Our Faculty & Staff

Head of School,
Chris Aguero

Meet Chris

Fun fact: Chris taught at Ezra Academy from 2008 to 2012!

Grade 3 & 4 Hebrew & Judaics

    • B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Tel Aviv University (Art History)

    I have known Ezra for many years. My three children attended Ezra from Kindergarten through 8th grade, and I appreciated the school, its atmosphere, its faculty and staff, and the whole Ezra community—so much that I was an active PTO member, and at one point a PTO co-chair. Coming to teach at Ezra feels like coming home! Outside work, I am a student myself (studying for an M.A. in Hebrew language acquisition), and I enjoy hiking, traveling, working in the yard, reading, and spending time with family and friends. I love helping children, teaching, and trying to connect students to Israel, where I am originally from, and to Judaism.

Assistant Head of School

    • B.A. Carleton College (philosophy)

    • M.Ed. Brandeis University (educational leadership)

    • J.D. Boston University School of Law

    As a child, I attended a small, quirky private school similar to Ezra that embraced the fact that all individuals think and therefore learn differently. As an educational leader, I try to remember this in my work with students, teachers and with parents. It grounds me and helps me work with all students, both young and old. In my time off, I volunteer in an equine therapy program that gives children and adults the opportunity to interact with and learn from horses. It is both peaceful and powerful at the same time. When not at Ezra, I enjoy spending time with my two children, Abby and Theo, and their Great Pyrenees rescue, Kiki, who is also a certified therapy dog.

Science Teacher

    • B.S., CUNY Lehman College (environmental science, minor in GIS)

    • M.S., Relay Graduate School of Education (SPED and general education)

    This is my first year here at Ezra Academy. Working at Ezra allows me to share my passion for scientific inquiry by teaching students how to harness their curiosity about the world around them. I find it incredibly rewarding to witness children as they begin to understand how their environment affects them and connect the dots of life. Outside of teaching, I draw inspiration from spending time outdoors—whether hiking, walking, or camping. These activities provide me with a fresh perspective on the environment, which not only re-energizes me, but also deepens my connection to the subjects I teach, allowing me to be more passionate and engaged in the classroom.

Middle School Math Teacher

    • B.A. Haifa University (mathematics)

    At Ezra, I have taught math and Hebrew, been a MathCounts coach, and led a homeroom. Being a teacher gives me the opportunity to combine my love for math and working with students. I enjoy bringing the beauty and fun of mathematical thinking and help students reach their full potential both mathematically and as individuals. Outside of school, I like to spend time with my family, and travel.

Montessori Kindergarten Teacher

    • B.S., Wheelock College (human development, conc. early childhood education)

    • Early Childhood Credential 3-6, North Carolina Center for Montessori Teacher Education

    I am excited to be in a new school that fosters a sense of community with both the families and staff. I enjoy walking, hiking, and being at the beach in all 4 seasons. The outdoors awakens my spirit. I am also an avid reader and like to get lost in a good book. I have two teenage children and can relate to other parents on different levels. I understand some of the tough decisions they have to make when thinking about what's best for their children. When I was a teenager I babysat for two of my cousins quite often, and I knew that I wanted to work with young children. Teaching seemed like the perfect career for me. I have been to many American Montessori Conferences and workshops over the years.

Head of Jewish Studies, Humanities

    • B.A. University College London (double degree with first-class honors, Jewish history and Hebrew)

    • Institute of Education, London, post-graduate certificate in education

    • M.A. Jewish Theological Seminary (Jewish education)

    • Rabbinic Ordination, Jewish Theological Seminary

    I love working at Ezra because of the variety of courses I teach, and the fact that I can change my courses each year—that way I don’t get stale. I also love being part of the Alliance, a consortium of Jewish day schools that allows me to connect with other teachers doing my job in other schools. This is motivating and often inspirational. In my classes—I teach civics, both American and Israeli—I am careful to facilitate discussions in which I help students think for themselves and reach their own conclusions. Also, I have a dog named Minnie who I spend a lot of time with. I embroider. I read a lot. And I do many kinds of art!

Hebrew Teacher

    • Ulpan Or Teaching Program (Certificate for Hebrew Language Program)

    • The Center for Israel Education Workshop (Pre-Collegiate Teacher Enrichment Program)

    I have been teaching Hebrew and Israel studies at Ezra since 2006, and I love the feeling of community, the connections, the support. My interests include spending time with family, reading, exploring new places in Israel, listening to music and Israeli podcasts—and, of course, bringing Hebrew and Israel to the classroom. I feel privileged to witness the sparks that the students have when they are learning and the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives.

