Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism

Uplift · Inspire · Unite

Mission

Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism (ECE-RJ) is committed to serving early childhood educators and leaders in congregational settings. We believe in elevating the professional self of our members through education, networking, and collaboration. We believe that the work of ECE-RJ increases the status and visibility of our profession and our schools within Jewish communal life, ensuring the continuity of thriving, high-quality Jewish Early Childhood programs.

Vision

ECE-RJ will be seen as a key player and influencer in the Jewish Early Childhood Education sphere. ECE-RJ and its members will be recognized as experts, leaders, and advocates of change by all who collaborate with and support Jewish early childhood education. As a mission-driven organization that is strong, stable, vibrant, and enduring, ECE-RJ will have financial stability, an ongoing leadership pipeline, an engaged membership, and clear internal and external communications.

In tandem with developing our Mission and Vision Statements, we began to work on our priorities, the pillars of Early Childhood Educators of Reform Judaism. Through much discussion and deliberation, we agreed that above all else, the pillars of ECE-RJ are:

Community Building/Networking
Elevation of Professional Self
Financial and Organization Stability and Sustainability
Visible Presence in the national and international world of Jewish Early Education

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We invite you to join us this upcoming January 21 – 24, 2026 to the ECE-RJ annual conference in Philadelphia, PA.

Join us Philadelphia, PA, from January 21–24, 2026, to immerse yourself in B’Simcha: Do It With Joy – Nurturing Passion and Purpose in Jewish Early Childhood Education, the annual ECE-RJ Conference.

This transformative gathering offers Jewish early childhood educators dedicated time to learn, reflect, innovate, and be inspired alongside leading voices in the field.

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We are thrilled to announce that ECE-RJ has been named a 2025-2026 YES Fund Grantee by the Women of Reform Judaism! This grant will help make the 2026 conference accessible through tiered pricing and scholarship awards.

2026 Intensive Leaders

Jillian Best Adler

Dr. Mindy Gold

Dr. Noah Hichenberg

Shira Kline, Artist in Residence

"Wherever children are learning, there dwells the Divine Presence.“
Yiddish Proverb

Why Join

Community
ECE-RJ is more than an organization—it’s a vibrant, supportive network of professionals who share your passion for Jewish Early Childhood Education. As a member, you gain access to a community that understands your unique challenges, celebrates your successes, and inspires your growth. Together, we uplift one another and strengthen the field through connection, collaboration, and shared purpose.

Learn and Grow
Membership opens the door to exclusive resources, tools, and guidance designed to enhance your teaching, leadership, and professional development. From creating dynamic curricula to building meaningful relationships and vibrant communities, ECE-RJ supports your journey at every stage. Whether you're looking to grow your skills or your school, you'll find inspiration, insight, and support every step of the way.

Common Experience

At ECE-RJ, we learn together, laugh together, and support one another through every stage of our professional journeys. Grounded in the philosophy, values, and liturgy of the Reform Movement, our community is deeply connected by shared purpose and passion. As the unifying force for Jewish early childhood professionals across North America, ECE-RJ brings together those with common goals and experiences to grow and thrive—together.

More Information About ECE-RJ Memberships

Subscribe to the Monthly Unite Newsletter Here

Should you join? The answer is yes if you are any of the following:

Early Childhood Education Teacher
Director of Early Childhood Education

Director of Education

Preschool Director

Retired Director
Temple Administrator
Lay leader of Early Childhood Education
Rabbi/Cantor
Supporter of Early Childhood Education

“My work in the classroom has been incredibly enhanced through my participation in ECE-RJ. I am inspired by the work that I see and hear about from around the country. I seek out the Teachers Facebook page as a place to gain new ideas and new understandings.”

– Teacher from Chicago, IL

“Membership in ECE-RJ provides me with an invaluable community of professional, like-minded peers that I would not otherwise have access to – for collaboration, consultation, information, support and friendship.”

– Early Childhood Director from Westport, CT

"We recently undertook a search for an ECE Director. ECE-RJ has proven to be an invaluable resource in helping us fill this very important role in our organization, including carefully reviewing our job posting for current terminology and advising us on best employment practices. With ECE-RJ, we have had a shared mission, vision and value; it is a true partnership.

– Executive Director from Paradise Valley, AZ