Driven, passionate, and a lifelong learner, Mrs. Bracha Rutner’s deep connection to Jewish education was evident even before she assumed the head of school position at Beth Tfiloh this past July. With over 20 years of teaching experience under her belt, she is a graduate of Stern College and Nishmat’s Keren Ariel Institute, with advanced studies in Talmud and education administration.
Previously serving as the head of school at Yeshiva University’s High School for Girls in Queens, NY for 5 years, Ms. Rutner brings an air of experience alongside a fresh perspective as a newcomer to the Beth Tfiloh community.
“She’s never said no to any of our [the teachers’] ideas, and that’s because she has so much experience. I remember we had a meeting and after bringing up an idea we asked her if it was still on the table and she responded; ‘why wouldn’t it be?’. From that moment I knew that it was going to be an amazing time working with her.” says Ms. Nancy Adler, the newest incoming vice principal at BT.
As well as her love of education, Mrs. Rutner is an avid Gemara and Halakha scholar, even serving as a Yoetzet Halakha, a Jewish spiritual law consultant, at Kemp Mill Synagogue in Silver Spring, MD for 12 years.
Mrs. Rutner holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Yeshiva University, a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from St. John’s University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education Administration from Azrieli Graduate School, a testament to the Jewish ethos of scholarship – constant learning regardless of one’s level of experience.
What drew you into the field of education?
I didn’t always want to be in the education field. Really, when I was younger, I thought I would go into medicine until about 10th grade when my teacher told me you had to be good at chemistry to get into that sort of field. That’s not always true, and most people cringe when they hear this, but I’m glad that I did.
In 9th grade, I had this wonderful Judaic studies teacher and she really set an example for me of what Jewish education should be. That I think was what really got me thinking about education, and from then on, I taught informally and formally and really, just fell in love with it.
Where have you taught?
I have taught Judaic studies, like Talmud and Gemara at Central/YUHSG and as head of school at Yeshiva University High School for Girls. There, I would also teach Judaic studies as well as hold an administrative position.
How would you define your experience in Jewish education?
Jewish education is one of the most important aspects of our faith. It connects young people to the Torah, to Israel, and to themselves – their heritage. There’s something so beautiful about the fact that in our tradition, doing a small thing like giving credit to someone where credit is due can bring about the Moshiach. That is why I enjoy studying Talmud as well; different rabbis provide their perspective and their opinions in one place.
Working in Jewish education, I like to think I help the children do the same.
How did you hear about the opening for the Head of School position at Beth Tfiloh?
Growing up in Silver Spring, I always knew about Beth Tfiloh as a school and synagogue, but only from afar. I heard about the opening from a friend when I was in New York, and decided to apply.
What drew you to the position, considering your already illustrious job at Yeshiva U?
Beth Tfiloh is a very unique school in the way that it is so diverse in its levels of observance [among the students] and that there is so much respect for every single one.
It is one of the only schools that goes from preschool to 12th grade, and knowing that I could potentially guide a child from ages 2 to 18, being such a big part in their life, I felt that this was the position for me.
What was the “audition” process like, so to speak?
It was really just like any try out process. I would interview day in and day out, talking to different members of the administration and the board, and get to know students at school. They would ask questions about our experience, introduce us to staff, and really immerse us in the school community itself.
How did you feel when you received the news that you were accepted?
I was literally speechless when I got the call from administration – I didn’t know the whole [Beth Tfiloh school] board would be there as well – I found that I couldn’t say anything. It was incredible to hear.
What do you find different in the two communities where you’ve taught?
In New York, the culture is very fast-paced and competitive, that’s just the way things are over there. However, in the Baltimore community, I find that thankfully, life moves at a slower pace and that members of the community have such deep roots to it.
[Someone’s] parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents could have been members of the same community as they were, it’s really quite interesting.
Do you see any similarities?
Both the communities I’ve lived in were very warm and inclusive, and in the Baltimore community especially, I find that the families and students that welcomed me were especially nice, they really made me feel like I was at home.
Dr. Tzippora Schorr is an icon of Jewish education. What is it like to work alongside her?
Dr. Schorr has so much experience and knowledge to share. Working with her is such a pleasure and her insight is always so valuable.
What changes do you envision for Beth Tfiloh?
For the next part of the 21st century, with the rise of AI and the aftermath of October 7th, Jewish education is undergoing a lot of change, and I want to guide Beth Tfiloh through these next steps.
A lot of families that felt welcome in the community before the war [in Gaza] now feel nervous, and I would like to make the environment better prepared for that. I want to deepen the connection between the students and myself, as well as the staff.
What are some things about the school that you would like to uphold?
Pretty much everything, to be honest. I met with students in the Spring when I was applying, and all of them told me how much they love the school!
What I like best about BT is its diversity and focus on Jewish values, there are so many students from different backgrounds and I want to maintain that same sense of respect and derech eretez everyone has already.
Where do you see Beth Tfiloh in the next 10 years?
Growing, an even larger school than it already is, an example for Jewish schools everywhere. To continue its amazing work, its diversity, and preparing the next generation of Jewish leaders in the community.
