ARJE26 Planting Seeds Harvesting WisdomFebruary 2-4, 2026Minneapolis, MN
- About the Gathering
- Registration Date & Fees
- Location & Travel
- FAQ
- Tentative Schedule
- Speakers
- Sponsors
- Conference Leadership
- Ad Journal
- ARJE @ 70
About the Gathering
This year, our gathering begins on Tu B’shvat. At ARJE26 we will plant the seeds for growth and harvest the wisdom found within ourselves and the wisdom that can only be found when we gather together.
What Will We Do At ARJE26?
ARJE26 will plant SEEDS of inspiration. We will find a variety of learning opportunities, meaningful worship, and creative methodologies.
ARJE26 will nourish our ROOTS. We will connect with colleagues in similar roles and career stages and have many chances to build and strengthen networks of support and understanding.
ARJE26 will extend our BRANCHES to new heights. We will engage in intensive skill building that will give each of us more expansive ways to do our work and embrace our passions.
Who is ARJE26 For?
ARJE26 is for those who are brand new to Jewish education and those who have been in the field for years. It is for educators who work in community organizations, lead immersive experiences, oversee synagogue or after-school education, or work as guides and consultants to Jewish educators. It is for anyone who identifies as a Jewish educator who has wisdom to share or could benefit from a nourishing community of colleagues.
Registration Date & Fees
IMPORTANT: Use the same email you use for your ARJE Member Hub for member pricing and ensure you click Log in Now at the beginning or you will not be able to register.
We offer several different rates to allow for flexibility for budget and planning
|
ARJE Member Rates | |
|---|---|
| $1000 Regular |
(Thru 12/1)* |
| $1200 Supporter: |
To support scholarship for the conference in addition to your registration |
| $300 Vatekei |
(Thru 12/1)* For retired ARJE members |
|
ARJE Non-Member Rates | |
|---|---|
| $1150 |
$1150 (Thru 12/1)* |
| $1150 | $1150 (Thru 12/1)* |
*After 12/1 there will be a $200 late fee if space is available
Scholarship
ARJE has several scholarships to support members attending the conference in addition to the subsidies above.
Our members have specifically donated to support individuals whose communities can not or will not subsidize their registration and one full scholarship with travel is available each year. Please fill out the ARJE Scholarship Form prior to registration. Scholarship requests are processed in the order they are received.
What Registration Covers
Registration includes all conference programming beginning 9:00 AM Monday morning February 2, through 2:00 PM Wednesday, February 4. It also includes three meals, coffee and snacks.
Cancellation
Intent to withdraw must be completed through your confirmation email link. To transfer registration to another person (at any date) please contact, JGreene@reformeducators.org.
- Withdrawal on or before 11/15 results in a refund of the full registration fee less a $125 administrative fee.
- Withdrawal between 11/16 and 12/22 results in a refund of half of the conference registration fee.
- NO REFUNDS will be issued after 12/22
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to prevent you or your employer from incurring any losses should you have to cancel your attendance due to illness, emergency, or other conflict.
Location & Travel
| Location | ARJE26 will be at a large hotel in Minneapolis Minnesota. Specific location information can and reservation links found in your confirmation email. |
| Airport | The Minneapolis Airport (MSP) is located 16 minutes from the conference venue. |
| Lodging | |
|---|---|
| Location |
ARJE26 will be at a large hotel in Minneapolis Minnesota. Specific location information can and reservation links found in your confirmation email. |
| Airport |
The Minneapolis Airport (MSP) is located 16 minutes from the conference venue. |
| Arrival/Departure | |
|---|---|
| Arrival Time |
We recommend you arrive on Sunday afternoon. We anticipate offering optional programming on Sunday evening to celebrate our 70th anniversary and deepen member connections. Our official programming will officially begin at 8:00 am Monday morning. |
| Departure Time |
We recommend you plan on departing late Wednesday afternoon/evening. Our programming will end at approximately 2:00 PM. |
| Arrival Time | We recommend you arrive on Sunday afternoon. We anticipate offering optional programming on Sunday evening to celebrate our 70th anniversary and deepen member connections. Our programming will officially begin at 8:00 AM Monday morning. |
| Departure Time | We recommend you plan on departing late Wednesday afternoon/evening. Our programming will end at approximately 2:00 PM. |
These details and any pre/post conference activities will be updated throughout the summer.
