Amy Kirschenbaum grew up in New York City and attended Ramaz from nursery through high school. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in women’s studies from NYU. After college, she followed her dream of working with and helping others, and received her master’s in social work from The Wurzweiler School of Social Work. 

 

Before graduate school, Amy met and married David. A city girl and proud of it, they moved to Westchester with some hesitation on Amy's part, but quickly found a sense of belonging. Their children—Nathan, Julia (WDS '19), Molly (WDS '22), and William—all began their educational journeys at Westchester Day School, starting in Ganon. Amy and David are grateful for the role WDS played in shaping their children into the young adults they are today.

 

During her children’s early years at WDS, Amy volunteered and became PTA president - following the path modeled for her and David by their parents who exemplified what it means to be a contributing member of a larger community. It was on Orienta Avenue, as well as within the Scarsdale/New Rochelle community, that Amy and her children developed lifelong friendships that they still value today.

 

Amy’s early career in social work included internships at the New York State Psychiatric Institute and work at an outpatient mental health clinic in New York City. But as unpredictable as those days were, it was an unexpected call from Rabbi Einzig, former Head of School, about 15 years ago, that changed her path. Amy was invited to become the girls’ physical education teacher at WDS.

 

Though unexpected, the role proved to be a perfect fit. Drawing on her experience as a basketball coach at Ramaz and a hockey coach at WDS, Amy brought energy and empathy to the gym, transforming it into a space for both physical and emotional growth. Her social work background enriched her teaching, enhancing her ability to connect with students and incorporate social-emotional learning into the PE curriculum. 

 

Amy feels so fortunate for her 14 years as the PE teacher at WDS, where she has built meaningful relationships with students, faculty, and families, and has had the privilege of watching students grow year after year, witnessing their journeys of self-discovery, resilience, and trust. For the past three years, she has also served as the WDS Wildcats girls basketball coach, a role she absolutely loves and cherishes for its ability to instill sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork in her players.

 

In 2025, Amy began a new chapter as the school social worker. While her title, office, and dress code may have changed, her commitment to the students remains unwavering. She continues to prioritize connection, support, and relationship-building in every aspect of her work.

 

Beyond, but not too far from WDS, Amy has spent 17 transformative summers at Westchester Summer Day; from counselor to Associate Director, Amy now oversees the nursery through second grade. The WDS and WSD community is like a second family - both are composed of a remarkable group of educators and professionals who care deeply for each other, our students/campers, and the extended Westchester community.  

 

Amy is deeply grateful for her parents and mother-in-law for their unwavering support. And of course, for her husband David, a WDS and Westchester Hebrew High School graduate, and their four children - who continually teach her about strength, loyalty, and standing up for one’s beliefs. "My journey at WDS and WSD, combined with the love and lessons from my family, has made me profoundly grateful for the life and community I've built."