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 tbmoffice@bethmiriam.org.
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
Erica has been a temple member since 2018. She began teaching Judaic Studies in the fall of 2024. She was on the Religious School Board prior to teaching and joined her child's class as a guest to incorporate cooking and baking into the lessons.
Erica holds a B.S. in Food Science from Rutgers University and is the Technical Director for Culinary and Snacks at IFF. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, baking, riding her bicycle and is the lead singer in a rock band.
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.
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.