As Director of Education for all Zucker Jewish Academy schools, Dr. Laya Salomon oversees the school’s mission, vision, educational principles, curricula, and teaching and learning standards, ensuring all schools meet high benchmarks for academic success.
Dr. Salomon’s passion is for children and for educating with goals that are learner-centered. She believes in the innate joy of learning and the role of schools in cultivating that joy through targeted, challenging, and personalized learning experiences. She is honored to be a partner in building a network of schools that is committed to educational excellence and effective teaching practices, while rooted in strong Jewish values and beliefs.
In addition to her role at Zucker Jewish Academy, Dr. Salomon serves as the Director of the Master’s Program and an Associate Professor at the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education & Administration at Yeshiva University, where she teaches graduate and doctoral-level courses in curriculum, assessment, lesson planning, teaching methods, mentoring, supervision, and leadership.

Mrs. Esther Mendelevich is a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience leading strong, inclusive Jewish classrooms. As Principal of Zucker Jewish Academy of Brooklyn, she combines high academic standards with deep care for each student’s success, identity, and well-being.

She holds a degree in Psychology from Touro College and advanced certification in instructional coaching. Her expertise spans STEM education, literacy intervention, teacher development, and effective use of Title I and DOE services — always with a focus on what works best for children. Known for her warmth and thoughtful leadership, Mrs. Mendelevich works closely with parents and teachers to help every child grow with confidence and connection.