Category: Middle School

Teaching Empathy and History: 8th Graders Lead Holocaust Exhibit for 5th Grade
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Teaching Empathy and History: 8th Graders Lead Holocaust Exhibit for 5th Grade

This month, our 8th grade students took on a powerful and meaningful project: sharing their learning about the Holocaust with our 5th grade peers through a student-curated exhibit. This exhibit was the culmination of in-depth historical research, guided by the essential question:How can we use historical research and storytelling to preserve the memory of the...

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...

AJA Basketball Teams Shine in an Unforgettable Season
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AJA Basketball Teams Shine in an Unforgettable Season

This basketball season was nothing short of historic for AJA’s basketball program, with our Varsity and JV teams leaving it all on the court. From thrilling comebacks to championship titles, the Lions demonstrated perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to the game. Varsity Girls: A Legacy of Growth and Determination The Varsity Girls Basketball team closed...

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...