Rena Kaufmann, RJE, brings enthusiasm, love and joy for Jewish education and learning.

She holds two Bachelor’s degrees: one from Barnard College of Columbia University in Sociology and one from JTS in Bible. She continued her studies at JTS and received a Master’s in Jewish Education.

Before arriving at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, Rena spent many years in Informal Jewish Education working with High School age students in summer, camping, and youth work. She spent many summers involved in the United Synagogue Youth (USY) summer youth program called, “Wheels.” This program spends six weeks and half weeks on a bus traveling coast to coast with High School age students. As they travel and experience North America, the participants enrich and develop their awareness and appreciation of Judaism, Jewish living, and culture. After many years as a staff member, Rena then moved on to serve as the Director of this program.

Rena joined the SWFS education team soon after Evita’s arrival in 2007 and is thrilled to be able to share experiences in and out of the classroom with students, faculty, and families. Quickly upon arrival, Rena created our junior youth group program for Fifth through Seventh Grade age students called JYC (Jewish Youth Club).

Rena also works closely with our High School age students in the Zarkor High School Program. She mentors our Teaching Assistants and the leadership team of the High School Senior Youth Group SWFSTY (SWFS Temple Youth). Rena is an active member of Metropolitan Educators' Council (MEC)and partners with the nearby Reform Congregations to better enrich the Jewish lives of Manhattan teens. She just recently received her Reform Jewish Educator, RJE, title, recognizing her commitment to education of all ages in the Reform movement.