NEW DIRECTOR OF YOUTH USY TEENS

Our New Director of Youth and Family Engagement, Alyssa Schwager

1. What made you decide to work in Jewish education?

I have always loved Judaism, and I decided in 4th grade that I wanted to be a teacher. As “practice” for teaching, I was a Teen Madricha (assistant in my synagogue’s religious school), camp counselor, religious school teacher, and USY (teen youth group) advisor. Eventually, I put the pieces together that maybe I should focus on combining my love of education and my love of Judaism, instead of trying to separate them. I haven’t looked back since!

3. What are you most excited about in your new role at Beth

El?

I am excited to work with our community of learners, educators and families to make Judaism special and meaningful for everyone. I am even more excited to get to know this wonderful community!

4. What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to craft, bake, read, and play with my cat, Tux! I also love taking walks and exploring Westchester.

2. What do you like most about working with youth and families in a synagogue setting?

I was very active in my synagogue growing up, and I viewed it as a second home with my second family.

I love helping our youth and families feel comfortable, loved, and valued in their synagogue community. I also love the variety–no two days, classes or programs are the same, and I get to constantly be thoughtfully creative as I help families enjoy being Jewish.

5. How can our congregation Come say “hi!” support you in your new role as Director of Youth & Family I am eager to Engagement?

Come say “hi!” I am eager to get to get to know know everybody, so come visit me if you’re in the neighborhood!

everybody...

You can contact Alyssa at aschwager@bethelnr.org or (914) 235-2700