GOA
THE MAGAZINE OF GOLDA OCH ACADEMY
CELEBRATING OUR LEGACY...
This year, as Golda Och Academy celebrates its 60th anniversary, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary journey that has brought us here — a journey shaped by vision, dedication, and an abiding sense of purpose. From our earliest days as the Solomon Schechter Day School of Essex and Union to the thriving, dynamic community we are today, GOA’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and faith in the enduring power of Jewish education.
What makes this milestone so meaningful is not just what we’ve built, but how we’ve done it — together. Generations of leaders, faculty, families, and donors have poured their hearts into this school, ensuring that our mission remains strong and relevant. Their belief in the importance of nurturing minds and souls through the lens of Jewish learning has allowed us to grow while staying true to who we are.
Over the years, GOA has continued to evolve: expanding our programs in academics, arts, athletics, STEM, and Jewish life; strengthening our connection to Israel; and creating spaces where students feel both challenged and cherished. And through it all, one thing has never changed — the spirit of simcha, of Jewish joy — that fills our classrooms, hallways, and community gatherings. It is that joy — the spark that ignites curiosity, compassion, and confidence — that defines the GOA experience.
As an alumna of the Class of 1992, this celebration carries a special meaning for me. The values I learned here shaped not only my own Jewish identity, but also my understanding of leadership, community, and purpose. To now have the privilege of serving as Head of School and guiding GOA into its next chapter feels like coming full circle, both an honor and a profound responsibility.
PLANNING OUR FUTURE...
As we look to the future, our mission endures: to inspire a love of learning, a commitment to community, and a deep and joyful connection to Jewish life. We will continue to honor the vision of our founders while embracing innovation and growth. We will continue to prepare our students to meet the world with confidence, curiosity, and integrity. The next 60 years will bring new challenges and opportunities, but the heart of Golda Och Academy — our values, our people, and our purpose — will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.
With pride, gratitude, and excitement for the journey ahead,
Carrie Z. Siegel ’92 Head of School
GOA
From our classrooms to our playgrounds, from meaningful traditions to everyday moments of joy, GOA shines in countless ways. As we celebrate our vibrant community, here are 60 ways GOA inspires, connects, and makes learning come alive — a testament to the heart and spirit of our school.
INSTITUTIONAL
Our 60 Year History of Excellence
For 60 years, Golda Och Academy has stood as a pillar of academic excellence, Jewish learning, and community. Since opening its doors in 1965, the school has nurtured generations of students who are confident thinkers, compassionate leaders, and proud members of the Jewish people.
From its modest beginnings as a small start-up day school to its growth into a premier Pre-K through 12th grade institution, Golda Och Academy has remained steadfast in its mission to inspire a lifelong love of learning, a strong Jewish identity, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
As we celebrate six decades of achievement, we honor the vision of our founders, the dedication of our teachers, and the passion of our students and families who have shaped our school’s remarkable journey. With gratitude for our past and excitement for our future, we look forward to the next 60 years of learning, leadership, and legacy.
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INSTITUTIONAL
Our Enduring School Values
At Golda Och Academy, our six core values shape every aspect of school life: Love of Learning, Community, Respect, Love of Israel, Repair of the World, and Jewish Life and Learning. These values inspire our students to think deeply, act compassionately, and live proudly as members of the Jewish community. They remind us that education is not only about knowledge, but about building character, connection, and purpose, guiding each student to grow as a learner, a leader, and a mensch.
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INSTITUTIONAL Our School Founders
Golda Och Academy (then Solomon Schechter Day School of Essex and Union) traces its beginnings to a group of visionary leaders and devoted parents who believed deeply in the power of Jewish education. In 1965, Horace Bier z”l, Rabbi Elvin Kose z”l, and Dr. Nathan Winter z”l, together with a committed group of founding parents, placed their trust in a bold new idea: a start-up Jewish day school dedicated to academic excellence, Jewish values, and community.
Their courage and foresight laid the foundation for what would become a thriving institution, inspiring generations of students to learn, lead, and live with purpose. The enduring legacy of our founders continues to shape Golda Och Academy’s mission and spirit today.
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INSTITUTIONAL Our Students
At the heart of Golda Och Academy are our students — curious, compassionate, and deeply engaged in both learning and life. They are scientists and artists, leaders and upstanders, dreamers and doers. GOA students embody our school’s values of Torah, community, and responsibility. Their energy, empathy, and creativity make GOA not just a school, but a vibrant family dedicated to learning, justice, and making a difference in the world.
