community, she values building relationships and creating a warm, supportive environment where children can thrive.

nrothman@djds.ca

Andrea is thrilled to continue on the Paul Penna DJDS team as the physical education teacher for JK through Grade 2. Andrea attended Brandeis University where she completed a fellowship program for Jewish dayschool educators and a Master of Teaching. After much time in the USA and Israel, Andrea returned to Canada and settled in Toronto. She has many years of experience teaching both in the classroom and now in the gym. Throughout her life, Andrea has always been engaged with athletics and continues to play competitive hockey and softball even today. Her love for sports has made this transition to PE teaching seamless and enjoyable. When Andrea is not teaching you might spot her around the community with her children and dog, please say “hi” when you do.

aschaffer@djds.ca

David is very excited to be part of the Paul Penna team. David has just completed his second year of teaching at Paul Penna DJDS. Prior to this, he taught in Israel for over 15 years, starting in pre-school and later as a core teacher for grades 1 through 6 in Tel Aviv-Jaffa schools. David completed his Bachelor’s degree at Seminar Hakibutzim as a certified elementary school teacher focusing on Creative Arts, and later graduated with his Master’s degree in Education Management and Leadership from Bar Ilan University. He also spent 5 years teaching Hebrew as a first and second language at "Kulna Yachad," a bilingual and multicultural school in Jaffa. David is deeply passionate about teaching both biblical and contemporary Hebrew, bringing a great love for music and storytelling into his classroom. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, playing the bass, recording music, and spending quality time with his family—his wife, their three children, and their lovely cat.

dschon@djds.ca

Ruth is an Associate Teacher with 30 years of experience. She brings creativity, warmth and a genuine love for early childhood education to her role. Ruth earned her B.A. from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and received her teaching certification from the Roni Goldstein Teachers Seminary in the Old City in Jerusalem where she resided for 30 years. With a strong foundation in Hebrew language and Jewish Studies she integrates cultural richness and language skills into her teaching. As well, Ruth taught Hebrew reading and Jewish Studies at the Downtown Jewish Community School for 23 years. In addition to her educational training and experience, she studied fine art at both the Ontario College of Art (OCAD) and Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to help create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that nurtures intellect and imagination where young learners can grow and thrive.

rschonblum@djds.ca

Lori is delighted to serve on the roles of Resource Specialist and Admissions Team member. A dynamic leader in Jewish education for nearly 30 years, Lori has served in a variety of impactful roles, including Director of Education at a local synagogue, and elementary school teacher. She holds a Master of Education from OISE, an Honours Degree in Religious Studies, and certifications from both the Ontario College of Teachers and the Board of Jewish Education. She has completed additional qualifications in Special Education, Mathematics, and Physical Education. In recent years, Lori has combined her passion for Jewish learning with her love of baking, leading Jewish-inspired baking workshops for private functions and organizations across the GTA. Through these engaging experiences, she strives to strengthen connections and foster meaningful intergenerational family relationships. When she’s not at school, Lori can be found running Insomniac Bakery and playing pickleball with her extended family. She also loves gathering around the table for card and board games with her husband and three children.

lori@djds.ca

Samantha is thrilled to be spending her 8th year at PPDJDS as the incoming Elementary Resource teacher. Samantha graduated from the Concurrent Education program at Queen’s University in 2016 with a major in English Language and Literature and a focus on Primary/Junior divisions in teacher’s college. Since then, Samantha has been dedicated to her professional development in a multitude of ways, specifically as a special education specialist. During her 10 years of teaching, she has taught grade 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. In her spare time, you can find Samantha walking in Toronto’s East End with her husband, John, and poodle, Scotch, reading historical fiction books & memoirs, and playing with her nieces and nephew.

sshubat@djds.ca

Spencer is thrilled to return for her third year at Paul Penna DJDS as the incoming Grade 1 Core teacher! Spencer graduated from Queen’s University in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Health Studies and a Bachelor of Education from the Queen’s Concurrent Education program in the Primary/Junior division. With a concentration in Teaching Exceptional Learners, Spencer is dedicated to meeting the needs of all students to help them grow to reach their full potential. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys playing a variety of sports, such as hockey, tennis and wakesurfing, and spending time with family and friends.

ssugar@djds.ca

Jaiden Terner is so excited to return to Paul Penna as the Grade 1 Associate Teacher after joining the community as a Middle School Student Teacher and Supply Teacher. Jaiden received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Barnard College of Columbia University in 2024 and her Master of Teaching Degree from OISE in 2026. Jaiden is passionate about special education and supporting all students. Outside of school, Jaiden loves to read, go for long walks on the Beltline, and spend time with friends and family.

jterner@djds.ca

Inbal is excited to be part of the Paul Penna DJDS team. Inbal holds both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from The Academic College at Wingate and brings over 15 years of teaching experience in elementary and middle schools in Israel. In addition to teaching, she also worked as a student teacher mentor at Wingate College. Inbal is passionate about creating a warm and meaningful learning environment and believes in building strong connections with students through experiential learning. She values curiosity and creativity, in helping each student to feel confident and supported in the classroom. Inbal moved to Canada in 2021 with her wife and their three children — Danielle, 13, and twins Yuval and Tomer, 11. A few years ago, their family happily grew again when they adopted a dog.

ilevin@djds.ca

Yotam grew up in Australia where he lived and worked until 2018. Yotam's teaching career includes experience in public schools and Jewish community schools, including teaching both elementary and high school students. In Sydney, he spent five years as Head of Education at the Sydney Jewish Museum, leading elementary, high school and professional education. After moving to Canada, he worked as an innovation consultant in human-centred design and creative problem-solving, served as Vice Principal of Grades 6 to 8 at Bialik Hebrew Day School and taught math, science and general studies at Leo Baeck Day School. Outside the classroom, Yotam loves kite surfing and coding.

yweiner@djds.ca

Adeena is thrilled to be entering her 8th year teaching at Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School, and second year in Grade 3. A graduate of Queen's University, Adeena earned an Honours degree in English Literature along with a Bachelor of Education, specializing in Arts in Education. Whether students are building, crafting, exploring literature, or taking their learning outdoors, she is always looking for meaningful ways to connect classroom experiences to the vibrant downtown community around them. A lifelong learner herself, Adeena is passionate about seeking out new educational opportunities and bringing fresh ideas back to her students. She has been fortunate to teach abroad in Ethiopia, China, and Israel, experiences that have deepened her appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. When she's not in the classroom, you can find Adeena hunting down Toronto's best restaurants, tackling a crossword puzzle, or spending time with her two beloved dogs, CJ and Toby. She is excited to partner with families and help make Grade 3 a year filled with growth, discovery, and plenty of fun!

azeldin@djds.ca