Shalom, Hi! My name is Jeni Byers and will be the K/1 Religious School teacher this year. I am also a member of the Reform Temple of Forest Hills and have two daughters currently in college at University at Buffalo and Binghamton University. During the week I teach Nursery School at Central Synagogue in Manhattan and K/1 Religious school as well. During my free time, I like to spin, go on walks with my friends, read and snuggle on the couch with my dog Bruno. I believe in project-based learning, and I am looking forward to many crafts and fun activities while getting to know your child as we delve into Judaism.
My name is Rachel Shereff and I am going to be your 2nd and 3rd grade teacher this year. A little about myself. I am a graduate of the RTFH religious school. I graduated from SUNY Albany with a major in Math and a double minor in Judaic Studies and Spanish. I have worked at a day camp in Long Island for 7 years.
Hi, my name is Gabriella Tuchman, and I will be your fourth-grade Hebrew teacher this year! I am so excited to join the RTFH community. Last year, I taught English in Israel, and am thrilled to now be teaching Hebrew in New York. In my free time, I love to hike, read mystery books, and hang out with friends. I’m looking forward to a great year!
GTuchman@rtfh.org
Irma Wilk
“I touch the future, I teach.” It’s the way I hope I can help to secure a Jewish future. I also enjoy reading, Broadway theatre, cooking, and being a Grandma!
IWilk@rtfh.org
Cantor Emily Pincus
Cantor Emily Pincus
One of my favorite things about teaching our children is watching their minds at work. I am continually re-learning what is most important to them, and their take-aways are frequently quite unexpected!
Cantorpincus@rtfh.org
Dan Karaban
Mr. Dan has been working at the Reform Temple of Forest hills since 2019. originally Mr. Dan attended the religious school as a child, and is enthusiastic to be back sharing knowledge with the 5th and 7th graders about Judaic Studies and Jewish History
I am very excited to be joining the RTFH community this year. As a special education teacher, I have worked in a variety of settings including religious schools, public schools, and community colleges. I love getting to know my students, and incorporating their interests into our learning. I enjoy music, nature, and laughing. I cannot wait to explore with my students what it means to be Jewish and impart a love for Israel.
Michelle Blaifeder is a lifelong member of the Reform Temple of Forest Hills. She went to RTFH for kindergarten – 6th grade and partook in ToFHY from 7th – 12th grade. Michelle is attending New York Law School to get a JD and work in public interest law in New York City. In her free time Michelle loves to spend time with friends and family, go on adventures, play sports (basketball, softball, football, and tennis), watch tv, and read books.
Hello everyone! My name is Josh Pagan and I will be the ToFHY Assistant Advisor this year! I have been coming to the Reform Temple for 14 years and I am excited to continue to work with the community. I am currently studying Chemistry at the City College of New York. In my free time I like to play video games, read, and go hiking and camping. I am looking forward to a fun and exciting year with ToFHY!
