BJH: To start, could you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to found Binyan Yisroel?
Alana Weinberg: Of course. I grew up in Margate, NJ, a beautiful beach town, and had the privilege of experiencing diverse educational systems. This exposure, combined with my personal journey, especially after 3 of 4 of my children were diagnosed with dyslexia, drove me to delve deeper into specialized education. My professional path took me from teaching and directing programs in New York and Boston to consulting for school directors. Eventually, this led to the creation of Binyan Yisroel here in Baltimore.
BJH: How was Binyan Yisroel founded?
Alana Weinberg: Dr. Aviva Weisbord A”H encouraged me to start Binyan Yisroel. She agreed that there was an important need for a school for children with language-based learning differences within our community. She immediately introduced me to HaRav Hopfer, Shlita, who also understood the need and encouraged me to start the school. Dr. Weisbord, myself and other colleagues named the school Binyan Yisroel, because these kids will be the builders of our future and they need to be given an opportunity to thrive and succeed.
BJH: What makes Binyan Yisroel stand out from other schools?
Alana Weinberg: What sets us apart is our comprehensive approach. We ensure that the entire school day is tailored to the specific learning needs of each student. Unlike other institutions that might offer partial support, our school is designed around fully integrated support for students with language-based learning differences. We’re based on the belief that every child can learn and excel with the right environment and tools.
BJH: What makes Binyan Yisroel unique?
Alana Weinberg: Believe it or not, 1 in 5 kids has a language-based learning difference- but 1 in 10 need comprehensive services. As such we offer comprehensive classes for children with these types of challenges- all within a Jewish school! Our goal is to serve, remediate, and mainstream each student. Additionally, we are supported by the Jemicy School who offer training, mentorship, and curriculum.
BJH: What are you hoping to accomplish with Binyan Yiroel?
Alana Weinberg: We have a responsibility to help these amazing and capable children with their invisible disability. The goal is to address the educational need now to prevent future struggles. Children who have a language based learning difference can be incredibly successful with the proper instruction. Statistics show that students who struggle in school will face depression, anxiety and turn to other outlets because of lack of success. We’re here to prevent that!
BJH: Where is Binyan Yisroel located?
Alana Weinberg: We are currently hosted within Bais Yaakov (girls program) and TA (boys program). Next year we will serve students in our girls division in 3rd and 4th grade and serve boys in 3rd-6th grade. Our goal is to add more grades as each class progresses.
BJH: It sounds like community and family play a significant role at Binyan Yisroel. Can you elaborate on that?
Alana Weinberg: Absolutely. Starting and operating Binyan Yisroel has truly been a family affair and deeply rooted in the community. My own children provide feedback and suggestions, highlighting the communal spirit that drives our school. They feel as though it’s their school too, and they’re keen on helping other children in the community. It’s this sense of ownership and involvement that really makes a difference. Of course, the school was founded with the encouragement, guidance and haskamos, of community Rabbonim, school administrators, mental health professionals, caring parents and community members.
BJH: Facing the challenges of starting a specialized school must be daunting. How do you navigate these challenges, and what are your hopes for the future?
Alana Weinberg: There are certainly challenges, but my optimism for the future keeps me going. My vision is for Binyan Yisroel to grow, serve more students, and become a model for inclusive education. Despite the obstacles, my passion and dedication to providing an educational service that challenges conventional norms are unwavering. I’m committed to inspiring change in how education is delivered to students with learning differences helping each student reach their full potential.
BJH: Your personal journey has been a significant driver behind Binyan Yisroel. How has this journey influenced your approach to education and leadership?
Alana Weinberg: My journey has taught me the importance of understanding and embracing diverse learning landscapes. Discovering my children’s dyslexia was a turning point, leading me to advocate for specialized education. This personal experience has shaped my leadership style, making me more empathetic, inclusive, and determined to make a difference in the lives of children facing similar challenges.
BJH: What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Alana Weinberg: When my son was diagnosed with dyslexia, my husband and I were overwhelmed and didn’t know what to do. We met with Ilana Ruskay-Kidd from The Shefa School in New York who told us, “We’ll hold your worries, your son will thrive.” And that’s what we try to do for parents at Binyan Yisroel. Using researched based, data driven curriculum, we work to ensure every student reaches their full potential holding the worry of the families.
BJH: Lastly, what message would you like to share with families navigating the challenges of education for children with learning differences?
Alana Weinberg: I want families to know they’re not alone. There are resources and people ready to support you, including us at Binyan Yisroel. Education is a transformative power, and by working together, we can create an environment where every child, regardless of their learning differences, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
For more information about Binyan Yisroel, please email office@binyanyisroel.com or call (443) 272-1208. Visit our website www.binyanyisroel.org. Support Binyan Yisroel https://www.paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/4691605
