From Kindergarten through Fifth Grade, the passion, guidance, support, and skill of our administration and faculty are at the heart of KJDS. Our faculty is highly-skilled and carefully chosen. All of our homeroom teachers hold Master's degrees in Education, and our specialty teachers are strongly qualified in their fields as well.
Our teachers have a wide range of personalities, backgrounds, and worldviews. Their foremost mission is teaching students the skills and knowledge necessary for life. In our classrooms, debate and discussion thrive. Teachers encourage intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary thought, and academic integrity.
Each of our staff members contributes to our unique KJDS school culture that leads to success for all learners.
Our educators see the brilliance in each of our students. They are unwavering in their dedication to nurturing the passions of our students and guiding them to realize their full potential.
Educator since 2000
Louise brings extensive experience in school culture, project-based learning, and teacher development. She spent 14 years as a classroom teacher before moving into school leadership, taught aspiring teachers at the college level, and spent eight years as a consultant helping schools build more engaging and inclusive learning environments. She loves seeing students persevere through challenges, solve problems, and make discoveries, both independently and alongside their classmates. She also values the relationships she builds with KJDS families and appreciates how each family’s unique background and traditions contribute to the school community. One of the things she appreciates most about KJDS is its role in helping Jewish students develop their Jewish identities and celebrate Jewish traditions.
Away from school, Louise enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, reading, traveling, and cheering on her favorite college football teams.
At KJDS since 2025
With a background in hotel management and operations, Sarah brings a strong foundation in organization and hospitality to her role at KJDS. She first became part of the school community as a parent in 2021, drawn to its emphasis on helping children love learning, gain confidence, and feel a sense of belonging. Now, she enjoys supporting the teachers and staff who make that experience possible for students and families.
Sarah is mom to Noah, Josh, and Lukas. She enjoys traveling, hiking, live comedy, and gardening.
Educator since 2007
Anna began her career as a Montessori teacher, working with children ages 3–6. After more than a decade in the classroom, she transitioned to school administration and admissions when her oldest daughter began attending KJDS in 2021. She enjoys welcoming prospective families, helping them discover what makes KJDS special, and being part of the Knoxville Jewish community where she grew up. She never imagined growing up that Knoxville would one day have a thriving Jewish day school, and she feels fortunate to play a part in its continued growth.
When she isn't at school, Anna enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors with her husband, two daughters, and dog Cooper, the unofficial KJDS mascot.
Educator since 1999
With experience teaching kindergarten through eighth grade, including special education and literacy instruction, Nikki understands that every child approaches learning differently. She enjoys finding creative ways to meet students where they are and help them discover what they can do. Her classroom combines hands-on exploration with an emphasis on making every child feel safe, valued, and capable. She especially loves seeing students recognize their own strengths and become excited about learning.
Nikki enjoys traveling, reading, and staying active with her husband, Greg, and their family, which includes three children and a grandson. She also volunteers with Newborns in Need East Tennessee.
Educator since 1997
With over 25 years of experience sparking curiosity and cultivating a love of learning, Mrs. Patty Walker brings both a heart full of passion and a wealth of knowledge to our KJDS community. Her teaching journey began in 1997 in the vibrant public schools of Orange, California, where she created joyful, inspiring classrooms for students in kindergarten through fourth grade. Whether through laughter, exploration, or hands-on learning, she believes that education should feel like an adventure—and that every child should feel seen, valued, and capable.
Mrs. Walker holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Communication from California State University, Fullerton, and a Master’s in Education from Walden University. She is deeply committed to helping students grow academically, emotionally, and creatively, always guided by her belief in the power of meaningful, student-centered learning.
