Back to School: Jewish Wisdom for a New Year of Learning

As the summer winds down and we prepare literal or proverbial backpacks, what does Jewish tradition offer us at this threshold of new beginnings? Whether or not you or someone you love is going back to school, this interactive, text-based session, is for you to explore how Jewish wisdom—from ancient to modern voices—can help anyone approach the year with intention, meaning, and heart. Together we’ll uncover and create insights about the sacredness of learning, the role of teachers, and the power of starting fresh. Open to all ages and backgrounds - whether you’re a life long learner or a formal student/educator or their support system - come ready to reflect, share, and begin the year with purpose.

Rabbi Elisha Gechter has been working in the Boston Jewish Community for 18 years helping to nurture belonging. She loves to officiate and teach and currently serves as the Senior Director of Community Engagement at Harvard Hillel after more than a decade of running Wexner Israel Programs at Harvard Kennedy School. Previously she worked to connect people searching for community and for Jewish wisdom as the Associate Director of Adult Learning and Community Engagement at Hebrew College and fundraised with local young leaders at CJP. She has ordination from Yeshivat Maharat in NY, a BA in psychology from Yeshiva University’s Stern College and an MA/MBA from Brandeis’ Heller Hornstein Program in Jewish Leadership and Non-Profit Management. She serves as past president of the board of Mayyim Hayyim Mikvah and Education Center and lives in Somerville, MA with her husband and two kids. She attends minyan at Minyan Tehillah at the Tremont Street Shul.

Who are these classes for?

Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!

Why are there tickets at different prices?

Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.

Can I eat during class?

While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.