By Melissa Hunter
Assistant Editor
Last month, The American Israelite named it’s 2023 People of the Year. Among those recognized was Melanie Zadikoff, an Early Childhood teacher at the Cincinnati Hebrew Day School.
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Zadikoff is the grand daughter of a prominent rabbi in Johannesburg and was raised with strong Jewish values. Zadikoff has devoted her life to teaching young Jewish children. She taught in South Africa for a number of years before emigrating to the United States with her husband and two daughters. She has taught at the Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis, Rockwern Academy and Cincinnati Hebrew Day School where she is currently teaching. As stated by Rabbi Yitzchock Goldstein, principal of Cincinnati Hebrew Day School, Mrs. Zadikoff’s passion for education, innovative teaching and genuine care for each child has created a positive and inspiring learning environment. “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for (Zadikoff’s) exemplary work and unwavering commitment as a teacher,” Rabbi Goldstein wrote in a letter to Zadikoff. “Her ability to make complex concepts accessible and interesting to kindergarten-aged children, coupled with her patience and encouragement, has motivated Cincinnati Hebrew Day School to strive for excellence.” Rabbi Goldstein went on to say that her commitment to understanding each student’s unique needs has fostered a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere.
Zadikoff has taught for more than 30 years, including teaching multiple generations of families, helping to instill a strong foundation for hundreds of children.