| Hotel Room Rate | One benefit of Minneapolis in February is a lower room rate to help our members with travel costs. The ARJE has a limited number of rooms reserved at our conference hotel for $139 plus tax/fees. |
| Hotel Room Rate |
One benefit of Minneapolis in February is a lower room rate to help our members with travel costs. The ARJE has a limited number of rooms reserved at our conference hotel for $139 plus tax/fees. |
Reserving the room through ARJE helps our organization. Should you need help with lodging, contact Jen Greene at JGreene@reformeducators.org
For more information, please visit the FAQ page.
| More information | For more information, please visit the FAQ page. |
FAQ
What will the experience be like, I have not been to a conference before?
The Annual Gathering stands out as the premier conference for networking, learning, and support tailored specifically for Jewish Educators. Not only will you gain access to top-tier educational opportunities directly aligned with your professional needs, but you’ll also have the chance to connect with over 250 peers who share your experiences and understand the challenges you face.
Recognizing the unique nature of your role, we understand the vital importance of tapping into the collective knowledge and experience of fellow educators who empathize with your journey.
As a first-time attendee, you’ll be paired with a dedicated “Conference Buddy” who will serve as your guide, ensuring you make the most of your time at the conference. Additionally, you’ll be warmly welcomed to a First Timer Breakfast, designed to help you feel at home and kick off the conference experience with ease.
Membership in the ARJE is not required to attend the conference.
Conference Information
What are the dates and timing of this conference?
Conference will begin early Monday morning, February 2nd and conclude Wednesday mid-day, February 4th.
We recommended arriving Sunday evening, February 1st. Registration will be open Sunday, February 1st at 4:00 PM.
Departure flights can be booked beginning after 3:00 PM.
There will be an optional evening program on Sunday, February 1st at 7:00 PM celebrating 70 Years of ARJE. This will be at an additional cost. Details to follow.
What will the schedule be?
Sample Schedule coming soon! Expect a combination of large group inspirational moments, smaller group deep dives, and breakout choices as well as time with our sponsors, communal meals, and chances to connect with other educators.
Planning your meals?
Monday lunch, Tuesday dinner and Wednesday lunch will be provided for you during the conference.
Monday breakfast and dinner, Tuesday breakfast and lunch and Wednesday breakfast will be on your own. Opportunities to connect with colleagues will be provided.
Registration and Cost
What do the registration fees include?
Registration includes all conference programming from early morning Monday, February 2 through mid-day Wednesday, February 4, Monday lunch, Tuesday dinner, Wednesday lunch and conference treats. Other meals and hotel/travel are on your own.
What methods of payment do you accept?
All registrations must be paid by credit card or invoice during the registration process.
What is the cancellation policy?
Intent to withdraw must be completed through your confirmation email link. To transfer registration to another person (at any date) please contact, JGreene@reformeducators.org.
-
Withdrawal on or before 11/15/25 results in a refund of the full registration fee less a $125 administrative fee.
-
Withdrawal between 11/16/2025 and 12/22/2025 results in a refund of half of the conference registration fee.
-
NO REFUNDS will be issued after 12/22/2025 for any reason - we strongly recommend travel insurance to avoid losing money for weather/illness related cancellations.
Can I bring a guest?
Please be in touch with Jen Green for all information and fees associated with bringing a guest!
Hotel Information
How far away from the airport is the hotel?
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is approximately 12 miles to/from the hotel. Attendees should plan to utilize a ride-sharing app like Uber and Lyft to schedule a ride to/from the airport. There are no airport shuttles provided through the hotel.
Is there parking at the hotel? What is the cost?
The current daily parking rate for local attendees is $30.00 per day. Keep in mind that these rates are subject to change. Please check with the hotel as it gets closer to the conference.
