Shalom! My name is Limor Bendayan and I am ecstatic to be part of the OFEK team. I was born and raised in Israel. At the age of fifteen my family and I relocated to the Republic of Panama, where I completed my high school education. Upon graduating, I moved to Florida to attend university, where I obtained my BA in Education and Organizational Management. I have three amazing children (two boys and a girl), and I currently live in Orlando, Florida. I have had the privilege of teaching for the past eighteen years in Jewish settings. I have taught elementary, middle school, high school, adults, and even Special Operation military personnel. In addition, I have led and guided several adult groups on Israel trips.
My true passion is teaching Jewish History, Israel’s History, and Hebrew. It gives me a great deal of satisfaction to share and educate others about our heritage and culture. I am a proud Israeli and Jew and love sharing and educating. I have made it my life’s mission to educate others about Israel and Jewish values. My ability to communicate in Hebrew, English, and Spanish gives me the aptitude to connect with people from different cultures and background, therefore, I can deliver my message across the world. I feel that OFEK will give me an opportunity to reach a broader audience and educate a wider range of people. I am a firm believer that through education and knowledge we can reach understanding, tolerance, and respect.

My name is Inbal Bar-Yossef, and I am thrilled to join OFEK’s team!! I am from Palo Alto, CA. I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the Tel Aviv College of Management Academic Studies. I am a certified teacher, teaching Hebrew for the last 6 years at Hausner Jewish Day School in Palo Alto.
I have a true passion for working with young learners and experience the Hebrew language and the Jewish-Israeli culture together!! Supporting each child’s progress and providing each child with an enriched experience – are my daily goals. I strive to create a community of learners that nurtures this growth in a positive, fun environment.

Personally, I am married and have 3 wonderful college students! We love to hike and enjoy nature together. I also enjoy working in my garden and spending time with friends and family.

I look forward to working with your children!

Shalom, my name is Oshrat Rotenberg.
I was born and raised in Israel, I’m married and have three amazing girls and a dog. We moved to Canada eight years ago, and ever since I have been teaching Hebrew as a second language in a Hebrew day school. I love every minute of it, especially bringing the love of Israeli culture, song, and tradition to the classroom and the kids. To see the kids learn to read, write, and speak in Hebrew so far away from Israel is really special and heart-wrenching.
I have a B.A. in social work and in special needs education and I have been working with kids for more than 20 years now.
In my free time, I love to travel and explore new things, I’ve like to read, swim, and spend time with my family.

Shalom! My name is Idit Gottlieb, and I am a seasoned educator, with six years of experience in teaching Hebrew as a second language. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Teaching certificate from Levinsky College of Education in Tel Aviv. Over the past six years, I’ve had the privilege to teach Hebrew in Jewish schools in Houston, TX. During that time, I have taught all levels of elementary school education, ranging from pre-K3 to 5th grade. In the Houston IAC branch, I also work as a Keshet Facilitator, to connects families and their young children to Israel through interactive activities that celebrate Jewish identity, the Hebrew language, and Israeli culture. Prior to teaching in Houston, I taught diverse student populations in kindergarten in Israel, including those with varying special education needs. As part of my teaching, I incorporate theater, music, art, and games into the classroom to facilitate learning. I’m really excited about the chance to share my love for teaching Hebrew with the students at OFEK.

Hello, I’m Yael Shachar, deeply connected to my Israeli roots. Raised in Israel, my values were shaped there. As a former IDF officer in “Mafchash” a wife and a mother, I cherish my roles. With 18 years in education, I specialize in Hebrew, math, and remedial teaching, even crafting a unique curriculum about Israel. Teaching is my passion, ensuring every moment is enjoyable for both myself and my students. My aim is To instill a love for Hebrew and boost confidence in speaking, writing, reading and understanding it. I’m thrilled to be part of this community – it’s an honor for me.

Hello! I’m Roni, a proud mother to Alon and Ella, and a loving wife to Avichai. Born and raised in Tel Aviv, I have always had a deep connection to education and nourishing the minds of others.

In 2016, a remarkable job opportunity brought us to Tampa Florida where we quickly fell in love with the place and its welcoming community do we decided to stay.

My passion for education dates back to my teenage years when I volunteered as a guide in the Israeli Scouts. Upon joining the army, I served as a combat fitness instructor, gaining invaluable experience in working with others. This further fueled my dedication to pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, a field that aligns perfectly with my interests and skills.

During my academic journey, I had the incredible opportunity to teach at a Jewish summer camp in New Hampshire. This experience solidified my unwavering affinity for working with teenagers and supporting their growth.

Equipped with a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Teaching, and a certificate as a parent educator for teenagers, I am fully prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of education.

