Our Staff
Our school is home to a team of dedicated educators who are passionate about nurturing students and supporting families. Our staff is committed to delivering an exceptional education, continually collaborating and refining our programs through regular meetings and ongoing professional development.
Led by a devoted principal and faculty, our educators go beyond teaching—it’s their calling. They bring a unique blend of expertise and experience to their roles, ensuring our school remains a place of growth and excellence for every student.
EHA 2024-2025 STAFF
EHA ADMIN TEAM
Rebbetzin Chani Ezagui
School Director 〰 Hebrew Studies 〰 Early Childhood Curriculum Director 〰 New Student Tours
Mrs. Pam Noble
EHA Principal
Pam Noble is entering her fourth year at Esformes Hebrew Academy and her second year as Principal, having joined the school in August 2021. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Teacher Leadership from UNLV, as well as an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University. She also holds a Directors Credential from the Florida Department of Children and Families. Mrs. Noble is proud of her blended family with her husband Chris and five children—Tucker, Brayden, Elijah, Trenton, and Jacob—and three dogs—Lego, Lucy, and Moose. She is known for being fun, kind, and driven, with a knack for organization and leadership. Previously living in Las Vegas, Mrs. Noble moved to Ormond Beach in August 2021. She enjoys pedicures, coffee shops, and social media. Mrs. Noble supports the Los Angeles Rams and loves pink and Tiffany blue. Her motto is, “It’s always an adventure!” and her favorite quote is, "To Thine Own Self Be True" from Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
Ms. Donna Plappert
EHA Executive Administrative Assistant 〰 School Inquiries 〰 School Records Manager
Donna Plappert has been a dedicated member of the Esformes Hebrew Academy team for nearly 9 years. She plays a key role in interacting with staff, students, and parents, bringing a strong work ethic and a compassionate, warm presence to her role. Known for her organization and caring nature, Donna moved from Naples to DeLand 9 years ago. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her family and shopping at Bath and Body Works. Her favorite treat is chocolate, and she loves roses. Donna’s preferred beverages are chai tea lattes and Coke, and she often shops on Amazon. A fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Donna's favorite color is navy, and she admires Princess Diana and Catherine, Princess of Wales. Her personal goal is to reach 100 students enrolled at EHA. Donna’s motto is: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind."
Rabbi Mendel Niasoff
Financial Manager 〰 Purchasing and Budget 〰 Payroll
Rabbi Mendel Niasoff serves as both the payroll and financial manager at Esformes Hebrew Academy and the Chabad Rabbi of Port Orange. Known for his kindness, humor, and caring nature, he is most proud of his four children—two boys and two girls. His favorite colors are purple and blue, and he really enjoys coffee. A quote by the Jewish sage Hillel deeply resonates with him: "That which is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. That is the entire Torah, and the rest is its commentary," reflecting his deep respect and care for others.
Dr. Shelly Jebens, Psy.D.
SEL and PBIS Implementation Consultant
Dr. Shelly M. Jebens joined Esformes Hebrew Academy in 2021 as a psychologist and behavioral health consultant, bringing with her over 15 years of experience. A graduate of The Ohio State University and Xavier University, she is proud of earning her doctorate and her dedication to serving her community and mentoring others through difficult times. Known for her optimism and compassionate approach, Shelly is committed to supporting the growth of both teachers and students. Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing with a good movie. Her guiding belief is: "Every day is a new opportunity to be the best you."
Early Childhood Staff
Mrs. Mina Kubannek
Torah Tots Lead Teacher
Mina Kubannek has been a dedicated Lead Teacher for the Torah Tots class at Esformes Hebrew Academy for 5 years, with a total of 4 years of teaching experience. Proud of her family, including her husband Reuven and their three energetic boys—Elisha (6), Avraham (4), and Asher (2)—Mina brings a caring and enthusiastic approach to her role. Originally from Massachusetts, she enjoys unwinding by watching TV or baking, and loves shopping at Amazon and Target. A fan of all types of candy, Mina also enjoys hot cocoa and iced coffee. Her goal is to create a fun, safe, and nurturing environment for her students to learn and grow. Mina’s motto is: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.”
Mrs. Ilana Bitton
Torah Tots Assistant
Ilana has been at Esformes Hebrew Academy for 6 years, serving as an assistant teacher in preschool for 5 years. She is very proud of her three children—Daniella (25), Orel (24), and Helah (16). Ilana moved from Israel and has lived in Ormond Beach for 30 years. She enjoys relaxing by sitting by the pool and shopping at the Millenia Mall. Her favorite treats include dark chocolate, white roses, coffee, and lemonade. Her favorite color is mustard, and she loves the movie Cabaret. Her personal goal is for her students to grasp the sounds of letters and enjoy learning. Ilana’s guiding motto is: "The only way that we can live is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed."
