Meet Director of Education: Holli Winick Viau

Shalom!

I am proud to be the Director of Education here at Congregation Shaarai Shomayim.  I have the opportunity to work with so many talented and committed people who share my vision to foster and to further the Jewish education of our children, helping them to become practicing, conscientious, compassionate Jewish adults.  My job allows me to interact with the students on a regular basis, and to not only know what they are learning about in their classrooms, but about outside concerns that affect their world.  I try to be visible and present in the classrooms, at least popping in for a visit, but often taking a seat to observe what is going on that day.

My main focus is the student body, but a large part of my job that I take very seriously is talking with, observing, and reflecting with the teachers.  These are the people who plan and implement the important Jewish curriculum to enrich the lives of the children in our school. They are the faces that our children see each week, and the ones who have the opportunity to interact directly with our students each week. Our fine group of teachers are the ones who impart the knowledge and share the vision with our children and their families. I strive to be a resource for them, as well as a teacher and a good example.

I am here to help parents with decisions about enrolling their children, homework issues, and any other concerns that might arise.  I work hard to make sure that parents are aware of what is going on in the school and within the classrooms.  Working together, between school and home, can only prove beneficial to all of our children. We want them to understand that they are not learning with us in a vacuum, but that being Jewish applies to all aspects of their lives. We have opportunities for parents and their children to learn together during our Family Education sessions, and our many activities and events that are offered throughout the year.

You can always reach me by , or by phone at 717-397-5575.  I look forward to hearing from you, and helping to integrate Jewish education into the lives of the members of your family.

Highlights:

• B.S. Ed from Millersville University
• PA certified in Elementary Education
• 45 credits in Special Education from Millersville University
• Currently working on Master’s degree in Judaic Studies at Gratz College
• Former classroom teacher grades 4 and 5
• Former Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education, JCAL Academy
• Former full-day Kindergarten Teacher, JCAL Academy
• Former Pre-K and Kindergarten Teacher at Shaarai Shomayim
• Former Early Childhood Master Teacher at Shaarai Shomayim
• Group Leader, Aaron’s Acres Summer Camp and Respite Program
• Co-director of Shaarai Shomayim Day Camp

Links
View Holli Viau’s Youth Education page.