Our Staff
about Cutler
Our programs
Administration
Ms. Kristin Devers – Cutler Jewish Day School Principal
Ms. Kristin joined the CJDS family in 2019. She has 16 years of educational experience including serving as a classroom teacher and the past 11 years as an administrator. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Master in the Art of Teaching with a focus in Science from LaGrange College. In addition, she earned her Educational Specialist Degree in Principalship and Leadership from Arkansas State University. Currently, Ms. Kristin is working on her dissertation for the Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership at Arkansas State.
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Ms. Kristin holds a Professional Teaching Certificate from the state of South Carolina indicating she is highly qualified in Middle Level Science, Science, and certified as Secondary Principal with a Gifted and Talented Endorsement. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher in the area of Early Adolescence Science. Ms. Kristin began her educational career teaching sophomore biology in Auburn, Alabama. After moving to South Carolina, she began teaching at Longleaf Middle School in Richland School District Two where she taught 7th grade science, served as a grade level team leader and head of the science department. For the past nine years, Ms. Kristin led the School of Zoological and Botanical Studies (ZooBot) housed at Longleaf Middle School. She was named the Magnet Schools of America Teacher of the Year Representative for Richland School District Two for 2018-2019, Richland County Soil and Water Conservation District State Teacher of the Year in 2017, and Teacher of the Year for Longleaf Middle School for 2015-2016. She has been trained and certified in Learning Centered Schools, Differentiated Instruction, Understanding By Design, Project Wild, and Project Wet. Kristin has also been trained as a project-based learning coach by the Buck Learning Institute. Ms. Krisitn has presented at numerous conferences at both the state and national level including South Carolina Middle School Association, Association for Constructivist Teaching, and Magnet Schools of America. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Kristin replied, “Six years ago I chose CJDS for my daughter because it felt like home. I have never forgotten that feeling. You can feel the love as soon as you step inside the doors of this school. I am thankful to call CJDS my home now. It is truly a special place.”
Ms. Billie green smith – Preschool Director
Ms. Billie began her career at CJDS in 2006, bringing with her over 30 years of experience in the field of education and family services. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois and her Master in the Art of teaching with an endorsement for Teacher Leadership and Coaching at Roosevelt University in Chicago, Illinois.
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Ms. Billie also studied at Erikson Institute in Chicago, completing coursework related to early childhood development, program administration and program advocacy. Ms. Billie has directed several large child care programs in Chicago and worked as a training coordinator for the University of Maryland School of Nursing. She initially began substituting at CJDS after retiring from the South Carolina Department of Social Services. When Ms. Billie was asked why she chose CJDS, she responded, “My 19 year old grandson attended CJDS from kindergarten to 3rd grade; during this time I fell in love with the mission and approach to learning that the Day School offers. As a substitute, I was able to see the continuity of learning from birth to fifth grade. As I joined the team as a teacher, I was able to help engage children in learning experiences and support their overall development.”
“A social-justice-oriented, child-centered school with an emphasis on outdoor play, autonomous creativity, community building, and emotional intelligence. My daughter has been attending this school since she was one year old (currently a kindergartener), and we are constantly amazed by the skills she learns there and with how much the administrators, teachers, and caregivers value and respond to each child.”
Infant – Four-Year–Old Classes
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Young Infant Class – Hebrew Name – T’Nokeya: Young Child
Older Infants Class – Hebrew Name – Zereh: Seeds
One-Year-Old Class – Hebrew Name – Shoresh: Roots
Ms. Stephanie Boutte joined the CJDS family in 2020 after previously serving as a 3-year-old teacher at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church. She also has experience working with children with special needs. Ms. Stephanie is currently finishing her bachelor’s degree in Special Education at South Carolina State University. When Ms. Stephanie was asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, she replied, “I chose to work at CJDS in order to grow with these future leaders in many ways. I look forward to spreading knowledge and teaching respect for others and nature. Everyone should realize that we are all the same as humans yet we all have different purposes. CJDS is a wonderful place that uses a wonderful self-driven curriculum.”
