Zeifman Family Early Childhood Program (ECP) Senior Director Dana Baruch. Courtesy: Shalom Austin

By Rachel Stern

In December 2023, Shereen Ben-Moshe, the Zeifman Family Early Childhood Program (ECP) Senior Director relocated to San Diego, California to be closer to family. Ben-Moshe led the ECP beautifully for over four years and her departure left big shoes to fill. The position was posted and a national search for the next director, a crucial position at Shalom Austin, began.

While the search was conducted, Dana Baruch agreed to serve as the interim director. Baruch came to the ECP two and a half years ago when she was hired to serve as a mentor and coach for the ECP faculty and administrative teams.

The national search led Shalom Austin’s leadership straight to Baruch, who accepted the position of full time ECP Senior Director. Having an internal candidate who has built meaningful relationships with the students, teachers and parents and who deeply knows and cares about the school is a wonderful scenario.

Baruch’s professional background began in early childhood education. She started working in university lab schools, first at the University of Michigan, where she earned her bachelor’s in psychology, then at Tufts where she earned her MEd in Applied Early Childhood Development, and finally as faculty at Stanford University and San Jose State University.

Since arriving in Austin 29 years ago, she has been a leader in countless aspects of the Austin Jewish community. Baruch is the founder and founding head of school at Austin Jewish Community Day School, now Austin Jewish Academy. She is also a certified life coach working with individuals and groups around life transitions, work and parenting challenges. Her additional accolades include:

Teaching as an adult Jewish educator at Congregation Agudas Achim, Temple Beth Shalom and Shalom Austin teaching in the Melton program, Jewish History, Women in TaNaKh and Intro to Judaism, among others.

Serving as the Shalom Austin Board Chair and Jewish Life and Learning Vice-Chair.

Teaching Introduction to Judaism as an online instructor at the Union for Reform Judaism.

Baruch and her husband of 38 years, Mike Krell, have two grown sons.

Baruch’s background in both secular and Jewish education is unmatched. She is a seasoned leader who is known for her wisdom and experience, problem solving abilities, relationship building skills, and vast network. She is a mentor and guide to countless Jewish professionals as well as community volunteers.

Baruch is always championing ways to support and invest in teachers. For example, she brought the Child Development Certification program to the ECP.

The Shalom Austin team and leadership are beyond thrilled to have Dana step into this key role and looking forward to her leadership.