Student Lunch Manager

Development Coordinator

Montessori Preschool Teacher

    • B.A. Southern Connecticut State University

    My passions include reading and dancing, but what brings me to Ezra is how much I love watching the little people discover their independence.

Grade 1 & 2 General Studies, Judaics

Grade 7 Humanities

  • B.A. University of Pennsylvania

    M.F.A. New York University

    My relationship with Ezra began fifteen years ago when my daughter attended Gan Hayeled. While teaching elsewhere I’ve always been drawn to Ezra, and was grateful when the opportunity arose for me to join the faculty this year. Ezra is special. You can see it throughout the building, and especially in the classrooms, where students are challenged and enjoy learning and discovering how to go beyond what they thought they could do. I enjoy Torah study, road trips and Tai Chi.

Director of Montessori Preschool-K

    • B.A. University of Cape Town (social science)

    • Montessori Education, London Montessori Centre (specialty in ages 2-7)

    I love being part of a growing school, and I love watching the children become who they will become, from babies to graduating 8th-graders. I feel passionate about creating classrooms and curricula using the Montessori method of education, infused in all areas within and beyond the classroom walls. I especially love the opportunity to weave Montessori and Judaics together—every day! Choosing between a Montessori education and a Jewish education was a challenge for me as a mom, and by the time my third son was ready for preschool, I knew what I had to do: found this preschool at Ezra. My love for teaching and sharing Jewish traditions come together perfectly at Ezra Academy!

    Outside of school, peaceful environments are my sanctuary: walking, hiking, reading, kayaking, painting, and sharing with those I love and learn from.

Grade 5 & 6 Humanities

Montessori Preschool Teacher

  • Growing up, I spent time with younger siblings, who still give me fresh ideas and inspire me to further educate the kids I teach at Ezra. I love how Ezra Academy incorporates Judaism into the Montessori program. It’s always a treat to see the kids learn and grow, and I enjoy talking to the parents about their children’s personal growth.

Director of Admissions

    • B.A. Emmanuel College (performing Arts)

    • NAMC Montessori-certified for ages 3-6

    As an alumna of Ezra, the school feels like home. I grew up here! I’d like to be a part of making this school so special for students, the way my teachers did for me. I have a few non-negotiables when it comes to my own physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Weight training, yoga (in which I am a certified teacher) and meditation help to keep me grounded and resilient. Also, spending time with my family is a constant ground for inspiration. I understand that all children (and all people) are unique, and there is never a one-size-fits-all approach to connection and teaching. I think my years as a strength coach and yoga teacher helped me to understand that we are all interested in getting to know ourselves on a deeper level, whether we are aware of this or not. Learning what lights us up is a good starting point in realizing who we are. I believe that starting this process at a young age is a huge benefit.

Montessori Preschool Teacher

Maintenance

School Nurse

    • B.A. St. Olaf College (history)

    • Certificate in Nursing, Yale University (Registered Nurse)

    • Currently enrolled at Yale University - School of Nursing (Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner)

    Having grown up in a small rural school system, Ezra has felt like home from the very beginning! Getting to know and support children is always a joy, and I look forward to each day here. Helping children feel heard, seen, and cared for, whether they are sick or just need a friendly ear, is something I strive for each and every day, and I love seeing them leave my office with a smile on their face! Outside of my time at Ezra, I am in graduate school to become a Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. I spend many hours in class, taking care of patients in the hospital and clinic settings. Caring for the whole family is at the center of this midwifery model, and I hope to bring that same approach to our lovely families at Ezra.

Grade 3 & 4 General Studies


    • B.S., New York University (teaching)

    • M.A., New York University (teaching English)

    I decided to become an educator because I love guiding students as they mature emotionally and intellectually, facilitating meaningful discussions with them, and cultivating their innate curiosity and love of learning. My personal loves include long walks, being in nature, large dogs, and hot tea.

Montessori Preschool Teacher

    • B.A., Quinnipiac University (Psychology)

    • A.M.S. Early Childhood Certification in Montessori Education, CMTE 

    I decided to become a teacher when I was in college. I was invited to visit a friend, who was teaching at a Montessori school in Washington D.C. Upon visiting her classroom, I knew that's what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I instantly fell in love with the setting, and was amazed at how independent the children were within their classroom environment. As a teacher, I enjoy many aspects of my job, including making and rotating classroom materials. When I'm not at work, I like to spend time with my friends and family.

