Our Enrichment Teachers
Supporting every child beyond the classroom
Hope Viani
Art
Ms. Hope has been a cherished member of the Temple Shalom Preschool family for 20 years! As our art teacher, she has inspired generations of students from Cubs through VPK to explore their creativity, express themselves, and discover the joy of creating something with their own hands.
Ms. Hope holds her VPK teaching certification, has completed the required DCF training hours, and is certified in CPR and First Aid. Her years of experience working with preschool-aged children have helped her create engaging art experiences that support creativity, fine motor development, self-expression, and confidence.
Known for her incredible creativity, Ms. Hope has a special talent for turning the simplest everyday items into beautiful works of art. Whether it's a cardboard tube, a paper plate, or a recycled container, she can transform ordinary materials into imaginative projects that children are proud to create and take home.
Families and students love Ms. Hope's enthusiasm, patience, and ability to make every child feel like an artist. She believes that creativity has no limits and encourages children to explore, experiment, and express themselves through art in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Ms. Hope looks forward to continuing to inspire young artists and helping each child discover their creativity while making wonderful memories in the art room. 🎨💙🌟
Marisa Ratz
Garden & Science
Ms. Marisa is a valued member of the Temple Shalom Preschool family and brings a calm, caring presence wherever she goes. With nearly five years of experience in early childhood education, she has worked with children of all ages at TSP and is always willing to lend a helping hand in any classroom. While she enjoys working with every age group, she especially loves the opportunity to snuggle and care for the little ones in the infant room.
Ms. Marisa earned her Bachelor of Science in Resort and Hospitality Management from Florida Gulf Coast University. Before joining the world of early childhood education, she managed a spa, where she developed the patience, organization, and calm demeanor that families and coworkers appreciate today.
She has completed the required 45 DCF training hours and is certified in CPR and First Aid.
Outside of school, Ms. Marisa enjoys gardening and creating fun, hands-on learning experiences with her son. Her love of nature and exploration often inspires the engaging activities she brings to Temple Shalom Preschool's garden and science programs, helping children discover the wonders of the world around them through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
Ms. Marisa is passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels loved, supported, and encouraged to learn. Whether she is caring for infants, assisting in a classroom, or leading a garden activity, she brings kindness, creativity, and enthusiasm to everything she does. She looks forward to helping each child grow, explore, and make wonderful memories throughout the school year. 🌱💙🌟
Coki Yitzhak
Hebrew
Ms. Coki is a beloved member of the Temple Shalom Preschool family and has been part of our school community for an incredible 20 years! Originally from Israel, she has spent two decades helping children learn, grow, and create lasting memories at TSP.
Ms. Coki earned her Bachelor of Arts in Drama from Oranim Academic College. Her background in drama brings creativity, imagination, and expressive learning opportunities into the classroom, helping children build confidence while having fun.
Over the years, Ms. Coki has worked with every age group at Temple Shalom Preschool except infants, though her experience as a mother has certainly given her plenty of practice caring for little ones as well! Her versatility, dedication, and willingness to support wherever needed have made her an invaluable part of the TSP team.
Ms. Coki has completed the required DCF training hours and remains committed to providing a nurturing, engaging environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to learn.
Families appreciate Ms. Coki's warm personality, years of experience, and deep connection to the Temple Shalom Preschool community. After 20 years at TSP, she continues to bring passion, creativity, and a genuine love for children to her work every day. She looks forward to helping each child grow, explore, and thrive during their preschool journey. 💙🌟
Claudette Kessler
Storyland, Music & Movement, SEL, & Shabbat Lead
Ms. Claudette is thrilled to be part of the Temple Shalom Preschool family! Originally from Baltimore, she brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education. She spent 12 years teaching kindergarten before transitioning to preschool, where she enjoys helping young learners build a strong foundation for future success.
Ms. Claudette earned dual degrees in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from Notre Dame University. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to creating engaging, nurturing learning environments where children feel encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
In addition to her classroom experience, Ms. Claudette previously served as a health and fitness class leader at the Jewish Community Center of Baltimore, combining her love of wellness with her passion for working with families and children. She is also one of our Religious School teachers on Sundays, helping students strengthen their connection to Jewish learning and community.
Families appreciate Ms. Claudette's warm, caring nature and her commitment to helping every child feel confident, capable, and loved. She is excited to partner with families and looks forward to a wonderful year of learning, growth, and discovery.
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Alexandra Wein
Kef Shalom
Ms. Alex wears many hats at Temple Shalom Preschool! In addition to being a member of our administrative team, she brings energy, excitement, and plenty of movement to our gym classes. While her educational background is outside of childcare, she has completed her required 45 DCF training hours, is CPR and First Aid certified, and brings invaluable hands-on experience as a mom of three. Ms. Alex loves helping children stay active, build confidence, develop healthy habits, and most importantly—have fun while burning off some energy!