Andrea’s formal teaching career began over a decade ago in the Department of Education at Rhode Island College, where she guided teachers as they learned to create diverse, safe, and democratic classrooms. Eager for the opportunity to put educational theory into practice, Andrea became a Pre-K teacher at JCDSRI, where she created learning experiences based on principles of progressive education. Two years ago, Andrea returned to the university classroom, teaching in the Schoolman Graduate School of Jewish Education at Hebrew College. For over 10 years, Andrea has worked at JCDSRI as a classroom teacher, a teacher-leader, and is currently JCDSRI’s Principal. She will assume the position of head of school in July, 2017.
In her work, Andrea is particularly drawn to accompanying people through transitions. She has had the privilege of helping young children through the beginning stages of their formal education, supporting adults as they embark on their new careers as teachers, and guiding parents through uncertain or challenging experiences. She looks forward to accompanying JCDSRI through its next iteration as a center for learning, collaboration, and innovation.
Andrea brings years of teaching and administrative experience to her new position along with expertise in creating and executing social-emotional curricula, in mentoring teachers, in nurturing partnerships with families and communities, and in educational theory – particularly around constructivism and progressive education.
Andrea is committed to leading JCDSRI from strength to strength while providing a powerful voice to the chorus of those reshaping the landscape of Jewish education.
Andrea lives in Providence with her husband Steve and is the proud parent of two JCDSRI alumnae, Ariela ’09 and Elie ’13.