40 Under 40: David Welsher

A lifelong educator, David Welsher was inspired by someone in a very different field – his father, who was a heart surgeon.

“[It’s] just that mindset of being able to give to others, and finding what path you can do that that looks at your own characteristics and says ‘hey what is it that you were good at, and how can you help people at doing that?’”

Also inspired by his middle school social studies teacher in North Carolina, Welsher’s teaching career started in the secular space, where he was quickly recognized for his talent and awarded District Teacher of the Year, in Bentonville Public Schools. It wasn’t until visiting Atlanta, however, that he felt a calling to return to the Jewish space.

“I grew up with very little Jewish identity — I was bar mitzvah’d but little Jewish identity — and when I came here and saw the students playing with their kippahs, and just how joyful Judaism can really look, that was an experience that I wanted to be a part of, because it was something that I did not have the opportunity to do.”

Now Associate Head of School and Elementary School Principal at The Epstein School, he has developed meaningful relationships across the Atlanta Jewish community and have been fortunate to partner with families, educators, and community members who are deeply committed to strengthening Jewish education and ensuring a vibrant future for the next generation.

“Professionally, I have dedicated my career to education and to helping children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”

Through his involvement in AJC ACCESS, incorporating teaching for diverse learners, he is inspired both by his son who is on the spectrum, and his own experience with ADHD.

“I am proud to be married to my wife, Alissa, and to be the father of two wonderful boys, Henry and Harrison. Our family moved to Roswell nearly ten years ago, and we have been grateful to build our lives in such a welcoming and supportive community.”