Jeanne Rosen, a cherished educator from Philadelphia, passed away on September 16, 2023, at the age of 96. Known for her remarkable ability to connect with young students, Rosen dedicated her life to teaching first grade, shaping the minds of countless children over decades in the classroom.
Rosen, who stood at just 4 feet, 11 inches, was beloved by her students. Her son, Richard Rosen, believes her stature played a role in her rapport with children. “Part of the reason the kids liked her is that she wasn’t that much bigger than they were,” he remarked. On the first day of school, she would tell her students, “If you listen to everything I tell you, you’ll become very smart — so smart your parents won’t believe how smart you are.” This approach clearly resonated with her students.
Impactful Teaching Style and Lifelong Influence
Rosen’s dynamic personality infused her classroom with energy and humor. Richard noted that she maintained “total control” while also having fun with her students. Halloween was a particularly memorable time, as she often dressed in costume, a rarity among her colleagues. Her daughter, Rona Cohen, emphasized that Rosen taught her students essential life skills, stating, “She taught them how to make decisions.”
Former students often reached out to express their gratitude for her influence. One wrote to apologize for past dishonesty, crediting her with teaching him how to think critically about choices. Parents frequently requested that their children be placed in her class, and the school district often invited other teachers to observe her innovative teaching methods.
Music was another vital component of her instruction. A talented pianist, Rosen accompanied school assemblies and used songs to reinforce lessons in reading and civics. At home, family duets were a cherished tradition, where she always allowed her children to take the lead on melody. “There was always music in the house,” Richard recalled.
Although she officially retired from teaching, Rosen continued to substitute in Lower Merion schools until the age of 79, as she loved being around children.
A Life Rich in Family and Tradition
Born as Jeanne Kravetz in 1929, she grew up in a close-knit Jewish family that had emigrated from near Kyiv in the early 20th century. Her parents, Edward and Minnie Kravetz, instilled in her the values of education and tradition. Cohen recounted that her grandmother earned a nursing degree in the 1920s, an uncommon achievement for women at that time. This emphasis on education guided Jeanne toward a successful academic path, culminating in her graduation from West Philadelphia High School in 1946 and later from West Chester State Teachers College.
Rosen’s classrooms often included children from working-class backgrounds, many of whom lacked preschool experience. Richard described the transformation she facilitated, taking students from basic play to foundational literacy and numeracy skills.
Judaism played a significant role in her life. The Rosen family were active members of Congregation Melrose B’nai Israel, where they celebrated traditions and community. Richard emphasized the importance of pride in their Jewish identity, noting that their parents ensured their children attended Hebrew high school, adding ten hours of Jewish study each week to their already full schedules.
Rosen’s principles extended beyond education. She taught her children the importance of kindness, responsibility, and gratitude. Richard reflected on her insistence that they write thank-you notes and help neighbors, reinforcing the idea of doing what’s right without expectation of reward.
Described as warm, fashionable, and always curious, Jeanne Rosen’s personality left a lasting impression on those who knew her. “She was effervescent,” Cohen stated. “She was principled, but she was also fun.”
Rosen shared a devoted marriage with her late husband, Martin Rosen, who passed away on April 11, 2021. Their affectionate relationship included sweet notes that Martin would leave for her, showcasing a deep bond that lasted a lifetime.
Her children feel fortunate to have been raised by such loving parents. “We were lucky. We were raised by good parents who loved us and made us feel worthwhile,” Cohen remarked.
In remembering her mother, Cohen noted that Rosen simply wanted to be acknowledged for her efforts. “She wanted to know she did a good job. That she was a good mother. That we were all happy. She wanted to be remembered as a good person who loved and was loved.”
Jeanne Rosen’s legacy will endure in the hearts of her family, former students, and the community she enriched throughout her remarkable life.
