Rabbi David Israel has been named rabbinic dean of the Bi-Cultural Day School (BCDS) in Stamford, it was announced recently by Jacqueline Herman, the school’s principal and head of school. Herman, who took over the helm of the 360-student school last November, also announced the appointment of Joanne Karow as director of admissions.
“We continue to be impressed with Mrs. Herman’s leadership and she has assembled an exceptional team to lead Bi-Cultural,” said Robert Zitter, president of the BCDS board of trustees. “Her impact on our educational programs and communications has been dramatic, and most important, she is fostering the warm, positive stimulating environment we want for our children at Bi-Cultural.”
Focusing on Rabbi Israel’s new role, Herman noted, “I view Rabbi Israel as a partner in the school’s leadership and as the religious face of the school in the community. He is an Orthodox rabbi with an impressive background,” she continued, “and he is admired for his approachability and extraordinary talent at working with our students and families who come from across the religious spectrum.”
Israel received semicha (ordination) from Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary and a Masters degree in Talmud and rabbinics from the Jewish Theological Seminary. He previously served as director of communal services at Yeshiva University and as spiritual leader of the Young Israel of Stamford. He will continue to supervise Bi-Cultural’s eighth grade Israel seminar and trip, as well as teach Judaic studies and handle other administrative duties.
Joanne Karow is a veteran Jewish day school administrator who worked previously at Carmel Academy and the JCC in Columbus, Ohio.
In other changes at Bi-Cultural, veteran BCDS teacher Adrianne Robinson will be promoted to coordinator of secular studies; and Robert Abrams will move from the admissions area to expand his current role as director of student life, increasing his presence in Judaic studies.