Dr. Karyn Hopper Rayburn begins her first year as Head of School at AJA and her 27th year in education. She holds a PhD in linguistics and a master’s degree in literature, speaks three languages, and is proudly a Hoosier, a Vol, and a Longhorn.
Throughout her career, Karyn has been guided by a deep curiosity about how children learn, communicate, and develop a sense of belonging. She believes students flourish when they are truly known, appropriately challenged, and confident that they matter. She was drawn to AJA by its joyful spirit, close-knit community, and commitment to helping children grow with purpose, confidence, and a strong sense of identity.
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Fun Facts About Dr. Karyn Rayburn
In eighth grade, she wanted to be:
Someone who could speak languages and travel the world. With her love of animals and adventure, she imagined becoming a National Geographic reporter or photographer.
Favorite subjects in school:
English and Spanish
Most-used phrase with students:
“High five or hug?”
Always in her office:
Chocolates
Favorite snack:
Chips and queso
A song that immediately puts her in a good mood:
“LDN” by Lily Allen, or sometimes rap music when she is exercising.
An impractical habit she refuses to give up:
Drinking coffee from a real, open mug while driving to school. Travel mugs are more practical, but they are simply not the same.
Favorite games:
Wordle, crossword puzzles, and her family’s newest favorite, Hitster.
Her middle school experience in a nutshell:
Perms and braces made those years especially memorable, and especially challenging.
A book she recommends to everyone:
There are far too many to choose just one. Her advice: Read everything you can.
Away from School
Karyn is married to Zach and has two teenage sons, Mason and Evan, as well as twin sisters. Outside of school, she loves her book club, long walks with her dogs, cheering for her boys from the sidelines, exploring art museums, seeing live music and stand-up comedy, traveling to new places, and catching up with friends over a good meal.
