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 Tefillah and studying topics like Shabbat and the Kibbutz. By the time students reach the older grades, they explore more complex Jewish history and texts, such as the Torah and the Mishna, and engage with global Jewish issues like the Holocaust, all while continuously making connections to their Jewish heritage.
But Judaism is not simply relegated to Jewish Studies class and milestone ceremonies. At AJA, Jewish values, Hebrew, and Israel are seamlessly integrated into the daily curriculum, enriching students’ academic experiences and connecting them to their Jewish heritage. From early childhood through middle school, AJA ensures these subjects are a part of everyday learning, fostering a deep connection to Jewish traditions. For example:
Kindergarten: Early Connections with Jewish Values
In kindergarten, Jewish Studies are introduced through interactive storytelling, such as “The Little Red Hen and the Passover Matzah.” Hebrew is woven into daily routines with basic language skills like counting, colors, and songs, building a foundation for the language from an early age.
1st Grade: Jewish Values and Hebrew Learning
First graders explore Jewish values like bravery and integrity through stories like Queen Esther, while Hebrew lessons focus on numbers, directions, and songs. Israel is introduced through videos and discussions about its cultural and historical significance.
2nd Grade: Tikkun Olam and Hebrew Word Connections
Second graders focus on Jewish values like tikkun olam (repairing the world) and chesed (kindness), connecting these ideas to their reading and writing. They explore Hebrew word roots and numerical values, learning how words like chai (life) and ahavah (love) are connected. Israel’s geography and government are also explored.
3rd Grade: Jewish Authors and Cultural Connections
By third grade, students read books by Jewish authors like Patricia Polacco’s The Bee Tree, learning about Jewish values while studying Israel’s geography and culture. These lessons help students connect Jewish heritage to their everyday lives.
4th Grade: Jewish History and Israel’s Role
In fourth grade, Jewish values are incorporated into daily learning through the Brit Kehillah, a shared commitment to community. Students study novels like Wonder, discussing empathy and kindness, and learn about Israel’s technological contributions. The Holocaust is introduced through literature and history lessons.
5th Grade: Environmental Stewardship and Jewish Values
Fifth graders engage in a PBL focused on revitalizing the school garden, learning Jewish values like shmirat ha’adamah (protecting the Earth) and bal tashchit (do not waste). They also explore Israeli agricultural innovations like drip irrigation, connecting these lessons to real-world environmental action.
Middle School: Connecting History, Hebrew, and Israel
In middle school, students study Jewish history through novels like The Bronze Bow, learning about faith, resilience, and Israel’s enduring importance. Hebrew continues to be integrated into various subjects, including literature and history, deepening students’ understanding of their Jewish heritage.
Specialized Subjects: Enriching Jewish Education Across Disciplines
Jewish Studies extend beyond academics. In art and P.E., Hebrew terminology and Israeli sports are incorporated. Music classes focus on learning Jewish holiday songs in both Hebrew and English, while the library offers books centered around Jewish holidays and themes, further enriching students’ understanding of Jewish culture.
At AJA, Jewish Studies, Hebrew, and Israel are an integral part of every student’s experience. By weaving these subjects into the curriculum, AJA fosters a strong connection to Jewish heritage, preparing students to engage meaningfully with the world around them.
