From a Bat Mitzvah Student's Father
When Frankie started her tutorials with Brett, she wasn’t even sure if she wanted to have a bat mitzvah — but his patience, warmth, and deep knowledge soon won her over. Brett is a true mensch and a born teacher, able to explain complex lore in a thoroughly engaging way. He has also been blessed with one of the most important Jewish assets — a wonderful sense of humor. Listening to Frankie laugh while she studied her Torah portion was a joy, especially in the midst of the pandemic. It’s hard to imagine anyone better suited for the rabbinate, or anyone I’d rather have guiding my children in their Jewish education.
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-David Benioff
"My son had the most incredible and meaningful experience working with Brett Weisman in preparation for his Bar Mitzvah. From the first meeting, Brett made the process fun and immediately connected with my son so that he looked forward to these sessions each week. Not only did he learn to beautifully and confidently lead a service in Hebrew entirely on his own, but because of the deep and engaging conversations he had with Brett, he knew exactly what he wanted to say in his d'var Torah, and was able to practice beforehand with Brett so that he felt completely comfortable on the big day. Brett is just a lovely human, and having him be a part of this milestone is an experience our family will never forget. We are so grateful he came into our lives."
Lori Gottlieb, LMFT
From the Dean of American Jewish University:
Dear David and Brett,
Well, you made my day!
David, it is always wonderful to hear from you, and I’m happy to know that the students of HUC continue to benefit from your wisdom and your knowledge. Best to you and Jackie, always!
Brett, you blew me away. Your talent as a producer of really compelling and high quality videos is really extraordinary, and I feel that you summarized the core of my thinking accurately and in a compelling manner. I loved the video! And I’d welcome a chance to schmooze if you are interested. Please feel no pressure; I’m sure you have a lot on your plate. But if you are willing, let’s make a time to talk (after Pesah!) And thank you for that terrific video!
בברכת חג כשר ושמח!
Brad
Rabbi Dr. Bradley Shavit Artson
Roslyn and Abner Goldstine Dean’s Chair
Professor of Philosophy
From a Religious School Student's Mother:
Brett,
I just wanted to share how much Marlowe is enjoying her sessions with you—and to thank you for the teaching and the heart you bring to each of your sessions with her.
This past Sunday, Marlowe came bounding into my room after her lesson, so excited to share what she had learned, which she also shared with my parents. Then within the hour, she found our shofar, went outside, and blasted it over the canyon. Marlowe was was feeling so inspired, so imbued with Torah--and literally, wanted to shout it out to the world. This is the gift of you, Brett-- of teachers who truly love what they teach and take real joy in sharing knowledge. All this to say, you’re in the right line of work, Brett! ;)
Truly, you are an inspiration. Truly, we appreciate you.
With gratitude,
Marti
Hanukkah with Montessori
Good Afternoon Mr. Weisman,
What an amazing job you did with the children today. You truly have a gift. It was very exciting with the times we are in that they had a "visitor" in their classroom.
Will you please send the link to the recording asap so we can view + share. I will also send you the pictures I took in a separate email.
Thank you again,
Deepa Somasundaram
Director/Administrator
Montessori School of Laguna Beach