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,...
Category: Academic
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...
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...
Teacher Spotlight: Q&A with Aileen Duncan, Kindergarten Teacher Extraordinaire
For 25 years, Mrs. Aileen Duncan has been a cherished and influential member of the Austin Jewish Academy community. She joined AJA in 2000 after nine years of teaching at the Shalom Austin Early Childhood Center, bringing with her a deep love for early education and a gift for creating warm, nurturing learning environments where...
A Day in the Life of an AJA Middle Schooler
Step into the vibrant halls of Austin Jewish Academy’s middle school, where every corner hums with energy, curiosity, and learning. Walking down the hallway today, let’s peek into their schedule and see what makes AJA such an extraordinary place to be. 8:00 AM: ArrivalThe school is bustling with energy as students arrive, backpacks slung over...
Developing a Growth Mindset at AJA
One of the things we try to foster here at AJA is a Growth Mindset in our students, as articulated by Carol S. Dweck in her book, "Mindset." But what is a Growth Mindset, and how can education encourage children to develop one?





