The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles has partnered with the William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education of The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) and Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion School of Education (HUC), to launch JECELI-LA. The program, previously developed by the two schools, is poised “to enhance Jewish early childhood centers by inspiring educators who will lead with depth, confidence, and a vibrant network of colleagues.”

The first cohort of JECELI-LA is composed of 16 diverse fellows with varied experience and backgrounds – participants are early childhood directors, assistant directors, and teacher leaders. The program includes five seminars based on the synergy between Jewish concepts of leadership and learning and the current research on best practices in the field. JECELI-LA Fellows are matched with a mentor helping them apply their learning.

Fellows and mentors met together during the first week of February 2019 to begin JECELI-LA programming at a three-day overnight retreat at American Jewish University’s Brandeis Bardin campus in Simi Valley. The program concludes in May 2020 with an event during which JECELI-LA Fellows present the results of their action-research project: each implements a specific change that enhances the individual’s practice and moves his/her program forward.

JECELI-LA is generously supported by Jim Joseph Foundation.