AJA News

This month, our 8th grade students took on a powerful and meaningful project: sharing their learning about the Holocaust with our 5th grade peers through a student-curated exhibit. This exhibit was the culmination of in-depth historical research, guided by the essential question:How can we use historical research and storytelling to preserve the memory of the Holocaust and its lessons for future generations? Each 8th grader chose a specific topic related to the Holocaust to research—ranging from the rise of antisemitism and life in ghettos to stories of resistance, liberation, and the experiences of child survivors. They then created posters that...

From the classroom to the garden, our fifth graders are growing in every way—academically, emotionally, and as members of a thriving community. Whether they’re crafting art with meaning, planting seeds of change, or imagining a better world through ancient texts, one thing is clear: it’s a great day to be in fifth grade at AJA. Morning: From Egypt to Austin The day begins with a deep dive into our Judaics studies, where Passover preparations are in full swing. This year, students aren’t just learning about the Haggadah—they’re making it personal. By creating their own Haggadah “companions,” students explored the Four...

Each year, our third graders reach an important milestone in their Jewish learning journey—one that blends deep learning, personal growth, and joyful celebration. This year’s Chumash Ceremony was a beautiful and heartfelt occasion, marking a pivotal moment in our students’ connection to Torah and tradition. Throughout the year, our third-graders dive into rich learning experiences. In class, they begin to think critically about narratives like those of Abraham and his family, engaging deeply with the question: What is Torah? The Chumash Ceremony is a highlight of this journey. Adding a joyful and personal touch to the ceremony, the students performed...

At Austin Jewish Academy, from the very first day of kindergarten, students are introduced to Jewish holidays, Torah portions, and basic Hebrew vocabulary. As they progress through each grade, the focus expands to include key Jewish prayers, traditions, and values. Students begin learning Hebrew in earnest by first grade and, by second grade, are leading Tefillah and studying topics like Shabbat and the Kibbutz. By the time students reach the older grades, they explore more complex Jewish history and texts, such as the Torah and the Mishna, and engage with global Jewish issues like the Holocaust, all while continuously making...

This past Friday, our school was filled with joy, laughter, and the spirit of Purim as students celebrated this special holiday with a half-day packed with exciting activities. From listening to the Megillah to enjoying a fantastic Purim carnival, the day was nothing short of magical! The festivities began with the reading of the Megillah, where students enthusiastically participated by booing Haman and celebrating the heroic story of Esther. Then, they had the delightful opportunity to roll out and fill their own delicious hamantashen, making for a tasty and interactive tradition. The fun continued at our PTO-sponsored Purim Carnival, a...

We are excited to announce that AJA had two articles in the February issue of The Jewish Outlook. You can read the articles below. The first one discusses the importance of Jewish Day Schools in the wake of October 7th and rising antisemitism: This fall, the community marked the heartbreaking anniversary of October 7, followed by powerful Yom Kippur reflections and then a joyful Sukkot. Jewish day school education is a critical piece of a thriving Jewish community. Schools like the Austin Jewish Academy not only deliver excellence in learning, but they are fundamentally rooted in giving the next generation...