Elana Huvard, 2nd – 5th Judaic Studies Teacher
Where did you go to college, and what attracted you to the education field?
I went to the University of Texas and got a bachelor’s degree in social work. As a little kid, I always liked “playing teacher.” My little brother was my very first subject… I mean student, whether he liked it or not 🙂
I always wanted to be in a field where I could help others and work with children. Once I finished my degree in social work, I realized I could use those skills to become a caring and motivating teacher. I then went on to get my master’s degree from Tel Aviv University in the field of education.
How do you think students will remember you and your class?
I think they’ll remember my sense of humor and the fun we had in the classroom, as well as the meaningful conversations and wonderful Jewish learning that we explored together.
I hope that the students will remember that I cared about them as human beings and not just as my students.
If you won the lottery and decided to give up teaching, what would you do instead?
Woah! If I won the lottery that would be pretty cool, but I think I would still teach or work in a field where I could make a positive impact on the world. I would definitely work less, so I could travel more!
What is your favorite treat?
Chocolate! The students all know about my deep love for chocolate.
Jean Kessler, Kindergarten Assistant Teacher
What is your favorite thing about BYDS?
My favorite thing about BYDS is the sense of community and the arm environment. I like the way BYDS is always changing and moving with the times.
What talent would you most like to have?
I have always wanted to be a talented singer.
If you had to live in a either a library or a zoo for the rest of your life, which would you choose and why?
This is a difficult one for me because I love to outside and enjoy nature. Ultimately, I would choose the library because I love to learn and keep busy.
What is your favorite kind of candy, and why?
My favorite kind of candy is any kind of dark chocolate. Extra bonus if it has nuts or marshmallow in it!
Jessica Moncaleano, Assistant CDO Teacher
How old were you when you decided to become a teacher?
That’s a tricky question. I think since I was a kid. I always played school with my sister – I was always teaching the ABCs to our teddy bears. When I was 20, I had the opportunity to teach children with disabilities, and I knew teaching was what I wanted to do. I reconfirmed this decision when I taught adults in a Big Telecommunications company in Colombia. I enjoyed spending time educating people of all ages. When I teach children, I enjoy every single moment with them and I understand that my place is here, being a teacher of my little ones that day-to-day steal my heart.
How do you spend your summer breaks?
That’s my favorite time of the year! Me and my family spend most of the time at the beach, camping at the parks, riding bikes, walking, having picnics, and our favorite part is travelling to Colombia to visit our family.
Who is your favorite superhero?
Captain America forever! I know he doesn’t have a “superhero talent” like jumping, stretching, being someone else or being invisible. I love his big heart and how humble he is.
What is your favorite dish served in Hot Lunch?
Definitely grilled salmon, tomato soup, and chickpea salad. I am a salmon lover!
Erin Myers, Assistant THREEs Teacher
Did anything or anyone inspire you to become a teacher?
I wouldn’t say anyone in particular inspired me but, I’ve worked with kids since I was in high school and loved it so much. When the opportunity to teach came about I thought it would be an awesome way to continue working with kids and I’ve loved it ever since then!
Have you ever met someone famous?
I actually met JJ Watt very briefly when I was on my universities Pom squad at an event in NRG.
What is your favorite meal? (to eat, that is, not cook)
My favorite meal is really anything from Ellie’s Greek kitchen which is a little restaurant in Friendswood.
What is your most used emoji?
My most used emoji is the laughing emoji 😂 or the upside-down smiling face 🙃
What are your hobbies/interests (other than making BYDS great)?
I’m a full time student so most of my free time goes to studying and homework, but when I do have time, my hobbies would be relaxing and watching tv. I also really love teaching at my local dance studio when I have time.
