Rabbi Kalman Fogel
Rabbi Kalman Fogel, Principal
Rabbi Kalman Fogel has led Mercaz Academy since it opened its doors in September 2022. With Rabbi Fogel at the educational helm, Mercaz has been able to realize its potential as the innovative center of academic excellence and a flourishing center for Jewish life in central Long Island.
As the Principal of Mercaz Academy, Rabbi Fogel has been pivotal in enhancing the signature “warm and welcoming” educational environment at the school, encouraging a broad range of Jewish families to engage in a vibrant Jewish educational experience. Rabbi Fogel said, “Each year we are building on a strong foundation of a beautiful campus and an outstanding community of caring teachers who engage, empower and educate, involved families, and students who really care about each other. I am excited to partner with the board of Mercaz Academy, leading our school ever forward to the next level, raising our expectations of ourselves, our teachers, our families and our students.”
Rabbi Fogel leads an extraordinary faculty providing an environment of student-focused small group learning, while integrating technology to increase creativity, collaboration and learning. "I take tremendous pride in the way our teachers empower their students to own their learning. Walk the halls and you will find engaged students working with each other and with their teachers, whether it’s mathematics or Talmud. Even during recess, students gather around their teachers to continue their conversations. How many schools can say that their students really enjoy coming to school?"
After learning at Yeshivat Shaalvim for two years, Rabbi Fogel received his undergraduate degree from Yeshiva University, majoring in computers, with a minor in mathematics. He received smicha (rabbinic ordination) from Yeshiva University as well, and studied at its prestigious Kollel Elyon. He later attended the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration, and participated in the Principals Academies at Harvard University, Columbia University, and Bar Ilan University. He is also a member of the board of the Torah Umesorah National Council of Yeshiva Principals.
A long-time resident of Woodmere, Rabbi Fogel and his wife Debbie have four children, two of whom reside in Israel along with their eight grandchildren.
His career has afforded him the opportunity to teach both mathematics and Judaic Studies and he has taught the fourth grade through college. Before serving in his current position as principal, he advanced from teacher in the Rabbi Pesach Raymon Yeshiva in Edison, NJ, to Director of Student Programs at the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls, to assistant principal of the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach.
A lifelong educator, Rabbi Fogel has an extensive experience in informal education as well. His appreciation of the field grew through his work as both chapter advisor and regional administrator for Etz Chaim NCSY, and as youth director of Congregation Bnai Yeshurun in Teaneck, NJ.
How does Rabbi Fogel view the future of Mercaz? He sums it up this way: "It is fantastic working with a board made up of pioneers who are dedicated to our students' and school's growth. You can feel the excitement as everyone collaborates to bring our already excellent school to new levels. Our teachers are piloting new programs in English/Language Arts and Math, as well as a creative approach to appreciation of tefillah (prayer). We are excited to continue to move forward to offer curricular and academic excellence in all areas."
Rabbi Fogel can be reached at rabbifogel@mercazacademy.org