Staff Profile: Renee Ben-David

Meet 2nd-grade Assistant Teacher Renee Ben-David! Renee loves spending time with her family and friends and enjoys getting messy in the garden or experimenting with art materials. She feels most fulfilled when she sees her students showing extra kindness to each other. Read more to learn about her journey from New York to Israel to the Bay Area! 

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

I’ve been in the Bay Area for the past 23 years. My family relocated through my husband’s work for a 2-year adventure (ever hear that one before?). I am originally from NY and lived in Israel for 19 years before moving to the Bay Area. 

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

I am part of the fantastic 2nd-grade team - assisting Donna and Bonnie. This is my 7th year at Hausner.

3. What is the highlight of your working week?

Every morning when the children walk in full of energy and smiles. Also, the moments when they show extra kindness to each other - which I’m thrilled to say, happens quite frequently. 

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

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Especially if it involves nature, food, and/or travel. I also love getting messy in the garden or experimenting with art materials.

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

I would return to being a birth doula. Each time you witness a baby being born, and the beauty and strength of the couple during the many hours leading to the birth and afterward it is unique, miraculous, and awe-inspiring. I supported births for many years but it is difficult to balance with being at school full time. 

6. Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I have five wonderful children and a dog named Cornflake.

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

Amit עמית. It is the name of one of my sons and means friend/colleague in Hebrew. Interestingly it also happens to be a Hindu name meaning eternal friend (according to google). 
My favorite holiday is sukkot - I love inviting guests to eat outside in our sukkah. It's a fun and sensory holiday. I have many wonderful memories from celebrating Sukkot as a child and from when my own children lived at home