New Member Profile: Jess and Matt Skolnick

BASICS: What are your names and any nicknames?

Hi! We are the Skolnicks! Matt, Jess, Charlie (8), Ruby (6) and Sully (2).

YOU: Tell us about you and your family.

We both grew up here in the Twin Cities. Matt grew up attending Temple Israel, and Jess grew up at Adath. Matt went to St. Louis Park High School, and Jess attended Armstrong. We now live in Maple Grove with our three kids. Our older two are in the Wayzata School District, and our youngest is still home with Mom.

Matt works downtown at Hennepin Healthcare, and Jess runs a licensed in-home daycare. Prior to opening the daycare, Jess taught public school for nine years, teaching kindergarten, first, and second grade. Starting in the new year, Jess will also be teaching first grade at HaMakom, which she is incredibly excited about.

As a family we love staying active and spending time together—whether that’s being outdoors, participating in kids’ activities, or making routines with family fun. We’re excited to deepen our connection to the Jewish community and to be part of a synagogue that feels like home for our whole family.

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

Belonging to Bet Shalom means being part of a Jewish community where our family can grow, connect, and feel supported. Raising our children alongside other Jewish families allows us to build meaningful relationships, shared traditions, and experiences with people who are making similar choices about faith, values and family life. We want our kids to feel proud of their Jewish identity and to experience Judaism as something lived, welcoming and rooted in community.

HERE: Why did you choose Bet Shalom?

I (Jess) grew up deeply involved in my synagogue, Adath—participating in USY, serving on the board, and truly embracing my Jewish identity. Those experiences shaped who I am and created a strong sense of belonging, and I want that same meaningful connection to Judaism for my children.

From the very first conversations with the rabbi and other staff at Bet Shalom, it was clear that this is a community rooted in inclusivity, warmth, and genuine connection. The strong emphasis on community, engagement, and welcoming families at every stage of life is exactly what we are looking for. Bet Shalom feels like a place where our children can grow, build relationships, and experience Judaism in a way that is joyful, supportive and deeply meaningful.