STRELITZ
Strelitz Magazine- April 2025
This quarterly publication is dedicated to the alumni, families, and friends of the Strelitz International Academy.
Our Team:
Head of School: Heather Moore
Director of Advancement: Carin Simon
Admissions and Marketing Manager: Ally St. Pierre
5000 Corporate Woods Drive, #180, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23462
Phone: (757) 424- 4327
Website: www.strelitzinternationalacademy.org
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Head of School’s Message
Turning Pages, Opening Minds: The Power of Literacy at SIA
Growing Kindness 13 18 Flash From the Past! Strelitz Moments
SIA Drama Club Presents: Peter Pan
Evening of the Arts: Sharing the Planet
Strelitz International Academy Lights Up 2025 with the Second Annual Glow Run
The Hidden Miracles of Purim Ways to Give Exploring Wellness in the IB® PYP Exhibition
Scan the QR code to checkout our new online Spirit Wear store! Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!
Head of School’s Message
Embracing Growth: A Vision for SIA’s Future
As we step into March, I want to take a moment to share some exciting developments at SIA that reflect our commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and fostering a strong sense of community. From enhancing our physical environment to preparing for a crucial milestone in our academic journey, we remain dedicated to providing the best possible education for our students.
A Natural Playground for SIA
One of the most exciting projects on the horizon is our plan to develop a natural playground at SIA. As society becomes increasingly urbanized, it is more important than ever to provide opportunities for children to connect with nature. Research consistently shows that time spent in natural environments
enhances creativity, problem-solving skills, emotional resilience, and overall well-being. Exposure to nature has also been linked to lower stress levels, improved concentration, and a stronger sense of environmental stewardship. When children engage in outdoor play, they develop their motor skills, build confidence, and cultivate an appreciation for the natural world that lasts a lifetime.
We are thrilled to announce that we have chosen to work with Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds, a globally recognized leader in designing innovative, nature-based play environments. Bienenstock specializes in creating outdoor spaces that foster curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. Their expertise lies in integrating natural materials like logs, boulders, and living plants to create play areas that encourage exploration, risk-taking, and imaginative play.
As part of the design process, representatives from Bienenstock will be visiting our campus to engage with faculty, students, and administration. Their goal is to gain a deep understanding of our school community and its needs, ensuring that the final playground design aligns with our educational philosophy and values. By designing a playground that encourages exploration, independence, and creativity, we are giving students the freedom to develop resilience, confidence, and meaningful social connections. We look forward to breaking ground on this transformative project in the coming months.
IB® Reauthorization: Preparing for December 2025
Another critical focus for our school community is the upcoming International Baccalaureate® (IB) reauthorization visit scheduled for December 2025. Our faculty have been diligently working within four committees to ensure that SIA not only meets but exceeds IB® standards in all aspects:
Purpose: Defining and sharing our mission to provide an exceptional education.
Environment: Strengthening essential structures, systems, and resources to support learning.
Culture: Fostering a positive, inclusive, and dynamic school culture.
Learning: Ensuring that our teaching methodologies and curricula prepare students effectively for the future.
This process is an opportunity for us to reflect, improve, and reaffirm our dedication to academic excellence and student growth. We appreciate the collaboration and support of our faculty, staff, and families as we work toward this important milestone.
Parent Surveys: Your Voice Matters
As part of our continuous improvement and reflection process, we have sent out the parent survey this month. These surveys are a vital tool for us to gather feedback, understand our strengths, and identify areas where we can enhance the SIA experience. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our school, and we thank all parents who participated. By working together, we can ensure that SIA remains a place where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Thank you for being a part of our vibrant SIA community. With your support, we continue to build a school that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child.
Warm regards,
Heather Moore Head of School
Heather Moore pictured with SIA fifth grade students and junior mentors from The Hague School, discussing the IB® PYPX.
Turning Pages, Opening Minds: The Power of Literacy at SIA
by Janet Jenkins, Primary Years Director
At Strelitz International Academy, literacy is the foundation for critical thinking, communication, and lifelong learning. As an IB PYP school, we emphasize reading as a tool for exploration, creativity, and personal growth, empowering students to become knowledgeable and open-minded individuals.
The Power of Reading Over Screens
Unlike passive screen time, reading actively engages the brain, strengthens comprehension, and fosters empathy by exposing students to diverse perspectives. It builds focus, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the world—aligning with the IB PYP’s mission to develop reflective and principled learners.
