With a background in both Judaic and general studies combined with 30 years of teaching in Jewish educational settings, I saw the same challenges again and again. Jewish educators were being asked to plan meaningful lessons without enough time, structure, or support. So, I began creating tools that bridge the gap between Judaic content and real classroom practice. Teachers need purposeful lessons that help students think deeply, build skills, reflect on Jewish values, and connect learning to their own lives. That is why I created Menschenables, my 5-step Jewish lesson planning framework, and the Kehillah Collective. My work is designed to help Jewish educators stop starting from scratch and start planning with more clarity, confidence, and joy. Because meaningful Jewish learning should feel thoughtful, doable, and deeply connected — for both teachers and students.
reunited and it feels so good...
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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, curiosity, and connection into their classrooms—still burns brightly for me. I’m more invested than ever in helping us explore how Judaic content can align with general studies standards and skills, and how general studies can be illuminated through a Jewish lens. The pause these past months has given me time to reflect, dream, and reimagine how we can grow this space together. And now—it’s time to bring the conversation back to life. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing new resources, classroom ideas, and collaborative opportunities designed to help us elevate Jewish education in ways that are creative, relevant, and inspiring. Thank you for sticking with me and believing in this vision. I look forward to reconnecting and continuing to build this kehillah (community) with you. Frannie Founder, Menschenables P.S. I’d love to hear from you—what are you working on in your classroom this season? Hit reply and let’s start the conversation again. |
Menschenables
With a background in both Judaic and general studies combined with 30 years of teaching in Jewish educational settings, I saw the same challenges again and again. Jewish educators were being asked to plan meaningful lessons without enough time, structure, or support. So, I began creating tools that bridge the gap between Judaic content and real classroom practice. Teachers need purposeful lessons that help students think deeply, build skills, reflect on Jewish values, and connect learning to their own lives. That is why I created Menschenables, my 5-step Jewish lesson planning framework, and the Kehillah Collective. My work is designed to help Jewish educators stop starting from scratch and start planning with more clarity, confidence, and joy. Because meaningful Jewish learning should feel thoughtful, doable, and deeply connected — for both teachers and students.
Hi there, Reader, Have you ever sat down to plan a Jewish lesson and immediately felt like there were too many pieces to hold at once? The Parsha. The holiday. The Hebrew. The Jewish value. The activity. The classroom management. The meaningful takeaway. And somehow, all of that is supposed to fit into one short class period. If that sounds familiar, I want you to know this: It is not you. Jewish lesson planning often feels overwhelming because so many educators plan with limited time,...
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...
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...