Rabbi Sharir Yablonsky
Rabbi Sharir Yablonsky is active in all aspect of the running of the Yeshiva from the beginning of the day greeting each boy until the end to say good night. During the day you will see him walking the hall, having a discussion with Rebbiem, teachers, and talmidim always interacting to advance the Yeshiva.
Rabbi Yablonsky shares his desire of being a learner by constantly deepening the knowledge in all areas of חינוך and staying current on emerging educational trends. New ideas or initiatives are carefully evaluated and implemented, as appropriate, via a collaborative effort.
Rabbi Yablonsky joined RJJ as Menahel in September of 2017. Previously for 25 years, he was a part of JEC of Elizabeth, where he was a Rebbi, Guidance Counselor, and then Principal of the Middle School. Additionally, Rabbi Yablonsky has been involved in chinuch through summer camps. He was part of the administration of Camp Torah Voddath and then founded and directed Camp Chaveirim in Highland Park for almost a quarter of a century. Prior to becoming a rebbi he attended Mercaz Center for Teacher Training under the direction of Rabbi Yoel Kramer. Rabbi Yablonsky has augmented his education by attending conventions, constantly learning by reading, and participating in forums that will advance his knowledge of Chincuh and up-to-date educational practices. Rabbi Yablonsky combines his experiences and education to bring excitement and structure to Yeshiva.
Rabbi Yablonsky attended RJJ of Edison and received his Smicha from Rabbi Yosef Eichenstein, Shlita. He has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Bellevue University.
Mrs. Esther Akerman
Mrs. Esther Akerman has been in chinuch for almost half a century. She joined the RJJ family in 1990 as a Morah in the Boys school and in 2002 became the principal of the Girls School.
Known for her interpersonal skills, Mrs. Akerman has the ability to listen, hear and connect to her talmidos. Her office is always open to staff and parents and “her girls” know that she is their advocate; their problem is her problem and she will do everything to help solve it.
Learning is not just for her students! Mrs. Akerman is a visionary and she is motivated to learn and adapt to new trends when needed. Just a few short years ago she took part in the Harvard summer institute where she joined many principals from all over the US and brought back many crucial and innovative ideas to the school.
She will do everything to bring out the best in each and every one of her students. It is Mrs. Akerman who greets her students every morning with a cheerful “Boker Tov” and wishes them a “Good Evening” at the end of the school day.
Mrs. Laya Leeder/Alster
Mrs. Laya Leeder-Alster, the Preschool Director in RJJ-Merkaz Hatorah in Staten Island, has been in the field of Early Childhood for over 40 years. She joined the RJJ family in 2003. Her passion lies in educating young children and creating a warm, loving atmosphere where children can flourish and blossom as they begin their educational journey. In these essential years our program will help prepare your child to succeed in four areas of development, Physical, Social-Emotional, Cognitive and Creative expression.