Rabbi Pinchus Idstein has served as the beloved Dean of Torah Academy for the past 12 years, bringing a deep commitment to cultivating a warm, inclusive, and growth-focused school environment. He is a longtime talmid of the Philadelphia Yeshiva and Beth Medrash Govoha, and an expert mechanech with over 35 years of chinuch experience. Rabbi Idstein brings both wisdom, insight, and heart to every aspect of school life!

Under his leadership, the school has experienced meaningful and lasting improvements—both academically and culturally, as well as in enrollment growth year after year. His rare ability to connect personally with children and adults alike fosters a profound sense of belonging and trust. His inviting office—complete with a bubbling fish tank and prizes galore—draws in students and encourages good behavior in a positive, motivating way. He leads by example through his dedication and personal warmth. Parents, too, are drawn to him through his openness, approachability, and non-judgmental presence. His wife, a veteran teacher with decades of experience, is a cornerstone of the girls’ educational experience at Torah Academy, and several of their grandchildren currently attend the school—making his leadership truly multi-generational. As an aside, if you haven’t witnessed Rabbi Idstein’s morning routine in the gym with all the students, you’re missing something special. It’s a daily burst of joy, ruach, and heart that sets the tone for the entire day.

Mr. Matthew Cleary has served as the General Studies Director at Torah Academy for the past eight years, bringing a contagious positivity and profound dedication to educational excellence. With a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from St. Cloud State University, Mr. Cleary artfully combines academic expertise with a hands-on, student-centered approach to leadership.

Prior to joining Torah Academy, Mr. Cleary built a distinguished career spanning over a decade in the public school system as a classroom teacher, football coach, and Dean of Summer School. He began his educational journey teaching and coaching in Shell Lake, Wisconsin, before moving to Forest Lake High School, where he taught social studies and helped guide the football program to success. Drawing from his extensive coaching background, Mr. Cleary cultivates a school culture deeply rooted in teamwork, discipline, and resilience. He establishes high expectations while ensuring every student feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. His leadership style is characterized by innovative thinking, genuine compassion, and an unwavering commitment to fostering growth in both students and teachers alike. Mr. Cleary is renowned for his thoughtful personal touches—such as the inviting bean bag chair in his office, always available for a child who needs a moment to reset. Perhaps most remarkably, he has mastered the pronunciation of Hebrew names and phrases, ensuring every student feels truly seen, known, and valued. Through his dedicated leadership, Mr. Cleary continues to inspire and elevate the entire Torah Academy community.

Rabbi Yehoshua Borenstein, known to most as “JB,” serves as the Executive Director of Torah Academy. An alumnus of the school himself, JB’s connection to Torah Academy runs deep—his mother was in the school’s very first class, his father taught there for 40 years, and his grandparents were among its founders. Continuing that legacy, his wife is currently a star teacher at the school, and all nine of their children have attended Torah Academy.

In this vital role, which he has held for over 25 years, JB wears many hats—fundraiser, negotiator, parent liaison, and day-to-day problem solver. His calm demeanor, sharp instincts, and tireless dedication keep the school running smoothly behind the scenes. JB is known for his patient and kind approach with staff, and his steady leadership ensures that every aspect of school life is managed with care, clarity, and purpose. Beyond the walls of Torah Academy, JB also teaches Torah to adults, sharing insight and inspiration with characteristic humility and humor. While he takes his responsibilities seriously, he never takes himself too seriously—adding a touch of lightness to everything he does.