Marla Esquenazi, 2nd Grade Teacher (Mrs. Esquenazi)

Mrs. Esquenazi attended St. Edwards University for her Bachelor of Arts in education and religious studies. While there, she served as president for the Dean’s Leadership Council. She was also named Student Teacher of the Year and Jewish Studies Student of the Year. Ms. Esquenazi received her Masters in Educational Leadership from Houston Christian University and received her principal certification. Mrs. Esquenazi began her time at Beth Yeshurun Day School as a CDO teacher before moving to elementary the following fall. She is excited to return for her ninth year of teaching. In her free time, Ms. Esquenazi enjoys being with her son Gabriel, her husband, friends, family, and her dog, Barkley. Gabriel Esquenazi is also excited to be starting the Segal Academy infant room! “My favorite part of our school is being a part in helping our students become successful and caring individuals in a supportive and loving community.” 

Eden Leva, 2nd Grade Teacher (Mrs. Leva)

Eden Leva grew up in Houston, deeply involved in the Jewish community. She attended Bellaire High School before graduating from The University of Texas at Austin. This year marks her 10th year of teaching. Eden spent her first seven years teaching in HISD, where she was named Teacher of the Year at her school and became a district finalist. This is her third-year teaching second grade at Beth Yeshurun. Eden has a passion for teaching and enjoys creating resources that she and other teachers can use in their classrooms. Since joining the Beth Yeshurun family, Eden has celebrated many exciting milestones, including getting married, buying a home, and welcoming her first baby, Levi, with her husband, Scott, this summer. Eden is thrilled that Levi will join the infancy program in the fall. “After teaching for many years in public school, I can truly say that Beth Yeshurun is a very special school that provides an unmatched experience for students. I am so happy my own child will now get to experience all the magic that BY has to offer!”