Business Office

    • B.A., Yale University (anthropology)

    I started carpooling friends' children to Ezra over 30 years ago. I was a parent of an Ezra student in the last decade, and now am working here. I enjoy being around animals, nature, reading, cooking (and eating!). I love learning languages and how things work and sharing these interests with others, especially kids of all ages. I am committed to helping communities. I am a part of the pursuit of environmentally sustainable and socially just sourcing and overall practice (I'm especially passionate about fair trade chocolate!)

Montessori Preschool Teacher

PE & Prek - 2 Grade Hebrew

    • B.A., Tel-Hai College (psychology & education)

    • M.A., Yehuda College (educational consulting)

    This is my first year at Ezra Academy. I was very much drawn to the unique atmosphere in the school, the strong sense of community, and the inclusive approach to Judaism. As a teenager, I studied in several educational settings, each of which shaped who I am today and deepened my understanding of the importance and impact of education. I became a teacher because of my belief that education as a tool will make the world a better place. Outside of teaching, I cherish spending time with my dear family, raising our four children alongside my beloved wife, and enjoy activities like traveling and swimming. I speak fluent Hebrew as well as English. 

English Language Learning

  • B.A. Ethnology and Anthropology (University of Belgrade, SRB)

    M.A. Special Education Needs/Additional Learning Needs ( University of South Wales, UK)

    TEFL ( Teaching English as a Foreign Language)  Certificate

    This is my second year at Ezra, and I love it. I love that my role includes a lot of one-on-one teaching, which allows me to build strong bonds with the students and support them academically and emotionally on their journey.

    When not at Ezra, I’m most likely somewhere outdoors hiking and enjoying long walks in nature with my husband. I’m a huge animal lover and have been sharing my space, time, and love with my soon-to-be 16-year-old cat.

    I’m always inspired by learning new things and bringing them into my classroom. Some of the topics I’m very passionate about are educational neuroscience and social and emotional learning, and their impact on students’ academic and personal growth and progress.

Art Teacher

    • B.A., Ball Sate University (architecture)

    • Certification in teaching art, Southern Connecticut State University

    Things I love: collaborating with other teachers; making pottery; travel; and reading. Also, I love to share my travel experiences and what I learn about art and artists. I became a teacher to help students tap into their creative side and to teach them that art isn’t about talent but about the creative process. I want students to see that art is all around us and in everything that we see and do, that it comes in many different forms.

Grade 5 - 7 Judaics, Grade 7 Math

Grade 1 & 2 General Studies

Montessori Preschool Teacher

    • B.A., Curry College (early childhood aducation and integrated liberal studies)

    • NAMC Montessori-certified for early childhood

    Growing up in Newington, Connecticut, I knew from a young age that I loved being around kids. I had a certain way with them, and I loved watching them grow and learn. Also, my mom worked for a while as a preschool teacher, and it just felt natural to follow her lead. Now, I love working with the Montessori team and watching the world unfold for young children. Being a mom to two young children has helped me see all sides of how to teach young children and to realize that sometimes things aren’t completely what they seem. When not at work, I love to read, go camping and hiking with my family, and spend time with friends.

Music Teacher


  • B.F.A. Azusa Pacific University (fine arts in theater)

    After college, I trained as a teacher and musician with Indiana University’s international music education program, as well as with SOUND Affect International. I worked with these two organizations in Haiti, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic for seven years before becoming a teacher. I grew up in a family that did emergency relief work around the world, and I grew to admire everyone’s unique stories. I care a lot about how music inspires and heals, and about how important it is to learn about the world and gain fresh perspective. Today, I stay busy in the music world, helping to direct a performing arts school, teaching private lessons, mentoring high schoolers, and having a blast playing in a band with my husband and friends! I enjoy being in an innovative environment like Ezra, where teachers are always collaborating, learning, and adjusting as they teach!

Office Manager

    • B.A. Southern Connecticut State University (Graphic Design)

    As an alumna of a Jewish day school, and the daughter of a rabbi, I love working in a Jewish learning environment; it has been an uplifting and nourishing experience getting back to my roots. Working in an environment with children has been extremely rewarding and fun for me. Every day brings something new. In addition to my love for working with people, my heart has always been in the arts. In my spare time, I love to sing, and I’ve worked with multiple local bands and do vocal recording work. I have also illustrated a children's book and currently do pet portraits on commission.

“Ezra taught me the important values of being a good, kind human, of being a helper and prepared me to be a critical thinker.”

- Verred Hamenahem, class of 1999 and current Ezra Admissions Director

Join the Ezra team

Are you a teacher, coach, or administrator looking to join a community of warm, caring educators? While we do not currently have any open positions, we always like to hear from people who are interested in working at our school.

Reach Out About Career Opportunities

Montessori Preschool →

Lower School K-4 →

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