Growing up, I attended a high school where less than 3% of the student population was Jewish, and I was proud of who I was, how I was raised and what I believed. Pennypack Park Jewish Community Center in Northeast Philadelphia was my second home – my synagogue, and an extension of my family. Synagogue, the B’nai Brith Youth Organization and USY enriched my life, immersing me in prayer and providing me with knowledge, role models, friendships and Jewish pride. I loved everything about going to Hebrew School, except for the fact that they only gave us one cookie at snack time, and the cookie always had a maraschino cherry on top. I vowed that when I had kids of my own, they would attend a Hebrew School where they’d receive a great education and enjoy better snacks (and I’m pleased to share that they did!).

Teaching is my passion! I believe that it’s important for students to study Torah, connect with Israel, learn prayer, Bible, Hebrew, examine Jewish values and prepare for B’Mitzvah, but equally as important, I want students to explore “feeling Jewish, doing Jewish and being Jewish”! As the Education Director and a teacher at the Mensch Making and Mini Mensch Academy, my goal is to help build a strong Jewish intergenerational community where students can interact with congregants and feel a part of a synagogue family. I am eager to find opportunities for students to question and connect with G-d. I want to challenge students to learn the Hebrew language and connect the words and melodies to their hearts when they pray. I am excited for them to participate in social action activities, perform Mitzvot and assist in repairing the world. Together, we’ll study Torah and Jewish historians, showing that students have the ability to become leaders, shape the future and make a difference. Through educational and social emotional programming, it is my intention to help students (and their parents, too!) foster their Jewish identity and help them make lasting friendships. 

Please help me nurture and inspire the next generation of future of Jewish students by attending our programs and supporting our religious school!

Email: cbentschool@gmail.com