Upon discovering OFEK’s program, I immediately recognized it as the ideal platform to further thrive in my career. The combination of teaching with the Jewish-Israeli connection resonates deeply within me. I am thrilled at the prospect of contributing to this program and continuing my personal and professional growth as part of this esteemed team.

Shalom! I’m Hadar Markin, a licensed K-12 educator with 15 years of experience teaching Hebrew and Jewish history in the Chicago area. Currently, I’m proud to be a Hebrew teacher at a public high school, where I bring my passion for language and culture to students of various backgrounds and skill levels.
As a native Israeli, I’m dedicated to teaching Hebrew through authentic materials like TV commercials, music, and YouTube videos, believing that language learning thrives within the rich context of culture and history. My teaching experience spans formal Jewish day schools and innovative programs, catering to everyone from beginners to native speakers.
Cooking is a personal joy, both at home and with my students. I love sharing my favorite Israeli recipes, hoping to bring a taste of Israeli cuisine into your home.
Additionally, Holocaust education is a vital part of my work. I’ve contributed to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Encyclopedia of Camps and Ghettos, 1933-1945, as a translator and researcher, with a focus on the experiences of North African communities.
I hold an M.A. in Jewish Professional Studies, specializing in education from Spertus College, and a B.A. in Middle Eastern Studies, Honors Program, and Political Science from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

Shalom, my name is Zina Knop. I was born in Russia and moved to Israel when I was 12 years old. I grew up in Israel and lived there for 25 years. I am a teacher with almost 15 years of experience. I love my job and I am passionate about teaching Hebrew. I have two wonderful children and our family loves being in America. I feel like it is my mission to move here and teach Hebrew language. In my free time, I love to read books, listen to music, and spend time with my family. I also enjoy traveling, and I have visited many countries around the world.
I have a Master of Arts in Teaching Hebrew as a Second Language from Middlebury Language Schools in Middlebury, Vermont. I also have a Teaching Certification for Early Childhood and 1st-2nd Grades from Oranim College in Tivon, Israel.
I am a creative and engaging teacher who uses a variety of methods to make learning Hebrew fun and interesting. I believe that everyone can learn Hebrew, no matter their age or background. I am here to help my students reach their full potential and achieve their language learning goals. I am excited to share my love of Hebrew with others and I believe that learning this language can be a rewarding and enriching experience.

Sagi Ben-Hur was born and raised in the north of Israel (Haifa) and moved to Washington D.C in 2022.
Sagi came to Washington D.C as a Hebrew specialist on behalf the World Zionist Organization and currently teaches Elementary School 4-5 Th grade.
Sagi holds a B.A degree in Management and Economic, a M.A Leadership and Educational Systems Management and Teaching Certificate in Mathematics.
In the last 11 years, Sagi taught, educated and managed a middle school and high school in Israel and taught Hebrew in an elementary school in Washington DC.
He believes in every child’s ability to succeed and that his job is to make children love learning Hebrew.
He is excited for a year of diverse, experiential, fun and successful teaching.

My name is Tal Regev, and I reside in Toronto, Canada, alongside my husband Tomer, our three lovely children, and our adorable dog, Luna.
Professionally, I have the privilege of teaching at Bialik Hebrew Day School. Despite living outside of Israel for the past decade, my connection to my homeland remains steadfast. I make it a point to stay updated on Israeli news, converse with my family in Hebrew, and instill a love for the language and culture in my students.  Prior to teaching, I had the opportunity to work at Hop! Channel, a Hebrew children’s television network. This experience deepened my appreciation for Israeli children’s content. Upon moving to Canada, I sought a role that would allow me to combine my expertise in children’s media with my passion for Hebrew and Israel. Teaching Hebrew has provided me with that perfect blend, and I thoroughly enjoy it.
Outside of work, I find pleasure in listening to Israeli music, exploring new destinations, solving puzzles, and immersing myself in various books.
Last year, I have completed my master’s degree in Jewish education at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and happy to teach in Ofek this year.

Amit Vaserman was born and raised in the south of Israel (Lehavim) and moved to Houston in 2022. Amit came to Houston as a Hebrew specialist on behalf the World Zionist Organization and he currently teaches elementary pre-K 4-5th grade. Amit holds a B.Sc. in Nutrition Science, a Master’s in education and an MBA with a major in non-profit organizations.
Over the past 10 years Amit served in a variety of roles in the Israeli education system as well as Haifa municipality as a social-educational program coordinator promoting excellence and gender equity. He believes that as teachers we can influence our youth to build a better world by passing on values of equality, friendship and excellence. He is really excited about joining the IAC and Ofek family.

