The SJCC is so thrilled to start 2018 with our new Director, Early Childhood, Carrie Stull. Carrie comes to the J with more than 15 years of experience directing preschool and infant care programs in the Seattle area, including directing Minor Ave. Children’s House and building Evergreen Academy Montessori from the ground up.
Much of Carrie’s infant care and early childhood leadership experience is Montessori and play-based, which translates well to the Reggio-Emilia philosophy of our school.
Jewish Learning + Universal Values
Carrie and her family belong to Temple Beth Am in Seattle’s north end, and she has always been enthusiastic about Jewish education. “I love working with children and I’m passionate about Judaism, so I can’t think of a better job.”
Although our preschool is part of a Jewish Community Center, you don’t have to be Jewish to attend—families of all kinds are welcome. We do learn about and celebrate Jewish holidays, but in ways that resonate with children—whether that’s learning about taking care of the environment by visiting our garden or reading The Lorax on Tu B’Shevat (the new year of the trees), or singing songs about friendship and sharing meals every Friday on Shabbat.
The Jewish values that we incorporate into our classrooms aren’t focused on the religious aspect of Judaism so much as on the values of Jewish living. “You don’t have to be Jewish to appreciate the values of common courtesy, welcoming others, and community,” Carrie says. “Those are just some of the values we infuse into our classrooms, and they’re beneficial for preschoolers and adults alike, no matter your religious affiliation.”
To learn more about the J’s Early Childhood School, head here.
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