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INSTITUTIONAL
Two Beautiful Campuses
Whether students are learning at the Wilf Lower School Campus or the Eric F. Ross Upper School Campus, our mission to create a nurturing environment and a warm community is at the heart of our school. In the elementary grades, our students love making discoveries in the Science Lab, listening to stories in the Kramer Family Library, playing soccer on the turf field or planting in the greenhouse. On our Upper School Campus, our students are challenged to tackle real-world issues in the Dr Lynne B Harrison STEM Center, daven in the Beit Knesset and observe the sky in our Observatory.
We are deeply grateful to the donors who, over the years, have helped us grow from a small dream into the vibrant school we are today. Their belief in our mission has built more than classrooms — it has built a home for curiosity, friendship, and Jewish learning. A special thank you to the builder families whose gift of land made the Eric F. Ross Upper School Campus possible. Their dedication to Jewish education continues to inspire generations of students who walk these halls with pride and purpose.
INSTITUTIONAL
Golda Och z”l & The Och Family
In 2010, Solomon Schechter Day School of Essex and Union was renamed Golda Och Academy in memory of Golda Och z”l — a beloved founding parent, teacher, board president, and longtime business manager. The renaming, made possible through the generosity of the Och family, honors Golda’s extraordinary legacy of leadership, dedication, and service to the school. Her unwavering commitment helped shape the institution into the thriving center of Jewish education it is today. Since then, we have been grateful to Jane and Dan Och and the entire Och family for their continued dedication to the school and transformational support.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Our Dedicated Faculty & Staff
Our faculty and staff are the heartbeat of GOA. Their dedication goes far beyond the classroom, fostering meaningful relationships, guiding students through challenges, and celebrating their successes. With expertise, compassion, and a shared love of learning, they make GOA a place where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
The Lower School Garden and Greenhouse
In our Lower School Garden and Greenhouse, learning literally comes to life. Students dig, plant, water, and harvest while exploring science, sustainability, and Jewish values like bal tashchit (not wasting) and shomrei adamah (guardians of the earth). From seed to sprout, they discover the wonder of growth and the joy of nurturing something with their own hands. It’s more than just a garden; it’s a living classroom that cultivates curiosity, responsibility, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Lower School Specials
Ask any Lower School student about their favorite part of the week, and chances are they’ll mention their specials! From designing and coding in Technology, creating art inspired by imagination, and discovering the wonders of science, to moving their bodies in Physical Education, connecting with nature in Environment, and finding new adventures in Library and Music, our specials bring joy and energy to every day. These experiences inspire a love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
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ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Dr Lynne B Harrison STEM Center and The Livnot Lab
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Gan Butterfly Release
As part of their hands-on science curriculum, our Gan/Kindergarten students experience the incredible transformation of caterpillars into butterflies. After weeks of careful observation and excitement, the students come together for the much-anticipated butterfly release — a joyful moment that captures the beauty of learning, discovery, and the natural world. 10
That same spirit of innovation thrives in the Wieseneck Family Tech Lab, also known as our Lower School’s Livnot Lab, a makerspace designed for exploration and creativity. Meaning “to build” in Hebrew, Livnot invites young learners to dream big with tools like 3D printers, a blue screen studio, robotics arenas, and the ever-popular Wall of Engineering. 9
A decade ago, with the support of Dr Lynne B Harrison, GOA launched the Dr Lynne B Harrison STEM Center — a space that continues to challenge students and inspire alumni to pursue careers in fields from aerospace engineering to medicine. Each year, our High School STEM students showcase their work at CIJE Innovation Day, where they have earned 15 awards over the past decade, with recognitions including: Best Mechanical Engineering, Best Engineering Design Process, Best Pitch, and CIJE-Tank Finalist, competing against hundreds of projects from schools nationwide.
ACADEMICS
& PROGRAMS
100 Days of School
The 100th day of school for Gan students means a day of celebrating all things 100! Students rotate through themed stations, including 100 Rhyming Words, Building Hebrew Letters from 100 Blocks, 100th Day Crowns, Counting by Tens, and Creating Pictures with 1-0-0. 12
ACADEMICS
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ACADEMICS
& PROGRAMS
4th Grade Science Fair
Do you know how to store your popcorn to get the most kernels popped or how music might affect plant growth? Each year, our 4th grade students embark on a monthlong science journey, designing original experiments, testing their hypotheses, and analyzing results. The experience culminates in a vibrant Science Fair, where students proudly present their discoveries to families, teachers and students, showcasing the joy of learning through hands-on exploration.
