Perspectives from a BT School Family

The Baltimore Jewish Times
December 22, 2006
By Jennifer K. Dansicker, Features Editor

"The Green Family"

School: Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School

Parents: Dr. Dan Green and Dr. Tamara Sobel

Children: Zachary (15), Alexandra (11) and Jeremy (7)

School's Core Philosophy: Beth Tfiloh embraces families from all branches of Judaism as part of a caring community that celebrates the joy of Judaism. We emphasize values, mutual respect and championing each child.

Why did you choose private school for your children?

"Zach started preschool at Beth Tfiloh at age 3. My wife and I worked, so part of the early start was for socialization for him," says Dr. Dan.

"We found that he was getting such a good introduction to learning at Beth Tfiloh. He was also learning a lot about Judaism and we were very happy with the teachers.

"It was our intention to send him to public school in first grade, but Zach was thriving so we continued at BT."

How did you choose the right private school for your children?

"Initially, we liked the class size and facilities. We were really happy at Beth Tfiloh and each year our son had such a good experience. We never expected to stay, but we loved it. After the first few years, we never really considered going anywhere else.

"We both came from Reform backgrounds. Basically through this whole process our kids now know more about Judaism than we do. We joined Beth Tfiloh's synagogue, and while we're not extremely observant, it has helped us grow Jewishly. I learned to read Hebrew again.

"The education at Beth Tfiloh is excellent from a secular and Jewish standpoint. I do think the dual curriculum forces the kids to make better use of their time. It is a rigorous curriculum.

"We also like the sense of community at Beth Tfiloh. I co-coached the varsity baseball team and the kids really do turn out to be mentsches."

How important was it to you to expose your child to diversity?

"I went to a secular private school and thought most people were Jewish until I was about 10. I think it's important for our kids to know that people come from all different backgrounds and be respectful of all people. They get some of that at home because we don't live in a Jewish neighborhood — we live on a small farm.

"My kids play sports and participate in extracurricular activities that expose them to diversity. I think it's important to teach our kids how to be good people. I think that in itself helps our children to transcend prejudices and allows them to be accepting of people from all backgrounds."

What advice would you give to prospective parents who are considering private school for their children?

"I think a lot of parents are a little discouraged from BT because they think it is ‘Orthodox.' We keep a kosher home because we choose to do so. Yes, it is a Jewish institution, but Beth Tfiloh is not out to convert families or their kids. The truth is the school includes and welcomes Jewish families from all backgrounds and levels of observance. They never ask you to do more than you are comfortable doing."