Gaby Levitis, Director of Student Services
BIO: As a young child I had always wanted to be a teacher. When I started college, my major was education, and then I changed it to business. Once I graduated, and started a family of my own I felt that something was missing and decided to go back to school. I received a bachelor’s degree in marketing management and a master’s degree in childhood education (Grades 1-6) from Long Island University. I also hold a second master’s degree in School Building/School District Leadership from Brooklyn College. I have been teaching lower elementary grades in public and private schools for just over fifteen years. In May 2019 I became Mazel Day School's Internal Hidden Sparks Coach. I have been working with Hidden Sparks for just about ten years. Hidden Sparks is a program which facilitates professional development programs and coaching for Jewish day school educators. Hidden Sparks is meant to deepen understanding of learning and approaches for teaching all kinds of learners, particularly those who struggle. Six years ago, I left the classroom to take on the role of Director of Student Services. I wanted to incorporate my experience in the classroom with my training in Hidden Sparks to help ensure our students received the services and support they deserve. I also took on the responsibility of coaching new teachers and running our Enrichment program which includes Art, Music,Russian, and Physical Education. It has been an incredibly challenging and fulfilling journey. Although I’m no longer in the classroom, I am still able to connect with all of the children and their families to ensure they have everything needed to succeed. Currently, I’m enrolled in Prizmah’s You Lead program for Jewish Day School Leaders.
I became a teacher because... I genuinely love kids. My favorite part of being a teacher is watching children make progress. They come into class in September with an empty binder and I love watching it fill up with their work. It’s symbolic of the knowledge that they gain throughout the year. Sometimes, when I think “they’re not getting it,” I say something and suddenly, they just explode with information that they learned. It’s an amazing feeling. To see what each one of my students accomplishes at the end of the year and the progress they make throughout the year makes it all worthwhile.
I had an amazing experience throughout my elementary education. I loved going to school each day. I became a teacher because it is my goal to create an environment that makes my students feel the same way. I hope that my students will feel empowered to learn and have confidence to move forward to learn great things. I would like my students to develop a deep love of learning and not be shy to ask questions. I also hope to teach them how to be open-minded and understand that knowledge comes from everywhere. I hope my students thrive and have a great time doing it. I am dedicated to seeking out new ways to improve instruction, link learning with fun, and equip children with the resources and knowledge necessary to exceed individual goals.
My vision for our children is… for every child to reach their full potential as a human being and to contribute to society with their unique talents and expression. Most importantly, I encourage and promote good behavior and character traits that the children will grow up and be positive influences to those around them.
I joined Mazel because… Every morning when I come into the building, I see many smiling faces. As a parent and a teacher, that is a sign of a great learning environment. I have often observed my own students and the eagerness they have to learn gives me the motivation to keep doing what I do. I love Mazel because it embodies strong family values, love, kindness, and the developmental needs of the children. There is a strong camaraderie, and kindness amongst the faculty and parent body. Working at Mazel puts a smile on my face too! Additionally, over the last 8 years, Mazel has become like a second family. Everyone here is part of our unique and special community. This is something bout Mazel that I value more than anything
My favorite memory of being a student is... The love that teachers gave me as a student. In particular, my first grade teacher invested all of her energy into making sure I was achieving and progressing in all areas. She made me feel like a star!
The most difficult part of teaching is… When children don’t see their full potential and allow it to get in their way of reaching ultimate success.
My best advice to parents is... let your kids be kids. Encourage their curiosity and their social/emotional development. Help them be strong and confident in their abilities and always use positive reinforcement. Celebrate their successes and celebrate the knowledge they gained from their failures.
If I could teach my students only one thing, it would be... I want them to develop kindness and compassion through acts of caring and empathy towards others. As they grow, it can guide their actions and behaviors in positive ways.
If I had not become a teacher I would have become… an education lawyer. I always want to advocate for children’s rights.
Outside of school, I like to... take family trips. I love going to Broadway shows and spending time with friends. I also love to bake!