Now making her home in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Mrs. Walker is thrilled to join the KJDS family and share her love of learning with our students. As one of her favorite quotes reminds us: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Educator since 2005
Jessica first joined KJDS in 2006 and returned to Knoxville in 2020 after several years of teaching in Minnesota. Having taught kindergarten through fourth grade, she enjoys finding ways to make learning both engaging and memorable. Math is a particular favorite, especially when students can explore concepts through games, manipulatives, and real-world connections. She also loves sharing books and helping children discover new interests. KJDS’s small class sizes give her the opportunity to get to know each student and tailor learning to their needs.
Jessica enjoys reading, traveling, spending time with her family, and always having something new to learn.
Educator since 1980
Karen has taught third through ninth grade, with most of her classroom experience in fifth grade. Her career includes working with gifted students, serving as a gifted education coordinator, and spending 20 years teaching at Blue Grass Elementary in Knoxville. She also teaches math and physics to high school students in homeschool co-ops. At KJDS, she especially appreciates the freedom to follow students’ interests, adapt instruction to their needs, and work individually with each child every day.
Karen's curiosity extends well beyond the classroom. She enjoys reading, walking with her husband and pets, building with legos, and learning Russian. She also has a knack for collecting interesting rocks, plants, and bugs along the way.
4TH - 5TH GRADE ELA & STUDENT SUPPORT
Brooke began teaching in 2005, after receiving her bachelor’s degree in human growth and development (K-6 certification) and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Tusculum College. Brooke consistently promotes questioning and problem-solving with her students. With her talent in design, she creates classrooms with soft hues and places for everyone at every energy level. Her superpower is bringing a high level of academic energy to every day at KJDS.
4TH - 5TH GRADE ELA, DRAMA, ART, & AFTERCARE DIRECTOR
Sara Venable was raised in Honolulu, Hawaii and had the good fortune of being born into a family of creative and adventurous world travelers. Sara is deeply enthusiastic about the performing arts and project-based learning. She has taught Arts Education in Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Portland and since 2009…East Tennessee. Along the way she earned a master’s degree in educational theatre from New York University. Most of her career has been spent in teaching, independent school administration and program building. When she is not working, she enjoys attending cultural or performance events, watching movies, exploring new restaurants, and sitting in the sunshine with her two dogs.
2ND - 3RD GRADE IVRIT TEACHER
We are thrilled to welcome Morah Elisheva to the KJDS faculty as our Ivrit (Hebrew) teacher for 2nd and 3rd grade.
Originally from Israel, Elisheva brings a dynamic and multifaceted background to our learning community. She worked in geophysical research at the Geological Survey of Israel, where she managed a subsurface laboratory focused on seismic analysis and underground exploration.
After relocating to Delaware, Elisheva shifted her focus to education, serving as a substitute teacher in special education, elementary classrooms, and middle school math. Her teaching is rooted in curiosity, clarity, and connection—values that shine through in her Ivrit classroom.
Elisheva is passionate about environmental education and community engagement. She was part of a farming collective that grew produce for personal use and donated the surplus to local food banks. She also co-created butterfly gardens in Delaware and at KJDS, offering students a hands-on connection to nature and sustainability.
At home, she raises her children to speak Hebrew as it’s spoken in Israel. She is committed to personal growth and well-being, practicing daily meditation, engaging in CrossFit three times a week, and most recently, creating intricate dot mandalas as a creative outlet.
Elisheva brings warmth, creativity, and deep purpose to her work, and we’re honored to have her as part of our KJDS family.
Educator since 2024
Chani began her teaching career in a Brooklyn preschool, following in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother, who both worked as preschool teachers and administrators. Growing up surrounded by their dedication to early childhood education shaped her own appreciation for the care and attention young children need. At KJDS, she enjoys nurturing those early connections while introducing children to Hebrew, Judaica, and the traditions that make Jewish learning meaningful.
Chani is the mother of two girls and treasures time with her family.
Educator since 2024
Born in Connecticut, Nochum pursued his studies at yeshivas in Connecticut, France, Germany, and New York. At KJDS, he enjoys sharing Jewish values, traditions, and teachings with students, helping them connect what they learn in the classroom with the richness of Jewish life.
