STRELITZ- January 2026

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 02

JANUARY 2026

STRELITZ

In this issue

Strelitz Magazine- January 2026 This quarterly publication is dedicated to the alumni, families, and friends of the Strelitz International Academy.

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Our Team:

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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

Head of School’s Message Lighting the Way: Our Chanukah Parade of Learning, Creativity, and Community

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A Successful IB® Evaluation Visit: Celebrating Our

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Pirsumei Nissa

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Adventures in Learning: Field Trips at SIA

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Strengths and Looking Ahead

Fall Fun and Community Spirit Shine at the 3rd Annual SIA Fall Festival

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Kicking off the Annual Parent Campaign

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Strelitz Moments

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Legacy Giving Spotlight - Joel & Sara Jo Rubin

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Grand Moments: Celebrating Grandparents Day at SIA

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!

1 January 2026

Head of School’s Message As I reflect on this moment in time, I am filled with deep gratitude for the 30 years I have spent at SIA. This community has been my professional home, a place where I have grown as an educator and leader, and where I have had the privilege of working alongside extraordinary colleagues, students, and families. SIA has shaped me in countless ways, and I am profoundly thankful for the trust, partnership, and shared commitment to our mission that have defined these three decades.

As previously announced, the upcoming school year will be my final year at SIA. While this decision was not an easy one, I approach this transition with confidence, pride, and optimism for the future of the school. To support a thoughtful and successful leadership transition, the Board of Trustees has engaged a professional search firm. Our search consultant will be visiting SIA from January 20–22, 2026, during which time he will meet with trustees, members of our administration, parents, students, and community leaders. These conversations will play an important role in shaping the search process, and we look forward to his visit. More information about the search and next steps will be shared after the first of the year.

As we move through this season of transition, it has been especially heartening to experience the joy and energy that filled our campus during November and December. From the warmth of Grandparents Day, to the creativity and excitement of the Chanukah Slime Lab, to the sheer delight of our Second Annual Early Years Chanukah Parade—inspired by the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—these moments reminded us of the vibrancy and spirit that make SIA such a special place. Seeing our youngest learners celebrate together with such enthusiasm was truly a highlight of the season.

Looking ahead, the coming months will bring several important milestones. In late January, students will take their second MAP Growth assessment, providing valuable insight into their academic progress. February will mark the beginning of reenrollment for the 2026–2027 school year, and in March we will invite parents to share their perspectives through our annual Parent Survey. Your feedback is essential, and we deeply value your voice as we continue to strengthen and grow our school.

As always, thank you for being an integral part of the SIA community. It is an honor to lead this school, and I look forward to the meaningful work and memorable moments that lie ahead in the months to come.

Warm regards,

Heather Moore Head of School

Heather Moore joins the toddlers as they help prepare fruit salad for the annual Friendsgiving feast.

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Lighting the Way: Our Chanukah Parade of Learning, Creativity, and Community

by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director What began as a spark of curiosity has quickly become a beloved tradition. Last year, our EY3 and EY4 students engaged in an inquiry into the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, exploring big questions around design, storytelling, movement, and community celebrations. That inquiry inspired our children and teachers to imagine what a parade could look like through the lens of meaningful learning and shared values. From that exploration, our school’s first Chanukah Parade was born. This year marked our second annual Chanukah Parade, building on that original inquiry and deepening the experience through IB® constructivist learning, creativity, and collaboration.

Each year, Chanukah invites us to pause and reflect on the power of light, light that grows, and light that brings people together. This year, our Chanukah Parade was a beautiful embodiment of that message, shining brightly as a celebration of learning, creativity, and the extraordinary community that makes our school so special.

More than a festive tradition, the Chanukah Parade represented the culmination of weeks of inquiry-based learning rooted in the IB® constructivist approach. Across classrooms, children explored big ideas through play, questions, experimentation, and meaningful dialogue. Rather than being handed information, they constructed their own understanding, transforming their curiosities into symbols, stories, movement, and joyful expression that came alive along the parade route.

Each class’s float and presentation reflected authentic learning journeys. Children investigated themes such as creation, heroism, magic, resilience, rebuilding, miracles, and more. These concepts are deeply connected both to Chanukah and to the IB® learner profile. Through art, music, engineering, storytelling, and collaboration, students demonstrated not just what they learned, but how they learned: by wondering, trying, revising, and creating together.

At the heart of this experience was the unwavering dedication of our teachers. Thoughtfully guiding inquiry while honoring children’s voices is no small task, and the parade was a testament to the care, intention, and professionalism of our faculty. Teachers skillfully balanced structure with flexibility, ensuring that learning remained child-driven while still moving toward a shared goal. Every detail, from classroom discussions to hands-on materials to final parade-day magic reflected respect for children as capable, creative thinkers.

The parade also served as a powerful reminder of the strength of our community. Families gathered, staff and students cheered, and students beamed with pride as learning stepped beyond classroom walls and into shared space. In true Chanukah spirit, the light grew brighter as it was shared, classroom by classroom, child by child, moment by moment.

Chanukah tells a story of resilience and hope, of light continuing even when it seems impossible. That message resonates deeply in education, where growth is often gradual, learning is layered, and progress is built over time. Watching our children confidently parade their ideas, creativity, and joy was a moving reminder that when we invest in meaningful learning experiences, the impact lasts far beyond a single event.

