Meet Online-Only Educator, Rachel Besser

Rachel Besser teaches Bible and Jewish thought to post-high school students studying during their gap year.  Before moving to Israel this year, Rachel taught Tanach and philosophy at The Frisch School where she also served as department chair and a member of the guidance team.  A graduate of Yeshiva University, Rachel received her MA from Hunter college in English literature.  Besides her love of teaching, Rachel also enjoys creative writing and editing. Rachel lives with her husband Donny and their five children in Beit Shemesh, Israel.

Why do you like teaching for ShalomLearning?
I love being part of ShalomLearning’s innovative team. It’s amazing to connect with students all over the world to share ShalomLearning’s curriculum and insightful way of presenting Jewish values. Of course the main thing I like about ShalomLearning is the students! I have been privileged to meet thoughtful and intelligent young men and women and delve with them into Jewish texts and ideas.

What has been your favorite teaching moment this year?
During one of my classes, a student shared something difficult that he was going through in his personal life. Immediately all the other students in the class began sharing their own stories and words of encouragement. It was amazing to see them connect and be able to support each other even through a digital medium.

About Sarah Sicherman

Sarah was formerly the Assistant Director of Marketing at The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. Working at Federation for eight years, she has a strong non-profit background. She is passionate about Jewish education and wants to work to build a strong Jewish community for generations to come. Sarah lives in Silver Spring, MD with her husband and three children.