Meet Ashley Eckstat (she/her)

Contact me at…

aeckstat@bnai-shalom.org

What is your official role at B'nai Shalom Day School?

Upper School Social Studies Teacher, 6th-8th Grade Judaic Studies Teacher

What made you choose to work at B'nai Shalom Day School?

I became part of the B’nai Shalom family as a parent when we moved to Greensboro in 2020 and my eldest entered pre-K and immediately knew this school was a special place. I was an elementary school teacher before taking time off to raise my three kids. When I stepped in to help cover a maternity leave I was inspired by the collaborative, supportive, mission-driven staff environment. Luckily a permanent position opened up and I stepped back into the classroom!

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

I love to spend time with my family outdoors, knit, and bake delicious treats (because I like to eat delicious treats.)

Where is your hometown?

I’m a Jersey girl.

What’s one thing you hope students take away from your class?

Pride in their Jewish identity and an understanding that they are part of the diverse, widespread, but connected Jewish people.

Favorite food?

Ice cream.

What’s one piece of advice you give to every student?

You can do hard things.

What’s a fun fact students might not know about you? 

I used to wear Princess Leia buns to school on a daily basis. 

What’s your go-to karaoke song or pump-up anthem?

Thunder Road by Bruce Springsteen (see: hometown)

What do you love most about working at our school?

I love getting to know all of the students, even those that I don’t yet teach directly. I think students know that everyday they are coming into a space where they are seen and appreciated by the wider school community, not just their class and teachers.

Favorite flower?

Peony

Do you have any pets? If so- how many, what kind and what are their names?

One cat, Billie Meowallday

Favorite treat (food and/or non-food)

Hot Tamales candy or black licorice

Favorite color?

Deep greens

What are you most excited about for the 2025-2026 School year?

Service learning for Upper School!