For All Peoples: Jewish Lessons for Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Recently, I led a workshop with Jewish educators focused on how to maintain inclusive classrooms in today's challenging times. The workshop occurred just a few days before the Trump administration took office. At the time, it was already evident that this administration had little support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, leaving many educators understandably concerned about the potential impact on their students and schools.

Today, as DEI programs are being stripped away from federal agencies, state agencies, and even the private sector, those concerns have become a reality. While we might hope that religious institutions like synagogues would be shielded from these pressures, the truth is that they, too, are shaped by the priorities and biases of their donors and members.

The session centered on two key tools: a Brit (a covenant or values-based agreement) and Jewish texts. Together, these resources offer a meaningful framework for fostering environments where every student feels seen, valued, and respected.

I used the Kol Tzedek Community Brit: Shared Values Agreement as an example of a brit. The Kol Tzedek Brit is a beautifully articulated shared values agreement that includes commitments such as honoring the dignity of every person, practicing radical hospitality, and cultivating gratitude. A Brit is a reminder that decisions rooted in shared values—rather than fear, politics, or convenience—create stronger, more inclusive communities. It sets a clear tone of accountability and ensures that every member of the community is working toward the same goals, guided by a collective moral compass.

While some educators may not need to create a full Brit for their classrooms, adopting elements of this model can profoundly influence how we approach inclusivity and accountability. A values-driven framework provides clarity and purpose, especially during uncertain times when fear or external pressures might otherwise take over.

The workshop also delved into Jewish texts that ground these principles in tradition. Texts like Genesis 1:27, which reminds us that all humans are created in the image of God; Deuteronomy 16:20, the call to pursue justice; and Isaiah 56:7, "For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples," resonated deeply with participants. These teachings underscore that inclusivity is not merely a modern aspiration but a core, timeless Jewish value.

Here is a link to the source sheet I created.

One of the most thought-provoking moments came during a discussion about responding to difficult student questions. We examined how to approach a scenario where a child asks why a president isn't held accountable for crimes while an average person would be. This sparked a meaningful conversation that drew on Jewish teachings recognizing human imperfection, even in leadership, and highlighted how values like proper conduct (derech eretz) and justice (tzedek) guide us to balance honesty with age-appropriate language. By framing these conversations with compassion and respect for complexity, we empower students to engage thoughtfully and constructively with challenging issues.

Jewish educators want to create spaces where every child feels a sense of belonging. If not, why become a teacher? Even in uncertain times, our values—rooted in justice, kindness, and community—remain a source of strength and guidance.

If you're looking for help in fostering inclusivity or in need of a similar workshop, comment below.

May we continue to create spaces that honor every individual and reflect the best of who we are.

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