Laura Simon, Director of Admission

Laura Simon has served as the Director of Admission at Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School since 2005. Over the past 21 years, she has helped welcome more than 1,500 new students and their families to the Mandel JDS community. In this role, she works closely with prospective and current families throughout their journey with the school, from the initial inquiry and admission process through enrollment and beyond. Laura also serves as the Parent-School Liaison and is a member of the staff of the Parent Engagement Committee, helping foster strong, meaningful connections between families and the school community. She also guides families through the tuition, affordability, and financial assistance process, helping parents navigate the many resources available to make a Mandel JDS education accessible to their children.

Prior to joining Mandel JDS, Laura served as the Women's Division Director at the Cleveland Jewish Community Federation and as the Religious School Principal at Temple Israel of Hollywood in Los Angeles, California. Earlier in her career, she also spent time as a stay-at-home mother.

Laura graduated from The Ohio State University in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in Judaic Studies. She went on to Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion, where she earned a joint Master's Degree in Jewish Education and Jewish Communal Service.

Outside of school, Laura enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, fiber arts, walking, gardening, and reading.