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.
You are not the only one...
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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?
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, scattered resources, and very little structure to pull everything together. You may be searching online for ideas, adapting something that almost works, trying to make it age-appropriate, and hoping the lesson feels meaningful by the time students walk in. That is a lot to carry. But a meaningful Jewish lesson need not cover everything. It needs a clear focus, a simple goal, an activity that supports the learning, time for reflection, and a connection students can carry with them. That is what this week’s blog post is all about. In the post, I’m talking about why Jewish lesson planning can feel so overwhelming — and what to do instead when you want lessons that feel thoughtful, clear, and manageable. You can read it on Just Menschening. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing a simpler way to plan Jewish lessons with more clarity and less overwhelm. And on August 1, I’ll be opening the doors to something created especially for Jewish educators who want ongoing support, ready-to-use resources, and a more sustainable way to plan meaningful Jewish learning. For now, I hope this email reminds you that you do not need to do everything in one lesson. You just need a clear place to begin. Hit reply and tell me: What are your pain points with lesson planning? B’Shalom - בשלום Frannie P.S. Explore more on Menschenables! |
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.
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...