Netivot Shalom Preschool

Netivot SHalom Preschool

Congregation Netivot Shalom Preschool seeks to create a stimulating and enriching educational environment for each and every child. We are devoted to helping children learn socialization skills, building their self-confidence and teaching them the preliminary skills to explore and experience the world independently from their parents. In addition, we seek to ignite a spark in each child to lay claim to their Jewish heritage and commit themselves to a lifetime passion for learning.

Our core program runs from 9 am – 1 pm, with an option to extend for a full day until 3:30 pm. Early morning care (8 am – 9 am) and extended care (3:30 pm – 5:30 pm) are also available. Our preschool offers rolling admission for children ages 2-5. Our kehillah (community) is open whenever you are ready to join.

For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact Karen Llamas, the CNS Preschool Director, at preschool@netivotshalom.org or call 510-549-9447, ext. 110.

PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR

Teaching Staff

Bonica Bonheur

This is my second year teaching at Netviot Shalom Preschool. I’m thrilled to be back and working with and alongside this wonderful community of people. I will be completing my Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education in May and then transferring to a four year college. My hobbies consist of going to the beach, hiking, and performing at open mic nights. I also enjoy spending time with friends and my dog, Love. I am excited to be teaching and learning more about Jewish tradition and customs.

Samantha Ashley

This is my second year teaching at Netivot Shalom Preschool and 5th year working in an early childhood related field. Before teaching, I spent two and half years working with children on the Autism spectrum. I received my B.A. in Psychology and Legal Studies and am a proud UC Santa Cruz alum, go banana slugs! In my free time, I love crafting, baking, going to the Alameda antique fair and camping in the Pacific Northwest. I love visiting lakes and hiking anywhere there’s a waterfall. I live in Alameda with my partner, Ryan and our two year old kitty, Machine. I am passionate about creating engaging provocations, interwoven with Judaic teachings, for the children to learn, play and explore.

Vanessa Kimball

I am excited to be returning from maternity leave to complete my second year at Netivot Shalom Preschool. I have been teaching in Jewish early childhood education since 2018, and I have worked professionally with children for 15 years. I completed my B.A. at UC Santa Barbara and my Masters in Social Work at San Jose State University, with an emphasis in Child Welfare. My favorite part of teaching is finding ways to connect the home and school environments for children, especially around the different ways that families celebrate Judaism at home. I live in Richmond with my husband Nick, baby Trish, and our two kitties.