Rabbi Gary Menchel - Head of School / Rosh HaYeshiva
Rabbi Menchel did his undergraduate work in Psychology at Yeshiva University, received his master's degree in Education and his Professional Certification in School Psychology from Brooklyn College, and Semicha from Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS) of Yeshiva University, from Rabbi Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, ZT"L. Rabbi Menchel has since attended the Harvard Principal’s Center twice and AUSSIE workshops for a number of courses and professional development initiatives. Rabbi Menchel previously served as Principal of Maimonides High School in Minnesota and of the Block Yeshiva High School in St. Louis for 13 years prior to coming to YHT. He currently serves as President of the Principals' Council of the Department of Yeshivot and Day Schools of the Jewish Education Project (formerly BJE) and as a Mentor to aspiring Yeshiva principals through ELAI (Educational Leadership Advancement Initiative) of the Lookstein Center at Bar Ilan University.
Email: [email protected]

 

Rabbi Levy joins Yeshiva Har Torah with great enthusiasm and a compelling vision for the future, bringing over 15 years of experience as an educator and leader in both elementary and high school yeshivot and day schools. Most recently, he served as General Studies Principal at Hadar High School in Boca Raton, FL, where he oversaw faculty supervision, curriculum development, strategic planning, and admissions. His prior roles include Director of Student Activities and History teacher at Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School, as well as teaching positions at Manhattan Day School and Yeshiva of Central Queens. Known for his warmth, energy, and dedication to Torah U’Madda, Rabbi Levy was deeply impressed by YHT’s vibrant learning environment, passionate staff and students, and strong lay leadership.
Email: [email protected]

 

 

Mr. Ephi Strazynski - Executive Director
Mr. Strazynski holds a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from the esteemed Sy Syms School of Business, complemented by a distinguished Master of Social Work Administration degree from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University. With a notable tenure of 5 years as the Assistant Registrar at Yeshiva University, he demonstrated proficiency in student and alumni support, staff recruitment and management, event planning, purchasing, and oversight of administrative and operational functions across registrar offices on all Yeshiva University campuses. Prior to his role at Yeshiva University, Mr. Strazynski accrued valuable experience as the Registration & Marketing Coordinator at the YM & YWHA of Washington Heights & Inwood. Additionally, he served with distinction as the Assistant Executive Director at YHT from 2016-2021 and he continues to grow within YHT. His comprehensive background and proven track record underscore his expertise in organizational leadership, administrative efficiency, and strategic planning within academic and community settings.

 

Morah Chaya received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the College of Staten Island. She graduated from Hunter College with a master's degree in Education and Special Education  as well as state certification in those areas. Most recently Morah Chaya received a Certification in School Management and Leadership from Harvard Business School. Prior to becoming Director of Early Childhood, Morah Chaya was a Kindergarten teacher in YHT for 7 years. 
Email: [email protected] 

 

 

 

Mrs. Ayelet Katz - Assistant Principal - Grades 1-2

Mrs. Katz received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from CUNY Queens College followed by a dual master's degree in Special Education from The College of New Rochelle and School Building Leadership from St. John's University. Mrs. Katz brings over two decades of dedication to Jewish education, serving most recently as Director of Student Services at the Yeshiva of Central Queens. She has overseen special education for hundreds of students, guided families with compassion through complex processes, and collaborated with teachers to ensure that every child receives the tools and support they need to thrive. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Katz has coordinated chesed programs and oversaw athletics at various summer camps, further enriching her ability to connect with students. Her exceptional talent for building trusting relationships with students, parents, and colleagues make her an invaluable partner in supporting the academic, religious, and social-emotional success of our first and second graders.

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Jonathan Weitzman - Director of Finance

Mr. Weitzman earned his Bachelor of Science in accounting from the Sy Syms School of Business. He then served as an auditor at Grant Thornton for five years, where he worked with publicly traded companies and then transitioned to specialize in not-for-profit organizations, with a focus on Israeli and Jewish organizations. Most recently, Mr. Weitzman was the Finance Manager at Yeshivah of Flatbush.
Email: [email protected]

 

 

 

 

Mrs. Ashley Alibayof - Director of Admissions & Community Engagement

Mrs. Ashley Alibayof earned her undergraduate degree in History and master's degree in General and Special Education from Hunter College. Mrs. Alibayof comes to YHT with over a decade of experience in both public and yeshiva settings across Long Island, working with students from early childhood through middle school as a teacher, curriculum designer, and mentor program leader. She is known for her warmth, creative approach to education, and unwavering dedication to helping students and families thrive. As a proud YHT parent, she brings a parent’s firsthand perspective, paired with the special combination of her professional and educational expertise to the role.