Rabbi Emily JK Holtzman, MAJEd, MAJS, MARS
Director of Youth Engagement
Rabbi Emily Holtzman embarks on her third year as Director of Youth Engagement at Adat Ari El with infectious enthusiasm. A native of Agoura Hills, her profound connection to Judaism took root during ten transformative summers at Wilshire Boulevard Temple Camps, where she evolved from camper to counselor-in-training (CIT) and staff member. For Rabbi Holtzman, camp was not just a place but a Jewish home, a sanctuary of discovery and belonging.
Rabbi Holtzman earned a Bachelor's degree in Art History with a minor in Judaic Studies from the University of Oregon. Post-graduation, she immersed herself in various Jewish institutions across Los Angeles, broadening her experience and deepening her commitment to Jewish education and community.
Her rabbinical journey further enriched her service portfolio. Rabbi Holtzman engaged with IKAR, Temple Beth Am, the AJU Community Mikvah, Hillel 818, Taglit-Birthright, Congregation B'nai Chaim in Murrieta, and Beit Teshuvah, gaining diverse perspectives and skills.
Having served in this role for the past three years, Rabbi Holtzman deeply resonates with the mission to "create a sense of community and encourage our learners to push themselves and their thinking." She is excited to continue making connections and growing the program, dedicated to empowering young learners to reach their full potential, instilling pride in their Jewish heritage, and inspiring them to be positive agents of change. Her vision includes expanding the youth program through engaging experiential learning, fostering a strong community, and promoting active participation.
Rabbi Holtzman embodies the wisdom of Rabbi Hanina's Talmudic teaching: "I have learned much from my teachers and even more from my friends, but from my students, I have learned most of all." Guided by this philosophy, she embraces the journey of learning, exploration, and growth alongside her students, continually inspired by the timeless teachings of Torah and tradition.
Click Here to connect with Rabbi Holtzman or at (818) 766-9426 ext. 241
Elijah Zelonky
Assistant Director of Youth Engagement
Elijah Zelonky is the newly appointed Assistant Director of Youth Engagement at Temple Adat Ari El. A dedicated professional with a robust background in Jewish youth programming, Elijah brings a great deal of experience to the position. He graduated from San Diego State University in 2014 with a degree in criminal justice and furthered his education at Georgetown University, earning a master’s degree in sports industry management in 2022.
With a deep-rooted commitment to the Jewish community, Elijah has held various impactful positions in both the camp and classroom settings. Much of his experience stems from his time at Camp JCA Shalom, where he steadily progressed from camper to counselor to program administrator, thereby refining his leadership and passion for youth development. His extensive experience and educational background make him a welcome addition to Adat Ari El, and he is excited to foster engagement and growth within the youth community.
Click Here to connect with Elijah Zelonky or at
(818) 766-9426 ext. 207
(818) 766-9426
(818) 766-9426