Leadership
Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Uzhansky and Dr. Chana Uzhansky are the co-founders of Staten Island Hebrew Academy, each bringing extensive expertise in education, leadership, and community development.
Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Uzhansky was born in Kiev, Ukraine, and raised in Philadelphia. He studied in Yeshivot in both Israel and the U.S. before receiving his rabbinical ordination from Beth Medrash Govoha in Lakewood. Dedicated to fostering Jewish engagement, he has worked extensively with Russian-speaking Jewish communities across the United States. He serves on the Board of Directors of Staten Island Hebrew Academy, contributing his leadership and vision to the school’s development. In addition, he holds a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from Long Island University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). He is the Rabbi of DeRose Shul in Jackson, NJ, and operates an independent counseling practice specializing in addiction and family therapy.
Dr. Chana Uzhansky, originally from Philadelphia, holds a Master’s in Education and Special Education from Touro College and a Doctorate in Exceptional Childhood Education from Northcentral University. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) licensed in both New York and New Jersey and has a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arcadia University. With over a decade of experience in leadership and administration, she is an expert in educational/behavioral evaluations, curriculum development, behavioral treatment plans, and Singapore Math. As the academy’s Educational Supervisor, BCBA, and Board President, she is committed to fostering academic excellence, midot tovot, and a deep love for learning within the school community.
Mrs. Regina Antebi
Elementary School Supervisor
Regina Antebi is currently in her 12th year at Staten Island Hebrew Academy, where she has taught every grade and nearly every subject. She earned her dual undergraduate degree in General and Special Education in 2013 and completed her Master’s in Literacy in 2017. With a rich background in teaching both secular and Judaic studies across various grades, Regina is well-versed in her leadership role. She is passionate about her work at SIHA and values the strong connections she maintains with the families in the school community.
Rabbi Dr. Richard Ehrlich
Dean
Rabbi Dr. Ehrlich has been a passionate educator for most of his life. He received his ordination from Yeshiva University. Following that, he receives his Master’s degree in developmental psychology from Columbia University, and his Doctorate in Education Administration from Columbia University.
He started his career as a teacher in Yeshiva University High School, where he taught for 8 years. After that, he was a principal of Hillel Academy in Passaic, New Jersey. He was also the principal of JFS for 24 years. He continued his career as a principal of Mirrer Yeshiva High School for two years, after which he came to SIHA.
Mrs. Ilanit Dinar
Business Office Manager
Ilanit Dinar is celebrating her 14th year at Staten Island Hebrew Academy, where she serves as both the Business Administrator and Director of Admissions. Raised by a Jewish Ukrainian mother who immigrated to Israel, Ilanit was instilled with a deep appreciation for Jewish heritage from an early age. Born in the U.S., she attended yeshiva throughout her academic career and graduated from Flatbush High School.
Alongside her husband, Ilanit continues to uphold these values by sending their own children to yeshiva. She graduated from Briarcliff College with an Associate’s Degree in Business and holds Series 7 and 63 licenses. Her previous experience includes working as a registered sales assistant at Bear Stearns.
With her strong financial background, Ilanit plays a crucial role in the efficient administration of SIHA. She is deeply committed to the academy’s mission of providing a high-quality education while nurturing a love and appreciation for Jewish heritage among students.
Mrs. Patricia Giordano
Middle School Supervisor, 7-8th Grade Science Teacher
Patricia Giordano is a highly qualified science teacher with over 15 years of experience in both public and private school settings. Throughout her career, she has played an integral role on School Leadership teams, where she analyzed student progress, set goals in alignment with individual scores and abilities, observed behavior, and provided essential support. Patricia is dedicated to supporting students, teachers, and parents alike; she encourages communication through email to address any questions or concerns, striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for everyone involved.
A passionate advocate for student success, Patricia believes in the principle of “Crystal Clear Communication Constantly,” recognizing its importance in fostering strong teacher, parent, and student relationships. Her classroom is a reflection of student progress and serves as a supportive community for all learners. Patricia Giordano is excited for the opportunity to contribute to an exceptional year at Staten Island Hebrew Academy.