Meet the Education Staff
Want to be part of our staff? Or want to volunteer 30 minutes of your time in our elective program? Reach out to avernick@bethmiriam.org
Anna Vernick
Educational Director
Anna Vernick has been part of Temple Beth Miriam for all 26 years of her life! She was named, became a bat mitzvah, and was confirmed at TBM. She also taught in the religious school for seven years before stepping into her new role as Educational Director. She is elated to begin this next chapter.
Anna holds bachelor's degrees in K–8 Education and Creative Writing, as well as a certification in Special Education from Kean University. She completed the Teaching Impact Fellowship with HUC in 2023 and earned a master’s degree in Trauma-Informed Education from Columbia College, SC.
By day, Anna is a special education kindergarten teacher in Wall, New Jersey. When she's not at the elementary school or the temple, you can find her making pottery or playing with her dog, Tank.
Caryn Adler (she/her)
Caryn Adler has been a congregant of Temple Beth Miriam for the past 15 years. This past year, she taught the Pre-K/K class that met monthly at TBM . The year prior to this, she was on the religious school board.
Caryn graduated from Syracuse University and has a Master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Speech & Hearing from the State University of New York at New Paltz.
Caryn is a speech therapist and works with children in Monmouth County, NJ. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and cockapoo.
Erica Brown
Sophie Drapkin
Teacher
Hello everyone, my name is Sophie Drapkin and I am the PreK/Kindergarten teacher for the congregation! I recently moved to Monmouth County after getting my Masters in Education, but I originally grew up not to far north in Scotch Plains, NJ. I grew up as a member of Temple Sholom, where I was a student, Madricha, and teacher. I currently teach K1 in Eatontown, and am very thankful to have been welcomed into this community.
Danielle DelCuore
Teacher
Danielle DelCuore has been an active synagogue member, trustee, volunteer, committee member, and teacher at Temple Beth Miriam for many years.
Danielle has two adult children, both of whom began their pre-school education at TBM religious school!
Danielle holds a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Rowan University and a Master's Degree of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University. She currently works for the Department of Veterans Affairs. When not playing with her two cats, she is often most spotted walking on the boardwalk, shopping at Wegmans, or mowing her lawn!
Karen Pingitore
Teacher
Karen Pingitore has been involved at Temple Beth Miriam for 30 years. Her oldest son had his Bris with Rabbi Goldman, and both her boys had their bar mitzvahs with Rabbi Stanway. Karen has been a member of various committees and groups at TBM over the years. She has taught Judaic studies in the religious school for 15 years and has been a b-mitzvah tutor for 10 years.
Adi Raz
Teacher
Adi has been a dedicated teacher of Hebrew, Judaic studies, and Israeli history—covering its geography, innovations, and rich culture—for 18 years at the temple, making her the longest-serving member of the teaching team. She graduated from Tel Aviv University with a bachelor’s degree in Communication Design, Arts, and Education. With a deep love for tradition, Israel, and diaspora, she brings every lesson to life. Beyond teaching, Adi is a certified life coach, a Reiki master, and an avid horse enthusiast. She speaks multiple languages and is devoted to guiding others on both their spiritual and personal journeys