Shira Shvartsman

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As Shira completed her Master’s degree, her fascination with education deepened, inspiring her to pursue doctoral studies at Columbia University’s Teachers College. There, she immersed herself in education policy, the history of curricular standards, and the intersection of linguistics and anthropology with learning and child development. Eager to expand her understanding of children's needs beyond the classroom, Shira also studied child psychology, developmental disorders, and dyslexia, earning a Dyslexia Awareness Certificate. Through fieldwork in various NYC schools, she gained firsthand experience with current curricula, teacher instruction methods, and school structures, further shaping her vision for an innovative educational approach. Ultimately, Shira encapsulated her research into her dissertation, which focused on the critical role of family involvement in children’s education. She believes strongly that parents are integral to children's learning and development and is dedicated to building a collaborative community of parents, teachers, and students who are united by a shared passion for educational growth and enriching the schooling experience.

Shira’s love for curriculum development also blossomed as she observed the developmental needs of children, inspiring her to create customized, hands-on learning experiences. She challenged conventional expectations by introducing young learners to material often deemed “too hard,” firmly believing that children can learn anything if it’s presented at their level through engaging, curiosity-driven lessons.

THINKschool is the realization of Shira's vision for a progressive, innovative educational model. It prioritizes teacher agency, supports developmentally appropriate learning environments, and emphasizes a life-skills-based curriculum over rigid standards, where students are taught responsibility and accountability. Shira carefully curates a team of diverse and well-rounded educators who bring their unique life experiences, travels, and passions into the classroom, believing that children connect more with real people than textbooks. At THINKschool, Shira and her team cultivate creativity, showcase students’ talents through grand projects and presentations, and foster a lifelong thirst for knowledge through day-to-day courses.

On a personal note, Shira is an avid reader, traveler, chef, and history enthusiast, currently working on her first publication. Her love for travel has taken her to many countries, where she draws inspiration from different cultures and incorporates these experiences into her curriculum development. In her free time, you’ll likely find her at a charming coffee shop, exploring a museum, or hosting dinner parties at home, where she enjoys experimenting with new dishes. Fun fact: Shira’s entrepreneurial journey began at 18 when she opened a bakery specializing in custom desserts and cakes, blending her passion for creativity with business. Throughout the first years of THINKschool, she even taught the culinary class at THINKschool.

Shira is a firm believer in lifelong learning and continuously seeks out new developments, theories, and methodologies from the academic world. As her knowledge expands, so does THINKschool, evolving with each new insight to enhance the campus environment, enrich student life, and elevate the curriculum. By embracing constant growth, Shira ensures that THINKschool remains at the forefront of innovative education, fostering an ever-improving experience for both students and their families.