Celebrating Literacy at SIA
Our Read Across America Week and Scholastic Book Fair build excitement for reading through guest readers, themed activities, and student book selections. The Tides Reading Program connects literacy with goal-setting as students earn Norfolk Tides game tickets by reaching reading milestones. Our Reading Buddy Program pairs older and younger students, fostering leadership, confidence, and community. Additionally, individualized reading in kindergarten ensures every student develops
Inspiring Authors: Jerome Rand and Carrie Finison
At SIA, we believe in bringing stories to life by connecting students with authors who inspire curiosity and resilience. In the fall, we welcomed adventurer and author Jerome Rand, who captivated students with his solo sailing journey around the world, reinforcing the power of perseverance and storytelling. More recently, author Carrie Finison visited and delighted students with her book Dozens of Donuts, an engaging story of generosity and friendship. Students were eager to ask questions and learn about the writing process, making her visit a memorable and enriching experience.
Battle of the Books: A Testament to Dedication
This year, SIA joined the Virginia Beach Library’s Battle of the Books, an intense reading competition requiring deep comprehension and teamwork. Both SIA teams placed in the top five—an incredible achievement. Students dedicated their own time to reading, taking detailed notes, and discussing each book during lunch, recess, and after school. Their commitment, collaboration, and love for reading were inspiring. The teamwork and critical thinking they demonstrated reflect the IB PYP’s core values. Now, we are eager to return next year, ready to take on the challenge with even more confidence.
The Lifelong Power of Literacy
students to read at least 15 minutes a day. Research shows this small habit ncy, and academic success, helping students take ownership of their literacy is more than an academic skill—it’s a gateway to knowledge, empowerment. Through reading, students explore new worlds, develop shape their futures. Our reading initiatives nurture curiosity and passion for literacy that extends beyond the classroom. By turning pages, students open their minds, embracing the power of literacy for life.
Growing Kindness
by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director
Nature is such a powerful teacher for young children, and it offers so many opportunities for exploration, discovery, and connection. Early Years students learning about trees and nature fosters a sense of wonder and appreciation for the world around them, and ensures the understanding of one of our core values, Tikkun Olam or “Repairing the World” The Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shevat, known as the “New Year for Trees,” provided a perfect opportunity for our Early Years students to incorporate nature-based learning into their curriculum, as they prepared for springtime and dove into their Sharing the Planet IB® themes.
Tu B’Shevat offered a meaningful way to introduce our learners to environmental stewardship and the significance of trees Celebrating this holiday in our Early Years hallway included planting seeds, many of which will be used at their Passover seders, tasting fruits native to Israel (such as olives, figs, and pomegranates), and learning about the life cycle of trees These activities helped the students connect to Jewish traditions while developing an appreciation for nature. In our EY3 classes, this led to an inquiry into habitats and how trees provide homes for many animals.
Our preschoolers took this learning outdoors to observe budding trees, blooming flowers, and search for “signs of spring” Hands-on activities like nature walks, preparing the garden and sensory exploration deepened their connection to the changing seasons and reinforced the themes of renewal and growth found in Tu B’Shevat
In addition, Tu B’Shevat also provided the EY students an opportunity to instill values of gratitude and environmental responsibility. Discussing the importance of trees and all that they provide for us encouraged our children to appreciate and care for the natural world. The story of The Lorax acted as a provocation to our Early Years 3 students for this conceptual understanding. In our Early Years 4 classes, simple acts like recycling, composting, and reducing waste helped them to understand their role in protecting the environment
By celebrating Tu B’Shevat and embracing the arrival of spring, our early learners have built a strong foundation for a lifelong connection to nature. Through hands-on experiences and meaningful traditions, they are learning to appreciate the beauty and importance of trees and nature, and beginning to understand their role in taking care of, and “repairing” the world around them.
SIA Drama Club Presents: Peter Pan
by Ally St. Pierre Admissions and Marketing Manager
This year, the SIA Drama Club transported audiences to Neverland with a breathtaking production of Peter Pan From the moment the play began, it was clear that this was no ordinary school play it was a labor of love, creativity, and dedication from our talented students and passionate educators.
Months of rehearsals, prop creating, and set designs culminated in a performance that left the audience in awe The students brought their characters to life with enthusiasm and confidence. Our students’ acting showcased not only their talent but also their growth in teamwork, self-expression, and stage presence.
Behind the scenes, our dedicated teachers; Mrs Jamie Baker, Morah Jo Nossen and Morah Oliva Madrid, and
staff worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was just right. From perfecting the timing of cues to coaching students through challenging scenes, their efforts were instrumental in making this production a success The result was a wonderful performance that truly captured the magic of this timeless story
For our students, this experience was more than just a play it was a journey of discovery They learned perseverance, collaboration, and the joy of storytelling. The confidence they gained from performing in front of a live audience will stay with them far beyond the stage.
