With decades of experience in Jewish and secular education, Rina is passionate about fostering learning and connection across all ages at Kol Ami. As Education Director, she oversees programs that span from preschool through high school, coordinates our Jewish Lifelong Learning (JLL) offerings for adults, and leads initiatives such as the Mishpocha Project, which engages families with young children in Jewish life.

Born and raised in Jerusalem, Rina served in the Israeli Defense Forces before moving to Tucson in 1987. Her career in education began at the Tucson Jewish Community Center’s Early Childhood Program, where she taught for many years. In 2008, she joined the Or Chadash Religious School, later leading the joint school with Temple Emanu-El beginning in 2021. Today, she brings her experience to her role at Kol Ami, guiding both students and adults in meaningful Jewish learning.

Rina holds an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Central Arizona College, a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northern Arizona University, and an executive master’s degree in Jewish Educational Leadership from Hebrew Union College. In 2023, she was honored by the Association of Reform Jewish Educators with the title of Reform Jewish Educator (R.J.E.).

When she’s not in the classroom or planning educational programs, Rina enjoys Israeli dancing, reading, and traveling. She and her husband, Jim, are the proud parents of two daughters and grandparents to three wonderful grandchildren.

Contact Rina if you:

- Have questions about Religious School or Jewish Lifelong Learning opportunities

- Are interested in teaching or volunteering in the Religious School

- Would like to learn more about programs for families with young children

- Want to connect about Jewish education for any age or stage of life