Lori Becker brings a wealth of experience and passion to the TKAE Early Childhood Program since 2012, where she serves as the Curriculum Specialist. With a B.S. in Elementary Education specialized in Special Education and Judaic Studies from the University of Florida, and an M.A. in Early Childhood from Nova Southeastern University, Lori is well-equipped to inspire young minds. Lori's dedication to her profession is evident through her active memberships in esteemed organizations like NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children), Children’s Forum, Zero to Three, and JECP (Jewish Early Childhood Professionals). With a remarkable 25-year journey as [...]

Mary Adelyn Kauffman's remarkable journey in the realm of music spans multiple facets, from being a skilled conductor and vocal coach to a highly proficient pianist. Having pursued master's and doctoral degrees in Collaborative Piano at the University of Miami, she honed her craft unwavering dedication. Her musical aspirations led her to become a young artist at the Greater Miami Opera and collaborate with the esteemed Miami City Ballet before embarking on a nearly two-decade-long musical sojourn in Germany. During her time in Germany, Mary conducted musical theater and opera productions in private and public theaters, while also nurturing both [...]

Tracy Kahn's love affair with music began at a young age and has evolved into a lifelong devotion to sharing the gift of song. From her early days performing in musical theater to leading song-filled gatherings in youth groups and sororities, Tracy's enchanting voice has resonated with audiences of all ages. Her journey as an early childhood music educator has been a delightful adventure, as she continues to infuse joy and passion for music into the hearts of children and families each day. Tracy's warm and engaging presence creates an enchanting atmosphere, where melodies come alive and hearts unite in [...]

Adina Baseman Sharfstein is a dynamic cantorial songleader and educator who specializes in Holocaust studies. She is currently retired after teaching 5th grade for Broward County Public Schools for the past 32 years. Adina was the recipient of both the 2014 Gutterman Family Exemplary Holocaust Educator of the Year award (through Florida Atlantic University), and the Pola & Ludwik Brodzki Family Holocaust Public Education Award in 2018 for outstanding effort and commitment in teaching the Holocaust in Broward County Schools (through Jewish Federation of Broward County). Adina also writes Holocaust curriculum, and trains teachers how to teach the Holocaust through [...]

Hi, my name is Lexi Landa and I am one of the new youth coordinators here at TKAE. I just finished my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at University of South Florida. I grew up in Orlando going to Congregation Reform Judaism and was very involved in youth programming there. I am excited to join the TKAE community and help to build up the youth programs here!

I'm Liat Levy, the new Youth Coordinator dedicated to the older age groups. I am excited to create a new program for the youth, giving them a place to connect, socialize, and grow both personally and spiritually. I speak Spanish and Hebrew fluently, so language will be no barrier for us! I am looking forward to meeting all of you and growing together as a community.