While nine outstanding educators and one exceptional student were formally honored, the evening was designed to celebrate all educators across Baltimore’s Jewish day schools, preschools, and congregational schools. Close to 200 community members, including many students of awardees, gathered to express their gratitude and support for the incredible work taking place in our educational institutions. 

“Our teachers serve on the very front lines of building and guiding our children, the next generation of our community,” said Ari Krupp, JES Board President. “Each day, in classrooms across our Day Schools, Congregational Schools, and Early Childhood programs, they do far more than teach academic subjects. They instill values, nurture identity, and shape character.”

Guests were welcomed by JES staff as they arrived at the newly renovated Terrill Hall in the Associated headquarters and educators were gifted a fun JES-branded beach towel to kick off the soon-to-arrive summer season. The evening opened with a beautiful dessert reception by Chana Lavi, alongside astounding entertainment from Adam Stone, a strolling mentalist who delighted attendees with his mind‑reading abilities.

The heart of the evening was the recognition of the 10 awardees. Awards were presented by supervisors, colleagues, and even two students, who shared powerful stories that brought to life the impact of these educators and underscored why they were so deeply deserving of recognition.  And they include:

• Havatzelet Louis‑Chen of Darchei Noam Montessori received the Early Childhood Teaching Excellence Award. Known as a loving morah, Havatzelet ensures that every child feels comfortable, supported, and empowered to learn at their own capacity.
• Mrs. Tzipporah Freedman, assistant principal at Bais Yaakov Middle School, was honored with the Innovative Educator Award. She is widely respected for her ability to innovate within an existing curriculum, expertly connecting material to students’ lives in ways that make learning relevant and engaging.
• Nina Cusner of Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School received the Student Support Award for her unwavering commitment to helping students reach their fullest potential and gain confidence as they master new skills.
• Heather Pierce of Krieger Schechter Day School was named the Inspiring Educator Award recipient. Her belief in her students fosters the confidence they need to grow, take risks, and succeed.
• Alyse Roth of Ohr Chadash Academy earned the Excellence in General Studies Award. Her classroom prepares students not only for the next academic year, but for long‑term success beyond it.
• Rabbi Yossi Keilson of Talmudical Academy received the Excellence in Judaic Studies Award. The fact that his students internalize and articulate what they learn is a true testament to his impactful teaching.
• Rachel Dressin was honored with the Ahavat Tzion Award for her signature Israel Project at the Berman‑Lipavsky Religious School at Beth El, which deepens students’ knowledge of and connection to Israel.
• Jodi Rosen of Beth Israel Community Learning Lab received the Congregational School Educator Award. Her passion for Judaism shines through her teaching and resonates with students and colleagues alike.
• Rabbi Stuart Seltzer, Director of the Rosenbloom Religious School at Chizuk Amuno Congregation, was recognized with the Educational Leadership Award. He leads with integrity, models kindness, and shares his love of Torah with warmth and authenticity.

Educators were not the only ones celebrated. Esther Danziger, a high school student at Bais Yaakov, received the Robin F. Jacobs Student Achievement Award. Chosen for her self‑motivation and commitment to using her strengths to help others, Esther’s story was shared through a moving video that deeply resonated with attendees.

“Last night was a beautiful, uplifting experience,” said Jodi Rosen, one of the awardees. “It was nice to be "seen" and valued as an educator in a room filled with people who value Jewish education.”

As guests departed, the energy of the evening lingered, one of joy, appreciation, and inspiration. The JES Educator Awards Celebration was more than a recognition of excellence; it was a powerful reminder of the vital role educators play in shaping the next generation and of the strong, supportive community that stands behind them, with JES at the forefront with resources for educators and families designed to strengthen learning and well-being.