December 2024
As we celebrate 25 incredible years at Kehila Heschel school, we’re thrilled to share the exciting news that we’re growing our leadership team!
In January, we welcome a new principal, Lishai Peel, who will head up our talented teachers and enthusiastic volunteers. As the former executive director of gritLIT (Hamilton’s Readers and Writers Festival), Lishai brings a wealth of executive experience. She is an award-winning writer, dynamic educator, and a dedicated advocate for egalitarian principles — Jewish values that define Kehila Herschel as an inclusive and vibrant community.
In welcoming our additional leadership, we also express our deep gratitude to Anita Bernstein. Anita has been at the heart of our community, wearing multiple hats as Head of School and director of education. Her vision and passion have shaped Kehila into the inclusive, vibrant school we’re so proud of today.
Under Anita’s leadership, Kehila joined an elite group of just four Heschel schools across North America, meeting the rigorous standards needed to carry the name of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel — a visionary theologian, philosopher, and civil rights icon. From bringing EcoSchool Canada’s Platinum certification to our classrooms, to steering us through the challenges of COVID, Anita’s achievements are immense. She has created a school where Judaism is celebrated in deeply meaningful ways, and where Jewish values blend seamlessly with an enriched trilingual Ontario curriculum. We’re thrilled she will become head of our education committee, and lend her valued guidance and expertise as Lishai transitions into her new role.
And there’s more exciting news: Paul Prasanth is stepping in as our new office administrator, filling the shoes of Michele Schneider, who retired after 13 amazing years. While Michele transitions out of the office, we’re thrilled she’ll continue to join us, delighting our students with her hot lunches.
At Kehila Heschel, our students don’t just learn; they thrive academically, spiritually, and personally, growing in ways that make each day at school a joy.
Registration for 2025/26 is now open, so why not book your visit today? Call us at 905.529.7725 and discover why our students can’t wait to get to school every morning!
