RAISING THINKERS. SHAPING LEADERS.
Give your child every advantage
Welcome to Zucker Jewish Academy of Queens, a preparatory school where rigorous academics merge with foundational Jewish values and a deep sense of community.
ABOUT ZJA OF QUEENS
Where bright minds flourish
Zucker Jewish Academy of Queens offers serious, evidence-based academics for families who want their children to stretch, grow, and excel.
At Zucker, every child is seen, supported, and guided to become their strongest, most confident self. We embrace families as partners and bring Jewish heritage to life — with connection, curiosity, and belonging.
Here, your child is set on a path to success and enveloped in a warm, supportive environment with every resource they need to flourish — in the classroom, in the community, and for life.
THE ZUCKER DIFFERENCE
Academics. Warmth. Identity.
Dedicated teachers
Our expertly trained, deeply committed faculty maintain high classroom standards while giving each student the attention and care they need.
Intellectual Exploration
Experiential projects and hands-on activities bring concepts to life, fostering deep understanding and an abiding love for learning.
Jewish Identity
Jewish tradition and values are woven into the curriculum — from character development to Hebrew language skills to a lifelong love of Israel.
Whole-child approach
Every part of your child — intellect, character, creativity, and Jewish identity — is nurtured so they grow confident, capable, and connected.
“We are not teaching math and Jewish holidays. We are teaching children! It’s all about making learning relevant, meaningful and fun.”
ZJA, Teacher
“Public school is just not the ideal place for a Jewish child. So many families are thrilled with their choice to be in a community of children who can relate to their Jewish traditions, holidays, and values.”
ZJA, Head of School
“I wish every parent had the same peace of mind that I do every morning. The school’s #1 priority is our children’s safety.”
ZJA, Parent
A DAY AT ZUCKER
A day of love and learning
Zucker Academy of Queens focuses on the development of the whole child. Our research-based, student-centered program fosters academic excellence with a blend of authentic Jewish and general studies education.
Music, art, sports, fitness, and STEM round out our curriculum, with integrated social-emotional learning throughout. Through experiential learning and skill development, our students gain confidence, resilience, and the tools they need for life.
OUR PEOPLE
Expert educators who understand your child
Our teachers are subject specialists and dedicated mentors, rigorously trained and committed to bringing out the best in every child. They set high expectations while creating a warm, supportive environment where every student feels valued and seen. They forge close partnerships with parents, ensuring a strong team committed to your child’s success.
Rabbi Yitzchok Wurem
Head of School
Rabbi Yitzchok Wurem
Head of School
Rabbi Wurem brings over 25 years of experience in Jewish education, community leadership, and parenting guidance. Known for his warmth, vision, and deep commitment to student growth, he has taught across New York and led programs for families and teens throughout the tri-state area. He now serves as Head of School at Zucker Queens, where he partners with parents to build confident, connected Jewish children with strong values and a love of learning.
Mrs. Celia Abtan
Principal/ Preschool director
Mrs. Celia Abtan
Principal/ Preschool director
Mrs. Celia Abtan is a dedicated and enthusiastic Head of School with a passion for education and a love for her students. She comes to the Zucker Jewish Academy of Queens with over 30 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and educational leader.
Mrs. Abtan has a Master’s degree in Education and in Educational Leadership. Mrs. Abtan’s warmth and desire to connection to the school community are a hallmark of her style as a leader.
Mrs. Gita Groffman
1st Grade Judaic
Mrs. Gita Groffman
1st Grade Judaic
Gita Groffman holds a Master of Science in both Special Education and General Education. With over six years of classroom experience, she brings a deep passion for teaching and a strong commitment to supporting every student’s growth and success. Gita is dedicated to creating an engaging learning environment.
Bracha Kasirer
2nd Grade English
Bracha Kasirer
2nd Grade English
Bracha Kasirer is both the second and third grade English teacher. She has a passion for teaching and is dedicated to helping each student grow academically and personally. Bracha earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in General and Special Education from the University of Mount Saint Vincent. With three years of classroom experience, she works to create a warm, engaging, and inclusive environment where every student feels supported and encouraged.
Hannah Konigsberg
2nd Grade Judaic
Hannah Konigsberg
2nd Grade Judaic
Hannah is a passionate educator with extensive experience working with children. She understands firsthand the joys and challenges of teaching. Hannah believes that education goes beyond the classroom walls; it’s about nurturing curiosity, fostering resilience, and inspiring lifelong learning. She strives to create an engaging and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and empowered to explore their potential. Through interactive lessons and real-world experiences, Hannah aims to ignite a love for learning that lasts a lifetime for her students.
Morah Goldy Max
Pre-K
Morah Goldy Max
Pre-K
Morah Goldy Max is a dedicated pre-kindergarten teacher whose passion for early childhood education shines in the classroom. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is completing her Master’s in Special Education through the University of Mount Saint Vincent. With several years of experience in early childhood classrooms, Morah Goldy, raised in a family of educators, was inspired by the beauty of nurturing young minds. Deeply motivated by the success of every student, she is committed to creating a warm and positive learning environment. Her creativity and enthusiasm are key to her teaching style, allowing her to design engaging, supportive, and dynamic learning experiences.
Aliza Baila Perkal
1st Grade English
Aliza Baila Perkal
1st Grade English
Aliza Baila Perkal is passionate about helping every child succeed by providing the understanding and tools they need. With experience in various roles working with children, she believes in addressing the whole child, nurturing both their social-emotional development and academic growth. Aliza Baila holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Mount Saint Vincent and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree through Yeshiva University. She is excited to contribute to the unique environment at Zucker Jewish Academy, helping her first-grade students thrive.
Doba Roitman
3rd Grade Judaic
Doba Roitman
3rd Grade Judaic
Doba Roitman is a truly passionate educator dedicated to creating a classroom environment where every child feels seen and valued. Experience in various roles working with children has shaped her belief that true education extends beyond the classroom walls. Doba is dedicated to nurturing each child’s individual growth and ensuring that every child feels empowered to succeed.
Miriam Shaulova
5th Grade Judaic
Miriam Shaulova
5th Grade Judaic
Miriam Shaulova is a warm and caring educator. She has years of experience teaching in various schools, and always creates a positive learning environment. Miriam’s passion for imparting her knowledge has been showcased in her classroom as she continues to inspire the next generation.
Ariella Simantov
Kindergarten English
Ariella Simantov
Kindergarten English
With nearly 20 years of classroom experience and a Master’s degree in Education from Queens College, Ariella brings both expertise and a deep passion for teaching. She is a warm, kind, and caring educator who believes every child has something special to offer. In her classroom, learning will be joyful, engaging, and full of opportunities for each child to shine. It is a true honor to be part of the Zucker Academy team and to play a role in the children’s growth and success.