Two-Year-Old Class – Hebrew Name – Giv’all: Stems
Ms. Holly McCall came to CJDS in 2019 after serving as an educator at Trenholm Road United Methodist Preschool and After school Care for 8 years, working with infants to school-age children. She received her Associate’s degree in Early Care and Education from Midlands Technical College. Ms. Holly holds a Bachelor of Humanities Degree in Behavioral Science from Columbia College. She is currently in school to earn a Master of Science Degree in Addiction Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Ms. Holly has received credentials in South Carolina Early Childhood, South Carolina Special Needs, and South Carolina Preschool. She has been trained at the ChildCare Education Institute, South Carolina Association for the Education of Young Children and First Steps. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Holly replied, “I chose CJDS because of the progressive and growing nature of the school. The school is a representation of our society, having multiple cultures that are merged together for one common goal: Educating young minds.”
Ms. Lindsey Feder began her career at CJDS in 2017. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Education from the University of South Carolina. Ms. Lindsey has received training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy and has over 4 years of experience working with a wide range of ages of children with various behavioral needs. She teaches children during the Creative Fit and Fun Camp housed at CJDS during the summer. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, she replied: “I choose to teach here, because I love the students and getting to help them learn as they grow.”
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Three-Year-Old Class – Hebrew Name – Alva: Leaves
Ms. Sharny Barhydt joined the CJDS family in 2008. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from Winthrop University. Prior to serving our students at CJDS, Ms. Sharny taught 4k and 3rd grade at Burton Pack Elementary for 10 years. She also spent time as an educator with all age groups of children while working at Main Street Developmental Center. In 2014, Ms. Sharny completed the South Carolina Program for Infant and Toddler Care Training. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Sharny responded, “I started at CJDS because it seemed like such a wonderful atmosphere to work in. I then fell in love with the community and educational philosophy as I enrolled my own children and continued to work here for going on 11years!”
Ms. Sierra Briggs is originally from Sumter, South Carolina. She joined the CJDS family in 2020 after graduating Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Leadership Studies. Ms. Sierra completed her internship at CJDS and served as the three-year-old aftercare teacher. She is currently pursuing a graduate degree in speech pathology. When Ms. Sierra was asked why she chose CJDS, she responded that she absolutely loves how much the school values hands-on learning. At CJDS, she is able to offer so many opportunities for students to learn about the wonderful communities within our school as well as a deep appreciation for the communities around us.
Three-Year-Old Class Hebrew Name – Perech: Blossom
PreK/K Class Hebrew Name – Peirot: Fruit
Ms. Shalome Mangan has been at CJDS since 2014. She has 25 years of experience in the field of early childhood education. Ms. Shalome has an Associates degree in Early Care and Education from Midlands Technical College. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Columbia College and is currently working on her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Shalome has been certified in Project Learning Tree of South Carolina. In addition, she has earned certifications in SC Early Childhood, Preschool and Special Needs Credentials, Infant and Toddler Care, Social & Emotional Development, and NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children.) Ms. Shalome has been trained in Health & Safety, Health & Nutrition, and NAEYC Code of Ethics. She has educated children at the at Apple Tree Early Learning Center, Family Christian Academy, Children’s Place at the University of South Carolina, Lake Carolina Early Learning Center, and Edventure Children’s Museum and Afterschool Program. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Shalome answered, “I choose to teach here at CJDS because I love to watch children develop and grow, through inquiry which helps them think for themselves as well as develop new ideas. As a teacher, it is my job to make sure that I connect with my students and families as I serve them. It is through my positive interaction and positive influence that connects with them as they grow. CONNECT – SERVE – GROW”
Four-Year-Old Class – Hebrew Name – Nevet: Sprouts
Ms. Claire Becraft came to CJDS in 2017 after serving as both a kindergarten teacher and a school administration assistant at Harmony School. She holds both a Bachelor of Science degree in Experiential Education from Brevard College and a Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree from Queens University. Ms. Claire also serves as a Jewish studies educator at Beth Shalom Synagogue for grades K-1. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, her response was, “As a former parent of a CJDS student I have always appreciated the emphasis on inquiry-based learning and environmental education that the school embraces. As an educator, the active nurturing that occurs in each classroom is invaluable to children’s growth. I began teaching Jewish studies at Beth Shalom Synagogue in 2015 as a way to share Jewish culture and traditions with young students and love that this is so well integrated into our daily curriculum at CJDS.”
