THE GRINSPOON FOUNDATION AWARDS LITAL DAYAN OF MANDEL JCC FOR “EXCELLENCE IN JEWISH EDUCATION”

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL (May 10, 2016) – Leadership at the Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches announced that Lital Dayan, Early Childhood Learning Center Curriculum and Jewish Education Coordinator, was honored with the 2016 North American Grinspoon Award. This elite national award recognizes one educator in each region of the United States for his or her commitment to the field of Jewish education.

Dayan’s experience, leadership and innovative problem-solving skills have positively impacted the educators and children at the Mandel JCC Early Childhood Learning Center in Palm Beach Gardens since she started with the school in 2008.

“The Grinspoon Award celebrates successful innovation in Jewish education and that is just what Lital provides each day for our children,” said Alan Feldman, Chief Executive Officer of the Mandel JCC. "She also takes the time to nurture and develop each of the faculty members in a way that teachers find our school the optimal place to work."

As Curriculum Coordinator, Dayan is responsible for ensuring staff and children have a deep understanding of the educational philosophy and the vision of the school. She helps educators discover their own strengths and is involved in the overall educational experience.

“Lital is an integral part of our Jewish community and we are so proud to continue to learn with and from her. Her passion for what she does and her belief in the power of asking questions is a model for us all,” shared Veronica Maravankin, Vice President of Early Childhood at the Mandel JCC in Palm Beach Gardens. “She is an extraordinary recipient of the North American Grinspoon Award for Excellence in Jewish Education.”

Dayan implements Project Based Learning, an innovative program, as one of her best practices. Through this approach, children develop and strengthen their life skills including problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, self-engaged learning and creativity.

“I am humbled and honored to accept the Grinspoon Award,” said Dayan. “I am committed to developing a sense of understanding and purpose while I continue to build relationships with staff, children and families at the JCC Early Childhood Learning Center.”

The Mandel JCC Palm Beach Gardens is located at 5221 Hood Road, and the center has another location in Boynton Beach, which also boasts an Early Childhood Learning Center and other children’s programs. For more information about both locations, visit www.JCConline.com.

The mission of the Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches is to build community and enhance connection to Jewish life. The Mandel JCC is a partner agency of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County.

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