Newish Jewish Education & Engagement Professionals Network

Why? As education directors and youth professionals begin their roles in the Jewish communal landscape, many have a strong foundation and find that gaining additional skills, tools, and connections enhances their ability to thrive in all aspects of their work.  

What? These monthly gatherings provide a space for newer Jewish education professionals to learn, sharpen their skills, receive and offer support, and build connections with the goal of having long-term colleagues from across the country. During these gatherings, we will find time to learn together as a whole community and separately as education director and youth professionals based on the needs of the cohort. 

Who? The Newish Jewish Education & Engagement Professionals Network is designed for Directors in Part-time Jewish Education programs in their first or second year and for professionals working in teen education and engagement who have served at least two years in their role. 

How? The general format for each session is: 

• Group connection and Jewish learning 

• Topical learning facilitated by a field expert(s) 

• Networking, collaborating, and support divided by education directors and youth education and engagement professionals 

Topics? The topical learning portion of the network will focus on using a ‘How to’ lens. This network will explore a multitude of topics within Jewish non-profit work in synagogue settings and beyond. Sample topics include: attuned listening/tough conversations/compassionate leadership, navigating organizational policies and politics, boundary setting and burnout, budgeting best practices, managing up-over-down, resources at your fingertips, coalition and relationship building with parents, staff, lay leaders, and the community, and more. 

This network is in partnership with ARJE and JEA.