Meet Jordan: Jewish Comedian (ok, teacher) of the Week

Jordan Stoleru is an elementary school science teacher, but some days it feels like he’s a stand-up comedian focusing on science topics. Honestly, what a perfect combination of skills – especially this week as we celebrate Purim! Jordan has hiked from town-to-town in Georgia (the country) and spent last year teaching in Israel (ask him about TALMA!), and has plenty left on his bucket list. Get to know Jordan in this week’s 1:1 interview!

Rachel: What brought you to DC and what made you stay?

Jordan: I’m from DC originally, up until 7th grade when we made a whopping move all the way to the badlands of Bethesda. Whether it was after college or spending the last year away, I keep coming back for my friends and family, but also DC just feels like home.

Rachel: I know this is the most DC question, but what do you do and how did you get into that? 

Jordan: I’d say I’m a stand up comedian that focuses on science topics for a youthful audience, but “officially” I’m an elementary science teacher. Before teaching, I had stints in insurance (might or might not have been wearing khakis) and lead poison prevention. I worked with good people, but those jobs were leaving me feeling unfulfilled. Like I tell the kiddos, I decided I liked school so much that I went back a second time, got my M.Ed., and began teaching. 

Rachel: Describe your dream day in the DMV from start to finish. 

Jordan: My dream day definitely starts with breakfast at the Woodley Cafe for some crispy calamari – it’s a tradition I have with a buddy. Then I would be headed straight to the zoo, just walking around munching on my ham and cheese from Bread Furst. After a sweet, sweet power nap and a Martinique from Surfside, it’s time to meet up with friends at Dan’s Cafe for the start of a long night.

Rachel: Sounds like a great day! With Purim just around the corner, what’s your favorite flavor of hamantaschen?

Jordan: My favorite flavor is apple, especially from Washington Hebrew Congregation, but I’ve been known to dabble in apricot when the mood strikes.

Rachel: What do you do to relax or for fun at the end of a long week? 

Jordan: Now that the cold weather is here, I’m trying as much as possible to get some snowboarding in. Before it got cold out, I was meeting up with friends at Meridian Hill park for drinks or tuning in to Prof’s and Pints talks.

Rachel: What’s at the top of your life bucket list or where are places you’d love to travel? Why?

Jordan: There are so many places I want to travel to, but I’m really lucky that I was able to knock a few off the list while teaching with TALMA in Israel this past school year. Hiking from town to town in Georgia (the country) was such a cool experience, so I’m keeping my eyes open for other countries with long hikes. I also love islands and beaches though, so some contenders that come to mind for my next trip are Zanzibar, Tenerife, or the Balearic Islands. Challah at ya boy if you have any suggestions!

Rachel: Anything else you’d like to share with the DC Jewish community?

Jordan: I want to take a second to give a shoutout to TALMA. If you are a teacher, then check them out. They have some amazing summer and full year experiences!

Rachel: Complete this sentence – “When Jews of DC Gather…

Jordan: the party starts and the balagan begins! 

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