About Me

About Me

I help schools break out of one-size-fits-all teaching so your child can succeed and thrive.

With over 25 years of experience in Jewish and general education, I partner with educators to design learning experiences that are engaging, meaningful, and sustainable—helping your child grow and teachers teach with confidence.

I currently serve as the Project-Based Learning Coordinator for the boys’ division at the Hebrew Academy of Cleveland, where I work closely with teachers and school leaders to implement inquiry-driven, standards-aligned projects that deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and foster critical thinking. My approach is grounded in real classrooms and shaped by decades of hands-on teaching experience.

I started consulting after noticing a consistent pattern: many capable children struggled not because they lacked ability, but because traditional instruction didn’t allow them to connect, engage, or show what they knew in meaningful ways. I help schools redesign learning experiences—focusing on clarity, relevance, and your child’s ownership rather than adding more content or pressure.

B.A. in Religious Studies, B.Ed., York University
M.A. in Bible, Yeshiva University
M.A. in Educational Leadership, Brandeis University

 

What Sets Me Apart

  • Over 25 years of classroom and leadership experience
  • Deep understanding of both Jewish and general education
  • A child-centered approach grounded in clarity, purpose, and engagement
  • Practical solutions that support teachers without overwhelming them
  • A collaborative style that builds trust and momentum

My goal isn’t just better projects or curriculum—it’s better learning experiences that transform how your child experiences school and how teachers experience their work.

How I Support Your Child

At the heart of my work is a commitment to your child’s success—especially for those who may feel disengaged or overlooked. I design learning experiences that allow your child to access content, build confidence, and see themselves as capable learners.

Through project-based and inquiry-driven learning, I help your child:

01

Understand the purpose of what they are learning, making school meaningful rather than arbitrary

02

Engage actively with content instead of passively receiving information

03

Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through authentic, purposeful tasks

04

Build confidence and independence by taking ownership of their learning

05

Make meaningful connections between academic skills, real-world applications, and personal interests

I pay special attention to children who struggle not because of ability, but because traditional instruction doesn’t match how they learn best. By clarifying expectations, scaffolding learning thoughtfully, and providing multiple entry points into content, I help your child experience success—academically, socially, and emotionally.

My work also supports the development of essential lifelong skills, including collaboration, communication, perseverance, and reflection—skills that strengthen learning in school and prepare your child to navigate challenges beyond the classroom.

SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE

I have served as a scholar in residence to various communities. I have spoken to a range of shuls about various topics relating to Torah and education. Here is feedback at one of my talks:

“Daniella, your shiur was life changing. I didn’t want to get up from my chair after you gave it because I thought these exact words-“if I choose to integrate this class into my life, I will move forward on an entire new trajectory that will lead to life enhancement and a complete perspective shift on failure, shame, and resilience amidst struggle.” As you saw, I delayed leaving the room as best as I could and I truly look forward to practicing these golden nuggets of wisdom.”

-Tsippora Grodko, Motivational Speaker, LMSW

“I had the privilege of attending a lecture this past Shabbos given by the talented educator Daniella Botnick. Her presentation was inspiring and informative for both parents and teachers alike (which I am both!). She is clearly a seasoned and knowledgeable educator which was clear in her presentation. She masterfully wove in relevant and entertaining stories along with the ideas and text she was discussing. As an educator I found myself nodding my head a lot, laughing along with her and left her lecture with much to think about - particularly when it comes to project based learning. Daniella generously gave of her time to audience members (myself included) who wanted to pick her brain after the presentation as well. I look forward to hopefully working with/hearing from Daniella again in the future.”

- Sara Weiss, Dean of Middle School, Seattle Hebrew Academy

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