Looking for fun things to do in Minneapolis?
A list of fun things to see and do around the Twin Cities will be coming soon!
I'm having trouble convincing my board to send me. What should I tell them?
Use this handy document to help with those conversations!
Tentative Schedule
| Sunday • Feb 1 | Monday • Feb 2 | Tuesday • Feb 3 | Wednesday • Feb 4 | |
| Sunday • Feb 1 | Morning: Welcome Breakfast for First Time Attendees T’fillah & Opening Program | Morning: Breakfast hosted by HUC School of Education T’fillah Breakout Sessions (2 rounds) | Morning T’filllah An Interview with Sarah Hurwitz Closing Program | |
| Monday • Feb 2 | Midday Workshops | Midday Workshops | Closing Session | |
| Tuesday • Feb 3 | Afternoon Activities | Intensive Sessions | Intensive Sessions | |
| Wednesday • Feb 4 | Late Night Activities | Late Night Activities | Dinner and Late Night Activities |
| Sunday • Feb 1 | Monday • Feb 2 | Tuesday • Feb 3 |
Wednesday • Feb 4 |
|
Morning Travel to Minneapolis | Morning Welcome Breakfast for First Timers T’fillah & Opening Program | Morning Breakfast (hosted by HUC) T’fillah Breakouts |
Morning T’fillah Sarah Hurwitz Interview Closing Program |
| Afternoon Registration TJEP Session: |
Afternoon Lunch (included) Deep Dives Sponsor Sessions |
Afternoon Lunch (on your own) Deep Dives Sponsor Sessions |
Afternoon Lunch (included) Travel Home |
| Evening Meet-ups or ARJE@70 Celebration |
Evening Dinner (on your own) Activities |
Evening Dinner (included) ARJE Awards Activities |
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN THESE VARIOUS SESSIONS:
This year, you will create your own “track”
- Nourish your roots and reinforce some foundational skills.
- Strengthen your trunk with core leadership and mental health skills.
- Dare to branch out and grow new leaves, new ideas.
DEEP DIVES: Educators will have two Deep Dive sessions with amazing, creative, and inspiring facilitators. These extended learning sessions will help us to think about big ideas, develop new skills, and challenge our assumptions. Attendees will pre-rank their preferences for deep dives.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS: Educators will be able to choose two sessions that enable you to learn tangible skills and immediately usable ideas. Attendees will have the chance to learn from presenters representing organizational partners, thought leaders in the field, and fellow ARJE members
SPONSOR SESSIONS: Hear directly from our sponsors about the products and resources that you can bring to your setting or professional development opportunities you can participate in to level up your learning.
OPENING AND CLOSING PROGRAMS: One of the things ARJE leadership heard from our recent listening campaign is that our members want to cultivate creativity – our opening and closing programs will allow you to expand your imagination, generate new ideas, and play with colleagues and friends (both old and new).
WHAT ELSE CAN I EXPECT TO DO DURING THE GATHERING?
ARJE TEAMS: Connecting with colleagues is a key component of our gathering each year. Exchanging wisdom and sharing stories elevates the experience each time we come together. This year, we will be weaving networking into our conference during meals, programs, and other key moments, all with a little ARJE ruach (spirit). You will have the opportunity to join your ARJE TEAM throughout the conference and, of course, participate in some friendly competitions with other teams during our evening programming.
BUDDIES: All first-time attendees will be contacted by another ARJE member in advance of the conference, so you’ll have someone there to welcome you and answer any questions you might have prior to arrival.
T'FILLAH: No matter what background you bring, services at ARJE offer an opportunity for connection, reflection, and inspiration. We look forward to inviting you into co-creating our ARJE community and lend your voices and emotions to our T’fillah. Our services are an opportunity to experience Reform liturgy, be inspired by fellow ARJE leaders, and hear and discuss inspirational words from our sacred text.
ARJE AWARDS: Our annual gathering features the opportunity to present fellow educators with milestone awards, the RJE title, and to celebrate our Distinguished Educator award. We hope you will join us as we elevate the field with our celebrations.
