Meet Mrs. Sloane-Brenner

Shalom! My name is Sandy Sloane-Brenner and I teach Judaics. I am delighted and honored to say that I 
have been a teacher at Hillel Academy for many years. In case you are wondering - no, I did not teach 
Moses.

Shortly after I first came to Dayton, Ohio as a newlywed and as a young teacher, I was introduced to Hillel Academy. I immediately became enthralled with the school’s atmosphere and became part of the Hillel 
family. Through the years, I have taught Judaics to the kindergarten, first, second, third, and fourth grades. 
The truth is, it is a good thing that Hillel became my home for teaching, because I couldn’t see myself not 
teaching about HASHEM (G-D) and Torah as part of my curriculum. Imagine doing what you love every 
single day of the week and watching the children become engrossed in what I call “the Jewish experience.”

I feel that it is important to provide a good Jewish education, beginning in the early years of a child’s life. I 
am fortunate to be able to help shape the lives of my students by bringing HASHEM and Torah into their 
lives. A basic foundation can help to instill in them a love of HASHEM and Torah, Jewish Holidays, family and community, provides them with a stronger Jewish identity, and enhances upon your teachings at home.

We begin our school day with Davening (Praying). When the children are ready, they will be honored and 
will receive their own Siddur (Prayer Book) at a special program. Throughout the year, we will learn about, and prepare for, Jewish Holidays. Also, every Friday, we have a model celebration of Shabbat. Many values of Torah are reinforced every single day, such as “Acts of Kindness”. The children will become familiar 
with various Torah portions for Shabbat and also Bible Stories related to Jewish Holidays. The teaching 
methods that are used include reading stories, class discussions, arts and crafts, performing plays, games, 
singing songs and other interesting and fun activities.

Teaching is a full-time learning experience. One of the things that I have learned over the years is that every student is different and that you need to determine their individual strengths. You have to tailor the program to fit the needs of the child. Children have a lot to say and it is important to listen to them.

My other pleasures in life are spending time with my husband and family.  We enjoy attending the 
grandchildren’s sports activities and going on a family vacation every summer.

I am looking forward to another wonderful school year with all of my students.