Outside of school, Nochum enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and studying.
Educator since 2003
Jami began working with young children in 2003, when her oldest daughter started preschool, and quickly discovered how much she enjoyed being part of their early learning experiences. She first came to KJDS as a substitute teacher when her youngest daughter began kindergarten and has been part of the community ever since. Jami loves seeing the world through young children's eyes as they explore, master new skills, and discover something new each day.
She enjoys traveling and making memories with her family.
A musician, photographer, and graphic designer with a long interest in computer science and technology, Lev attended the Visual Arts and Youth Performing Arts School for High School along with Prep Music Conservatory at University of Louisville. He studied music education at University of Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State University and additionally holds bachelor’s degrees in English, Judaic Studies, photography, and philosophy. Lev is passionate about continuous learning and teaching children how to use music, performance, and technology to express themselves creatively.
Physical Education Teacher
In the Anderson family, basketball runs deep. Coach Geno’s father was a McDonald's All-American at Knoxville Catholic School, and his godfather was the late Lewis Lloyd of the Houston Rockets. Both basketball stars taught Coach Geno the game at a very high level and blessed him to be around many great basketball minds. Coach Geno’s teaching experience ranges from children to professional athletes; and he has coached in the Philippines, Guam, Brunei, and the USA.
Educator since 2018
With a background in music education, theater, and creative program development, Hannah brings the performing arts to life at KJDS. She has also taught voice and acting since 2016. Hannah believes theater and the arts offer children a special opportunity to express themselves, work as a team, and discover their own voices. She loves helping students take creative risks, grow in confidence, and find their moment to shine.
In her free time, Hannah enjoys singing, attending live theater, reading, and working on creative projects. She and her husband share their home with five cats and three dogs.
Educator since 2012
Brad specializes in physical education and youth development. He enjoys creating opportunities for students to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and build confidence through movement. For Brad, physical education is about more than being active; it's also an opportunity for children to practice perseverance, discover their abilities, and experience the rewards of working toward a goal.
Outside of school, Brad enjoys spending time with his family and running the Tennessee Football Academy.
Educator since 1998
Prior to founding Stanford Eisenberg Knoxville Jewish Day School in 2006, Miriam Esther had acquired 8 years of experience in Jewish education, ranging from preschool through university. She taught at Seymour J. Abrams Jewish Day School in Chicago, Associated Beth Rivkah Schools in Brooklyn, and served as Lead Teacher at the Arnstein Jewish Community Center Preschool, and as Hebrew instructor at the University of Tennessee. She received her teaching degree in 1998 from Beth Chana Tzfat in Israel. Intrigued by the Montessori style of teaching, Miriam Esther officially completed her Montessori training in July 2006. With Miriam Esther’s extensive experience and passion for researching new education methodologies, she continues to bring fresh and dynamic approaches to elementary education to KJDS.
Educator since 2023
Originally from Israel, Elisheva spent many years in science, including managing a laboratory at the Geological Survey of Israel, before discovering a new path in education. She brings that spirit of curiosity to her Hebrew classroom, using conversation, music, games, and Israeli culture to make the language come alive. Watching students gain confidence and become enthusiastic about learning is one of her favorite parts of teaching.
Elisheva and her husband have four children. She loves being outdoors, whether hiking, gardening, or exploring the native plants and butterflies around her.
2ND - 3RD GRADE TEACHER
Since receiving her bachelor’s degree in journalism and master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Tennessee, Bekka has been teaching second and third grades at KJDS since 2010. A life-long learner and student of educational practices, she has proved to be a valued team player in creating an action research project on the use of science notebooks in the primary grades; improved math practice and student enthusiasm about math by using games, centers, and group activities to help students explore important concepts; and has a consistent track record in making grammar exciting to her students. Bekka is a life-long learner and student of educational practices.