& PROGRAMS
5th Grade Moving Up
The 5th Grade Moving Up Ceremony is a beloved GOA tradition that marks a beautiful moment of growth and transition. With pride and excitement, our Lower School community gathers to celebrate our students as they take their next steps into Middle School. Through reflections, songs, and heartfelt words, we honor their accomplishments, friendships, and the foundation they’ve built as learners and leaders. It’s a day filled with joy, gratitude, and the promise of all that’s yet to come. 13
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Buddy Program
When the 5th grade year begins, the oldest students in the Lower School are not only excited to “rule the school,” they are even more excited to find out who their Gan/Kindergarten buddies are. This is without a doubt, one of the highlights of the elementary school years at Golda Och Academy. The Gan - 5th Grade Buddy program, which dates back to 1996, has been a tremendous success for both Kindergarteners who love having an older friend in the school to look up to and 5th graders who embrace their leadership roles with their younger buddies.
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ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Biography Day
Each year, the Lower School gym is transformed into a wax museum for 2nd Grade Biography Day! After much research, reporting, and practicing public speaking, our 2nd graders bring famous figures such as Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Frank Lloyd Wright, Harry Houdini and Jackie Robinson to life! It’s one of the most cherished days for our students! 15
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ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
6th Grade TEVA Program
Our annual 6th grade Teva trip helps studens form bonds as a class while learning about the environment and conservation through a Jewish lens. Teva offers hands-on learning about sustainability, ecology, and Jewish values related to caring for the earth, such as bal tashchit (the prohibition against wasteful destruction) and tikkun olam (repairing the world).
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
9th Grade Na’ale Israel Program
As one of the most anticipated trips for our students, Na’ale brings our newest High School students together to bond as a grade and to have a firsthand opportunity to familiarize themselves with Israel. During this transformative experience in Israel, 9th graders deepen their understanding of Jewish history, heritage, and peoplehood. From exploring ancient sites to engaging in hands-on learning and community service, students return with a renewed sense of pride and purpose. Na’ale captures the essence of GOA: learning that inspires, community that uplifts, and a lifelong love for Israel.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
The Flame
The Flame is the award-winning High School student newspaper recognized for its excellence in journalism, design, and community impact by the American Scholastic Press Association. Produced entirely by students, The Flame captures the voice of the school community through in-depth reporting, opinion pieces and articles highlighting issues that matter to young people.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Upper School Athletics
Team spirit runs deep at GOA! More than 75 percent of our Upper School students participate in our Athletics program, building confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships. Students compete with determination and pride, always guided by sportsmanship and ruach. With 22 athletic teams across three seasons for our Middle and High School students, there are opportunities for every athlete to grow, challenge themselves, and represent the Roadrunners. Our program also includes health and fitness–related clubs that promote active lifestyles and personal wellness.
Over the past four years, GOA athletes have proudly won SEC division championship titles in Varsity Cross Country, Varsity Baseball, Varsity Boys Soccer, and Varsity Girls Volleyball, demonstrating the dedication, skill, and spirit that define Roadrunner athletics.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Upper School Robotics Teams
Our Middle and Upper School robotics teams are buzzing with creativity and collaboration. Students design, build, and program robots, tackle challenges together, and cheer each other on, learning as much from teamwork as from technology. Each season brings new successes, surprises, and stories of perseverance, making robotics at GOA a space where curiosity, ingenuity, and friendship grow side by side.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
The Upper School Observatory
Thanks to generous grants from the Dr Lynne B Harrison STEM Endowment Fund and Project Moonshot—made possible by The Gottesman Fund—the vision for our Observatory became a reality. Equipped with a 9.25” optical telescope mounted on a motorized positioning system and a high-precision camera, the Observatory can capture stunning images of planets, nebulae, and even distant galaxies. Its fully computerized system allows students to plan observations in advance, automatically track celestial objects, and collect images with ease.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS Names, Not Numbers®
Our Names, Not Numbers Holocaust Documentary Film Project allows students to become storytellers and historians, preserving the memories of Holocaust survivors for future generations. Through research, interviews, and filmmaking, they capture personal stories with care, empathy, and respect while turning history into living testimony. Each May, our community comes together to premiere the final documentary film, celebrate our students and honor the survivors. Names, Not Numbers is more than just a project; it’s a legacy, a connection, and a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Walk
For Life
Our 60th anniversary year also marks a milestone in another cherished tradition: 30 years since the inception of the annual Walk for Life, benefiting the Gift of Life Marrow Registry. Walk for Life at GOA initially began when its founder and then West Orange-resident Jay Feinberg was diagnosed with Leukemia. Feinberg was told the best chance of finding a match was from the Ashkenazi Jewish community so his family reached out to our school. GOA allowed seniors to get swabbed prior to graduation and the walk itself has helped raise awareness and support for patients in need of lifesaving bone marrow transplants.
