The Yeshiva of Central Queens is pleased to announce that Morah Shana Weiss, a beloved Head Nursery Teacher, has been named the Director of the Early Childhood Program, effective July 1.
Morah Shana’s appointment marks the next chapter of the illustrious history of YCQ’s Early Childhood Program. She will become just the second ever Director of the division, following in the footsteps of Morah Sharon Korn, who inaugurated the position. Since that time, the program has seen tremendous growth, most recently to include instruction for 3-year-olds. Early childhood education is fundamental for the development of successful children, and YCQ is proud to pass the helm of this critical task from one superstar to another.
Morah Shana has been an instrumental part of the YCQ family for nearly 20 years as an experienced, nurturing, and creative educator. As a teacher, she has created dynamic lesson plans that align with New York State curriculum standards and cater to individual students across various developmental stages, addressing their academic, social, and emotional needs.
She has also served as the Universal Pre-K Program Coordinator, and possesses the knowledge and skills to navigate the administrative aspects of directing a program for well over 160 students. Through her tenure, she has worked closely with Morah Sharon Korn, the current Director, in dealing with all aspects of the NYC Department of Education.
Rabbi Mark Landsman, the Principal of YCQ, is confident that Morah Shana will take the early childhood experience to the next level. “Shana’s excellence in education is matched only by her embodiment of the ideals our community cherishes,” he stated.
Mrs. Penina Nussbaum, YCQ PTO Executive and YCQ Parent, who served on the search committee, noted that she was “most impressed with Shana’s innovative and growth-oriented approach that she plans for the future of the YCQ early childhood education program.”
“She is an excellent educator with a calm and unassuming demeanor,” remarked Morah Sharon Korn, who will be retiring after 33 years of devotion to the yeshiva. “The children love her, the parents trust her, and the faculty deeply respects her. I know that the Early Childhood Program is in excellent hands and will continue to thrive under Morah Shana.”
Of course, Morah Shana will be building on the bedrock of excellence and momentum in the Early Childhood Program that would not have been possible without the decades of contributions made by Morah Sharon.
“I am so excited to join the administrative team and continue Morah Sharon’s legacy,” said Morah Shana. “As the proud mother of 3 YCQ graduates, I am lucky to work in such a great environment and I look forward to continuing to see our yeshiva grow,” she added.
The extended YCQ family once again expresses its sincere hakaras hatov to Morah Sharon Korn. Over her three decades of dedication to the yeshiva, she has touched the lives of countless students, families, and colleagues, leaving an indelible mark on all. YCQ is confident that Morah Shana will build upon the foundation that Morah Sharon has established, and take the yeshiva to even greater heights.