Hello everyone,
My name is Merav, and I am proud to be a teacher and a mother to four amazing children: Daniel, Yael, Neta, and Rani. In my free time, I enjoy diving and cycling in the great outdoors.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English Education, and when I moved to Texas 23 years ago, I found my calling as a Hebrew and Jewish Studies teacher. Over the years, I’ve taught middle school as part of the “Bishvil HaIvrit” curriculum, and now I teach the “Niflaot” curriculum for first and second-grade students.
Being fluent in three languages – Hebrew, English, and Persian – is a skill I highly value. Languages are a wonderful tool, whether for work, enjoyment, or travel around the world. Sometimes, it’s just fun to speak in a language that no one else understands.
I am excited to be a part of this wonderful organization and can’t wait to get started! Y’alla let’s go!

Hello, my name is Meira Gotesdyner and my professional passion is the connection between the Hebrew language, Israeli culture, and Jewish tradition. I have a bachelor’s degree from Bar Ilan University and a master’s degree from Middlebury college, the school of Languages, with a focus on learning and acquisition of a second language. I teach at a Jewish school in Palo Alto as well as at summer camps, individual teaching for adults and youth, and other settings.

Hello, I’m Tali, currently I teach Hebrew as a second language at the Jewish school in Vancouver, Canada. I have a PhD in linguistics. I have a lot of experience in teaching Hebrew language, from teaching Hebrew to new immigrants in Israel to preparing high school students for the matriculation exams in the language. I also taught all Hebrew subjects at a college in Israel – phonetics, syntax, scientific writing, etc. Along with my teaching duties, I have been involved over the years in developing learning materials and guiding teams of Hebrew teachers, implementing, and using digital teaching aids that help make the lessons more interesting and dynamic. As a teacher I create a personal relationship with my students, support them and help as much as necessary. I see in the educational process not only the acquisition of the Hebrew language, but an opportunity for my students to use up their own potential and their creativity while training them as enterprising graduates and independent thinkers. I am convinced that my educational approach will lead my students to acquire the Hebrew language and deepen their communication skills in Hebrew.

Shalom Y’all! I’m Vered. I have been living in Texas for the last 5 years, I’m a mother to Nimrod, Kfir and Avishag. I have a Bachelor degree in History and Masters in Jewish Studies. I also attained a teaching certificate from Tel-Aviv University. I wrote my Thesis on the The great immigration to Israel over the 1950’s. I have taught History in high schools in Israel, and Hebrew and Jewish studies in Dallas. I’m a volunteer at the Holocaust museum in Dallas. History is a passion of main. My goal is to teach while having fun!

Ever since I was a child, people told me I would become a teacher. Teaching has always been a part of me, starting from my role as an artillery sergeant in the IDF. Over the years, I’ve taught various subjects, but my true passion lies in the Hebrew language, and perfecting it has led me on extraordinary journeys.

My journey of teaching began in the 1990s when I found myself teaching Hebrew to the Royal Air Force in the UK. I also taught Hebrew to those converting to Judaism, deepening their love for Israel along the way. My teaching journey has taken me to numerous countries, including Israel, Italy, Greece, Portugal, France, and Luxembourg. From online classes to elementary, middle, and high school students to young and older people who follow their dream to join the IDF and need to improve their Hebrew, I am there for them. In every place, I’ve encountered young and old alike eager to learn Hebrew.

What sets me apart is my deep love for the Hebrew language and the incredible journey I’ve embarked on with my family. We’ve crossed countries, seas, and continents, and everywhere we went, I shared the magic of the Hebrew alphabet, words, sentences, songs, and stories. My son has inherited my passion for languages and speaks five fluently, while my French husband speaks Hebrew with a charming French accent.

I love teaching with enthusiasm and passion, and I eagerly look forward to meeting students of all ages who wish to learn Hebrew with me. There’s magic in learning a new language—the joy of watching curious children pronounce sounds, read letters, form sentences, and read stories with excitement. Together, we celebrate their success and the delight of reading, exclaiming, “I did it! I can read!”

Join me on this magical journey of learning Hebrew, where every lesson is an adventure and every word is a discovery.

My name is Dalia Lerman from California. I grew up in Jerusalem, Israel, and attended Bar-Ilan University, where I got my bachelor’s degree in education and my master’s degree in Jewish law and History . For over seven years, I have directed the Los Angeles Hebrew High School, an excellent and highly successful supplementary Judaic Studies and Hebrew school for students in grades 7 through 12. I am a proud Mom and grandmother of 3 grandsons. Teaching is my passion, and I genuinely want to focus on being on guiding students and utilizing my skills as a Hebrew scholar and teacher.

Shalom, My name is Hadar. I was born and raised in Israel where I received my Bachelor’s in Special Education from Seminar HaKibbutzim and graduated with honors. During my time serving in the Israeli Defense Force, I was promoted to a position where I taught Commanders essential teaching skills. I have been living in the USA for 14 years and have 10 years of Hebrew and Judaic studies teaching experience in K-8 grades. This is my third year that I’m leading the Hebrew and Judaic Department in a Jewish Day School. I am familiar with the best resources with 21st century skills to engage students in learning.