Organized by the Upper School’s National Honor Society (NHS), the Walk for Life is a powerful testament to the difference that a committed community can make.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
The Arts
At GOA, the arts bring our community to life, sparking creativity, expression, and joy across all grades. Students shine in music, theater, and visual arts through signature events like the Upper School Choir Concert, Arts in Action, High School and Middle School Musicals, Lower School Funtracks performances, the Lower School Festival of the Arts, and Kolot Hayam.
These experiences go beyond performance; they build confidence, foster collaboration, and create lasting memories, celebrating the talent, passion, and spirit that make GOA a place where the arts truly flourish.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Community Service Day
The spirit of kehillah and tikkun olam come alive during Upper School Community Service Day, when students across grades unite to serve our wider community through acts of kindness, environmental care, and outreach. From packing hygiene kits and volunteering at local shelters, to partnering with organizations like Friendship Circle and Rows for the Hungry, this day embodies our commitment to compassion in action.
ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Extracurricular Trips and Opportunities
At GOA, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Over the years, our students have traveled to Mexico City for a week-long exchange program; explored Cuba and Montreal on foreign language trips; assisted in rebuilding efforts in New Orleans and Puerto Rico on service missions; and visited Philadelphia, Washington DC and NYC on grade-wide trips, club adventures and Shabbatonim.
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ACADEMICS & PROGRAMS
Guidance, Learning Support, and College Counseling
Behind every student is the support from our Guidance, Learning Support and College Counseling teams. Our guidance counselors nurture social-emotional growth, learning support provides personalized academic strategies, and our college counseling helps students navigate their path to higher education. Together, they create a caring, empowering environment where students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES
Siddur Celebration
The 1st Grade Siddur Celebration is a treasured GOA tradition, marking a milestone in each student’s Jewish journey. With excitement and pride, our youngest learners receive their own siddurim, ready to explore prayer, tradition, and connection. Families and teachers gather to celebrate their growth, curiosity, and joy in learning. It’s a day that captures the magic of beginnings and the promise of a lifelong relationship with Jewish learning.
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES
Chumash Celebration
With pride and joy, our 2nd grade students give a special performance for family and friends before receiving their first chumashim from their synagogue clergy or a school administrator. This milestone is a cherished moment for our families as our students step into the world of Torah study and discovery.
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES
Rosh Chodesh Celebration
Our 3rd Grade Rosh Chodesh Celebration has grown into a rich, multidisciplinary event, including art, science and Judaics. In Science class, students explore the moon, then connect with our Upper School STEM students for a hands-on experience, building models of the moon rotating around the earth. These models are proudly displayed at the Rosh Chodesh Celebration, where the 3rd graders perform Hallel songs for their families and friends — a joyful blend of learning, creativity, and community.
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES
B’nai Mitzvah Celebrations on Campus
Becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah is one of the most exciting milestones for our Middle School students. Our school community comes together to celebrate during tefillah, with families and synagogue clergy joining in the joy. Each student receives an aliyah and the opportunity to read from the Torah—a meaningful moment that highlights their growth, learning, and connection to Jewish tradition. It’s a defining and cherished celebration for both students and their families.
Jewish holidays are celebrated as vibrant expressions of community, tradition, and joy. From school-wide events to classroom gatherings, we come together to honor traditions, fostering connection, understanding, and shared memories. These celebrations create moments of learning, reflection, and fun, whether it’s the High Holidays, Purim or Israeli days of remembrance.
JEWISH
LIFE & MILESTONES
High School Shabbaton Program
The High School Shabbaton Program is a highlight of life at GOA, bringing students together for connection, reflection, and fun. Grade-level Shabbat experiences build class bonds, while all-high-school gatherings spark friendships across grades—creating lasting memories and a strong sense of community.
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES Holiday Celebrations
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES
Tefillah
Tefillah is a cornerstone of life at GOA, bringing students together for reflection, gratitude, and community. This journey begins in our Lower School, where students receive their first siddurim and chumashim — milestone moments that lay the foundation for meaningful prayer and Torah learning. As they grow, our 5th graders take the important step of learning to chant Torah, deepening both skill and connection to tradition while preparing them for their B’nai Mitzvah. In Middle School, students explore tefillah in new ways, engaging with prayer through discussion, music, and leadership opportunities. By High School, tefillah becomes an even more personal and reflective experience, empowering students to lead, question, and find relevance in the ancient words. Across every grade, these evolving prayer experiences strengthen connections, explore Jewish values, and inspire personal growth that extends far beyond the classroom.
