Instructors
The Pasadena Jewish Academy is privileged to host a wide range of instructors from right here in the S. Gabriel Valley. Spanning varied backgrounds & generations, their diversity gives each PJA event a unique twist. Together, they make Torah accessible to people of all ages and stages.
So take a moment to meet the instructors of the PJA:
Rabbi Zushi Rivkin
Driven by a desire to bring Torah to every Jew, Rabbi Zushi co-directs the PJA and leads its flagship offerings. His passion and energetic style make him dynamic and relatable.
Rabbi Chaim Hanoka
Years of teaching have given Rabbi Hanoka the wisdom of a sage, while his love of life grant him spunk and exuberance. Together, they make for informative and lively teaching.
Rabbi Laibel Hanoka
A Pasadena native and California Yeshivah graduate, Rabbi Laibel co-directs youth programming at Chabad. Through his love of history, he gives modern day lessons rooted in the past.
Mrs. Inbal Ricklis
A native Israeli and graduate of Haifa University, Inbal recently moved to Pasadena in 2022. A special-ed teacher by training, she has taught modern Hebrew to students of all ages and backgrounds.
Mrs. Gitty Rivkin
A creative mind and a relatable mannerism makes Gitty a down-to-earth teacher who can hold an audience captive on a wide range of topics. Gitty also directs the newly opened “Gan” preschool at Chabad.
Mrs. Chani Hanoka
Chani’s wise advice and life-experience have brought many to her doorstep. Her teaching blends years of modest tradition into lessons for daily life. She is a great addition to the team.
Rabbi Yisroel Pinson
Many years of Talmudic study have given Rabbi Pinson the ability to elucidate lofty concepts, making learning from him a wonderful experience.