Carla is a Montessori-certified teacher with over 16 years of experience in children’s education. She combines her extensive experience with qualifications in mindfulness practices to create a joyful classroom environment, support teachers, and mentor parents in every school. Carla created highly successful programs beloved by parents and students alike, including “mommy and me,” yoga for babies, and language immersion through movement and music. Carla received her bachelor’s degree in design from the University of Buenos Aires, which greatly contributes to the cohesion and thoughtfulness found in her teaching spaces and lessons.
Born in Israel, she moved to the United States 16 years ago and brings more than 16 years of teaching experience to Gan Kol Shalom, including 14 years in Montessori education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and Hebrew as a Second Language from The Open University and Kibbutzim College.
At the heart of her educational philosophy is the belief that children learn best when they actively participate in their learning. She creates dynamic, hands-on experiences that encourage children to explore, discover, and build confidence. With a strong belief in sensory-rich learning, she thoughtfully incorporates multiple senses into the classroom, creating meaningful opportunities for every child to learn and grow.
She is passionate about creating a warm, engaging, and supportive environment where each child is valued as an individual and empowered to explore, develop, and succeed in their own unique way.
Kendall holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UC Santa Barbara, specializing in child development and education. Her diverse experience spans infants, toddlers, and elementary-aged children, including leading art initiatives in nature-based programs like the North East Los Angeles Forest School. As a certified birth and postpartum doula and a 300-hour yoga teacher, Kendall brings a unique, gentle, and supportive approach to early childhood education.
At the heart of her philosophy is a deep respect for children as whole individuals. She believes that play is the foundation of learning and that nurturing social-emotional intelligence is vital for long-term happiness. Kendall is particularly passionate about outdoor immersion, viewing nature as an essential classroom that builds self-confidence and a profound sense of wonder.
An artist at heart, Kendall loves integrating creative expression into daily learning. Outside the classroom, she is a mother of two who enjoys exploring local trails, practicing yoga, and creating art with her family. Kendall is dedicated to providing a nurturing, consistent environment where every child can thrive.
Shira Kanner was born and raised in Montgomery County, Maryland. She has always had a passion for working with children and finds great joy in watching them learn, grow, gain confidence, and discover the world around them. Her love for helping children develop and thrive has inspired her to continue working with young children and creating a warm, encouraging environment where they feel supported and valued.
After graduating, Shira spent time in Israel, where she worked with an organization in a drone programming unit. Following that experience, she discovered her passion for working with young children and went on to teach in English to children in Israel. She especially enjoys finding creative and engaging ways to help children learn while making the experience fun and meaningful.
When she is not working, Shira enjoys going for walks, practicing yoga, spending time with family and friends, and getting creative with arts and crafts. She loves being outdoors, trying new activities, and making the most of her time with the people she cares about.
Born in Israel, Eden moved to the United States at age 11 and grew up in Montgomery County. She previously served in an educational leadership role, supporting others through education and guidance, and is currently studying Early Childhood Education and Special Education.
A mother of two, Eden brings a wide range of experience working with children, including babysitting, after-care programs, and preschool teaching. She loves learning alongside children and exploring new ideas with them. Eden believes every child deserves a warm, nurturing, and meaningful educational experience. She is passionate about creating a caring classroom rooted in Jewish values and helping children learn, grow, and thrive.
Tal holds degrees in Social Sciences and Criminology and brings a thoughtful, family-centered approach to early childhood education. Fluent in both Hebrew and English, she values creating a warm, caring classroom rooted in Jewish values, where every child feels seen and supported.
Tal also has a background as a pilot, an experience that shaped her discipline, calm under pressure, and attention to detail. Outside the classroom, she lives in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and enjoys baking – she runs a small home baking business specializing in handmade babka – along with cooking Sephardic and Israeli dishes for family and friends.
Eti was born in Israel and grew up on a kibbutz, where she developed a deep appreciation for community, creativity, and nature.
She studied graphic design and later packed her backpack to travel and explore the world, an experience that sparked her curiosity and love of discovering new places and cultures. She eventually moved to the United States with her partner and has since dedicated her career to Jewish and early childhood education.
Eti loves bringing creativity, curiosity, and a strong sense of community into the classroom while creating meaningful experiences for young children.
In her free time, she enjoys walking, traveling, spending time outdoors, and exploring nature.