About Us: Staff

Meet some of the passionate, creative, and loving professionals who make the preschool better.

Aliza Maslansky

Director

With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education and leadership, Aliza is a dedicated professional passionate about fostering young children’s growth and development.

Aliza holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Hartford and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Touro College. Her professional development includes completion of the Jewish New Teacher Project and the OTZMA Graduate Seminar. She has also served as Chair of the Early Childhood Advisory Committee for the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest.

Throughout her career, Aliza has infused her teaching practice with her Jewish identity, love of Israel, and Jewish traditions, creating engaging and enriching educational experiences for her students.

Andrea Gelber

Assistant Teacher

Andrea joined the preschool staff in January of 2023 as an assistant teacher in the two’s class, and currently works two afternoons in the extended day program. Andrea is a retired licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, and last worked in subacute care in skilled nursing facilities. She raised two children with her husband, and enjoys spending time with family and friends, sailing, sewing, cooking, traveling, enjoying nature, and tending to her vegetable and flower garden.

Andrea enjoys being a positive influence and role model during the time she spends with the children, and encourages them to learn from each other and interact with kindness.

Dalia Jacobowitz

Assistant Teacher

Dalia joined us in 2021 and currently teaches the 4’s class. Before joining our preschool, she spent 31 years teaching in Newark Public Schools and 10 years teaching Hebrew school at the JCC.

Dalia is a graduate of Kean University.

She loves the energy and imagination of young children, as well as the opportunity to create a classroom environment where learning is exciting and fun.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading and traveling.

Faby Ortegon

2’s Lead Teacher

Faby was born and raised in Colombia and holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate for Preschool Bilingual. She brings seven years of experience as an assistant teacher and is excited to step into the role of Lead Teacher this year. Faby is passionate about teaching young children new skills and helping them reach their developmental milestones. She treasures the moments when children discover something new or realize they’ve accomplished something they once thought was impossible.

Outside of the classroom, Faby enjoys exploring new opportunities to grow as an educator and supporting the children in their journeys toward self-confidence and independence.

Geraldine Vick

Assistant Teacher

Gerri has been a valued member of the Congregation B’nai Israel Preschool team for the past 20 years. Her career in early childhood education began in 1995 with Newark Preschool Day Care, and she has since dedicated her expertise to working with children from infants to Pre-K.

Licensed by the state of New Jersey as a Certified Teacher Assistant, Gerri has completed numerous certification programs through both the state and CBI. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, ensuring a nurturing and supportive environment for young learners.

Gerri loves inspiring children as they grow and learn, cherishing the moments when they accomplish something new and build confidence in their abilities. She is committed to creating a warm, inclusive classroom where each child feels valued and supported.

Outside of the preschool, Gerri enjoys singing in her church choir and teaching Sunday school lessons to the children of her church, reflecting her passion for working with children and building community through shared values and learning.

Hava Weiss

Assistant Teacher

Hava is currently studying at Kean University and was previously a student at Quinnipiac University. She has experience working with children ages 5 to 14 in community theaters and continues to work with performers of all ages.

As an early education teacher, Hava’s goal is to bring joy to the classroom and help each child grow as a learner. She believes in fostering an environment where children feel supported, valued, and excited to explore new ideas.

Hava brings her creativity and love for the arts into her work with young children, helping them build confidence and find joy in their learning journey.

Maria Dominguez

3’s Lead Teacher

Maria started in 2021. Previously, she gained extensive early childhood experience at Lightbridge Academy in Westfield, where she served as both an Assistant and Lead Teacher for toddler and preschool classrooms. Maria also spent several years volunteering at her son’s school, supporting teachers and students in a variety of classroom activities.

Maria holds a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certification and is CPR-certified. She has also completed additional coursework in early childhood education at Union County College in Cranford.

Maria finds great joy in helping children learn, grow, and develop their confidence. She believes every child is unique and capable of success when provided with the right guidance and encouragement. One of her favorite parts of teaching is seeing her students’ smiles as they explore new activities and milestones.

When she’s not at the preschool, Maria loves spending time with her children. Whether going to the movies, indoor water parks, swimming, or picnicking at the park, she cherishes these moments of fun and connection with her family.

Maricela Cubias

2’s Lead Teacher

Maricela began her career in early childhood education in 2016 at the JCC MetroWest in West Orange, where she cared for children ranging in age from 3 months to 13 years until 2020.

In 2021, she joined KinderCare in Chatham as a Teacher’s Assistant, working with children ages 12 months to 2 years. From 2022 through June 2025, Maricela served as a Teacher’s Assistant at Synagogue of the Suburban Torah in Livingston, New Jersey. She then became the Head Teacher of the Little Beginners class for the 2025–2026 school year.

