From the Diamond to the Classroom: Our New English Teacher, 

Mr. Willens

Mr. Willens joined de Toledo this year as an English teacher, bringing prior experience teaching 6th-grade humanities at Echo Horizon and 8th-grade English at Brentwood. His decision to come to de Toledo was shaped by his desire to teach older students and by his first campus visit, when he connected with many students. The school’s inclusivity, intellectual curiosity, and close-knit community stood out immediately, making him confident it was the right fit. He especially values the students’ maturity, the high level of discussion between students and faculty, and the time teachers are given to thoughtfully plan and grade. 

Originally a business major, Mr. Willens discovered his passion for English through studying abroad and taking literature courses, while also realizing his love for working with kids through coaching sports. As a former Division I baseball player at Stanford University, he found a natural way to combine academics and coaching through teaching. Although joining midyear was challenging, especially with getting to know everyone and the curriculum, he credits Ms. Golden and the English department for their strong support. Looking ahead, he is excited to return next year, and he is hoping to teach a sports and culture elective for seniors. He looks forward to continuing to work with and watch students grow over time.

Australia to de Toledo: Our New Judaic Studies Teacher,

Rabbi Wasserman

Rabbi Wasserman joined de Toledo as a Judaic studies teacher after being drawn to the school’s emphasis on developing A+ human beings, not just strong academics. While living and teaching in Australia during COVID, he discovered a passion for Jewish education that led him to pursue rabbinic ordination. After returning to the States, de Toledo remained his top choice because of its culture of inclusivity and kindness. While all of this was happening, Rabbi Lev continued to reach out further to Rabbi Wasserman to strengthen their connection. Previously teaching at Milken, Rabbi Wasserman was immediately struck by the respect and engagement shown by de Toledo students, reinforcing his belief that the school fosters happiness and strong values.

In his role at de Toledo, Rabbi Wasserman values the way students approach both learning and life with curiosity and empathy. He appreciates the kindness and mutual respect that define the school community and finds fulfillment in teaching students who genuinely care for one another. These qualities have made him confident that de Toledo is not only the right place for him to teach, but also a community where Judaism thrives to its fullest. 

de Toledo’s Got Talent: Our New Art Teacher,

Ms. Foster

Ms. Foster is a new addition to the arts department whose passion for creativity has quickly made her a meaningful part of the community. What drew her to de Toledo was the school’s strong sense of community and its clear emphasis on the arts program. Ms. Foster discovered her love for art around age 5 years old and has been drawing and painting ever since. It did take time to gain confidence in her abilities, but as we see now, she has earned that confidence. Before coming to de Toledo she taught at Fusion Academy, where she developed her teaching experience. 

Since joining de Toledo, Ms. Foster has become inspired by the school’s deep commitment to creativity. She shared that she has never worked at a school where both the arts are extremely valued and supported, and also where teachers and students are encouraged to take steps into their creative sides. The welcoming and inspiring atmosphere has made her feel at home, and she is excited to return next year to continue growing as an artist and educator within our de Toledo community.