I bring much enthusiasm and knowledge. My education, experience, and passion for teaching allow me the opportunity to educate students by instilling the lifelong love for Judaism, Israel and the Hebrew language.

I was born and grew up in the USSR (now Russia). At age 17 I made Aliyah and moved to Israel. I wanted to be a teacher since I can remember. My childhood dream came true and for about 20 years I had an educational career in Israel, teaching History, Hebrew and Civics in Middle and High school (after 3 years in the IDF). Since I received my Master’s degree in Educational Counseling (with honors) from Bar – Ilan University, I worked as an High School Counselor. My Bachelor’s degree and Teacher’s Credential are in History and obtained a Master’s degree in teaching Hebrew as a second language at Middlebury College, Vermont and currently attending a Doctoral program at Middlebury college.

After I moved to the U.S with my wife and daughter, I continued to teach. I am now teaching Hebrew at one of the Jewish High schools and in American Jewish University in Los Angeles.

My name is Maya Lotan and I have been a tour-guide and Jewish educator since the days of my IDF service. I hold a master’s degree in Israel studies and specialized in modern history. I have a teaching certificate from Bar-Ilan University for middle school and high school and a certificate in teaching Hebrew as a second language from Kiryat Ono College. I teach at a Hebrew (Sunday) school in my community in Halifax Nova Scotia.

I am originally from Tel Aviv, and I love the city, its history and culture. For more than a decade, I have been guiding families from abroad, Birthright tours, and school trips. I have also initiated ‘Tiyul-Ledet’ (‘Hike-Birthday’) – tours and trips for parents on maternity leave that combine birthday celebrations and nature.

Shalom, my name is Oshra, I was born and raised in the south of Israel in a Kibbutz known as a Kibbutz Urim. I am a mother to two amazing boys and an incredible young daughter.
I have been teaching Hebrew for nearly 15 years and in the last 10 years I taught Hebrew and Jewish studies at Levine Academy. Throughout my time at Levine, I have taught students from kindergarten all the way through third grade. For the last seven years, I have been tutoring many children, helping them prepare for their Bar/Bat mitzvah.
In my free time, I love cooking, baking, and dancing to Israeli folk music.
Teaching Hebrew helps me feel fulfilled. It is something I have always loved to do and I look forward to being able to share my passion for teaching Hebrew with the students of OFEK.

Dana Bar-Or is a Middle School Director and has 16 years of teaching experience, mainly in Middle School and Upper School. Dana was highly involved in the IAC and served as the first member of the ‘Gvanim’ leadership group. Her teaching style is engaging and focused on the students. In her free time, she enjoys practicing her boxing skills. In the past, while in Israel, Dana worked as a lawyer in her hometown of Haifa.

My name is Hanita Hayim.
I have been a Hebrew teacher for more than 25 years. I started my teaching career in Israel when I taught first, second, and fifth grades in elementary school.  Out of love for the Hebrew language and a desire to pass it on to future generations, I studied teaching Hebrew to the upper grades. I also specialized in teaching Hebrew as a second language.
After a few years, I realized that my goal in life is to teach Hebrew in other countries. About 10 years ago, I moved to the US and since then I have been enjoying teaching Hebrew in a Jewish school where I get great pleasure from hearing the children learn this special language.

Formerly the Director of Education for the JFCS Holocaust Center based in San Francisco, Leslie moved to Idaho – and joined the staff – in 2021. Originally from Southern California, she taught Holocaust studies at Tarbut V’Torah Community Day School in Irvine, where she also accompanied her students on study trips to Poland and Israel. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in History (with a focus on Holocaust Studies) from Loyola Marymount University, where she studied under world renowned Holocaust scholar, Dr. Michael Berenbaum. Leslie has worked as a museum educator for both the Simon Wiesenthal Center Museum of Tolerance and the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust. She has also served as an historical consultant for multiple high school productions of “The Diary of Anne Frank,” one of which she directed herself. Leslie is a graduate of the Orange County/Long Beach Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Glass Leadership Institute and was selected as an educational consultant for Chapman University’s Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education. She was honored to be chosen as one of Orange County’s Most Influential 2019 by the OC Register for her ongoing work with high school students in combating antisemitic behavior.

Jeny is senior manager of IAC Activism Academy, where she leads the educational content for the IAC activism learning hub. Jeny is a natural-born activist, with extensive background in the non-profit sector, managing programs and volunteers. She has a B.ED in Sociology and informal education. Jeny was born in Minsk, Belarus, and made Aliya by herself at the age of 15. Four years ago she moved to the US and knew it was important for her to continue supporting Israel and Jewish communities here.