Maricela is passionate about early childhood education and loves teaching, singing, and dancing with young children. Her greatest joy is watching each child learn, grow, and reach new milestones throughout the year.

Meg S.

4’s Lead Teacher

Meg brings over 25 years of experience working in early childhood as a caregiver, school substitute, and presently as our PreK Lead teacher.

She loves working with young children, watching them grow into bigger people and seeing their minds at work and imaginations take off. Meg’s favorite times each day are seeing their smiles as they enter the building, being part of their conversations during morning meetings, and watching their faces light up as they learn new things and speak about themselves.

Meg shares that the preschoolers are “amazing human beings who help me become a better person.”

Rochel Serrette

Assistant Teacher

Morah Rochel comes to us with more than 20 years of experience taking care of children.  She is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and thrive, She takes pride in making a positive impact on the lives of children and families she serves.

Roslyn Serrette

Infant Class Lead Teacher

Roslyn was born in Trinidad and has dedicated more than 30 years to working in childcare. She is a reliable, caring, and responsible educator who has extensive experience nurturing infants and toddlers. Roslyn expertly manages daily routines, including feeding schedules, naptime, and engaging play experiences, while always prioritizing each child’s safety and well-being.

Roslyn finds great joy in watching children grow and develop each day. She is passionate about creating a warm, happy, and nurturing environment where every child feels loved, supported, and encouraged to reach their developmental milestones. Seeing each child thrive is what continues to inspire her every day.

Samantha Fox

Toddler Class Lead Teacher

Samantha started at CBI in 2025 as the teacher and program creator for our Baby & Me weekly classes.  Samantha has spent the past 10 years working with kids.  Seeing the need for sensory based learning through play, Samantha launched Little Foxes Play 6 years ago.  Little Foxes Play offers parties, camps, and classes tailored for both public and private groups.  For the past 6 years Samantha has been bringing Little Foxes Toddler & Me programs to various Temple pre-schools and play spaces. 

Samantha is so excited to join CBI as a Toddlers Teacher.  She loves children and is honored to have the opportunity to be part of their earliest experiences as they grow and learn.

Samantha graduated Braneis University with a BA in economics. She lives in Morris Plains with her teenaged twins.  She loves being a mother and in her free time enjoys the beach! 

Shennette Moulton

Assistant Teacher

Hello! My name is Shennette Moulton and I am excited to be your child’s preschool teacher. I have a great desire for helping children to learn new things. I have 12 years of teaching experience up to the high school level and I am very passionate about watching kids grow, learn and develop.

My teaching philosophy revolves around holistic, interactive and play-based learning where children can freely explore, create and build social skills.

I enjoy spending time with my children as well as cooking and creating nail designs. I look forward to a year full of smiles and wonderful stories as well as guiding your child on an educational journey.

Stacy Burrick

Toddlers Class Lead Teacher

Stacy joined us in 2024, leading the Beginners Class. Previously, she taught in the 2’s program at Temple Emanu-El, Westfield, for four years.

She earned her BS in Child and Family Studies from Syracuse University.

Stacy is dedicated to helping children feel safe, loved, and empowered as they begin their educational journeys. She treasures the opportunity to witness their growth and celebrate their unique milestones.

Outside of teaching, Stacy enjoys reading and spending time at the beach.

Susan Kashan

Youth Education Administrator

Susan has been an administrator at Congregation B’nai Israel for over a decade, including six years as a member of our preschool staff. She brings a diverse educational background, with a degree in International Business from SUNY Albany and an MBA.

Her early childhood experience includes assisting in preschool classes in Metuchen for five years and teaching kindergarten Hebrew classes for 15 years.
Susan values the sense of community at the preschool and takes pride in fostering meaningful connections among children, families, and staff. She is inspired by the joy and enthusiasm of the children she works with every day.

When she is not working, you are likely to find her on the pickleball courts! 

Tina Shea

Assistant Teacher

Tina spent 20 years teaching Kindergarten in Kansas City, Missouri and subbing during breaks at the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, Kansas. Most recently she spent the past several years floating and working in the aftercare program at Shoresh Preschool,  and running the “Prayer Boot Camp,” working with students preparing to become B’Nei Mitzvah also at Temple Ner Tamid.

Our Board

Meet our Preschool Board, whose support and governance keeps us moving forward.

The Better World Preschool Board provides thoughtful leadership and vision to support our educational mission as an inclusive and welcoming Jewish preschool. These committed professionals, including parents, educators, and community leaders, work together to ensure our preschool maintains excellence while continuing to evolve and grow to meet the needs of our families.

About Us: Staff
Meet some of the passionate, creative, and loving professionals who make the preschool better.

