Coalition for Jewish Learning
Kesher Inclusion Project
Synagogue School Support Services
Overview
The Kesher Inclusion Project supports individuals with disabilities and diverse learning needs, and the families, educators, and institutions that serve them, so they can fully participate in Jewish life. Through consultation, advocacy, and education, CJL staff work to build more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming Jewish spaces across Greater Milwaukee.
As a program of the Coalition for Jewish Learning, the Kesher Inclusion Project partners with schools, synagogues, camps, and community organizations to strengthen inclusive practices, address barriers to participation, and promote a culture of belonging. By empowering educators and community leaders with tools, resources, and guidance, Kesher helps ensure that every individual is valued, supported, and connected.
Areas of Support
Intake Support
Communicate with the student’s support system, review documentation (IEP, 504), and develop individualized learning plans.
Staff Training
Provide teacher and madrichim professional development, webinars, and technology support for virtual learning.
Teacher Support
Offer coaching, consultation, and tools to create inclusive curricula and lessons.
Student Support
Conduct observations, assessments, and one-on-one support.
Learning Materials
Create adaptive materials like flashcards, large print texts, and modified lesson plans.
Additonal Support
Develop inclusion committees, assist B’nai Mitzvah tutors, and provide extra classroom support.
Kesher Inclusion Project
Free Inclusion & Disabilities Support for Teachers
Contact Nicole Boico for details or to request additional services.
Connect
At the Milwaukee Jewish Federation, Nicole Boico partners closely with colleagues, educators, and community leaders to strengthen Jewish education across the Milwaukee community. In her role as Associate Director of the Coalition for Jewish Learning, she contributes to shaping educational strategy, supporting partner agencies, and leading initiatives that empower and uplift educators, including professional development, teacher mentoring, and community recognition programs such as the Salute to Jewish Educators. Drawing on over 15 years of combined experience in Jewish education and special education, Nicole is especially committed to helping schools create inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all learners and reflect Jewish values.
Outside of work, Nicole enjoys spending time with her husband, Ilan, and their three children, Mila, Moses, and Asher. She loves traveling, shopping, singing karaoke, and curling up with a good book.
Tziporah (Tzipi) Altman-Shafer is the Vice President of Jewish Communal Life and Learning. She is responsible for overseeing the Israel Center. She works with lay leaders in determining all Israel and Overseas allocations for Federation. Her responsibilities include directing the Coalition for Jewish Learning, providing support to all our local Jewish schools and educators, and overseeing the Planning Department, which is responsible for all local allocations.
Tzipi grew up in Milwaukee and has been working in Jewish Education since 1987. She has a bachelor’s degree in Jewish Studies and Women’s Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a master’s degree in Jewish Education from the Cleveland College of Jewish Studies. Before coming to MJF in 2015, she worked at summer camps, supplementary schools, and day schools (including six schools in Milwaukee). She has been a teacher, a family educator, and director of education and worked with children of all ages.
