Category: Featured on Homepage

Alumni Spotlight: Roy Ram Klein
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Alumni Spotlight: Roy Ram Klein

Meet Roy Ram Klein, a 2017 AJA graduate and current junior at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. On the pre-med track, Roy is studying biomedical engineering with a focus on biomaterials, cellular, and tissue engineering. From volunteering as an EMT in Israel to conducting spinal cord injury research, Roy combines a passion for medicine and innovation to drive meaningful change. Read our Q&A with him.

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 Schoolers Debate Reconstruction: 8th Graders Shine in Historical Showdown
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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
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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...

Alumni Spotlight: Kir Kraus
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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.