CAJE Blog

Zionism, the ideological cornerstone of the modern state of Israel, encompasses a rich tapestry of beliefs, visions, and historical contexts. By exploring the diverse ideologies that have shaped Zionist thought — from political pragmatism to cultural revivalism — individuals can gain more appreciation for Israel’s complexities and foster a deeper understanding of its significance within Jewish collective consciousness.

This past month, Carly Orshan, CAJE’s Director of Teen Engagement and Education, was privileged to join a group of exceptional national educators on a trip to Israel. Here is the second part of her reflections. At CAJE we are continually seeking ways to enhance our educational frameworks and support Miami youth in their connection to Israel and their Jewish identity.

This past month, Carly Orshan, CAJE’s Director of Teen Engagement and Education, was privileged to join a group of exceptional national educators on a trip to Israel organized by The Jewish Education Project (TJEP) and The iCenter, in collaboration with The Jewish Agency. This trip, known as Mishlachot Areyvut, stood to bear witness to the events of October 7th and its aftermath.

One of the cornerstones of CAJE’s philosophy is the importance of professional development in Jewish education. Every school year, CAJE through its staff invests deeply in professional development opportunities for educators in the Jewish early childhood centers, day schools, and congregational programs across Miami-Dade. But investment in professional development doesn’t stop at our work with others.

On June 6, Igor Shteyrenberg, the Executive Director of the Miami Jewish Film Festival, was presented with the Rabbi Solomon Schiff Jewish Communal Professional of Excellence Award by JPro Miami. This award recognizes a mid-career Jewish communal professional who has made an exceptional contribution to the field and community. In the 12 years since Igor Shteyrenberg took the helm of the Miami Jewish Film Festival, his transformative leadership has been nothing short of extraordinary. Under Igor’s guidance, the Miami Jewish Film Festival has evolved into a world-class Jewish cultural event.

On May 10th, 215 students from 13 schools gathered at Scheck Hillel Community School to compete in various challenges and showcase what they’ve learned throughout the year at CAJE’s 7th Annual South Florida Jewish Day School Robotics Festival.

In her new role at CAJE, Bella is eager to unite her business acumen and love of learning to develop high-level educational opportunities throughout Miami-Dade. She believes that our region is one of the most culturally diverse, creative, and yet underdeveloped adult Jewish learning communities in the United States, and that the time is ripe for actualizing our potential.

We invite you to watch a video from two outstanding students who recently returned from the transformational journey to Poland on CAJE’s Leo Martin March of the Living. Joining the over 2,500 Miami alumni of the program, these students embarked on a profound experience that deeply shaped their perspectives.