Ms. Joy Cameron Ms. Joy came to CJDS in 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of South Carolina which focuses on Early Childhood Education and Social Work. She has completed training for children with special needs in the areas of educational, developmental, and medical with Palmetto Health USC Medically Fragile Children’s Program. Ms. Joy provided care and education for children through the University of South Carolina Children’s Center prior to beginning her career at CJDS. She also has experience in providing behavior modifications for children of a variety of ages through her work with The South Carolina Youth Advocate Program and Palmetto Place Children’s Shelter. In addition, Ms. Joy is a member of The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). When Ms. Joy was asked why she chose CJDS she replied, “I’m all about worms and dirt, and our wonderful inquiry-based, Reggio inspired program gives me room to share my love of nature with the kids. I’m very involved and like to make every activity a fun and learning one; sprinkled with humor. I don’t think of my work as a job, I think of it as an investment in the lives I touch, one that’s filled with laughter and exploration each day. “
Four-Year-Old Class Hebrew Name – Tzemach: Plants
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Preschool – 5th Grade Classes
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Preschool Torah Teachers
Morah Devorah and Morah Sarit will again be working with the children in the areas of Judaism and Hebrew.
Morah Devorah began her journey with CJDS in 2008. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Liberal Arts. Morah Devorah is currently studying to become a licensed counselor. Prior to coming to CJDS, she taught special needs students in the Sinai Special Needs Program in Livingston, New Jersey. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School Morah Devorah replied, “ CJDS is a nurturing and loving environment, ready to help each student shine to their full potential every day.”
Hamorah Sarit came to CJDS in 2016. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in both Accounting 1 & 2 from the Technical College Amal. Morah Sarit has been trained and earned numerous certifications such as Early Literacy for Children Age Birth to Three, ASQ for the Developing Child, Facility Rules & Regulations, Health, Safety, & Nutrition, Abuse & Neglect Recognition, Child Growth & Development, Behavioral Observations & Screening, and Special Needs Appropriate Practices. She served students at a preschool in Florida before moving to South Carolina. When Morah Sarit was asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, she responded, “I chose to work at CJDS not only because I can share my first language but also to encourage kids that they can always learn new things in a safe, fun, and positive way.”
Kindergarten
Ms. Vernetta Fogle came to CJDS in 2007 and has been in the field of education for more than 30 years. She has served as an educator to special needs children at both the elementary and middle school level in Cumberland County School Systems in Fayetteville, North Carolina. During this time she coached girls track, softball, basketball, volleyball, and refereed youth basketball. Ms. Vernetta also substituted in both Richland One and Two school districts as well as working for Montessori Schools in Columbia. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Sports/Exercise Science from The University of North Carolina. Ms. Vernetta also earned a Master of Arts degree in Sports Administration from The University of North Carolina. When asked why she chose CJDS she responded, “I enjoy working with all children. CJDS is unique and I want to be a continuing part of its excellence. I thrive to contribute to its continued success.”
Tracy Moore joined the CJDS family in 2016 with over 20 years of childcare experience. Ms. Tracy previously served as the director of a childcare center in Atlanta, Georgia. When she moved to South Carolina, Ms. Tracy became the manager of an after school program at Saint Joseph’s Catholic School. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School Ms. Tracy replied, “I am so excited to be a new addition to our beloved infant room. I look forward to helping your little ones grow.”
First Grade
Ms. Jill Allawos came to CJDS in 2018 after teaching in Lexington One and Richland One public schools (grades 4-7 and Adult Education) for 36 years. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina and her Masters of Education from Southern Wesleyan as well as becoming certified in Elementary Education with a Gifted and Talented Education endorsement from the state of South Carolina. Ms. Jill has been trained in Coached Project and Assessment at the Paidea National Training Center. She has also received training from the Writing Improvement Network. Most recently, she attended R.I.S.E. training through Dyslexia Resource Center to assist struggling readers. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, she answered, “Cutler offered me the opportunity to teach in the way I know children learn best. Student-driven curriculum is my passion, and I find I learn every day from these children.”
Ms. Melanie Pace came to CJDS in 2017. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix. Ms. Melanie holds a Professional Teaching Certificate from the state of South Carolina in Elementary Education. She is a member of Pi Lambda Theta, an honor society and professional association for educators. She was a student teacher at Cutler Jewish Day School and continues to participate in professional development opportunities through organizations such as the Alliance for Climate Education and the Association for Constructivist Teaching. Previously, Ms. Melanie worked at the Jewish Community Center as the Member Services Manager. In that role, Ms. Melanie directed spring and winter break camps and after school program with tutoring, recreational and sports activities varying in ages from two to fifteen years old. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Melanie replied, “I chose to work at CJDS because the philosophies of teaching and pillars of the school are important to her. I felt this school was the most welcoming and nurturing. I believe the best practices in education are evident at CJDS – meeting individual needs of students, project-based learning and constructionist theory, and integrating social justice issues.”