Israel Education
A deep connection to Israel is woven into the student experience from Pre-K through 12th grade. Even our youngest learners participate in virtual trips to Israel, exploring culture, history, and geography from the classroom. In the Upper School, students travel to Israel in 9th and 12th grade, engaging firsthand with the land, people, and heritage that shape Jewish identity. Added to these experiences is our Rishonim program which, through the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest initiative, brings young Israeli emissaries to GOA for a year of cultural activities, history lessons, and personal storytelling. The rishonim help our students build meaningful relationships with Israel and are part of how we integrate a love of Israel into everyday life at GOA.
JEWISH LIFE & MILESTONES
THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE Senior Send-Off
Before seniors depart for Neshama or begin their internship programs, we gather with the school community, family, and friends to celebrate the class. This cherished tradition honors our students’ journeys through heartfelt speeches, videos, and shared memories — bringing both laughter and tears. Senior Send-Off marks both an ending and a beginning, sending our seniors forward with confidence, connection, and the unwavering support of the GOA community.
THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE Graduation
Graduation at GOA is a culmination of years of learning, growth, and community celebrated through meaningful traditions that honor our seniors and connect them to the wider GOA family. Each graduating class is welcomed into the Alumni Society during a special lunch, capturing their transition from students to lifelong members of the GOA community. Seniors also take a group photo in their college gear, commemorating the next chapter in their academic journey, and hear from a 10-Year Alumni Speaker who shares insights and inspiration from their own post-GOA experiences. These rituals celebrate achievement, reflect on memories, and strengthen the enduring bonds that link generations of GOA graduates.
THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE Senior Mural
Since 2009, our graduating seniors have left their mark— literally—on the Upper School campus with a Senior Mural. Each class chooses a theme and designs a mural along the staircases, creatively incorporating every student’s name into a lasting symbol of their time at GOA.
THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE Senior Internship Program
The Internship Program offers seniors a chance to step beyond the classroom and into the real world. It’s a hands-on experience that lets students explore careers they’re passionate about — whether that’s medical research, government, law, nonprofits, advertising, communications, or design.
Each internship is unique, giving students a front-row seat to professional life and a chance to apply what they’ve learned in meaningful ways. Interns reconnect regularly with classmates and faculty mentors to share stories, compare experiences, and reflect on their growth. They also take part in special field trips that deepen their understanding of different industries. For many students, the Internship Program becomes a highlight of senior year — a time to discover new interests, gain real-world confidence, and imagine what comes next.
THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE Neshama
In the second half of senior year, Golda Och Academy students embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey: Neshama, a semester-long educational adventure that begins in Poland and unfolds over 12 unforgettable weeks in Israel. This capstone experience brings years of study to life — blending history, culture, and personal growth.
In Israel, the land itself becomes the classroom. Students dive into thought-provoking seminars on religion, politics, and security; hike through breathtaking landscapes; volunteer alongside local communities; and explore the country’s most significant historical and spiritual sites. Along the way, they strengthen their Hebrew, engage with current events firsthand, and form deep, lasting connections with the people and the place. Neshama isn’t just a program; it’s the culmination of a Golda Och education, where learning, identity and discovery meet.
OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY 25% of Enrolled Students Are Children of Alumni
At Golda Och Academy, our community is built on generations of learning, connection, and Jewish life. Today, one in four students is a child of a GOA graduate or former student, carrying forward a shared commitment to Jewish values, tradition, and community. These families reflect the enduring strength of our school’s mission.
OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY
College Alumni Basketball Game
Each winter, our GOA college alumni return to the Upper School Campus for our beloved Alumni Basketball Game. College students and recent graduates reunite with friends, reconnect with teachers, and relive their school spirit on the court as they take on our varsity team. The day is filled with energy, laughter, and pride, celebrating the lifelong bonds that make the GOA community so special.
OUR
ALUMNI COMMUNITY
Alumni Leaders on Campus
Our alumni continue to make their mark as leaders on college campuses, serving in leadership positions at Hillel or Chabad, where they help shape vibrant Jewish communities. They bring the values and skills cultivated at GOA — curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to tzedakah — into every aspect of campus life, inspiring peers and creating positive change wherever they go.
OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY
Our SSDS/GOA Alumni Society Reunions
Every year, Golda Och Academy celebrates milestone reunions for alumni marking 5, 10, 20 years and beyond. These gatherings take place on our campuses and in New York City, bringing our alumni together to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the shared experiences that shaped their GOA years. From heartfelt conversations with teachers to laughter-filled memories with friends, our reunions honor the lasting connections and enduring spirit that define the GOA community. The GOA experience truly lasts a lifetime!
OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY Double Alumni Couples
Golda Och Academy has been the starting point for countless lifelong connections. Many of our alumni met at GOA, fell in love, and built families together. Today, these double alumni couples not only share a bond rooted in their school years, but often pass the GOA tradition on to their children, continuing the cycle of community, friendship, and Jewish values for the next generation.
OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY
Lifetime Friendships
At Golda Och Academy, friendships formed in the classroom, on the sports field, and in extracurriculars often last a lifetime. Alumni return year after year to reunions, events, and celebrations, reconnecting with friends who shared in their GOA experiences. These enduring bonds reflect the strong sense of community that defines GOA.
COMMUNITY
Are Mensches
Golda Och Academy graduates carry the values they learned at GOA into the world, living with integrity, kindness, and responsibility. Whether in their careers, communities, or families, our alumni exemplify what it means to be a true mensch, making a positive impact wherever they go and reflecting the heart of the GOA mission.
OUR ALUMNI COMMUNITY 10-Year Graduation Speakers
For decades, Golda Och Academy has invited alumni back as 10-year graduation speakers to share their experiences and insights with the newest graduates. From doctors to leaders in the Jewish world, former IDF soldiers, and professionals in every field, these speakers offer wisdom, inspiration, and encouragement, connecting past and present generations and highlighting the many paths a GOA education can open.
On Fridays, our Gan and Ganon classes welcome families to celebrate Shabbat alongside their children, participating in classroom rituals, songs, and shared moments full of joy and smiles.
SCHOOL COMMUNITY & SPIRIT
Grandparents & Grandfriends Day
Grandparents and Grandfriends Day is an annual tradition where our special guests get to join the school community for classroom visits and shared activities, experiencing firsthand the learning, creativity, and spirit of GOA. This day fosters intergenerational bonds, joy, and pride, and we love seeing our grandparents and grandfriends kvell year after year!
SCHOOL COMMUNITY & SPIRIT The Roadrunner Mascot
Our spirited Roadrunner mascot brings energy and pride to athletic events, rallies, and school celebrations, embodying determination, teamwork, and the vibrant GOA community.
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SCHOOL COMMUNITY & SPIRIT Och Fest
Our very first Och Fest was held this past fall, to celebrate our 60th! The energy and ruach of our GOA kehillah made the day unforgettable — from the thrilling Boys Varsity Soccer win against Kushner Academy, to the high-energy soccer clinic led by Coach David Usher, and an afternoon packed with food, fun, and festive activities for all ages.
SCHOOL COMMUNITY & SPIRIT
Shabbat Across GOA
Each winter, our families from across our Golda Och Academy community come together to welcome Shabbat, share meaningful moments, and build lasting connections. Families gather around Shabbat tables — some with longtime friends, others meeting for the first time — to share prayers, songs, delicious food, and conversation.
SCHOOL COMMUNITY & SPIRIT Kindness
At GOA, kindness is more than a value — it’s a daily practice. Our year-long Kindness Campaign is a school-wide initiative to create a more connected, empathetic community. Each month, students engage in theme-based activities that invite them to pause, reflect, and grow together. On the playground, the Mensch Bench gives students a special place to sit and connect with peers who may need a friend. In the classroom, programs like RULER guide students in recognizing and managing emotions. Together, these initiatives help cultivate a culture where empathy and respect flourish every day.
SCHOOL COMMUNITY & SPIRIT
Spring Gala Celebration
Each spring, the Golda Och Academy community comes together for one of the most anticipated events of the year — the Spring Gala Celebration. This special evening serves as both a joyful reunion and a heartfelt expression of support for the school’s mission, excellence, and enduring spirit. Parents, alumni, faculty, and friends gather to honor the achievements of the past year, recognize the incredible dedication of our teachers and staff, and celebrate the continued growth and success of our students.
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VOLUNTARISM & LEADERSHIP
Our Parents’ Association
Our Parents’ Association is at the heart of the GOA community, volunteering countless hours throughout the year to make school life even more special. From serving lunch at the Lower School to handing out treats during holidays and organizing community events, their energy and dedication bring smiles to students and staff alike. Their hard work and school spirit help create the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes Golda Och Academy feel like family.
