Sheila Harkatz

Hometown: Miami, FL
Age: 25
Status: Alumni
Program: Online Certificate in Jewish Education

Sheila Harkatz is currently working towards a Masters in Judaic Studies in Florida along with teaching religious school.

Sheila was born in Argentina Buenos Aires in 1982. Her family moved from Poland and Russia to Argentina before WWII. When Sheila was 18, she worked at the Martin Buber Jewish School in Argentina as an assistant early childhood teacher and then as a teacher. “I came to America by myself because I got a full scholarship in Missouri, but I did not like the cold, so I came down to Florida where my father was already living for 2 years.” After moving to Florida, Sheila began teaching at a synagogue in Northern Miami where she is currently employed. She is also a counselor in a Jewish camp during the summer.

Sheila graduated with a Certificate in Jewish Education, and then was the first online student to march in Gratz College's commencement ceremony. “I went to Pennsylvania with parents and siblings. It was a great and welcoming experience!”

Sheila is currently studying in Florida’s Broward Community College, pursuing a Judaic Studies Masters. “I love Jewish history and I love seeing my little students (they are 3 years old) learn about Judaism.” Sheila practices Yoga and meditation, studies world religions, and volunteers at the Florida chapter of Yad Vashem.