Ms. Adel Fogel
Torah Tots Assistant
Adel Fogel is in her first year as an assistant preschool teacher at Esformes Hebrew Academy. Proud of becoming part of the EHA team, Adel is known for her honesty, kindness, and respectfulness. Having moved from New Jersey 15 years ago, she enjoys drawing and finds joy in shopping on Amazon and snacking on Mike and Ikes. Her favorite drink is coffee. Adel aims to build meaningful relationships and make a positive impact, guided by her motto: “Do your best with a positive attitude, because you might be changing someone’s day without realizing it.”
Morah Malky Fogel
Pre-K Judaics Teacher
Malka Fogel is in her third year at Esformes Hebrew Academy, where she teaches Pre-K Judaic Studies. This is her second year in the teaching field, and she is most proud of graduating high school while working full-time. Known for being bubbly, helpful, and kind, Malka moved to Ormond Beach from Lakewood, NJ, in 2009. She enjoys relaxing with long car drives and coffee, and is a fan of the Miami Dolphins with a fondness for the color purple. Malka’s personal goal is to fully immerse herself in her work and be more present in her day-to-day interactions. Her motto is: “Everything happens for a reason.”
Mrs. Laurie Broad
Preschool Lead Teacher 〰 Instructional Coach
Laurie Broad has been a valued member of Esformes Hebrew Academy for 12 years, serving as a Pre-K teacher and Instructional Coach. With 26 years in education, Laurie holds a B.A. in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University. She takes pride in her 19-year marriage to her husband, Steve, and their daughter, Laela. Laurie moved to Ormond Beach from Deerfield Beach, Florida, in August 2011. Known for her honesty, loyalty, and trustworthiness, Laurie enjoys relaxing with reading, movies, and beach time. Her favorite drink is black tea, and she is a fan of the Dolphins and the color green. Her hobbies include swimming, paddle-boarding, fishing, and photography, particularly capturing sunrises and sunsets. Laurie’s motto is: “You can do it!”
Miss Laela Broad
Pre-K Assistant
Laela Broad is in her second year at EHA as a preschool assistant. She is proud of graduating high school and earning a certification in digital design. Known for being caring, friendly, and empathetic, Laela moved to Ormond Beach in 2011 from Boca Raton, Florida. She enjoys relaxing at the beach and shopping at H&M. Her favorite snacks are chocolate, chips, and gummies, and she loves tulips. Laela's go-to drinks are hot chocolate and Coca-Cola, and she’s a fan of the Miami Dolphins. Her goal is to create a classroom that fosters love and curiosity for learning, guided by the motto: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Elementary and Middle School Staff
Ms. Carmel Collins
Kindergarten, 1st - 2nd Grade General Studies Teacher
With 8 years at Esformes Hebrew Academy and a decade of classroom experience, Ms. Carmel brings enthusiasm and dedication to her role as the K/2 General Studies Teacher. Holding two teaching credentials and a Master’s Degree, she is passionate about education and committed to her students. Known for her hard work, caring attitude, and natural curiosity, Ms. Carmel is always ready to help and loves learning new things. Originally from Orange County, California, she has enjoyed living in Ormond Beach for the past 10 years. In her free time, she loves swimming, enjoys peanut butter pretzels, and is a fan of "Friends." Ms. Carmel’s goal is to incorporate technology in an engaging way into her lessons, guided by her motto: “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Morah Bassie Rosenfeld
Kindergarten - 4th Grade Judaic Studies Teacher
Rebbetzin Bassie Rosenfeld brings a vibrant touch to her 8 years of teaching at Esformes Hebrew Academy, with a rich background spanning a decade in education. Armed with a Teacher’s Certificate from Bais Chaya Mushka Seminary in Montreal, she ignites a love for learning and Jewish pride in her students. Proudly fulfilling the Rebbe’s vision, Bassie balances her career with life as a dedicated wife and mother of five dynamic children. Known for her intuitive and caring approach, she finds relaxation in massages and date nights. Her personal teaching goal is to craft an inspiring and effective classroom environment. Bassie’s favorite motto is, “Why worry? If you can change something, do it. If not, trust in Hashem and let it be.”
Rabbi Chanoch Rosenfeld
Kindergarten - 4th Grade Judaic Studies Teacher
Rabbi Chanoch Rosenfeld has been a dedicated teacher at Esformes Hebrew Academy for 8 years, with a total of 10 years in education. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Applied Rabbinics in Melbourne, Australia, and takes pride in his family and his work inspired by the Rebbe. Known for his caring, creative, and musical nature, Chanoch is also a talented flute and clarinet player. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys spending time with his wife exploring new places. His goal is to foster a smooth, respectful classroom environment. His guiding motto: "Teachers are not in it for the income, we're in it for the outcome."
