Julia Bennet joined Stephen Wise this year as our Religious School’s assistant director. She grew up on Long Island and was a camper, counselor, and limmud specialist at URJ Eisner Camp. Julia completed a self-designed major in Jewish studies at Clark University and received her master’s in religious education from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. She can’t wait to meet all of you!

Favorite Class At HUC-JIR

I loved Biblical Grammar! It’s like solving a puzzle, and it’s made reading biblical texts a completely different experience.

Most Meaningful Jewish Tradition

Tashlich — it’s an action that says: “I regret the times that I’ve missed the mark this past year, and I promise to do better going forward.”

Favorite Jewish Holiday

I’m torn between Tu BiShvat and Pesach. Tu BiShvat has a great environmental theme, but I also love putting together creative Pesach Seders (and I love Hillel sandwiches).

Favorite Jewish Value

The prohibition against tza’ar ba’alei chayim (the suffering of animals) is really important to me as a lover of all animals and an advocate for animal rights.

Most Teachable Moment

I taught a sixth grade Zoom class about Biblical prophets who often told our people what they were doing wrong and how they should behave. I prompted the students to “think like a prophet” and then listened as they shared how we can do more to make the world a better place.

Favorite Way Excite Students

Turn something into a game! It doesn’t even have to be competitive, just engaging.