Lifelong Jewish Learning

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS OF REFORM JUDAISM

Mission:
The mission of the Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism is to provide vision, leadership, programmatic support, and resources to Reform Jewish Early Childhood Education Programs. We also aim to establish an effective partnership between the Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism, Temple Clergy and Temple Leadership.

Become a Member  
Membership Privileges  

A member in good standing shall be entitled to:

  • Attend ECE-RJ sponsored programs including annual conferences, kallot and study opportunities.
  • Gail access to on-line List Serves specific to your position and/or interest.
  • Eligible to enroll in the Reform Pension and Long Term Disability (LTD) Plans (currently open to supervisory personnel).
  • Utilize the benefits of the partnership of the Union for Reform Judaism and participate in biennials, symposiums of learning and other significant experiences within the greater Reform Jewish world.
  • Join NATE (National Association of Temple Educators) for only $36.]
  • Access all educational resources and networking opportunities.
  • Participate in all official ECE-RJ deliberations, and vote at the annual plenary meeting.
Listserve Discussion Groups  

Joining one or all of the four on-line (list-serve) discussion groups is a privilege of membership. Please see the section above entitled, "Become a Member" to submit your membership application.

Our Goals  
  • Advocacy for Jewish Early Childhood Education within the synagogue community.
  • To stimulate communal interest in and responsibility for Jewish Early Childhood Education.
  • Identification and inclusion of families with young children (birth – 6 years) into the synagogue community.
  • Building a bridge between the Early Childhood Center and the Religious School (specifically ages 4 – 7 years).
  • Building a bridge between the Early Childhood Center and the Day School.
  • Insure recognition of the Professional Status for all Early Childhood Staff. (Directors and Teachers).
  • Serve as an informational resource to Professional and volunteer leaders in Jewish Early Childhood Education in areas such as:
  • Educational planning (curriculum, family education and/or staff training)
  • Industry trends (contracts, benefits and/or salaries)
  • Consultation services (business plans, expansion possibilities and/or other professional services)
  • Provide a network of communication and exchange among Jewish Early Childhood Educators.
  • Pursue partnerships with synagogue leaders including Rabbis, Cantors & other Jewish Educators.
Additional Resources  
Articles From Ganeinu  

2009 Conference Page

Who We Are
by Norma Cahen, President, ECE-RJ

From Where Will They Come?
by David Worton, 2008 Conference Planning Committee & currently nominated for election to Board as Vice President of Conference Planning

Membership is a Must
by Laurel Abrams, Vice President of Membership
Contact Us  
Elaine Gaidemak RJE,
Executive Administrator
Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism
ecerj@comcast.net

Norma S. Cahen, M.S.
President
Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism
954-472-8700