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.
Two Steppin'
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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 Menschening Blog! Here is a short summary: 1. Collect Essential Materials: Gather everything you need before the lesson.2. Ensure Accessibility & Organization: Students learn best with clear and well-structured materials. Consider these best practices.3. Adapt Materials for Different Learning Levels: Not all students learn the same way, so differentiate resources accordingly. 4. Test Your Materials Before Class: To avoid last-minute issues When you signed up for Just to Menschen Newsletter, you should have received a copy of the Book of Judges Character Analysis Flipbook. If you missed it, click HERE for a copy. The following are lesson materials needed for a lesson using that resource:
Gathering and preparing materials in advance makes lessons more engaging, inclusive, and effective. By ensuring resources are accessible, organized, and adaptable, you set the stage for meaningful learning experiences. Next week, we will explore Step 3: Structuring a lesson to maximize student engagement. Stay tuned! B’Shalom - בשלום Frannie PS. Explore more exciting resources that bridge the gap between Judaic and General studies here! |
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...
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,...