The Rashi School marked its 40th anniversary at its Annual Dinner held April 26 at Gillette Stadium, bringing together families, alumni, educators, and supporters to celebrate four decades of academic excellence and values-driven education.
A centerpiece of the evening was the debut of “Rashi 40 at 40,” a commemorative publication highlighting 40 alumni whose lives and work reflect the lasting impact of a Rashi education. The collection offers a curated snapshot of graduates leading, creating, advocating, and contributing in meaningful ways—grounded in the confidence, purpose, and responsibility shaped during their time at Rashi.
Needham alumnus Zach Blankstein ’13, was the recipient of the Stephanie Rotsky Tikkun Alum Award, which recognizes graduates who embody the Jewish value of tikkun olam (repairing the world) through their work beyond Rashi.
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Other Needham alumni honored include Mayta Cohen, Sam Moller, Gila Modell, and Josh Shapiro.
These alumni span fields including social justice, public service, the arts, and entrepreneurship, offering a broader portrait of how early education rooted in both academic rigor and Jewish values can shape lifelong purpose and leadership.
Blankstein is the manager of the internationally touring band Couch. Prior to his full-time work in music, he served as a Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist at Jewish Family Service (JFS) of Metrowest, where he helped amplify the voices of individuals and families in need. Today, he continues to carry forward the values of compassion, responsibility, and community through the band’s initiative “Couch Family Photos,” which raises funds for Rosie’s Place, a Boston-based women’s shelter and multi-service organization.
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In reflecting on the milestone year, Head of School Emily Charton emphasized the school’s mission to develop students as both “leaders and mensches,” who are academically challenged while forming an unshakeable Jewish identity. She noted that students are encouraged to develop curiosity, ask and answer complex questions, and engage deeply with multiple perspectives.
“We are excited to come together to celebrate our 40th year and the community that nurtures our students and shapes them into people who go on to make meaningful impact in the world,” Charton said.
The evening underscored The Rashi School’s distinctive approach to education—blending rigorous academics with a deep commitment to social responsibility, Jewish learning, and character development. With kindness at its core, the school prepares students to move forward with confidence, purpose, and pride.
