Beth Goldring Hirsch, a veteran early childhood educator with 19 years of experience, will lead the Philip J. Solondz Preschool at Temple Beth Shalom in Livingston as its new director of Early Childhood Education, the synagogue announced Friday, July 25.

A start date has not been announced.

Goldring Hirsch follows the Reggio Emilia approach, a child-led educational model developed in post-World War II Italy that emphasizes exploration and open-ended materials. In practice, that means her classrooms use what educators call "loose parts" — sticks, stones, fabric, blocks, and recycled objects children can move, stack, and repurpose without fixed instructions.

Temple Beth Shalom's announcement said she emphasizes hands-on, sensory-rich experiences and develops curricula that adapt to children's growth and interests over the course of a school year.

What families should know

The Philip J. Solondz Preschool serves children from 3 months through Pre-K age and welcomes families of all faiths and backgrounds. The school features new infant and toddler facilities for children ages 3 to 18 months.

Daily programming includes in-school specialists in music, Hebrew movement, and gardening. After-school enrichment options include yoga, gymnastics, soccer, and science.

Registration for the 2026–2027 school year is open. Families interested in a tour can contact Ashley Caparosa at 973-992-6546 or [email protected]. Full-time preschool tuition includes complimentary synagogue membership.

Temple Beth Shalom is located at 193 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston.