Empowering Educators in Arizona Jewish Schools Conference

Neurodiversity and Differentiated Learning:
A Jewish Perspective on Inclusion, Education, and Community

August 19, 2025 | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Join us for this enriching Jewish Day School conference.
A day of learning with fellow educators and experts in the field of neurodiversity.
Led by professionals dedicated to fostering growth through a blend of tradition, creativity, and hands-on learning.

Conference includes Keynote Speaker, Workshops, and Breakfast Nosh
$36 per Teacher

Join us for Registration and Nosh at 8:00 AM

Keynote Speaker
8:20 AM - 9:15 AM

Dr. Debra Drang, Director Educational Excellence at Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools
Including Diverse Learners: Designing Classrooms Where All Students Thrive

In every classroom, student strengths, needs, and learning profiles vary in ways we can predict and plan for in advance. This workshop explores why proactive planning for diverse learners is essential to creating inclusive, supportive learning environments. Participants will learn practical strategies to design lessons and classrooms that ensure all students can engage, grow, and thrive.


Sessions
9:25 AM - 10:15 AM
10:25 AM - 11:15 AM

There is no kid in the back - engaging all learners in Judaic studies
Presenter: Rabbi Peretz Hochbaum

Join veteran educator and visionary leader Rabbi Peretz Hochbaum as he shares proven strategies for reaching every learner—regardless of background, ability, or learning style. Drawing from over three decades of leadership in K-12 Jewish education and a career steeped in innovation, Rabbi Hochbaum will explore techniques rooted in differentiated instruction, personalized learning, and cooperative engagement. Participants will walk away with practical tools to transform their Judaic Studies classrooms into dynamic, inclusive environments where no student is ever left behind.


Mindfulness for Teachers - A Brain Based Approach
Presenter: Jill Leshin

Learn how to navigate the twists and turns of everyday classroom challenges with mindfulness. In this workshop, you'll gain practical, actionable strategies to incorporate mindfulness into your teaching practice. These tools will not only help you manage stress and decrease behavioral problems, but will also empower your students to regulate their own emotions.


Accommodating Neurodiversity: Kids dont come with instructions
Presenter: Dr. Joel Hanania

Dr. Hanania will explore how educators can create inclusive, responsive classrooms by anticipating challenges before they arise, embedding supports that benefit everyone, and fostering environments where all students thrive. Learn practical, preventative interventions that shift the focus from reacting to behavior to cultivating a culture of understanding, belonging, and success.


Everything teachers are never taught about ADHD (but should be).
Presenter: Ryan Wexelblatt - ADHD Dude

In this practical, no-fluff session, you'll learn:

  • What ADHD really looks like in a classroom setting - beyond the stereotypes

  • Straightforward strategies that seamlessly integrate into your existing routines

  • How to facilitate students with ADHD to be more successful in your class

Best of all, the approaches shared in this training aren't just helpful for students with ADHD - they're effective for all students, making your classroom more efficient, supportive, and manageable for everyone. You'll leave with tools you can use immediately without reinventing your lesson plans or spending hours prepping.


Executive Functioning – Easier Than You Think
Presenters:
Sharon Landay, Director of Education for Gesher Disability Resources
Stacy Rosenthal, Director of Programs for Gesher Disability Resources

There are simple ways to incorporate executive functioning into your classroom to improve student success. Unlock the mystery behind executive functioning and discover simple, effective strategies to support students in developing these critical life skills. This session breaks down the components of executive functioning—like planning, organization, and self-regulation—and offers practical, classroom-ready tools that make a big impact without overwhelming your day. Perfect for educators looking to boost student independence and success with ease.


Gifted 101: Understanding Characteristics and Strategies for Meeting the Needs of Gifted Learners
Presenter: Dr. DJ Graham, Head of School for ASU’s Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy

Gifted students are a unique population that has varied and diverse academic and social-emotional needs. By understanding the needs of gifted learners, educators are able to support these students in meeting their potential. Come learn a general overview of the academic and social-emotional characteristics of gifted learners as well as practical strategies for supporting them inside and outside the classroom.


Closing: Join together for grade level collaboration
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM


THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

FRIEDEL FAMILY FOUNDATION