As we close the curtain on this spectacular show, we look forward to many more magical productions in the years to come After all, as Peter Pan himself reminds us, “The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it ” Our students have certainly proven they can soar
Fifth grader Ari S. playing Peter Pan.
Ari M., Ella G., Haley B., Calanit W., Willow B. and Abby W. played beloved members of the Darling family.
Evening of the Arts: Sharing the Planet
by Ally St. Pierre Admissions and Marketing Manager
Our annual Evening of the Arts was a truly unforgettable celebration of creativity, collaboration, and environmental awareness. With the IB® theme Sharing the Planet, our students explored the beauty of nature and the responsibility we all share in protecting it while also incorporating the spirit of Tu B’Shevat, the New Year for the Trees.
From our youngest Early Years 4 performers to our fifth graders, every student had the opportunity to shine on stage The night was filled with vibrant energy as students sang, danced, played instruments, and shared artwork that reflected their learning and appreciation for the world around them. The performances beautifully wove together messages of sustainability, interconnectedness, and gratitude for the natural world
The music selections resonated deeply, blending contemporary, traditional and orignal songs that honored both the theme and the values of Tu B’Shevat. Our young dancers moved gracefully, embodying the rhythms of nature, while our budding musicians filled the space with melodies that captured the essence of the evening Every piece performed was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and artistic growth of our students
This extraordinary event would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our teachers, who guided and inspired students throughout the creative process. Their commitment to fostering artistic expression and meaningful learning experiences shone through in every aspect of the program
To our families, alumni, and generous donors your support ensures that events like Evening of the Arts continue to flourish. The night was not just a showcase of talent, but a powerful reminder of the role the arts play in shaping our students’ education, confidence, and connection to the world around them
As the final notes faded and the applause filled the room, it was clear that this Evening of the Arts was more than just a performance it was a celebration of our shared values, our commitment to creativity, and our responsibility to care for our planet We look forward to many more inspiring performances in the future, as our students continue to express themselves and make an impact through the arts.
Third graders Olivia A., Raleigh A. and Levi F. during their performance.
Kindergarten students performing the song “Community.”
Strelitz International Academy Lights Up 2025 with the Second Annual Glow Run
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Strelitz International Academy kicked off the new year with the highly anticipated Second Annual Glow Run Campaign! This exciting event not only encouraged school spirit but also served as a vital fundraiser to support SIA’s exceptional programs, dedicated teachers, and state-of-the-art facilities.
With a $25,000 match generously pledged by John and Renee Strelitz, all funds raised by our students had double the impact. SIA Students were excited to raise money for their school, creating their own Glow Run pages and reaching out to friends and family for support. The funds raised help with scholarship, programming & staff salaries, ensuring that SIA continues to thrive.
In the lead-up to the Glow Run, students participated in Spirit Days featuring themes like Sports Team Attire, Superhero Day, and Neon Day, adding an extra layer of excitement. Though the event was postponed by a week due to snow, the enthusiasm remained high when the Glow Run finally took place on Friday, January 31, 2025.
This year’s Glow Run featured three exciting elements:
The Glow Run Track – Students ran in the gym under black lights and glow lights, creating a high-energy, festive atmosphere. Glow Up Stations – Set up in the multipurpose room, these stations offered glow sticks and body paint to enhance the glowing fun.
Dance Floor – A lively space where students celebrated their hard work with music and movement.
The Glow Run was more than just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of community, school spirit, and togetherness. Through a month-long series of Spirit Days, an exhilarating run, and a generous donation match, SIA students and families united in support of the school’s future.
The following week, all student fundraisers were recognized for their outstanding efforts. Thanks to their dedication, the Glow Run raised $21,000 to date! Even more exciting, between the Glow Run, the Fall Festival, and the Golf Tournament, SIA families have contributed a total of $32,700—surpassing the $25,000 matching goal!
A huge thank you to all of our fundraisers and donors for your incredible generosity and commitment to SIA. Your support helps us continue to shine bright!