MARKETPLACE: It’s one-stop shopping at the ARJE Marketplace, where our sponsors will have all the latest and greatest resources in Jewish education.
ARJE 26 Speakers
Featured Speaker: Sarah Hurwitz
Sarah Hurwitz is the author of As A Jew: Reclaiming Our Story From Those Who Shame, Blame, and Try To Erase Us, which is a New York Times bestseller and won the Natan Notable Book Award and Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life – in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There), which was a finalist for two National Jewish Book Awards and for the Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature.
Dr. Lauren Applebaum
"What Matters" for Jewish kids and their educators?
Mara Braunfeld, RJE
Many Voices, Many Paths: Jewish Texts on Education
Micol Zimmerman Burkeman, ACC
The Curious Leader: Coaching your Team to Success
Pamela Barkley
New Approaches to Jewish Identity and Israel Education for Teens
Rabbi Daniel Brenner
New Approaches to Jewish Identity and Israel Education for Teens
Jonah Canner
Independent Consulant
Practicing Machloket (Arguments for the Sake of Heaven)
Introduction to Restorative Justice Practices
Brian Coonley
Growing Ahead: Setting Students Up for Success Through Proactive Behavior Management.
Hughie Stone Fish
#JewishJoy: Thriving in the Digital World
Ken V’gam - Using ‘Yes, And’ to Foster Conversation
Combating Antisemitism through Building Bridges
Rabbi Arianna Gordon, RJE
Negotiations and using the ARJE Salary Survey
Rabbi Jen Gubitz
Modern Jewish Couples/Temple Shalom of Newton
Spiritual Surfing: Personal Identity, Theology, and Pastoral Care for Educators
Brett Gurwitz
Seymour Kopelowitz
Designing Curriculum with the Learning Triangle In Mind
Beth Lipschutz MSW
Debbie Niederman, RJE
Designing Curriculum with the Learning Triangle In Mind
Rachel Margolis, RJE
URJ
How to be an UPstander: Addressing Microaggressions in Teen Spaces
Jay Rapoport, RJE
URJ 6 Points Creative Arts Academy
Got a Theme? Tips for adding creativity to your program year!
Creative T'filot: Have Fun Exploring Prayer Meaning!
Eliana Rubin
Topic: Classroom Practices and Policies for LGBTQ+ Belonging
Nachama Skolnik Moskowitz ,RJE
Nurturing the Transformation of Hebrew Learning
Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE
Negotiations and using the ARJE Salary Survey
Geffen Rosenthal
Teaching the Beauty and Complexity of Jewish Identity
Shira Sender
Reimagining Jewish Learning in the Age of AI
Beverly Socher-Lerner
Makom Community: A Case Study in Family Education
Terri Soifer
Makom Community: A Case Study in Family Education
Dan Swartz
Beth El Hebrew Congregation
From Prayers to Pray-ers: A Literacy-Informed Approach to Early T’filah
We invite you to join us in Planting Seeds, Harvesting Wisdom: ARJE’s 2026 Annual Gathering happening February 2-4, in Minneapolis, MN!
ARJE is the professional association of Jewish Educators who are connected to the Reform movement through personal or professional affiliation. ARJE members inspire excellence through the work of Jewish teaching and learning in congregations, immersive experiences, after-school programs, communal and national organizations and more. Our Annual Gathering attracts more than 150 Jewish educators seeking professional development and personal nourishment.
Your organization can connect with conference attendees at ARJE26:
As a Sponsor
Sponsors have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with conference participants throughout the program, be featured in our Sponsor Marketplace, and select a level of support that meets your organization's goals (see more details about each Sponsor Level and Benefits below). To thank you for sustaining our work, we showcase sponsor organizations’ branding and programmatic offerings to our nearly 600 members through weekly email newsletters and posts in our members-only Facebook group.
As a Vendor:
- Vendor Level I secures a spot in our marketplace to meet and connect with conference attendees AND provide a branded swag item in our welcome bags.
- Vendor Level II provides the opportunity to place a branded swag item in our welcome bags.
