Ellia Belson
Vancouver,Canada
Summary
As Principal of VHA, I work collaboratively to foster academic excellence, student-centered learning, and strong community engagement. I champion a strengths-based approach, empowering students and faculty to thrive through individualized education and experiential learning. With expertise in strategic planning, financial stewardship, and relationship-building, I guide the school with integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to Jewish values.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Principal
Vancouver Hebrew Academy
07.2023 - Current
- Educational Leadership – Oversee curriculum development, student-centered learning, and faculty growth to ensure academic excellence and alignment with VHA’s mission.
- Strategic & Financial Management – Develop and implement strategic plans, manage budgeting and fundraising, and work towards the school’s long-term sustainability.
- Community & Stakeholder Engagement – Foster strong relationships with parents, staff, donors, and the broader Jewish community to support student success and school growth.
- Operational & Administrative Oversight – Ensure smooth day-to-day operations, policy implementation, and a safe, inclusive learning environment for all students and staff.
Director of Jewish Life and Judaic Studies Teacher
King David High School
01.2014 - 06.2023
- Designed and implemented engaging, meaningful Jewish experiences for students and staff.
- Strengthened team collaboration through clear communication, goal setting, and feedback-driven debriefs.
- Fostered a positive work environment, enhancing staff engagement and morale.
Vice President
Energex Power Saver Systems Inc.
01.2002 - 01.2014
- Built and maintained strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, regulators, and community leaders, to drive collaboration and ensure long-term success.
- Led cross-functional teams to successfully complete major projects, enhancing operational efficiency and significantly improving client satisfaction.
Teacher
Vancouver Talmud Torah
12.1996 - 01.2002
- Fostered a safe and inclusive classroom environment where students felt comfortable expressing themselves.
- Engaged students through interactive and enjoyable learning experiences that promoted deep understanding of Judaic Studies.
- Applied a student-centered philosophy, ensuring learning was meaningful and relevant to each student’s growth.
Education
Master of Arts - Education
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, BC08-2020
Bachelor of Arts - PDP Teaching Certificate
Simon Fraser University
Burnaby, BC01-1995
Judaic Studies One Year Diploma - Judaic Studies
Bais Rivka Seminary
New York, USA01-1989
Skills
- School Leadership & Administration
- Strategic Planning & Implementation
- Change Management
- Governance & Board Relations
- Academic Program Oversight
- Faculty Development & Mentorship
Key Skills:
- Experiential & Torah-Based Education
- Budgeting & Financial Stewardship
- Parent & Community Relations
- Staff & Faculty Leadership
- Conflict Resolution & Mediation
- Public Speaking & Communication
- Fundraising & Donor Relations
Volunteer And Community Service
- Choices, Jewish Federation, 2012
- Vancouver Hebrew Academy, PAC Co-Chair, 2008
- Various School Related Volunteer Activities, 2000-Present
Additional Training
Summer 2021 CAIS Module, Foundations for School Leadership
Summer 2017 Legacy Heritage Teacher Institute, Hebrew University – Professional Development in Torah Education and School Leadership
January 2000 Behavioral Interventionist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Timeline
Principal
Vancouver Hebrew Academy
07.2023 - Current
Director of Jewish Life and Judaic Studies Teacher
King David High School
01.2014 - 06.2023
Vice President
Energex Power Saver Systems Inc.
01.2002 - 01.2014
Teacher
Vancouver Talmud Torah
12.1996 - 01.2002
Master of Arts - Education
University of British Columbia
Bachelor of Arts - PDP Teaching Certificate
Simon Fraser University
Judaic Studies One Year Diploma - Judaic Studies
Bais Rivka Seminary
Similar Profiles
Martha GoughMartha Gough
Kindergarten Teacher at Hasten Hebrew AcademyKindergarten Teacher at Hasten Hebrew Academy
Gabriela NunezGabriela Nunez
Teacher's Assistant at American Hebrew AcademyTeacher's Assistant at American Hebrew Academy
Liora PeretsLiora Perets
Teacher at Emek Hebrew AcademyTeacher at Emek Hebrew Academy