JTS Launches New DSLTI Cohort
July 21, 2021, New York, New York –The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) proudly announces a new cohort of its signature professional development program, Day School Leadership Training Institute (DSLTI). DSLTI is an annual program of the William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education of JTS that prepares new and aspiring heads of school for leadership positions in Jewish day schools. Previously funded by The AVI CHAI Foundation, the program is continuing with full funding from several foundations including the GS Humane Corp.
The DSLTI cohort-based model enables participants from denominational-based and community day schools to gain invaluable leadership development skills, engage in experiential learning and text study, and collaboratively problem-solve with peers. Participants bridge their diverse talents and passions for everything from organizational leadership as Jewish life directors, congregational rabbis, and chief operating officers, to supporting students and faculty in a dynamic day school world. Participating schools represent a wide geographic span, from Shalhevet High School in Los Angeles to the Milton Gottesman Jewish Community School in Washington, DC; Tucson Hebrew Academy; and Ezra Academy in New Haven.
DSLTI has already trained over 150 educators across North America and Israel. Through the intensive 15-month program, participants develop as a close-knit group of trusted colleagues, as well as benefit from mentoring and coaching from sitting and past heads of schools. This year’s program includes a series of individual, small group, and cohort experiences; a two-week virtual residency; monthly master classes; field work experience; and multiple virtual social experiences.
“We are thrilled to be launching our twelfth cohort of this revered program. Throughout the years, we have received feedback from our DSLTI alumni that the unique blend of leadership training and emphasis on text study has elevated their roles in shaping the Jewish learning in their school” said Dr. Shira D. Epstein, dean of the William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education. “Beyond this important training, the camaraderie and peer cohorts our participants build is unparalleled.”
“Throughout the past year, there has been much adaptation and change at every level, including in Jewish day schools. I’m so honored to help support and provide professional development opportunities for these day school leaders as they navigate towards the future and a time of growth,” said Dr. Ray Levi, DSLTI Director.
The program is open to Jewish educators who already work in their schools’ leadership or those who are working toward more advanced positions. Day school leaders who are interested in learning more are invited to visit www.jtsa.edu/dslti.
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About The Jewish Theological Seminary | JTS is a preeminent institution of Jewish higher education, training thoughtful, innovative leaders—rabbis, cantors, educators, lay leaders, and scholars—who strengthen our communities with a vision of Judaism that is deeply grounded in the Jewish past and thoroughly engaged with contemporary society. JTS also provides high-caliber lifelong learning and professional development to our alumni, adult learners, and Jewish communities throughout North America. Through its Library, JTS preserves and makes accessible to students and scholars throughout the world the greatest collection of Judaica in the Western Hemisphere