Sponsor Levels
Presenting Sponsor
- Speaking Opportunity (all attendees)
- Exclusive Brand Promotion Via Social Media, Website, and Newsletters
- Host 1 Sponsor Session for Attendees
- Virtual Ad Journal Ad
- Verbal Recognition During Conference
- Exclusive Branding - Prominently placed throughout conference materials
- 2 Conference Registrations ($2300 value - includes meals)
- Sponsor Marketplace Table Premium Placement with linen and 2 chairs
- Promotional Items in the Welcome Bag
Featured Bag Sponsor
- Greeting Opportunity at major program
- Your branding on 1 side of attendee Welcome Bag
- Highlighted Brand Promotion Via Social Media, Website, and Newsletters
- Host 1 Sponsor Session for Attendees
- Virtual Ad Journal Ad
- 2 Conference Registrations ($2300 value - includes meals)
- Sponsor Marketplace Table Premium Placement with linen and 2 chairs
- Promotional Item in the Welcome Bag
Level I Meal Sponsor
- Branding opportunity at a meal (e.g. table tents)
- Brand Promotion Via Social Media, and Website
- Host 1 Sponsor Session for Attendees
- Virtual Ad Journal Ad
- 1 Conference Registration ($1150 value - includes meals)
- Sponsor Marketplace table with linen and 2 chairs
- 1 Promotional Item in the Welcome Bag
Level II Deep Dive Sponsor
- Branding opportunity for 1 learning track (approximately ¼ of attendees)
- Brand Promotion Via Social Media and Website
- Host 1 Sponsor Session for Attendees
- Virtual Ad Journal Ad
- 1 Conference Registration ($1150 value - includes meals)
- Sponsor Marketplace table with linen and 2 chairs
- 1 Promotional Item in the Welcome Bag
Level III Sponsor
- Brand Promotion Via Social Media and Website
- Host 1 Sponsor Session for Attendees
- Virtual Ad Journal Ad
- Sponsor Marketplace table with linen and 2 chairs
- 1 Promotional Item in the Welcome Bag
Vendor I
- Marketplace table with linen and 2 chairs
- 1 Promotional Item in the Welcome Bag
Vendor II
- 1 Promotional Item in the Welcome Bag
Who is planning the Conference?
Conference Chairs
The Conference chairs set the vision and direction and oversee the planning of the Annual Gathering for ARJE
Rina Rifkin, RJE
Conference Co- Chair
Julie Wohl
Conference Co- Chair
Hospitality
The hospitality committee ensures a warm welcome and atmosphere of belonging for all participants, creating connections and building relationships.
Sarah Canfield-Dafilou
Hospitality Co-Chair
Dan Plotkin, RJE
Hospitality Co-Chair
Programming
The program committee oversees the learning, networking, and implementation of the conference program.
Sharon Litwin
Programming Co-Chair
Matt Rissien
Programming Co-Chair
Worship
The worship committee elevates our communal experience through spiritual expressions and communal prayer.
Rebecca Robbins
Worship Chair
Communications
The communications committee is responsible for the advertising and sharing of all information so participants are informed and prepared for their experience.
Rachel Barnehama, RJE
Communications Co-Chair
Anjelica Ruiz
Communications Co-Chair
Alica Gallant
ARJE Administrative Assistant
Program and Operations
Jen oversees all invoices, scholarships, ad journal, and sponsor/vendor communications and support.
Jen Greene
Program and Operations Manager
Calling all supporters of Jewish education!
Purchase an Ad in The Virtual Ad Journal at ARJE26
|
The journal will be displayed on screens throughout the gathering and will remain on the ARJE website for the entire year.
Every donation allows us to celebrate and support ARJE members.
Select from the following levels:
Roots
$180 donation
Flowers
$360 donation
Branches
$720 donation
Please submit your ad by December 22, 2025.
Virtual Ad Design Guidelines:
- File saved as a picture format (JPG or PNG)
- Your ad will be placed on this event background
If you have any questions? Please reach out to jgreene@reformeducators.org
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor
Level I
Level II
Level III
