Meet the ECC Team

Kristin Zeldes, E-T ECC Director

Kristin joined Washington Hebrew Congregation’s ECCs in the fall of 2018 as a 3s and PLUS early childhood educator at the E-T ECC. Throughout her time at WHC Kristin has worked at both ECC locations as an educator and administrator, designed and facilitated virtual programming during COVID, and in the fall of 2021, she transitioned into her current role as E-T ECC Director.

Originally from Arizona, Kristin moved to D.C. to attend The George Washington University where she earned her B.A. in Psychology, then spent three years studying acting at The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts. Kristin is passionate about the role of dramatic play in early childhood education and creating learning environments that empower children to communicate and develop their understanding of the world around them through creative expression. In May 2023 Kristin earned her M.A. in Innovative Early Childhood Education through the University of Colorado, Denver, and the Boulder Journey School.

In her free time, Kristin enjoys walking and hiking, traveling, trying out new recipes or restaurants around the city and checking out local theater and art shows!

Kristin can be reached at kzeldes@whctemple.org or 202-895-6340.

Louise Van Schaack, RJW ECC Director

Louise joined Washington Hebrew Congregation as the RJW-ECC Director in 2024.

Louise comes to WHC with over 25 years in education. She worked in elementary and early childhood settings.

Louise believes that a great early childhood education experience is a priority. It sets children on a successful path for life. Early childhood is a time for learning how to be a good human and to develop a love for learning.

Louise enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, and connecting

Louise can be reached at lvanschaack@whctemple.org or 301-354-3285