Author: Natalie McKee (Natalie McKee)

A Day in the Life of an AJA Fifth Grader
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A Day in the Life of an AJA Fifth Grader

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....

Third Grade Milestone: Chumash Ceremony at AJA
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Third Grade Milestone: Chumash Ceremony at AJA

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....

How Austin Jewish Academy Weaves Jewish Studies, Hebrew, and Israel into Everyday Learning
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How Austin Jewish Academy Weaves Jewish Studies, Hebrew, and Israel into Everyday Learning

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...

First Grade: Shema Chagiga Milestone Ceremony
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First Grade: Shema Chagiga Milestone Ceremony

This morning our first graders gathered with family and friends in the MPR to celebrate a significant milestone in their Jewish learning—the Shema Chagiga. This special ceremony marked theirprogress in Hebrew and Jewish Studies and their ability to recite and sing the Shema and V’ahavta prayers with confidence and joy. During the event, students proudly...

Purim Celebration at AJA: A Half-Day of Festive Fun!
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Purim Celebration at AJA: A Half-Day of Festive Fun!

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,...

Second Grade Milestone: Shabbat Dinner Ceremony
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Second Grade Milestone: Shabbat Dinner Ceremony

Our 2nd grade students recently celebrated aheartwarming and memorable milestone with their Shabbat Dinner Ceremony. The evening began with the students beautifully singing traditional Shabbat songs, setting the tone for a truly special celebration. The students then took the lead in performing the Shabbat blessings, showcasing their knowledge and confidence in sharing this meaningful tradition...