Avi & Dani Weinstein
Niv & Shai Rubin
Palmer Washburn
Joseph Anderson
Noa & Zoe Glaser
Hadley Kaprielian
Miriam Greer
Emma & Haley Belman
Avery & Mara Goldstein
Jackson & Willow Gordon
Dean & Benjamin Hassan
Levi Foleck
Liam & Mollie Glassman
The Anglen Family
Henry Rhone
Jackson Teasley
Benjamin Silverstein
Declan Lozada
Nolan & Miles Casson
Corah, Lilliana & Rowen Beasley
Asher Yaary
Gavin Blanks
William McGovern
Aviah & Levi Slawsky
The Carden Family
Lena & Johnny Aftel
Rosangela Reyes Morales
Abby Walker
Adelina & Somaya Mitchell
Avalon Turner
Levi & Lior Cohen
Philip Sheehan & Miriam Murri
Zara Murdock
Bennett Bowers
Scarlett, Emelia & Theo St. Pierre
Izzy Aviv
Emilia Schneider
Helena Ludwig
Lia & Ben Oliszewski
Liv & Leni Cohen
Nati & Manu Kugel
Rocky & Miles Ferraro
Guin Jung
Harper & Brynn Waranch
Isabella Brent
Quinn Rivers
Eliana & Shai Solis
Elijah, Phineas & Arieh Williams
Ways to Give by
Carin Simon, Director of
Advancement
According to organizational psychologist Adam Grant, generosity is an anti-depressant. Depressed people were randomly assigned to give less than a penny a day to charity. Over the next 2 months, moods improved and depression declined. The more they gave, the better they felt. As a Jewish Day School, Tzedakah, is a way of life. What better way to show your generosity and elevate your mood than by supporting SIA, and ensure our next generation will continue to give!
Please join us to show your support, we have many WAYS TO GIVE:
Present Support:
Support the Strelitz Fund - Make a one time gift or make a pledge and pay over the year. Consider becoming an annual donor to show your support year after year. Each year, we work to raise essential funds to help us to meet the school’s operating expenses, enrich the student experience and ensure financial sustainability.
Become a Sponsor - Promote your business or show your support of one of our annual events such SIA’s Golf Tournament in September, Fall Festival in October or Student Glow Run in January.
Planned Giving:
Life & Legacy Program: Preserve the Future of SIA - Invest in our Life & Legacy program. You have the power to ensure the vibrant future of the Strelitz International Academy. Inspire future generations with a gift to SIA in your will, trust, retirement account or life insurance policy.
Support SIA’s Endowment: The school endowment ensures that SIA will continue to grow and thrive for years into the future. We invite Donors to contribute to the endowment and create naming opportunities for their families. The endowment is like a retirement fund that continues to support the school year after year.
Next Steps:
Contact Carin Simon, Director of Advancement, at 757.424.4327 ext. 4189 or csimon@strelitzacademy.org to find the best option for you.
Let your generosity express the values and inspire future generations. Consider supporting SIA through the many ways to give. Each year, we publish an impact report and list our many generous donors who contributed the previous year from July 30 through July 1.
Strelitz International Academy is a 501(c)(3) organization. All gifts are tax deductible as allowed by law. Tax ID Number 54-0629620
Heather Moore proudly accepts a donation from generous fourth-grade students eager to give back to their school.
Ben O. making a difference for his school during Community Impact Day and the Mitzvah Mall at the Simon Family JCC.
The Hidden Miracles of Purim by
Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director
My fifth graders were very surprised to learn that G-d’s name does not appear even once in Megillat Esther. Considering that the Megillah recounts the miraculous story of Purim, one would expect at least a single mention. After all, when Haman’s wicked plot to destroy the Jewish people failed, wasn’t that a miracle?
I challenged my students to be thinkers—one of the IB® Learner Profile traits—and identify the major miracles in the Purim story. As we discussed, we realized that unlike the splitting of the sea
or the manna falling from heaven, Purim’s miracles unfolded behind the scenes. There was no one dramatic, supernatural event; instead, every detail aligned perfectly in what seemed like natural circumstances.
Even Queen Esther’s name hints at this theme. “Esther” comes from the Hebrew word hester, meaning “hidden,” reminding us that the miracles of Purim were concealed within everyday events. From Esther’s rise to royalty to Mordechai’s placement at the palace gates, and even to the king’s sudden sleepless night—each moment was meticulously orchestrated by G-d, ensuring the salvation of the Jewish people.
This realization sparked a broader discussion in our classroom. Throughout the year, we encounter many miracles in our study of the weekly Torah portions and Jewish holidays—some open and extraordinary, others hidden within the natural world. I asked my students: Can you think of hidden miracles in our own lives?
The beauty of Purim lies in its message: even when we don’t witness earth-shattering wonders, miracles are constantly unfolding around us. The Purim story teaches us that G-d’s presence is always here, woven into the fabric of our everyday lives.
Fifth Grade Sees Miracles In….
Birth and renewal of life- Ari S.
Some hostages have been returned- Micah K.
Awesome school with the best teachers- Benson C.
Water and food- William S.
Plants that grow- Emma B.
Technology in our everyday lives- Jaxon G.
People have cool talents- Abby W.
