EarlyJ Impact Award Recipients
2026 Bay Area Educator Impact Award
Heidi Kallen, Educator and Gardening Specialist at Gan Ilan at Temple Isaiah in Lafayette
Heidi Kallen brings nearly three decades of experience in Jewish early childhood education and has played a transformative role at Gan Ilan Preschool through her development of its garden-based Jewish learning program and ongoing leadership. By weaving nature, hands-on exploration, and Jewish values together, she creates meaningful experiences that help children connect deeply to Judaism, their community, and the natural world. Heidi stands out as a powerful example of the Impact Award's vision through her creativity, dedication, and ability to inspire both children and adults.
2026 Bay Area Director Impact Award
Nika Greenberg, Senior Director of Early Childhood Education at Temple Emanu-El Preschool in San Fracisco
Nika Greenberg has strengthened Jewish early childhood education through visionary leadership that integrates inquiry-based learning and meaningful connections between the preschool and the wider Congregation Emanu-El community. She co-founded an educator stipend fund to support and retain teachers and developed programs that engage families from infancy through the elementary years. Nika's advocacy for educators and her relational approach to leadership reflect a deep commitment to strengthening Jewish learning and belonging. Through this work, she has elevated both the quality and long-term sustainability of Jewish early childhood education.
2025 Inaugural Bay Area Impact Award
Esty Marcus, Director of Early Childhood Education at Chai Preschool in San Mateo
A true educator’s educator, Esty has spent nearly two decades building Chai into one of the premier Jewish preschools in the Bay Area and beyond. Her visionary leadership and commitment to excellence are evident in every aspect of her work, from designing an environment that nurtures children’s social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual development to guiding families through the broader Jewish educational landscape and championing Jewish day schools. She understands that Jewish preschool is often the first step in a family’s Jewish journey and provides a thoughtful blueprint for that path. At Chai, families see Judaism not simply as an addition to their education but as a meaningful framework for life rooted in purpose and connection. Her work reflects a life grounded in Jewish values and a deep love for Israel, inspiring all who have the privilege of learning and growing with her. Esty’s warmth, generosity, and deep respect for others shine through in all she does, making her a truly exceptional and deserving recipient of this honor.