Aliza Maslansky

Director

With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education and leadership, Aliza is a dedicated professional passionate about fostering young children’s growth and development.

Aliza holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Hartford and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Touro College. Her professional development includes completion of the Jewish New Teacher Project and the OTZMA Graduate Seminar. She has also served as Chair of the Early Childhood Advisory Committee for the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest.

Throughout her career, Aliza has infused her teaching practice with her Jewish identity, love of Israel, and Jewish traditions, creating engaging and enriching educational experiences for her students.

Andrea Gelber

Assistant Teacher

Andrea joined the preschool staff in January of 2023 as an assistant teacher in the two’s class, and currently works two afternoons in the extended day program. Andrea is a retired licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, and last worked in subacute care in skilled nursing facilities. She raised two children with her husband, and enjoys spending time with family and friends, sailing, sewing, cooking, traveling, enjoying nature, and tending to her vegetable and flower garden.

Andrea enjoys being a positive influence and role model during the time she spends with the children, and encourages them to learn from each other and interact with kindness.

Dalia Jacobowitz

Assistant Teacher

Dalia joined us in 2021 and currently teaches the 4’s class. Before joining our preschool, she spent 31 years teaching in Newark Public Schools and 10 years teaching Hebrew school at the JCC.

Dalia is a graduate of Kean University.

She loves the energy and imagination of young children, as well as the opportunity to create a classroom environment where learning is exciting and fun.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading and traveling.

Faby Ortegon

2’s Lead Teacher

Faby was born and raised in Colombia and holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate for Preschool Bilingual. She brings seven years of experience as an assistant teacher and is excited to step into the role of Lead Teacher this year. Faby is passionate about teaching young children new skills and helping them reach their developmental milestones. She treasures the moments when children discover something new or realize they’ve accomplished something they once thought was impossible.

Outside of the classroom, Faby enjoys exploring new opportunities to grow as an educator and supporting the children in their journeys toward self-confidence and independence.

Geraldine Vick

Assistant Teacher

Gerri has been a valued member of the Congregation B’nai Israel Preschool team for the past 20 years. Her career in early childhood education began in 1995 with Newark Preschool Day Care, and she has since dedicated her expertise to working with children from infants to Pre-K.

Licensed by the state of New Jersey as a Certified Teacher Assistant, Gerri has completed numerous certification programs through both the state and CBI. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, ensuring a nurturing and supportive environment for young learners.

Gerri loves inspiring children as they grow and learn, cherishing the moments when they accomplish something new and build confidence in their abilities. She is committed to creating a warm, inclusive classroom where each child feels valued and supported.

Outside of the preschool, Gerri enjoys singing in her church choir and teaching Sunday school lessons to the children of her church, reflecting her passion for working with children and building community through shared values and learning.

Hava Weiss

Assistant Teacher

Hava is currently studying at Kean University and was previously a student at Quinnipiac University. She has experience working with children ages 5 to 14 in community theaters and continues to work with performers of all ages.

As an early education teacher, Hava’s goal is to bring joy to the classroom and help each child grow as a learner. She believes in fostering an environment where children feel supported, valued, and excited to explore new ideas.

Hava brings her creativity and love for the arts into her work with young children, helping them build confidence and find joy in their learning journey.

Maria Dominguez

3’s Lead Teacher

Maria started in 2021. Previously, she gained extensive early childhood experience at Lightbridge Academy in Westfield, where she served as both an Assistant and Lead Teacher for toddler and preschool classrooms. Maria also spent several years volunteering at her son’s school, supporting teachers and students in a variety of classroom activities.

Maria holds a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) certification and is CPR-certified. She has also completed additional coursework in early childhood education at Union County College in Cranford.

Maria finds great joy in helping children learn, grow, and develop their confidence. She believes every child is unique and capable of success when provided with the right guidance and encouragement. One of her favorite parts of teaching is seeing her students’ smiles as they explore new activities and milestones.

When she’s not at the preschool, Maria loves spending time with her children. Whether going to the movies, indoor water parks, swimming, or picnicking at the park, she cherishes these moments of fun and connection with her family.

Maricela Cubias

2’s Lead Teacher

Maricela began her career in early childhood education in 2016 at the JCC MetroWest in West Orange, where she cared for children ranging in age from 3 months to 13 years until 2020.

In 2021, she joined KinderCare in Chatham as a Teacher’s Assistant, working with children ages 12 months to 2 years. From 2022 through June 2025, Maricela served as a Teacher’s Assistant at Synagogue of the Suburban Torah in Livingston, New Jersey. She then became the Head Teacher of the Little Beginners class for the 2025–2026 school year.

