Local teacher wins award

Chani Malamud, a third-year Hebrew and Judaic teacher at the Conejo Jewish Academy Hebrew School in Agoura Hills, received the Smotrich Family Foundation’s Award of Merit for Religious School Educators.

The award was presented to Malamud at the annual Conference for Educators at the University of Judaism on Jan. 16.

Rabbi Yitzchak Sapochkinsky, principal of the Religious School, extolled Malamud’s virtues and dedication.

"She is very hard-working and creative and we’re so excited that she is receiving public recognition for her efforts."

In addition to creating a learning environment that is both fun and stimulating, Malamud is also credited with bringing a revolutionary Hebrew reading program called "Aleph Champ" to the school.

Unlike conventional language programs, Aleph Champ is modeled after the Martial Arts system and helps students read Hebrew in an efficient and timely manner as they advance in rank from White Belt to Red Belt and all the way to Black Belt.