Teaching Limudei Kodesh with AI as your Chevruta

Ms. Bracha Rutner is the Head of School at Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School. She is a Jewish educational leader whose work centers on deep learning, strong instructional practice, and a student-focused approach that ensures each child is known, supported, and challenged. She believes great schools are built through thoughtful pedagogy, meaningful relationships, and a clear commitment to Torah values that shape both learning and culture.

Prior to joining Beth Tfiloh, Ms. Rutner served as Head of School at Central and taught at Yeshiva of Flatbush. She also previously served as a Yoetzet Halacha at Kemp Mill Synagogue and RJC, combining halachic training with care, discretion, and a commitment to supporting individuals and families.

Ms. Rutner earned her undergraduate degree at Stern College for Women and is a graduate of Nishmat’s Keren Ariel Women’s Halakhic Institute in Jerusalem. She holds a master’s degree in Education Administration from St. John’s University and has completed graduate coursework in Talmud at Hebrew University. She is currently pursuing an EdD at the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration.

Gary Pretsfelder is Senior Manager, Professional Learning and Growth at the Jewish Education Project in New York, where he consults with, and coordinates professional development for, Yeshivot and Day School educators in the New York area in support of educational and cultural change in their schools. Gary is a former long-time, day school Principal and teacher in New York who built communities that put students and active learning at the center.