Mrs. Jennifer Schmitt
3rd-4th Grades General Studies Teacher
Jenny Schmitt is a dedicated 3rd and 4th grade General Academics teacher at Esformes Hebrew Academy. A graduate of Lake Forest College (Illinois), she has been teaching since 1991. Jenny takes great pride in her two sons, Taylor and Dylan, and her accomplishments, including multiple national handball titles and being named Teacher of the Year in Marion, Texas. Passionate about education and sports, she is known for her hard-working, thoughtful, and competitive nature. Jenny’s personal motto, inspired by Maya Angelou, is: “Today is a beautiful day, I’ve never seen this one before.”
Coach Clint Clymer
Physical Education 〰 Middle School Social Studies Teacher
Coach Clint has been a dedicated Physical Education and middle school teacher at Esformes Hebrew Academy for six years. A graduate of Bethune Cookman University and a former D1 All-American in baseball, Coach Clint brings a strong athletic background to his teaching. Known for his fun, engaging, and energetic approach, he keeps students motivated and entertained in class. In addition to his passion for sports, he enjoys coffee, energy drinks, and rooting for the Atlanta Braves.
Mr. Jason Burnside
Middle School ELA Teacher
Jason Burnside has been teaching middle school literacy at Esformes Hebrew Academy for the past 2.5 years, with over a decade of experience in education. A graduate of UCF with a degree in Secondary Language Arts Education, Jason is passionate about helping students grow both academically and personally. He is proud of his faith, his family, and his journey as a father. Known for his friendly and talkative personality, Jason enjoys traveling to scenic locations to unwind. He’s a fan of all Miami sports teams and UCF, and he loves a good Health Bar and coffee.
Mr. Rian Kubannek
Middle School Psychology Teacher
Rian Kubannek is the middle school psychology teacher at Esformes Hebrew Academy. He earned his Bachelor's in Child Psychology from Touro University and a Master's in Psychology (ABA) from Capella University. Passionate about education, Rian is dedicated to helping students enjoy learning while expanding their understanding of the world. Outside of teaching, he enjoys spending time with his family and relaxing through video games, LEGO building, and a good Irish coffee. He is known for his unique sense of humor and his caring, loyal nature.
Morah Etty Farkash
7th-8th Grades Judaic Studies Teacher 〰 Community Program Director
Rebbetzin Etty Farkash has been teaching middle school at Esformes Hebrew Academy for 6 years, with a decade of experience overall. She earned her Bachelor’s in Education from Shanan College in Israel. Proud of her family and her community role, Etty is mission-driven, spiritual, and caring. A resident of Ormond Beach for six years, she finds relaxation in sleep and reading. She enjoys chocolate, lattes, and mint slush, and her favorite color is light green. Etty’s goal is to nurture students who love learning and grow into proud, happy Jews, guided by her motto: “Think good, and it’ll be good.”
Rabbi Asher Farkash
5th-6th Grades Judaic Studies Teacher 〰 Community Program Director
Rabbi Asher Farkash has been a cornerstone of the Judaic Studies program at Esformes Hebrew Academy for 6 years, teaching 5th and 6th graders. With a YOEC Rabbinical Degree, Asher is deeply proud of his family and his role in education. Described as helpful, caring, and approachable, he brings a supportive presence to his students. Originally from NYC, Asher moved to Ormond Beach in 2018. He enjoys unwinding with a good book or a gym session, and has a sweet spot for chocolate and ice cream. Asher’s personal goal is to inspire his students to grow into their best selves. He lives by the quote: “A soul descends from its place high in the heavens down into this world for 70–80 years, just to do a favor for another” - Bal Shem Tov.
Ms. Claire Zurstadt
Judaic Journeys Art Club
Claire Zurstadt, a dedicated member of Esformes Hebrew Academy for 4 years, assists Judaic teachers and teaches art club. She’s proud of her college graduation and her teaching role, known for her compassion, patience, and creativity. Originally from Indiana and now a longtime Ormond Beach resident, Claire enjoys reading, writing, and hot chocolate. She shops at H&M, loves chips, and adores flowers. Claire’s personal goal this year is to complete her first year of her bachelor’s degree. With a flair for writing and art, she embraces the motto: "Your attitude determines your direction."
Mr. Jacob Fullerton
General Support Staff
Jacob Fullerton is in his first year at Esformes Hebrew Academy as a teacher’s assistant. His biggest accomplishment so far is starting college, which has been a significant milestone for him. Described as friendly and private, Jacob admits he can be tired and even considers himself a bit boring at times, but his kindness shines through. When he has time to relax, he enjoys catching up on sleep. His favorite snack is chocolate, and he prefers coffee or Coke to keep him energized. Jacob enjoys shopping on Amazon and playing on his PlayStation. A Braves fan and lover of the color purple, his goal is to successfully finish the school year. Being the youngest on staff gives him a unique perspective. His favorite quote is from Forrest Gump: "My mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."