A Teacher’s Journey at B’nai Shalom

Edna Rubinstein (née Sharoni) has been a beloved part of B’nai Shalom Day School since 1997, when she first arrived through the Jewish Agency's emissary program. Drawn to the school’s warm, family-like environment, she returned after a brief hiatus and has remained ever since. As a Hebrew and Judaic Studies teacher, Edna has inspired generations of students with her passion for Jewish learning, her dedication to fostering values, and her commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive community.

What brought you to our school originally, and what inspired you to stay for so many years?

Ms. Edna Rubinstein stands with a group of students in her early years of teaching at B’nai Shalom.

When I first came to the U.S., it was through the Sukhunut (Jewish Agency). Initially, I taught at another school in Youngstown, Ohio, as a Hebrew teacher for two years. After that, I thought, “Okay, I’ve seen America. I’ve traveled a bit; now it’s time to return home to Israel.”

But then, a friend of mine, Orna Tal, who had been the first teacher from the Sukhunut here at B’nai Shalom, reached out. We had met through the program in Israel, and she was leaving this school and looking for a replacement. When she heard I was leaving my position in Ohio but was still available through the Sukhunut, she convinced me to visit the community here.

When I came, I was struck by the school’s warmth and the friendliness of the environment—it was much more approachable than my previous experience. The warmer weather also helped convince me! So, in 1997, I moved here and stayed for two years.

After those two years, I had to return to Israel because the Sukhunut only allows a four-year stay. But two years later, in 2001, Judy Groner, who was leading B’nai Shalom’s Judaic Studies program, asked me to return. At the time, I thought, “Why not?” I came back for two more years and have been here ever since.

I love this school. It feels like a family - everyone cares about each other. You get to know the students and their parents, and it truly becomes your second family.

How has the school changed over the years, and what changes are you most proud to have witnessed or been part of?

There have been many physical changes - new carpets, updated paint colors, and new classrooms. When I first arrived, the gym was brand new, and there was a shared lunchroom for students. Over the years, both the indoor and outdoor spaces have evolved significantly.

Beyond the physical changes, I’ve seen the school grow in its approach to education. When I started, I didn’t know much about Jewish observance myself. Here, I learned to lead prayers, teach Torah, and deepen my understanding of Jewish life.

The programs have changed too, and for the better. There’s more technology now, and the teaching is more child-centered. The school has become more flexible and holistic, focusing on each child’s overall development rather than just academic excellence. It’s about nurturing the soul of the child, not just their intellect.

What is one of your fondest memories from your time here?

Students stand in front of a bulletin board titled “What Every Bride Needs to Know About Her Future Husband” made for Ms. Edna before she got married to her now husband, George.

One of my fondest memories is from 2010, as I was preparing to marry George. Mrs. Sandra Carroll, the first-grade teacher at the time, surprised me with a special bulletin board she created with her students titled “What Every Bride Needs to Know About Her Future Husband.” The children’s advice was both hilarious and heartwarming, with gems like “Make sure he’s not a couch potato” and “He should bring flowers home for Shabbat.” It made me feel so loved and appreciated—such a perfect example of how B’nai Shalom lifts people up and truly feels like family.

Every year, I form new memories. The students bring so much joy, whether through their humor, intelligence, or the way they challenge me to think differently. Watching them grow up and seeing what they retain—both the Hebrew language and the values we teach—is incredibly fulfilling.

What values or traditions at our school do you think are the most important to uphold?

Understanding and respecting diversity is critical. In today’s world, where people are often compartmentalized by their appearance, beliefs, or lifestyle, it’s important to teach children acceptance.

I also value teaching respect—not just for people but for objects and privileges. I believe it’s essential to instill gratitude and an appreciation for life’s unpredictability.

And of course, this is a Jewish day school, not just a school that teaches Judaism. That distinction matters. We live and model Jewish values daily, creating an environment where students feel a deep sense of Jewish identity.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how have you overcome them?

Personally, I find sudden changes challenging. I prefer having advance notice before plans are altered, but I’ve learned to adapt and manage when surprises come up. Another challenge has been understanding the full picture of a student’s needs. Early on, I asked to be kept in the loop about each child’s situation so I could teach them holistically. And then there’s Israeli dancing—I didn’t grow up with it, so it’s been a learning experience. But even challenges like these have been fun to tackle!

How have the students changed over the years?

Students today are more informal and interactive with their teachers. The classroom dynamic has shifted—teachers are more likely to sit on the floor with students, and there’s more freedom in how kids learn.

Discipline has evolved too. It’s less rigid, but that’s part of a broader societal change. The school has adapted beautifully to the times, giving teachers autonomy and fostering more collaboration with parents and colleagues.

Finally, what advice would you give to the next generation of teachers here?

Connection is everything. Whether you’re a new teacher or experienced, take time to observe and learn about the school’s culture before making judgments or changes. Understand that teaching here is about much more than academics—it’s about nurturing the whole child. And remember, this isn’t a place where departments compete. Everybody here is trying to do their best in their own class, and we are not competing with each other to prove that you are better but rather work together as a team.