Meet the Directors
Meet the Directors
Meredith Sakowitz Director, Bertha Alyce Early Childhood School
Rooted in over 30 years of passion and experience, my journey began with children with learning differences and continues with a commitment to honoring every child as B’tzelem Elohim, made in the image of G-d. I believe in the power of inclusivity, where Jewish values create a foundation for bringing people together in community and compassion.
At the Bertha Alyce School, we dream of a world where every family finds a place of belonging, where each child is seen, cherished and guided from where they are—and supported to soar. We are dedicated to creating a nurturing, play-based environment where learning is joyful, intentional and woven into the rhythm of the day. Our days are filled with creativity, movement, social exploration, literacy and music—each moment an opportunity to inspire wonder. We follow the spark of each child’s curiosity, using their interests to guide our teaching and ignite essential learning. Woven into this vibrant tapestry are the relationships that grow and deepen over time. Together, the children, families and educators build a community in which learning and love are shared, and the bonds last a lifetime.
With more than 30 years of early childhood education experience, Meredith Sakowitz is a passionate leader dedicated to nurturing young learners and supporting the growth of educators. She holds a master’s degree in special education and a deep commitment to creating inclusive and inspiring environments where children can thrive. Meredith’s philosophy centers on collaboration, continuous learning and fostering strong connections between families, faculty and community. Known for her warmth, creativity and unwavering dedication, she believes that high-quality early education lays the foundation for lifelong learning. Originally from New York, Meredith, her husband and their two children have lived in Houston in 2007.
Rene Cartagena Kariel Director, Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood School
As an early childhood director, my vision is grounded in the belief that every child is a unique creation, made in the image of G-d (B’tzelem Elohim). This foundational value shapes our approach to early childhood education at the Ellen Boniuk School (EBS). Each child is honored, respected and nurtured for who they are. Our play-based program allows young children to explore, learn and grow in a safe, supportive and enriching space through creativity, problem solving and social skills. Every moment provides an opportunity to awaken a sense of awe and amazement (Hit’orerut), inspiring curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. I believe that by creating an atmosphere full of wonder, we ignite the intrinsic potential within each child.
At the J, we emphasize the importance of community in the early childhood experience. The saying “it takes a village” deeply underscores the vital role that collaboration and support play in nurturing the whole child. In our classrooms, we strive to create a culture of connection, where families, educators and the wider community work together to provide children with the care, encouragement and guidance they need to thrive. Through these shared values, we commit to shaping a generation of confident, compassionate and inquisitive children ready to engage with the world around them.
Rene Cartagena Kariel is a seasoned Jewish educator, passionate about early childhood education and Israel. She is honored to have participated in the inaugural cohort of the Martin Pear Israel Engagement Fellowship (2023-2024) through the Jewish Community Center Association. She also serves on the board of the Houston Alumnae Association of Alpha Delta Pi. Rene grew up in Roxbury, Connecticut, and currently lives in Katy with her husband Jason and their two children
