A Conversation with the Weiners

Bryce, born January 3, 2011, is the newest addition to the family, and will join his brother and cousins in a few years. “It warms our heart to see our grandchildren at Beth Tfiloh. They are happy, and they are coming home with the same values that were instilled in their parents,” says Roz.

Both Roz and Marvin got involved with the school and the congregation from the very beginning. Roz is a past PTA and Sisterhood president while Marvin has been president of the congregation and school board of trustees, chairman of the board of the congregation as well as other offices. “Volunteering our time was just a natural progression for us as Beth Tfiloh school parents and congregants,” says Roz. “We wanted good things for the school and thought getting involved on different levels was the right thing to do,” adds Marvin.

Not only did they give of their personal time, but they also created outlets for all Beth Tfiloh students to thrive and grow. The Joseph and Florence Weiner Memorial Basketball Tournament, which was initiated over 24 years ago, has been a source of pride and excitement not only for BT but for children around the world. “We thought it was important to the school to bring other children from around the country...and the world...together in healthy competition. It stimulates camaraderie and helps children to develop friendships with people from Israel to Chicago to New York,” says Marvin. “It also promotes Beth Tfiloh in a very positive way.” Since the inception of the tournament, the Weiners have been its sole funder and have now made arrangements to permanently fund it through an endowment.

The positive perception of Beth Tfiloh has always been at the forefront of their mission to perpetuate goodwill, a rootedness in Judaism and strong academics. Their contributions have enabled the school to provide Academic Support Services to many children who need specialized attention. “This fund ensures that students who learn differently will have equal opportunity and access to a Jewish day school. Learning specialists, resources, testing and educational coaches all contribute to the success of our children,” says Mrs. Zipora Schorr. The Weiners support such efforts because, “we feel strongly that all children desiring a Jewish day school education are supported by the school, and do not have to seek other educational programs outside of Beth Tfiloh” explains Roz.

After many years of gift giving, the Weiners continue to find innovative ways to help Beth Tfiloh grow as an important light in the lives of their children and so many others. Beth Tfiloh has dedicated its Congregation and Lower School campus to the Weiner family for their contributions. “We feel very honored to be a part of Beth Tfiloh and it means a lot to our children and our grandchildren,” says Roz.

Though Roz and Marvin would rather be known as a close knit family that believes in the good that Beth Tfiloh provides, their young granddaughter, Sarah, reveals the true impact of their efforts, when asked who built this school, she replies, “my grandpa.”