By Sari Luck Schneider, Past President, ECE-RJ
This past January, I had the privilege of attending the annual ECE-RJ conference in Evanston, Illinois, where we celebrated a truly meaningful milestone—25 years of Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism. It was an emotional and inspiring gathering, filled with familiar faces, new voices, and the kind of energy that only this community can bring.
It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since a small group of us—early childhood educators from both the United States and Israel—came together under the umbrella of what was then the UAHC, now the URJ. We didn’t have a roadmap. We didn’t even know exactly what we were building. But we knew one thing for certain: we had to take that first step.
In many ways, it was a Nachshon moment. As the midrash tells us, Nachshon was the one who stepped into the Red Sea before the waters parted, an act of faith that helped move an entire people forward. We were not facing literal slavery, but we were certainly operating in a climate of low respect, low pay, and minimal support. We could no longer wait. We had to move.
Thanks to the vision and backing of leaders like Rabbi Jan Katzew in our early days, and the continued support of Rabbi Rick Jacobs, we began to find our voice—and use it. From the foundational efforts of Elaine Gaidemak and Cathy Rolland to the steadfast leadership of Tricia Ginis over many years, and with countless presidents and board members lending their time and hearts, ECE-RJ has grown into a powerful, united force for change.
And what a difference 25 years makes.
Today, early childhood educators are increasingly seen, valued, and supported by their congregations. Compensation has improved, and so has respect for the deep, meaningful work we do. We are not done, but we are undeniably further along than where we began.
Standing in Chicago this year, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride—and possibility. If we’ve accomplished this in 25 years, imagine where we can be in another 15. Maybe by year 40, we’ll find ourselves at the edge of that long-awaited Promised Land. 😊
The spirit at the conference was electric. It reminded me that anything is possible when we come together with purpose, with passion, and with faith in the journey ahead.
