Staff Profile: Diane Cohen

Get to know 1st grade Assistant Teacher Diane Cohen, who has lived in the Bay Area for 32 years and loves to make jewelry in her free time. From reading and writing to traveling and making jewelry, Diane's work and personal life are full of highlights. Read more in our interview with her!
 

1. How long have you lived in the Bay Area, where did you come from and what brought you here?

I’ve lived in the Bay Area for 32 years. I’m originally from New York and grew up on Long Island. I moved to California when I decided I wanted to live in San Francisco and be closer to my brother and sister who were living in San Diego. I was working for Macy’s in NY in product development and luckily, I was able to transfer within Macy's to the SF buying office.  

2. What is your role at Hausner and how long have you been here?

I am an assistant teacher in first grade working with Stacy. I have been working at Hausner for two years. Both of my kids, Rachel and Ben went to Hausner so I am an alumni parent too! 

3.  What is the highlight of your work week?

A highlight of my week is working with the students on reading and writing. I love to see how they advance in their skills and have that "lightbulb moment" when it clicks and they recognize and read a new word or are able to sound out and write a word correctly.  

4. What do you do when you're not at work?

When I am not at Hausner I love to make jewelry! I have a bracelet business with my daughter Rachel and we sell at fairs and shows. My small local business is called Girls Curls Jewelry because we are 2 curly girls! I love to exercise and enjoy traveling, bike riding, reading, and being outdoors. 

5. What do you think you would do if you weren't a teacher?

If I wasn't working at Hausner I would be taking jewelry classes and traveling, as I love to explore and see new places.  

6. Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

A fun fact about myself is that I am an identical twin. My twin sister Linda and I were pregnant at the same time and both of our daughters are just 7 weeks apart in age.  

7. What is your favorite Hebrew word and/or Jewish Holiday?

7. My favorite Hebrew word is shalom as it is used to say hello, goodbye and peace. I love that shalom has multiple meanings and that we wish peace to others as a greeting.