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Second Grade
Multiage First/Second
Ms. Karen Counts came to CJDS in 2017 after teaching kindergarten through fourth grade in both Florida and South Carolina public schools. She also spent three years as a lead teacher at The Children’s Center at the University of South Carolina. Ms. Karen earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education from Columbia College with additional Gifted and Talented credit from Coastal Carolina University. She holds a Professional Teaching Certificate from the State of South Carolina in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education with a Gifted and Talented Endorsement. When Ms. Karen was asked why she chose CJDS, she responded, “I came to teach at CJDS because of the reputation it holds in inquiry-based education. I love the family atmosphere, students, staff, and administration’s outlook toward student collaboration promoting learning. Students and teachers are highly valued at CJDS.”
Third Grade
Ms. Valerie Parrish-Hoyt began teaching at CJDS in 2007. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of South Carolina. She was awarded her master’s degree in education from Columbia College. Her thesis explored student-led conferences within a kindergarten classroom. Ms. Val has earned her doctoral degree in education from the University of South Carolina. Her dissertation was focused on the implementation of a Forest School Approach in a third grade classroom. She has presented at many state, regional and national conferences sharing her expertise in Project Based Learning and the implementation of Forest School principles within classroom curriculum. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Val responded, “At CJDS I am given the opportunity to teach without limits or restrictions.”
Fourth Grade
Ms. Robin Lourie came to CJDS in 2016 after being a public school teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Georgia. Ms. Robin earned her teacher certification in both Georgia and South Carolina. She is also recognized as a National Board Certified Teacher. Ms. Robin taught ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) for one year at Conder Elementary School in Richland School District Two. After that, she moved into teaching fourth grade. She has also taught at Bethel-Hanberry and Bridge Creek Elementary Schools. When asked why she chooses to teach at CJDS, Ms. Robin says, “My teacher education program focused on the Constructivist theory of teaching. It was a delight to find a school that practices this belief in children building their own knowledge. When I walked in the doors I felt the magic and love and couldn’t wait for the opportunity to be a part of this learning community.”
Fifth Grade
Ms. Jill Allawos will start her second year at Cutler Jewish Day School. Jill has spent 35 years teaching in the public-school system of South Carolina. She holds a four-year degree in elementary education from the University of South Carolina, and a MED from Southern Wesleyan University and an endorsement in gifted and talented education.
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“Student centered learning through inquiry and projects, focus on nurturing and embracing individual needs of each child, teaching them to be kind and helpful. a wonderful place to learn and grow.”
Hebrew & Torah Teachers
Hebrew
Hamorah Vered has served the students at CJDS since 2004. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Computer Science from Bar Ilan University as well as completing all Masters’s degree requirements for Contemporary Judaism. Morah Vered has been to multiple Tal am training institutes for grades 1-5 as well as iTalam grade 2 curriculum. She completed the “People, Place & Self” Teacher Training Institute through the David Project. In association with Emory University, Morah Vered attended Modern Israel’s History, Politics, and Culture Seminar through the Center for Israel Education. She has also completed the Legacy Heritage Teacher Institute through LHF and the Hebrew University. When asked why she chose CJDS, Morah Vered responded, “Because it is a Jewish school whose mission and needs align with my core beliefs and abilities. For me teaching Hebrew is a way to bridge between my student’s contemporary world and the Jewish history and it’s a wealth of wisdom and lessons it can teach us today.”
Torah
Rabbi Hershel came to CJDS in 2016. He received Rabbinic Ordination from Rabbinical College of Pretoria, South Africa in 2010 as well as an advanced rabbinical ordination by the Av Bet Din of Toronto, Canada. Rabbi Hershel was previously Co-Director of Teen and Young Adult Programming at Chabad of Greater Dayton and before that a Researcher for the Yahadus Curriculum for Jewish Schools. He also has multiple years of experience in informal Jewish education. When asked why he chose CJDS, Rabbi Hershel responded, “I love teaching at CJDS! our school has a philosophy of unconditional love for every student, which is reflected in every room and every interaction.”
