The DiscoverEd Podcast

Ep. 6: The Montessori Method - Mrs. Mushky Kulek

Mrs. Mushky Kulek is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of Shaarei Chinuch Day School, a Jewish Montessori school in Chicago that she helped establish in 2013. A dedicated and certified Montessori educator, she was recognized as a "36 Under 36" honoree by the Jewish United Fund in 2022. Beyond her administrative leadership, Mrs. Kulek remains active in the classroom, focusing on a hands-on approach that integrates Judaic and secular studies to meet the individual needs of each child. In this episode, Mrs. Kulek describes the unique methods and capabilities of a religious Montessori school, and the importance of a child-first and child-led approach to Chinuch. This podcast was recorded in August 2025. Any chronological references reflect that period of time. More information about Shaare Chinuch Day School can be found on the following websites and platforms: Online [https://www.scdayschool.com/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/shaarei_chinuch_day_school/] Facebook [http://facebook.com/shaareichinuchdayschool]

Ep. 5: A Culture of Openness - Rabbi Efraim Lerner

Based in London, Rabbi Efraim Lerner is an innovative educator, consultant, and community rabbi who focuses on the intersection of human-centered leadership and educational technology. He is dedicated to unlocking organizational potential by combining essential human qualities with the transformative power of artificial intelligence. Rabbi Lerner is a published author who co-wrote the book Change Starts Here, which advocates for community-led progress and collaborative growth within school networks (link below). In this episode, Rabbi Lerner discusses his experience in the education industry and what opportunities each stakeholder has in opening the culture to new ideas. You can find his book, Change Starts Here, at Barnes and Noble [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/change-starts-here-shane-leaning/1146881010] or Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Change-Starts-Here-Everything-School/dp/1032979259]. This episode is brought to you by California Gourmet [https://californiagourmet.net/].

Ep. 4: A School for a Child - Rabbi Levi Druin

Rabbi Levi Druin serves as the principal of Pardes Day School in Miami, a school that emphasizes both rigorous Judaic and general studies, fostering an environment where every child is seen, supported, and inspired to thrive. He brings a unique blend of expertise, combining his passion for education with a background in industrial psychology. In this episode, Rabbi Druin shares his solution to balancing ambitious academic goals with individualized care, focus, and development of each student. Instagram: instagram.com/thediscoveredpodcast?igsh=OXN4bDJzNnUzNnYy&utm_source=qr Sponsor: californiagourmet.net

Ep. 3: Confident Teachers, Confident Students - Rabbi Zelig Silber

Rabbi  Zelig  Silber is a veteran middle‑school teacher at Cheder Chabad in Monsey and a beloved mentor renowned for his systematic, Chassidishe approach to Chinuch  . He joined Menachem Education Foundation’s Teacher Training Program in its inaugural year, later directing and shaping its men’s track as Teacher Induction Program Director  . Holding a Master's Degree in Education and trained by the New Teacher Project, Rabbi Silber has led innovative initiatives like the Teacher Coaching Program and crash‑course workshops for both male and female educators . We discuss the importance of confidence in education, and how educators can reveal the innate connection students have with their Torah learning. Instagram: instagram.com/thediscoveredpodcast?igsh=OXN4bDJzNnUzNnYy&utm_source=qr

Ep. 2: Cultivating Connection - Rabbi Eliezer Shusterman

Rabbi Eliezer Shusterman serves as the Principal of the Mesivta Boys High School at Yeshiva Schools in Pittsburgh. He also holds the position of Associate Rabbi at Shaare Torah Congregation, and has worked for more than 30 years in various educational roles in the U.S., Australia, and South Africa. Rabbi Shusterman’s leadership style at Yeshiva Schools emphasizes operational efficiency, academic excellence, and community engagement. We discuss how he has balanced his authoritative role with a nurturing approach, fostering discipline while maintaining strong relationships with students, parents, and staff to ensure a supportive educational environment. Instagram: instagram.com/thediscoveredpodcast?igsh=OXN4bDJzNnUzNnYy&utm_source=qr Sponsor: californiagourmet.net