After 30 years in Jewish education, I saw how challenging it was for teachers to meet standards while also bringing Judaic content to life. That’s why I create classroom resources that make it simple to integrate the two. It means teachers feel confident, and students connect more deeply. Menschenables is a community of Jewish educators seeking creative and engaging ways to infuse learning standards and skills into Judaic content and enhance the general studies content with Jewish connections. Every week, you will receive tips, support, lesson ideas, and so much more! Want to further enhance your lessons? Sign up for the Kehillah Classroom Collective to receive a monthly ready-to-download, print, and teach resource with a meaningful accompanying lesson plan, insightful tips, and classroom-tested ideas.
Not An Official Jewish Holiday - Earth Day
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While we often think of the Torah as telling the story of the Jewish people, its very beginning is actually about something we all share—our amazing planet. Earth Day (April 22) is not an official Jewish holiday. However, it’s a perfect opportunity to connect with meaningful Jewish values and teach our students how our tradition encourages us to care for the earth. Here are some fun and thoughtful ways to celebrate Earth Day through a Jewish lens: Bal Tashchit – Do Not DestroyThis significant Torah value, found in Deuteronomy, teaches us not to waste or needlessly harm the environment—even during tough times like war. It reminds us that our responsibility to the earth is constant. Shomrei Adamah – Guardians of the EarthIn the story of the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve are called to be caretakers of the land. Being a guardian means paying attention and learning about the world around us. L’Dor Va’Dor – From Generation to GenerationThis beautiful phrase appears in both the Psalms and our daily prayers. It reminds us that our job is to pass wisdom and care to the next generation. Bracha – BlessingGratitude is at the heart of Jewish life. Our tradition encourages us to say blessings over the many beautiful things we encounter, including natural wonders. And of course, we all say: Amen! Frannie PS. Explore more exciting resources that bridge the gap between Judaic and General studies here! |
Menschenables
After 30 years in Jewish education, I saw how challenging it was for teachers to meet standards while also bringing Judaic content to life. That’s why I create classroom resources that make it simple to integrate the two. It means teachers feel confident, and students connect more deeply. Menschenables is a community of Jewish educators seeking creative and engaging ways to infuse learning standards and skills into Judaic content and enhance the general studies content with Jewish connections. Every week, you will receive tips, support, lesson ideas, and so much more! Want to further enhance your lessons? Sign up for the Kehillah Classroom Collective to receive a monthly ready-to-download, print, and teach resource with a meaningful accompanying lesson plan, insightful tips, and classroom-tested ideas.
Do you believe in luck, Reader? I’ve been lucky a time or two. Like scoring my new job! A couple of months ago, I was really missing being in the classroom and spending time with Jewish kids. Then the most remarkable opportunity came along: to be Director of Education at a very small congregation. (This is the main reason I have been MIA lately.) I feel pretty lucky to be back with students and teachers. As I said, the congregation is very small. We only have 16 students in our Sunday...
Dear Reader, friend and fellow educator, It’s hard to believe—it’s been five months since my last message to you. I’ve truly missed connecting with this incredible community. Though I’ve been quiet, please know that not a week has gone by without me thinking about all of you—the passionate, creative educators who care deeply about weaving Jewish learning and general studies together in meaningful ways. This vision—to build a collective of like-minded Jewish educators who bring depth,...
Hello Reader, Have you ever been standing in front of your students with a well-planned, dynamic lesson only to discover that the projector isn't working? Step 2 in Lesson Planning is often overlooked. However, it can make or break your lesson. A well-prepared lesson starts with having the right resources ready. Whether teaching general or Judaic studies, carefully selecting and organizing materials ensures a smooth, engaging experience. To explore this step further, visit the Just...