Maricela is passionate about early childhood education and loves teaching, singing, and dancing with young children. Her greatest joy is watching each child learn, grow, and reach new milestones throughout the year.

Meg S.

4’s Lead Teacher

Meg brings over 25 years of experience working in early childhood as a caregiver, school substitute, and presently as our PreK Lead teacher.

She loves working with young children, watching them grow into bigger people and seeing their minds at work and imaginations take off. Meg’s favorite times each day are seeing their smiles as they enter the building, being part of their conversations during morning meetings, and watching their faces light up as they learn new things and speak about themselves.

Meg shares that the preschoolers are “amazing human beings who help me become a better person.”

Rochel Serrette

Assistant Teacher

Morah Rochel comes to us with more than 20 years of experience taking care of children.  She is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and thrive, She takes pride in making a positive impact on the lives of children and families she serves.

Roslyn Serrette

Infant Class Lead Teacher

Roslyn was born in Trinidad and has dedicated more than 30 years to working in childcare. She is a reliable, caring, and responsible educator who has extensive experience nurturing infants and toddlers. Roslyn expertly manages daily routines, including feeding schedules, naptime, and engaging play experiences, while always prioritizing each child’s safety and well-being.

Roslyn finds great joy in watching children grow and develop each day. She is passionate about creating a warm, happy, and nurturing environment where every child feels loved, supported, and encouraged to reach their developmental milestones. Seeing each child thrive is what continues to inspire her every day.

Samantha Fox

Toddler Class Lead Teacher

Samantha started at CBI in 2025 as the teacher and program creator for our Baby & Me weekly classes.  Samantha has spent the past 10 years working with kids.  Seeing the need for sensory based learning through play, Samantha launched Little Foxes Play 6 years ago.  Little Foxes Play offers parties, camps, and classes tailored for both public and private groups.  For the past 6 years Samantha has been bringing Little Foxes Toddler & Me programs to various Temple pre-schools and play spaces. 

Samantha is so excited to join CBI as a Toddlers Teacher.  She loves children and is honored to have the opportunity to be part of their earliest experiences as they grow and learn.

Samantha graduated Braneis University with a BA in economics. She lives in Morris Plains with her teenaged twins.  She loves being a mother and in her free time enjoys the beach! 

Shennette Moulton

 Assistant Teacher

Hello! My name is Shennette Moulton and I am excited to be your child’s preschool teacher. I have a great desire for helping children to learn new things. I have 12 years of teaching experience up to the high school level and I am very passionate about watching kids grow, learn and develop.

My teaching philosophy revolves around holistic, interactive and play-based learning where children can freely explore, create and build social skills.

I enjoy spending time with my children as well as cooking and creating nail designs. I look forward to a year full of smiles and wonderful stories as well as guiding your child on an educational journey.

Stacy Burrick

Toddlers Class Lead Teacher

Stacy joined us in 2024, leading the Beginners Class. Previously, she taught in the 2’s program at Temple Emanu-El, Westfield, for four years.

She earned her BS in Child and Family Studies from Syracuse University.

Stacy is dedicated to helping children feel safe, loved, and empowered as they begin their educational journeys. She treasures the opportunity to witness their growth and celebrate their unique milestones.

Outside of teaching, Stacy enjoys reading and spending time at the beach.

Susan Kashan

Youth Education Administrator

Susan has been an administrator at Congregation B’nai Israel for over a decade, including six years as a member of our preschool staff. She brings a diverse educational background, with a degree in International Business from SUNY Albany and an MBA.

Her early childhood experience includes assisting in preschool classes in Metuchen for five years and teaching kindergarten Hebrew classes for 15 years.
Susan values the sense of community at the preschool and takes pride in fostering meaningful connections among children, families, and staff. She is inspired by the joy and enthusiasm of the children she works with every day.

When she is not working, you are likely to find her on the pickleball courts! 

Tina Shea

Assistant Teacher

Tina spent 20 years teaching Kindergarten in Kansas City, Missouri and subbing during breaks at the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park, Kansas. Most recently she spent the past several years floating and working in the aftercare program at Shoresh Preschool,  and running the “Prayer Boot Camp,” working with students preparing to become B’Nei Mitzvah also at Temple Ner Tamid.

Our Board
Meet our Preschool Board, whose support and governance keeps us moving forward.

The Better World Preschool Board provides thoughtful leadership and vision to support our educational mission as an inclusive and welcoming Jewish preschool. These committed professionals, including parents, educators, and community leaders, work together to ensure our preschool maintains excellence while continuing to evolve and grow to meet the needs of our families.

Full Programs / Intro to Classes

New: Infant Care, Preschool Programming, and Extended Hours