Valeria Michanie

Valeria Michanie, the passionate and dedicated Director of Lifelong Learning, is a native of Cordoba, Argentina, who knew from an early age that Jewish education was her calling. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Hebrew, she honed her skills at the Shaii Agnon Institute in Argentina and the Seminar Ha Kibutzim in Israel. Valeria holds a bachelor’s degree in education and an executive master’s degree in Jewish education from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR).

With an extensive teaching background in Israel, Argentina, and Miami, Valeria joined Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El in 2016, bringing over 20 years of experience leading Jewish early childhood centers and religious schools. Her passion for the coming generations and Jewish education drives her to create and implement creative and meaningful curricula, including an innovative project-based learning approach utilizing UBD Design.

Valeria’s dedication to Jewish education goes beyond the classroom. She has facilitated various hands-on family education programs, engaged as an educator at URJ Camp Coleman during summers, and developed teachers’ professional development for religious school instructors. Moreover, Valeria conducts creative workshops for adults, including walking tours that incorporate Jewish content and social-community interactions.

During the pandemic, Valeria initiated the unique “Shul In” program, providing students the opportunity to attend online school onsite, fostering a safe and social environment amidst isolation.

As a lifelong Jewish learner and dedicated professional, Valeria shares her love and knowledge of Judaism and Eretz Yisrael with the communities she serves. She leads inspiring Momentum trips to Israel, empowering moms to embrace Jewishness in their homes and reconnecting them to their Jewish roots.

Valeria firmly believes that preserving our past, honoring the present, and educating future generations strengthens our children’s Jewish identity and sustains the timeless connection that has bound us for thousands of years.

Beyond her professional interests, Valeria enjoys extensive travel, reading, writing, participating in workshops, and embracing the vibrant life of Miami. She cherishes her happy marriage and her three amazing children and grandson, who hold a special place in her heart.