Being able to go to a Jewish school- Calanit W.
Getting special Parsha books for my birthday- Grayce B.
Being alive- Zeeva C,
Being able to attend SIA- Zane U.
Being prepared to transition to another school after SIA- CJ C.
Kindergartener Malex M. working on a Purim wordsearch.
Fourth graders Avery G., Mia P. and Ella G. creating beautiful Purim masks.
First grader Alexa K. in her princess costume.
Fifth graders ready to celebrate Purim in their costumes!
Strelitz Moments
1.
Kindergarten superheroes Scarlett S. and Theo
T. getting excited to shine at the Glow Run during the Superhero spirit day.
3. First grader Thomas D. captivates the audience, singing his heart out during the Rosh Chodesh Adar talent show!
2. Daniel O. and his parents share a special moment at an Early Years Shabbat Sing-along, celebrating community and togetherness.
4. Levi F. and his mother enjoy a special Primary Years Shabbat, creating memories as they bake their own challah together.
5. Emily L., alongside her sister and father, decorates her Siddur cover with love and creativity in preparation for the First Grade Siddur Ceremony.
6. Nolan M. swings into the Purim spirit, dressed as Spiderman for a day of fun and celebration!
7. Willow B. and Noa C. eagerly await the performance of Frozen Jr. at the Virginia Beach Sandler Center, ready for a magical experience!
8. Toddler Audrey K. immerses herself in a good book, enjoying a moment of reading.
Strelitz Moments
9. One of our tiniest tigers, Scottie J. enjoys some sensory play in the ballpit.
10. Fourth graders Andrew D., Quinn M. and Harper W. work together during their class to debate where they debated “Can any one person own a word?” inspired by a central idea in their novel study of Frindle.
11. Ronnie A. and Alex F. get their hands messy while baking hamantaschen to help celebrate the holiday of Purim.
12. Gloria G. and Hayes K. wear their wonderful Dr. Seuss inspired hats during Read Across America Week.
13. Tegan K. sits with her mother as she reads a book to the class as part of our “Family of the Week” year long unit in Early Years 4.
14 Paige L shows her picture of sharing- a great way to spread kindness!
15. Jaxon G. and Calanit W. with their presentation on digital wellness at the Fifth Grade PYPX.
16. Mari R. enjoys the beautiful sunshine on the toddler playground.
Exploring Wellness in the IB®
PYP
Exhibition
by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition is an important project for students in their final year. It’s a chance for students to explore a topic they care about and share their learning with the school community. This year, the fifth graders focused on "Wellness" under the "Who We Are" theme, which looks at human beings, relationships, and well-being.
Wellness is an important topic, especially today when people are paying more attention to their mental, emotional, and physical health. The students looked at many aspects of wellness, like self-care, managing stress, healthy eating, physical activity, digital wellness, sleep and taking care of their mental health They learned how all these parts work together to make a person feel healthy and happy.
SIA staff served as mentors and helped to guide fifth graders through the project. Junior mentors from The Hague School shared their past experiences and helped the younger students understand how to organize and present their ideas. This mentorship allowed the older IB® students to practice leadership skills and gave the younger students support as they worked through their projects.
The school also invited experts from the community to help. Doctors, therapists, trainers and Peace Corps health volunteers shared their knowledge and experience about health and wellness. These experts taught the students about the science behind wellness and gave them practical advice on how to stay healthy. The Peace Corps volunteers also spoke about their work in Peru, where they help people with health issues. SIA fifth graders learned how culture affects health in different places.
By working with their mentors and experts, the students learned a lot about wellness. They researched how people can stay healthy and the challenges some communities face when it comes to healthcare and wellness. In the end, they presented their findings to the school, showing what they learned about wellness in their own lives and in the world.
The IB® PYP Exhibition is not just about learning facts; it’s about working together and learning from others. This year, the focus on wellness helped students understand what it means to be healthy and how people can take care of their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. With the help of their mentors and community experts, the students gained important skills that will help them in the future, both in school and in life.
Abby W., Jaxon G. and Emma B. during a Zoom call with Peace Corps Volunteers.
Benson C. and Zeeva C. presenting their project at the 2025 PYPX.
Ari S. and Emma B. pose with their project at the PYPX alongside their mentors from The Hague School.
Flash from the Past!
We remember this photo... do you? Can you name the students, the activity, and when it took place? Put your memory to the test! If you’ve got the answers, email us at astpierre@strelitzacademy.org — we’re curious to see who remembers!
Identified!
Thank you to everyone who submitted answers to help us identify the students in this picture! This picture features Issac Brooke, Arianna Trestman and Yaakov Wilson, along with their classmates!
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