Hi, I’m Melissa Zimmerman.

I’m a Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tutor & Officiant based in Brooklyn, New York.

I have been helping students on their Jewish journeys since 2007, as both a private tutor and with organizations throughout NYC, including Park Avenue Synagogue, Jewish Community Project, the 92nd St. Y, and Kane Street Synagogue. I grew up on Long Island, where I attended Solomon Schechter Day School and was active in my synagogue, the Huntington Jewish Center. I graduated with a BA in Theatre, and a Musical Theatre Certificate from Northwestern University. I use this skillset as a teacher, officiant, service leader and tutor. I take pride in coaching young adults in the skill of reading texts, chanting melodies and taking on the responsibilities that have been part of Judaism for countless generations.

In addition to my professional Jewish life, I perform on stage from time to time, sing with a Christmas caroling company every holiday season, and have my own cupcake business. I live in Brooklyn Heights with my husband and our adorable Boston Terrier, Leo. Pictures of Leo available upon request.

My Approach

I work with students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences with Judaism: those who have no knowledge of Hebrew whatsoever, those who attended Hebrew School for a brief period of time or for many years, those who belong to a synagogue but need extra support, and those who have never stepped into a synagogue at all. I work together with you to customize a curriculum that is appropriate for your child’s goals and interests. This can include covering subjects such as:

  • The Hebrew alphabet and how to decode the language

  • Torah and/or Haftarah trope, the symbols that instruct us how to chant and the melodies that are associated with them

  • Jewish Holidays

  • Bible stories and Jewish values

  • Deep dive into your child’s parshah (Torah portion): writing a speech and/or creating a project focusing on central themes

  • Prayers that are part of the Shabbat service

Officiant

Looking for an officiant? Look no further! I create ceremonies that work for YOUR comfort level—whether you are an interfaith family, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, or anything in between!

Tutor

Already have an officiant? I’m happy to work with your Rabbi or Cantor to make sure your child is fully prepared for their ceremony.