2ND - 3RD GRADE TEACHER
Since receiving her bachelor’s degree in journalism and master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Tennessee, Bekka has been teaching second and third grades at KJDS since 2010. A life-long learner and student of educational practices, she has proved to be a valued team player in creating an action research project on the use of science notebooks in the primary grades; improved math practice and student enthusiasm about math by using games, centers, and group activities to help students explore important concepts; and has a consistent track record in making grammar exciting to her students. Bekka is a life-long learner and student of educational practices.
4TH - 5TH GRADE TEACHER
Hebrew Teacher
With an extensive background in both education and financial management, Faina has taught for over a decade in various capacities, focusing on Hebrew language instruction as well as science. She received her bachelor’s degree in science and Hebrew language from Levinsky College of Education in Israel. In addition, she received certification from Israel’s Ministry of Education to teach Hebrew as a first and second language. Faina has also worked at the embassies of Israel to the United States, Bulgaria, and Russia as a billing specialist, bookkeeper, and budget manager.
ART TEACHER
Raised in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Amy earned her bachelor’s degree in art design from Duke University and her master’s degree in education from Xavier University. She began her career as an art educator in 1995 and has also embraced periods of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, who are now grown adults. Amy’s creative passions are Zentangle® and mixed media (which supports trying all sorts of materials, tools, and techniques). She has been sharing the Zentangle method of drawing with children and adults since 2010, when she became a Certified Zentangle Teacher. Amy is a firm believer in the benefits and necessity of lifelong learning.
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Director of Operations
As a passionate educator with over twenty years of experience, Julie has taught primary grades in private and public schools and worked as an administrator for several years in a family-focused private school. She has a proven track record of developing and implementing policies and procedures that foster a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment for students. Julie received her bachelor’s degree in botany as well as her master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.
Innovation Coach
With vast experience in education and school administration, Darcy has served as elementary and middle school teacher, curriculum coordinator, and division head in lower school and middle schools. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership. In addition, Darcy taught the Teacher Ready Program to Florida educators in the process of obtaining their teacher certificate, as well as classes at the University of Tennessee Outreach Program. Darcy has served on many accreditation teams, facilitated the new teacher orientation at the Florida Council of Independent Schools, and presented at the FCIS annual conference about Project Based Learning and planning thematic units for early childhood.
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Director of Development
After receiving her bachelor’s degree in cross-categorial special education (with a minor in Jewish studies) from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, Becca attended the University of Texas at Austin where she received her master’s degree in early childhood special education. She launched her professional career serving as the special education department chair in the Austin independent school district. Since leaving Texas, Becca began to leverage her vast management and educational experience to work in the Jewish nonprofit sectors. At the prestigious Central Synagogue in New York City, Becca served as the assistant director of PreK-2nd grade and family engagement coordinator. During her tenure In Florida, she served as director of community programs and family engagement for the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast in Largo. Her experience and gracious personality have proven Becca to be an invaluable team member at KJDS.
Grades Four/Five Teacher
As a passionate and creative educator who is known for building supportive and loving classroom communities, Laura received her bachelor’s degree in childhood education from the State University of New York College at Plattsburgh and her master’s degree in education from Southern New Hampshire University. Laura is also a veteran of the United States Air Force, where she instructed pilots and aircrew members on using their life-saving equipment. Among her favorite memories from service in the Air Force to support the National Science Foundation was traveling with Bill Nye the Science Guy and the former astronaut Buzz Aldrin.
Head of School
Director of Operations and Admission
ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
KINDERGARTEN / 1st GRADE TEACHER
2nd / 3rd grade teacher and assessment coordinator
2nd - 3rd Grade Teacher
4th - 5th Grade TEACHER
Director of Arts and Enrichment
Drama Director
PE Teacher
Hebrew Teacher and Aftercare Coordinator
Hebrew/Judaics and Parents' Day Out Teacher
Judaic Teacher
Director of Hebrew and Judaics
Parents' Day Out Teacher
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