Yesterday, our AJA MPR was buzzing with excitement as our middle school students showcased their creativity, critical thinking, and scientific curiosity at the annual AJA Science Fair. Thirteen talented students presented twelve diverse projects that spanned a wide range of scientific fields, demonstrating their passion for learning and discovery. From innovative technologies to environmental solutions, the science fair provided a platform for students to explore, experiment,and share their findings with the AJA community. Innovative AJA Science Fair Projects: From VR Therapy to Artificial Pancreas Development The presentations covered an array of fascinating topics, including: Microbit Communication Devices, Bleach vs. UV...
AJA News
Middle Schoolers Debate Reconstruction: 8th Graders Shine in Historical Showdown
On a recent morning at Austin Jewish Academy, Mrs. Hidalgo’s 8th grade students took center stage for a powerful display of their critical thinking and debating skills, culminating in a series of thought-provoking debates centered around the Reconstruction era. Guided by their study of this transformative period in American history and a lesson in debating well from attorney Hillery Kaplan, the students explored a range of complex topics, including the roles of women, the balance between reunification and civil rights, the role of the Freedmen’s Bureau, and more. Their debates were the result of weeks of preparation, where they researched...
Middle School Debate Meets the Courtroom: 8th Graders Learn Persuasion from a Pro
When Karen Hidalgo’s 8th graders started prepping for their Reconstruction Era debate, they got a crash course in persuasion from a seasoned family law attorney. With over 20 years of courtroom experience and a National Moot Court title under her belt, Hillery Kaplan shared practical tips on crafting strong arguments, presenting evidence, and winning over an audience. Blending humor, real-world stories, and debate strategies, she showed the students how skills like these can make a difference far beyond the classroom. Enjoy our Q&A with Hillery Kaplan below! Q: Describe your background and current work: A: I am an attorney who...
Alumni Spotlight: Kir Kraus
Meet Kir Kraus, a dynamic and accomplished student currently pursuing mathematics at Cornell University with minors in philosophy and jazz studies. From uncovering new patterns in Pascal’s Triangle to performing with elite music ensembles and advocating for civil rights, Kir embodies a unique blend of curiosity, creativity, and leadership.
Alumni Spotlight: Brooke Silverstein
From AJA to Duke University and now the National Institutes of Health, Brooke Silverstein has embraced curiosity and innovation at every step of her journey. With a degree in chemistry and a passion for biomedical research, she is now working to develop novel drug therapies targeting opioid receptors. In this Q&A, Brooke shares her proudest accomplishments, future aspirations, and the lasting impact of her AJA experience—offering inspiration and advice for current students.
Alumni Mom’s Perspective on Portfolio Day
Many people ask Renee Lafair about her secret to child-rearing. Her three kids, now adults, attended Stanford, Northeastern, and Johns Hopkins University. In their spare time, they’ve worked together to build board games and advocate for change in national policies. But Renee says the “secret” to their successes started with Austin Jewish Academy’s Portfolio Day. “Of all the amazing things AJA gave to my kids, Portfolio Day is one of the most important,” she says. Starting in kindergarten, AJA students participate in Portfolio Day, where they present three topics they learned in class that semester. The presentations grow with the...