ECLC - A Different Kind of Hebrew School
An Innovative Experiential Approach to Learning Hebrew, Jewish Education, and About Israel
The ECLC offers engaging project-based learning opportunities for students in Grades TK-7.
Welcome to our innovative Hebrew School—a place where education and exploration come together to create a unique Jewish experience. We are committed to providing an engaging environment that nurtures students' Hebrew learning, Jewish identity, and connection to Israel. Get ready to discover "A Different Kind of Hebrew School" that challenges the status quo and offers a fresh approach to learning.
At the core of our educational philosophy is experiential education and project-based learning. We believe that authentic learning happens when students actively engage with the material, connect it to their lives, and create meaningful learning experiences that last.
Our Academies, which are the heart of our ECLC programs, offer immersive and meaningful hands-on projects tailored to each child's interests through Art, Technology, and Cooking. By engaging multiple senses and incorporating real-world skills, our students learn Hebrew, develop their Jewish identity, and deepen their connection to Israel.
NEW! We're thrilled to introduce a new Music/Band Academy where students can explore their passion for music and develop their instrument-playing skills. Additionally, we'll be launching a new Bi-Monthly TK Program, offering our youngest learners a nurturing and enriching experience that sets the foundation for their Jewish identity.
Together, let's create a community that engages, connects, and leaves a lasting impact on our students' lives. Get ready to discover "A Different Kind of Hebrew School" and join us on this exciting journey!
Click HERE to schedule a tour, or call 818-530-4043 for more information.
Yifat Mukades,
ECLC Director
ECLC Class Schedule:
Sundays 9:30-11:45am
Tuesdays 4:00-6:15pm
ECLC Staff
Yifat Mukades, ECLC Director
We are delighted to welcome Yifat Mukades to VBS as our new ECLC Director for the 2022-2023 school year. Yifat previously served as Assistant Director of our ECLC as well as an instructor of our Tech Academy. Since then, Yifat served as the Education Director at the Sephardic Temple Tifereth Israel, and as the Jewish Program Director and Rosh Mishlachat at Camp JCA Shalom.
In the summer of 2022, Yifat will be participating in the first Maccabi USA and The iCenter Educational Fellowship alongside other selected Israel educators from across the Jewish world. An inspiring educational leader, Yifat holds her Master of Education degree from the American Jewish University as well as a Master’s Concentration in Israel Education from the iCenter.We look forward to welcoming Yifat back to VBS and to the creative initiatives and innovations she will bring to our ECLC programs.
To reach Yifat:
Call (818) 530-4046
Email ymukades@vbs.org
Emily Arzio-Rivera, Communications & Administrative Assistant
Emily Arzio joined the ECLC staff in 2019 as 
the Communications & Administrative Assistant, responsible for all ECLC communications and general office support. Emily has been working with children for over 20 years, holds a certification in Early Childhood Development, and is working toward a bachelor's degree in history. This past year, Emily worked in our VBS Day School Kids Place aftercare program overseeing after-school activities. In addition, she worked at Kids World as the Director of Events for the past four years organizing and executing camp and school outings and donations. Prior, she worked for five years at a preschool in Van Nuys and before that at Pinecrest Schools in Woodland Hills. In her free time, she enjoys developing her small baking business, spending time with her husband and four children, and learning new things about different cultures!
To reach Emily:
Call (818) 530-4043
Email earzio@vbs.org