B’YACHAD
VOLUNTARISM & LEADERSHIP
Annual Chocolate Bar Giveway
Our Annual Fund Kickoff is always a sweet start to the year — literally! Families are greeted at the carpool line with a special chocolate bar giveaway, celebrating the beginning of our Annual Fund campaign. It’s a fun way to show appreciation for our community while highlighting the importance of supporting the programs and experiences that make GOA so exceptional.
VOLUNTARISM & LEADERSHIP
Leadership at GOA
The leadership at Golda Och Academy has been instrumental in shaping the school’s vision, growth, and enduring excellence. Our Board of Trustees, past presidents, and former heads of school have provided guidance, wisdom, and dedication, ensuring that GOA remains a place of academic rigor, Jewish values, and vibrant community life. Their commitment has laid the foundation for generations of students to thrive and has helped sustain the school’s mission for the future. We are grateful to our school leaders of yesterday, today and tomorrow who make our school the wonderful place it is! 59
VOLUNTARISM & LEADERSHIP Tzedakah – Thank You!
For the past 60 years, donor support and the spirit of tzedakah have made Golda Och Academy possible, allowing generations of students to learn, grow, and thrive. Through the generosity of our community, the school has been able to provide exceptional academics, vibrant Jewish life, and meaningful experiences for every student. This enduring commitment to giving has been the foundation of GOA’s success and continues to inspire a culture of gratitude, community, and opportunity.
Barry Levine and his wife, Jackie, welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Samuel Edward, on October 14, 2025.
Rachel Konik and her husband, Konrad, celebrated their daughter Keira’s Bat Mitzvah at GOA where she is a current student. Keira was honored with an aliyah and read Torah. Rabbi Jesse Olitzky ’02 offered a special blessing. ’00
Hannah Grossman and Jarret Nelson were married on May 25, 2025 in the Hudson Valley of New York. Many SSDS alumni were also in attendance for the celebration!
’06
’08
Nicole (Halpern) Markowitz and her husband, David, welcomed the birth of a baby girl, Jolie, on April 13, 2025.
Jodi Lederman Levin and her husband, Phil, welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Amiel Micah, on January 2, 2025.
’09
Jessica (Bielski) Akhavan and her husband, Jonathan, welcomed the birth of a baby girl, Jade Judith, on July 9, 2025.
Carly Rabner and her husband, Yoni Goldstein, welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Ethan Drew, on July 23, 2025.
Jacob Susskind and his wife, Olivia, welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Solomon Zeke, on August 1, 2025.
Matthew Hochberg and Jackie Miller were engaged in January 2025.
Sammi (Jay) Title and her husband Reed welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Miles Jay, on April 27, 2025.
Mindy (Fliegelman) Marcus and her husband, Neil, welcomed the birth of a baby girl, Maya Shira, in August 2025.
Manon (Noni) Benisty and Andrew Stark were engaged on July 30, 2024. Noni is the daughter of current Lower School faculty member Natasha Cooper-Benisty.
Maya (Moran) and Elan Meltzer welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Liam Isaac, on May 6, 2025.
Jessica Spierer and Eric Lederman were married on June 24, 2025 at Crystal Springs in Hamburg, NJ.
Noah Hessdorf and Marisa Parnes were married on December 8, 2024 at Temple Emanuel in Closter, New Jersey. They celebrated alongside many GOA friends and family members.
DOUBLE ALUMNI
DOUBLE ALUMNI
’13 ’15
Talia (Schonfeld) ’15 and Craig Epstein ’13 welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Myles Nathaniel, on September 24, 2025.
Noah Pearlstein and his wife, Julia, welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Asher Sy, on July 21, 2025.
Mira Davis and Max Gelman were engaged on November 21, 2025.
Jordan Schenker and Zack Jaffe were engaged on May 31, 2025. Jordan is the daughter of current Upper School Guidance Counselor Elisa Schenker.
Hannah Cohen and Elliot Lazar were engaged on September 21, 2025.
DOUBLE ALUMNI
DOUBLE ALUMNI
Daniel Berkowitz and Chelsea Hayet were engaged in June 2025.
Abby Bilmes and James Levin were married on June 26, 2025 at Florentine Gardens in River Vale, NJ. They celebrated alongside many GOA friends and family members. Abby is the daughter of current Math Department Chair Nina Bilmes.
Nadav Aronoff and Emily Greenspan were engaged on July 20, 2025. Nadav is the son of current 3rd Grade Team Lead Hope Aronoff.
David Rosenberg and Hayley Yurowitz were engaged on June 14, 2025. David is the son of Lower School faculty member Gena Jarmel.
