FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
O n the eve of my retirement, I’m feeling warmth, joy, appreciation, and gratitude, alongside a heartfelt conviction that these past 12 years have been the absolute highlight of my professional career. Not to mention my unwavering certainty that Levine is the very best school I’ve had the privilege of serving. What makes Levine excellent? The answer is simple: all of you – the students, families, teachers, admin, staff, alumni, and board members. There are many of you, but I will miss you all. I’ll miss hanging out with students in their classroom or joining them during lunchtime and recess. I’ll miss roaming the sidelines during all those sporting matches I’ve happily attended over the years. It’s also been a joy working shoulder to shoulder with my admin team on behalf of our faculty in pursuit of our school’s mission. They are the team of my professional career. In addition, I fervently appreciate my partnership with all our board members over the years, and certainly the board leaders with whom I have worked so closely. Together we utilized their expert counsel and wisdom as we guided Levine on its continuum of excellence. As I close this chapter of service, I want to take the time to welcome the incoming Head of School, Dr. Lisa Vardi. Over the past few months, I’ve gotten to learn a lot about Dr. Vardi, and I’m certain she will engender the exceptional academic and inspiring Judaic programs we’re accustomed to at Levine, as well as bring a refreshed vision toward the future of our school. As I prepared the school and Dr. Vardi for a smooth transition, I was reminded of the phrase “It’s the finish that counts!” I still feel the same sense of excitement and pride in our school’s mission — right now — that I felt when I first stepped foot on this campus 12 years ago. Thank you to everyone for your investment in Levine Academy.
Andrea Steiger with her husband Brett.
A s I begin my second term as President of the Board of Trustees, I do so with deep gratitude and optimism for the future of Levine Academy. It is an honor to serve a school that has meant so much to my family and our community. This year marks an exciting new chapter as we welcome Dr. Lisa Vardi as our new Head of School. Leadership transitions are important milestones that offer opportunities to reflect on our values and envision our future. I look forward to partnering with Dr. Vardi, our faculty and staff, and fellow trustees as we build on Levine’s strong foundation. In 2024, the Board adopted a Strategic Plan centered on five priorities: academic excellence and inclusion, investment in our people, expansion of programs, campus enhancement, and long-term financial sustainability . Together, these goals reinforce our commitment to providing an exceptional academic and Judaic education. I am proud to share that meaningful progress is already underway. From strengthening leadership and faculty development to enhancing programs, campus safety, and financial stability, we are building momentum across our strategic priorities. As we continue this work, I am encouraged by what we have accomplished and inspired by what lies ahead. Together, our community is ensuring Levine remains a vibrant, thriving place for future generations.
Andrea Steiger President, Board of Trustees
INTRODUCING DR. LISA VARDI
“Thank you for the opportunity to serve all of you as Head of School and lead this inclusive, dynamic Jewish community into the next phase of its remarkable journey. I’m eager to collaborate in the tradition of making Levine a place of Jewish joy and academic excellence, with a commitment to each child’s growth, discovery and development as future leaders. I look forward to meeting many more of you this year, so if you’re on campus, please feel free to stop by and say hi!” Dr. Lisa Vardi , Head of School
TOM ELIEFF HEAD OF SCHOOL, 2014-2026
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