New Member Profile: Kelsey and James Toetschinger

BASICS: What are your names and any nicknames?

Kelsey and James Toetschinger

YOU: Tell us about you and your family.

Kelsey: I’m a Lead Life Skills Teacher in an adult special education program, and James is the Visitor Services and Accessibility Manager at the Bell Museum in Falcon Heights.  We live in St. Paul with our children, two cats and dog.  I grew up going to Temple of Aaron. My parents, Gregg and Tracie Steinman still belong there.  

BELONG: What does belonging to a synagogue mean to you?

Belonging to a synagogue means being part of a Jewish community.  We are an interfaith family raising Jewish kiddos, so having a place that will help foster Jewish values is important. James tries so hard to follow traditions, celebrate holidays, and learn prayers. Since joining Bet Shalom in September we have attended more Shabbat services than in the previous five years when we belonged to Temple of Aaron!

HERE: Why did you choose Bet Shalom?

Kelsey: I have been teaching at Bet Shalom for almost seven years. This year I am teaching 7th grade, and I have been with the same group of students since they were in 4th grade. Last year I actually stopped teaching to spend more time with my family, but when I heard that the 6th graders needed a teacher, I agreed to come back just for them. The more time I spend at Bet Shalom, the more it feels like this is where my family belongs.  I know I am biased from working here, but I love the education set up and feel I’m part of a community more than I ever did before.