Lindsay Biebelberg and Jeremy Davis were engaged on June 8, 2025.
Ben Moses and Carly Paternite were engaged on August 9, 2025.
Rebecca Landau and Daniel Shuster were married on June 15, 2025 at the Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange, NJ. They celebrated alongside many GOA friends and family members.
’18
Yael Liebman and Dylan Dsouza were engaged. A Denver-area wedding is planned.
Shifra Zuckerman and Dylan Motto were engaged on July 3, 2025. They are planning a June 2026 wedding.
DOUBLE ALUMNI
Berger and Zack Reich were engaged on May 18, 2025.
Sam Lurie and Jackie Harris were engaged on June 15, 2025.
Emily
’20
Daniel Gohar and Brianna Halpern were engaged on November 22, 2025.
Samantha Rigante started a new job as the Executive Coordinator at the Jewish Federations of North America. ’24
Hannah Weisz released her first song, Lilac Oil. It’s available on Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music, and the official video is on YouTube. The full-length album is in production and projected to be available within a year.
Former student Jonathan Abrahamian and his wife Katherine welcomed the birth of a baby boy, Benjamin Dov, on July 31, 2025. Benjamin is the grandson of current Lower School faculty member Tina Abrahamian.
Field Operations
Israel
Manager Rabbi Rob Kahn welcomed the birth of his new grandson in Israel to happy parents Avinoam and Giudi.
GOA
THE MAGAZINE OF GOLDA OCH ACADEMY
Send your comments, questions, story ideas, photos, class notes, and baruch dayan emets to: alumni@goldaochacademy.org. FALL / WINTER 2025
This publication is produced by the offices of Institutional Advancement and Marketing and Communications.
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Stephanie Bash-Soudry Director of Institutional Advancement
Michael Bressman
Director of Development
Dana Halpern ’15
Alumni Engagement Coordinator
Meegan Gliner
Special Events Coordinator
Jackie Cistaro Development Database Manager
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Glenn Slavin
Director of Marketing and Communications
Erin Sternthal
Associate Director of Marketing and Communications
James Bratek
Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications
ADMINISTRATION
Carrie Z. Siegel ’92 Head of School
Julia Rasmussen
Chief Financial Officer
Sari Allen
Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management
Jessica Wise Director of Admissions, Lower School
Paul-Michael Huseman
Principal, Upper School
Heather Brown
Principal, Lower School
Jamie Himmelstein
Middle School Director
Rabbi Meirav Kallush Director of Israel Education
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Rena Abrams ’01
Keith Biebelberg
Pamela Davis ’02
Jon Gantman
Steven Klinghoffer
Keren Lebeau ’94
Barry Levine ’98
Miriam Linver
Jean Mandell
David Moss
Marc Pantirer ’01
Sheryl Pearlstein
Leslie Dannin
Rosenthal
Larry Rothenberg
Dr. Jill Sacks
Alan Schall ’92
Jonathan Schwartz
Dina Wiesen
GOLDA OCH ACADEMY is accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools, and is a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ. It is affiliated with the National Association of Indepedent Schools, Prizmah, and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (NJ Region).
MISSION
We nurture the unique potential of each student through an exceptional Jewish and general studies education.
VISION
Innovative Jewish thinkers begin their journey here. Our students explore the world through the lens of Jewish values and develop a love of learning, a personal relationship with the State of Israel and its people, and a commitment to the betterment of the world through tikkun olam.
VALUES
Love of Learning Torah Lishmah
We inspire a love of learning and encourage intellectual curiosity across all disciplines. Students learn to think creatively and independently in a community infused with Jewish tradition and values.
Community Kehillah
We establish a strong partnership between students, teachers, parents, and the community beyond the classroom and campus. Our vibrant learning community focuses on the intellectual, social, and spiritual needs of each child.
Respect Kavod
We encourage a shared responsibility for treating others and ourselves with respect and dignity. Our students and faculty practice empathy, menschlichkeit, and integrity when interacting with others.
Love of Israel Ahavat Yisrael
We empower our students to develop an ongoing personal connection to Israel by studying its history, its culture, and the Hebrew language. Students learn the importance of Israel both in the classroom and within the land itself.
Repair of the World Tikkun Olam
Our students learn the importance of communal responsibility and service both locally and globally through acts of tikkun olam (repair of the world) and gemilut hasadim (expressions of loving kindness).
Jewish Life and Learning
Mitzvot and Halachah
We inspire our students to find joy and meaning in Torah, Tefillah, rituals, and practices, including the teaching and celebration of lifecycle events, holidays, and traditions within our school community.