Johanna Shlomovich is an accomplished leader in the Jewish Day School world, currently serving her fifth year as the Head of School at the Tucson Hebrew Academy. With a career dedicated to fostering meaningful and enriching educational experiences, Johanna brings a wealth of expertise to her role.
Prior to joining Tucson Hebrew Academy, Johanna was a pivotal force at the Ramaz School for 20 years. During her tenure, she streamlined and professionalized school operations, implemented effective cost-saving measures, and expertly managed multi-million dollar construction projects. Notably, she served as a steadfast leader in crisis response, providing crucial support and guidance to the school community.
Johanna’s approach to school operations is deeply rooted in prioritizing the student, employee, and family experience, creating welcoming and safe environments where everyone can thrive. She is passionately committed to delivering a high-quality, joy-filled Jewish education.
“Tikkun Olam – Healing the World, is a cornerstone of my educational philosophy. As Jewish educators, it is our responsibility to notice, care for, and strengthen our broader community. Integrating acts of kindness – chesed – into the fabric of our school community and educational practices is essential.”
Beyond her operational expertise, Johanna is a respected role model and mentor. She strengthens her school community by celebrating diversity, promoting tolerance, and recognizing the successes and accomplishments of her team members, investing in their professional development and growth.
Johanna earned her Bachelor’s Degree and MBA from Yeshiva University’s Sy Syms School of Business, along with an Associate’s Degree in Judaic Studies from Yeshiva University’s Stern College for Women. As a dedicated lifelong learner, she recently completed the UJA-sponsored Institute for Jewish Executive Leadership at Columbia Business School. Additionally, she completed the Day School Leadership Training Institute (DSLTI) at the Jewish Theological Seminary, which supports new heads of Jewish day schools by offering engaging experiential learning opportunities, advanced leadership development, ongoing mentoring, and collaborative problem-solving with fellow participants.
Johanna and her partner Rami Yadid are proud parents of five children, all of whom have benefited from a Jewish Day School education. Together with their English Bulldog, Archie, they are excited to be active members of the Jewish community in Tucson.
A dedicated educator with over 25 years of classroom experience, Mrs. Lehrfeld has spent the past 13 years at THA transforming science education, building student leadership, and championing academic excellence across the school.
Since joining THA, she has revitalized the middle school science curriculum and as the Student Council Advisor for the past 12 years, she has empowered students to find their voice, develop leadership skills, and make positive, lasting changes in their school community. She has also served as STEM Coordinator, implementing hands-on, phenomenon-based learning throughout the school and most recently, leading the development of a new STEM Maker Space—an exciting project that reflects her belief in student-driven, design-based learning.
Mrs. Lehrfeld has led the school’s strategic efforts in communication, technology integration, and most recently, reaccreditation. Her passion for systems and data-driven improvement has helped move THA toward greater instructional alignment, efficiency, and academic rigor.
To support her transition into this new leadership role, Mrs. Lehrfeld has been accepted into the Jewish New Teacher Project’s (JNTP) Administrator Support Program. Over the next two years, she will travel to New York for intensive training and will collaborate with a national cohort of educational leaders from Jewish day schools across the country. This opportunity reflects her ongoing commitment to professional growth and to bringing the most current and impactful practices to THA. In addition to her leadership role this year, she will continue to teach the middle school Physics & Engineering class, a highlight of the THA science program that she remains deeply passionate about.
A believer in high expectations and a growth mindset, Mrs. Lehrfeld is dedicated to helping both students and teachers reach new heights. In her words, “I believe everyone has the capacity to learn and grow when given the right tools.” She is especially excited to support faculty, bring visibility to data that drives meaningful change, and ensure that THA not only exceeds educational standards but also nurtures confident, curious, and capable learners driven by Jewish values.
Allison Weiss was raised in the vibrant community of Tucson, where she attended Tucson Hebrew Academy (THA) and proudly graduated in 2004. She continued her educational journey at the University of Arizona, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Over the past decade, Allison has dedicated herself to nurturing young minds, teaching preschool, kindergarten, first grade, and fourth grade in both Tucson and Phoenix.
In pursuit of furthering her impact in education, she completed a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. This advanced training has equipped her with the skills to lead and inspire both students and fellow educators.
Currently, as the Director of Admissions at THA, Allison plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience for prospective students and their families. Her responsibilities include managing the admissions process, developing admission policies, and ensuring a fair and balanced selection process. A key aspect of her role involves giving tours of the school, allowing families to experience firsthand the unique environment and community that THA offers. Through these tours, she aims to showcase the nurturing atmosphere and educational excellence that define the school.
Outside of her professional life, Allison cherishes spending quality time with her family. As a proud dog mom to her beloved Lola, she finds joy in the companionship she brings. Recently, she embraced a new role as an aunt to her nephew Mason, which has added even more happiness to her life.
THA holds a special place in Allison’s heart as an integral part of her childhood. She is thrilled to have come full circle and is eager to contribute to the school’s continued success and growth. Allison looks forward to helping THA thrive as they create a nurturing and enriching environment for their students.
