Caitlan Carroll

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I'm Caitlan Carroll, known as Miss Caitlan to my students. With six years of experience at Emek, including three as a lead teacher, I'm thrilled to start my seventh year here. My educational background includes a Teaching Credential from the DeLet Program at Hebrew Union College and a Masters Degree in Education from American Jewish University, both of which drive my enthusiasm for refining teaching methods and staying current with the latest learning strategies. Beyond academics, I'm a proud LA local from West Hills, where I attended de Toledo High School and later majored in history at the University of Oregon. Family and friends remain an important part of my life. I also love football, especially college and professional football. My affinity for the Seattle Seahawks stems from my grandmother's Washington roots and personal love for the city of Seattle. Go Hawks!

 

 

 

 

 

Morah Serach Botach 

Serach Botach was born and raised in Los Angeles, California in the Pico Robertson area.  After graduating from Shalhevet High School and completing her year in Israel, she attended Yeshiva University’s Stern College for Women where she got her associate's degree in Judaic Studies and bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Serach then moved to Las Vegas where she taught second grade for 3 years before moving to New York City where she also taught second grade for 3 years. Serach is so excited to now be a part of the Emek community! 

To contact Morah Botach, email [email protected]

 

 

Sherry Alter

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When I started working at Emek, the school impressed me as more than just an educational facility. It’s a vibrant community, nurturing the next generation with care, creativity, and commitment. I was born in South Africa where I graduated from the Teacher’s Training College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. In 1992, after teaching third grade for 10 years, I immigrated to Los Angeles and have taught fifth and third grades in Jewish schools for over 30 years. I stay current with the latest teaching techniques by attending workshops and seminars on Education. I  live happily in Sherman Oaks with my daughter, Alexandra, and our two adorable dogs. I am very happy to be a member of the Emek community where I can nurture and motivate children.

To contact Sherry Alter, email [email protected]

 

Rabbi Dovid Junik 

Rabbi Dovid Junik grew up in London, England, on Shlichut helping spread Judaism around, and went on to graduate The Rabbinical College of America in New Jersey with ordination from Rabbi Israel Meir Lau and Rabbi Chaim Schapiro. Together with his wife Dina and 3 children they live in Encino.

To contact Rabbi Junik, email [email protected]

Nissim Brousan 

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Nissim Brousan is excited to join Emek as the new third grade rebbi this year! He grew up in Los Angeles and spent the past few years in yeshiva. He spent one year in Mikdash Melech in Yerushalayim and 6 years in Rabbi Diamond’s Yeshiva in Deal, NJ. He is passionate about helping his students connect to Torah, develop middot tovot, and approach yiddishkeit with an enjoyment. He is very much look forward to the upcoming year with all of you! 

To contact Nissim Brousan, email [email protected]

 

 

Sophia Hakakha

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Sophia Hakakha grew up in Tarzana and went to Bais Yaakov for High School. She just finished a year and a half of learning in Jerusalem, Israel. She comes from a family of teachers and is very excited to be teaching at Emek. She teaches Chumash, Navi, Halacha, and Parsha to Middle School Girls. 

To contact Sophia Hakakha, email [email protected]

 

 

 

 

Hadar Sharf

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Hadar Sharf was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Her passion for education has grown over the past four fulfilling years in the field, during which she has had the opportunity to work in both Torah Studies and General Studies. She is excited to be starting her second year at Emek, working with the wonderful third grade class. Her educational background includes a Teaching Credential from the DeLeT Program at Hebrew Union College, as well as a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. Outside the classroom, Hadar enjoys reading, gardening, and staying active. She is truly passionate about education and is thrilled for the opportunity to teach and help nurture her students’ growth and love of learning.

To contact Hadar Sharf, email [email protected]