Marla Shields, 3rd Grade Teacher (Ms. Shields – soon-to-be Mrs. Esquenazi)

Marla Shields was born and raised in the Houston Jewish community. She moved to Austin for college to attend St. Edwards University and study education. She received her Early Childhood through 6th grade General Studies certification along with her English Language Learner certification. After college, she moved back to Houston and began working at Beth Yeshurun Day School teaching CDO. The following year she began teaching in the Elementary school. She has continued to do so for the past five years. Marla recently graduated from Houston Baptist University with her Master’s in Educational Administration. Marla will not be Ms. Shields for long as she plans to get married in the fall of 2020. At that point you might have to struggle calling her Mrs. Esquenazi (pronounced Es-ke-nazzi). When not at school you will always see her out and about with her dog Barkley, (he loves to visit students)! “Beth Yeshurun Day School is my second home. I cannot wait to begin another year at BYDS. I love being able to teach such amazing students with the support of our parents, staff, and community. Go Rams!”

Rachel Toubin, 3rd Grade Teacher (Mrs. Toubin)

Rachel Toubin grew up in Houston as a member of Congregation Beth Yeshurun. She earned her degree from University of Texas in Applied Learning and Development specializing in Special Education and Regular Education in Early Childhood through high school. She attained her Master’s degree in Education from the University of St. Thomas and is also a certified Diagnostician. Prior to moving back to Houston, she taught special education in Austin. Mrs. Toubin also taught 1st grade at Horn Elementary for seven years until she had her two children. She has two teenagers, Sam and Peri. Prior to joining our faculty, Mrs. Toubin was involved with BYDS for many years as a board member, active PTO member, and frequent substitute for our teachers.