She walked purposefully down the hallway clutching her trademark leather teachers’ bag. Along with a knowing smile her tools were simple and few: a red pen and a heavily used Chumash.

“Ahuva read for us the Rashi” she said with a distinct European accent.

Carefully nervously the student plodded through the words struggling to offer a clear translation and explanation. The teacher beamed her face shining with pride.

“Yes yes you said good!” she cried unable to contain her excitement. The pupil glowed.

Who was this teacher diminutive in size but regal in stature? Who was this educator whose approval meant the world to her hardworking students?

A legend in the annals of Bais Yaakov teachers her name was Morah Shoshana. Not Mrs. Privalsky or Rebbetzin Privalsky but Morah Shoshana — ever-reachable and ever-beloved.

Extraordinarily learned with a beautiful feminine appearance that suggested an elusive blend of Torah values Morah Shoshana was not your regular teacher. Her inimitable teaching style and infectious love for the words of Chumash were direct products of her glorious roots — a childhood suffused with a deep-rooted fear of Heaven and an appreciation for Torah learning that bordered on awe.

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