HaMorah Pesha started at CJDS in 2016. She graduated from Teaching Seminary Chaya Mushka of Tzfat Israel. She completed a teaching internship in Helsinki Finland in 2011. Morah Pesha was a teaching assistant at Cheder Chabad of Thornhill in Ontario, Canada. She also served as a teacher at Preschool of the Arts at Chabad of York Mills in Toronto and DUMBO Preschool in Brooklyn, New York. In addition, Morah Pesha was the Co-director of Teen and Young Adult Programming of Chabad of Greater Dayton and the Director of Camp Leah Rivkah, which specializes in informal Jewish education. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, Morah Pesha replied, “CJDS gives unconditional love to every child that walks through the doors and strives to bring out the full potential of every student. It is a great honor to teach at CJDS!”
Extra Curriculars
Art
Jennifer Muellner-Bjorn arrived at CJDS in 2019. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre, English, and Spanish. She also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching. Ms. Jennifer has a Professional Teaching Certificate from the state of South Carolina in Theatre and in Speech with a Gifted and Talented endorsement. She is a Japan Memorial Fund Fulbright Recipient. Ms. Jennifer has been trained in Curriculum Leadership in the Arts. She has served as a theatre teacher at Hopkins, Hand, and Crayton Middle Schools in Richland School District One. She was a member of the Executive board of SCSTA (South Carolina Speech and Theatre Association) and SCTA (South Carolina Theatre Association). Ms. Jennifer is also a current adjunct professor of the University of South Carolina and Aiken Technical College. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Jennifer responded, “ I love to introduce children to the joy of Viola Spolin’s theater games, musical theater, puppetry, acting fundamentals and more. CJDS is a gem in Columbia and I am having so much fun being the “drama mama” on Thursdays!l”The Caring Team
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Ms. Shemaine Thorton
Ms. Shemaine Thornton came to CJDS in 2019. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Columbia College with additional graduate work in History from the University of South Carolina. She holds a Professional teaching certificate from the state of South Carolina in Elementary Education. Ms. Shermaine spent the majority of her career in education teaching Science and Social Studies. She has been trained in Nature-Based Inquiry (NBI) and participated in a 3 years grant, Teaching American History. Additionally, In addition, Ms. Shermaine taught Elements of Art this past summer. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, Ms. Shermain responded, “ I love the caring and compassionate environment at CJDS.”
Ms. Lisa Aiken
Ms. Lisa Aiken joined the CJDS family in March 2019. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of South Carolina. She has a wealth of experience as she has been caring for children for many years. Ms. Lisa serves as a teacher assistant in several of the preschool classrooms during the day. She also teaches during our aftercare program Ms. Lisa is also a teacher at the Creative Fit and Fun Camp housed at the Cutler Jewish Day School during the summer. When Ms. Lisa was asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, she answered, “I get to interact with many different children during the day and the leadership at CJDS is exceptional.”
Ms. Sinkler
Ms. Sinkler joined the CJDS family in 2002, as an aftercare teacher and Child Adult Care Food Program monitor. She has received training and certification from the Program for Infant and Toddler Care (PITC). Ms. Sinkler has also participated in the “Be Well, Care Well,” training available through South Carolina Program for Infant and Toddler Care. In addition, she is trained in both Infant and Adult CPR and first aid. When asked why she chose CJDS, Ms. Sinkler replied, “I love the children at this school.”
Ms. Linda
Ms. Linda has been at CJDS since 2014 after 30 years of working in Richland One and subsequently retiring from Richland One. During her time in Richland One, she worked as an Administrative Assistant at Horrell Hill and Mill Creek Elementary as well as Dreher High School. Ms. Linda holds an associate degree from the University of South Carolina in business. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, Ms. Linda replied, “My granddaughter attended CJDS from age 2 through 5th grade. As I would pick her up each afternoon, I saw the greatness of CJDS in so many ways. I let it be known that I would love to be a part of CJDS when I retire.”
Ms. Lisa Aiken
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Ms. Evelyn Gaton began her career at CJDS in 2015. She went to college for culinary arts and medical coding. Ms. Evelyn has completed Pro Solutions Training and Be Well Care Well Training. She has also been a Sunday School educator at the Tree of Life synagogue for preschool-age children. In addition, Ms. Evelyn worked Camp Gesher for preschool-age children for multiple years. She assists in all classrooms and takes care of all the supplies and our teachers. When asked why she chose the Cutler Jewish Day School, she replied, “I chose to teach at CJDS due to the quality of education, the size of the school, and being able to get to know the students on a one by one basis.”University of South Carolina Students
University of South Carolina Students that will help care for children in the late afternoon include Kendrell Parker, Craig Madison, Karlie Cotney, and Rose Wallace.
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