Category: Campus Life

Bright Minds, Big Discoveries: AJA Middle Schoolers Shine at Annual Science Fair
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Bright Minds, Big Discoveries: AJA Middle Schoolers Shine at Annual Science Fair

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,...

Middle School Debate Meets the Courtroom: 8th Graders Learn Persuasion from a Pro
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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
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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
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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...

Parent Education: Salient Speech and Language Challenges
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Parent Education: Salient Speech and Language Challenges

On Friday, November 15, Zahava Merlis, seasoned speech-language pathologist and owner of Firefly Friends Speech Therapy, PLLC, presented to AJA parents on “Salient Speech and Language Challenges,” the latest in a series of parent education events at AJA. Zahava currently works with several AJA and ECP students, as well as many students around Greater Austin....