Chaya Weg, Preschool Director
Chaya Weg, Preschool Director
Chaya Weg was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. From an early age, she was actively involved in supporting her parents at the Chabad House of the University at Michigan. Chaya pursued her higher education, earning her B.A. in early childhood education. Chaya’s passion for children’s education drives her commitment to nurturing young minds and guiding their growth. She is dedicated to creating environments where children can thrive and develop their unique potential. Chaya enjoys engaging in hands-on activities such as baking and art, finding joy in both creative expression and culinary delights. Chaya relocated to Raleigh with her husband Rabbi Levi and son, Mendel.
Lakotia Dickens, Bagel Bouncers Lead Teacher
My name is Morah LaKotia. I have 12 years of childcare experience, from in the classroom to the director’s office, as well as raising two boys of my own. I have lived in North Carolina all of my life. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to continue to nurture and develop young minds at Hillel.
Debbie Sienkowski, Super Stars Co-Lead
My name is Debbie! I have always loved working with children! I am originally from Long Island, New York where I worked, (during my teenage years), as a babysitter, nanny and in day camps during the summer. After receiving a Bachelors degree in Sociology & Psychology, I went on to earn my CDA Certificate. I worked in NYC at the 92nd Street YM-YWHA, in the Center for Youth and Family for 2 years before moving to Florida. In Florida, I worked at Temple Beth El as a lead teacher for the 3 year olds until I had children of my own. I have 3 children. My youngest child is a graduate of Hillel preschool. I started working at Hillel in 2014 as a floater and eventually worked as an assistant in the Super Star class. I became a lead teacher for the Mitzvah Maven class in 2018 and am currently a co lead in the Super Star class. During my free time I enjoy doing jigsaw puzzles, reading, hiking and spending time with family and friends.
Shoshi Braman, Mitzvah Mavens Lead Teacher
Shoshi grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia, where she attended Jewish Day School through junior high, instilling a strong foundation in Jewish education. With over 36 years of experience as an educator, Shoshi has taught a range of ages—from preschoolers to adults—through various settings, including religious schools and tutoring. She has a particular passion for supporting students of all abilities, with nine years of experience as a special education teacher and resource room teacher in Jewish schools in the Philadelphia area. Since moving to Raleigh in the summer of 2018, Shoshi has continued her dedication to teaching by working in both preschool and religious school settings. We’re excited to have her bring her expertise, warmth, and commitment to our community this year!
Zella Rutenberg, Afternoon Program Teaching Assistant
Zella moved to NC from Israel with her family (husband and 2 teenagers ) 2.5 years ago. Zella speaks Hebrew, Russian and English, she loves working with children, her positive attitude and energy make her a great fit to our Hillel team.
Shevy Duskis, Super Stars Assistant Teacher
Sharon Timor, Mitzvah Mavens Teaching Assistant
My name is Sharon Timor, I was born and raised in Israel.
Ten years ago I’ve relocated to North Carolina with my Family and live in the WF area, raising our 4 children.
I’m well familiar with the Hillel Family as a Mitzvah Maven, Bagel Bouncer and After-care teacher in the past years, as well as a mother of 3 Hillel’s graduate
Dee Dee Thomas, Bagel Bouncers & Afternoon Program Teaching Assistant
I’m DeeDee, a reformed stay-at-home mom turned preschool teacher. I have two little boys who are the light of my life and a husband who is less so.
I have a BA in English and a BS in Political Science which are useless to me in my everyday life as a preschool jungle gym. But not as much as that Law Degree I received.
I’m a recent NC transplant, by way of Louisiana and Arizona where my extended family still reside.
It is my constant joy and pleasure to spend my days watching little children become more aware the world around them and learn through play and exploration.
If you’re looking for me, I’m knitting so follow the balls of yarn.