As the candles of Chanukah remind us, one small flame has the power to illuminate an entire room. In our school, that light lives in our children’s curiosity, our teachers’ dedication, and the shared commitment of our community to nurture both. The Chanukah Parade was not just a celebration, it was a reflection of who we are and what we believe about learning.

May the light we experienced that day continue to guide us throughout the year.

3 January 2026

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A Successful IB® Evaluation Visit: Celebrating Our Strengths and Looking Ahead

by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator Our recent IB® evaluation visit was a very positive experience and a strong reflection of the work happening across our school community. The visiting team offered many commendations and affirmed that our programme is well aligned with the values and principles of the International Baccalaureate, while also providing thoughtful feedback to help guide our growth over the next five years.

One of the key strengths highlighted was our clear commitment to the IB® at the governance level. Our board and strategic plan demonstrate a strong dedication to the IB® framework and to creating an inclusive school community that truly lives out IB® principles. This commitment is evident in both long-term planning and everyday practice. The evaluation team also recognized the leadership team’s focus on the student experience, noting their support of socialemotional learning, openness to innovation, and willingness to reflect and grow.

Another area of strength is our student support team, which was commended for taking proactive approaches that lead to meaningful, positive impacts for students. Their focus on targeted intervention, collaboration, and student well-being helps ensure that all learners feel supported and valued. Academically, the team highlighted our coherent curriculum, which intentionally promotes international mindedness through the IB® Learner Profile traits and provides consistency and clarity across grade levels.

The visit also celebrated our students themselves. We were recognized for developing lifelong learners through meaningful opportunities to take action, both in and beyond the classroom. Our students are active, engaged, and eager to contribute to their school and wider community, reflecting a strong sense of agency and responsibility.

While the evaluation acknowledged many strengths, it also offered constructive recommendations that will help us continue to improve and grow over the next five years. We are grateful for this guidance and see it as an opportunity to build on our strong foundation.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all parents, students, staff, and community members who participated in meetings and discussions during the visit. A special thank you goes to our teachers for their preparation, collaboration, and dedication throughout the process. This successful evaluation truly reflects the collective efforts of our entire school community.

Fourth graders Daniel S., Luke K., Benjamin T. and Benjamin S. present to their classmates and first graders, demonstrating key IB learner profiles like communicators, thinkers, and risk-takers.

5 January 2026

Pirsumei Nissa

by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director “Pirsumei Nissa” is an Armaic term which teaches us to publicize the miracles of Chanukah.

Sharing the many miracles of Chanukah is central to the Chanukah celebration. The Chanukah messages of light over dark, good over evil and freedom of religion are universal.

Lighting menorahs in windows and wearing Chanukah spirit wear are just two ways of sharing the light of Chanukah.

When the fifth grade students demonstrated curiosity about Hampton Roads’ two giant Menorahs, they learned that their purpose is to help all people better understand the story of Chanukah. The fifth grader’s inquiry into the giant menorahs led to a special Chanukah field trip! The fifth graders, sporting their favorite Chanukah spirit wear, loaded the bus and headed off to visit the Mt. Trashmore Menorah. The students learned about the menorah’s origins, purpose, construction and year round storage. The students loved being able to climb up and sit on the bed of the menorah!

The next stop on the Chanukah field trip was to Aviva Pembroke. The mission?

To share the light and spirit of Chanukah with residents. The fifth graders handed out light sticks, sang Chanukah songs and shared chocolate “gelt” with the residents. The visit and treats were very much appreciated by residents.

The last stop of the field trip was to the giant menorah next to Waterside in downtown Norfolk. Students gathered for a photo with the menorah and then sang Chanukah songs on the whole bus ride back to school.

Pirsumei Nissa? Mission accomplished.

Fifth graders snapping a quick selfie with Mrs. B before heading in to spread Chanukah cheer.

Fifth graders sharing their voices and spreading Chanukah joy as they sing for the residents of Aviva

Fifth graders posing proudly with Norfolk’s giant menorah, celebrating light, community, and

Pembroke.

togetherness.

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Adventures in Learning: Field Trips at SIA

by Meredith Carnazza, Primary Years Director At SIA, we strive to make learning transdisciplinary, hands-on, and connected to the real world.

Learning extends beyond the classroom, and subjects are brought to life through meaningful, realworld experiences. The benefits of in-school guest speakers and out-of-school field trips are endless.

When students experience what they are learning, they are more engaged, gain a deeper understanding, and build meaningful connections to their learning. Field trips provide learning opportunities that emphasize participation, hands-on exploration, and curiosity.

In the first half of the academic year, SIA students participated in many fun and engaging field trip adventures.

As part of the second-grade Who We Are Unit of Inquiry, students visited Operation Smile’s Interactive Learning Center. During the visit, students learned about cleft conditions and how Operation Smile helps children around the world receive lifechanging surgeries. This meaningful experience evolved into a Tzedakah project to raise enough funds to cover the cost of at least one surgery. Inspired by their learning, the students chose to continue their efforts and ultimately raised enough money to fund three surgeries.

Fourth and fifth-grade students visited the Jamestown Settlement in October, bringing history to life. The visit deepened students’ understanding of early American history by providing an authentic, hands-on experience with the past. The field trip was directly connected to the fifth-grade "Where We Are in Place and Time" unit and the fourth-grade "How We Organize Ourselves" unit, with a focus on the concepts of perspective and responsibility.

Kindergarten through fifth-grade students visited the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, where they performed the Tashlich ceremony at the water, went on trail walks, and explored the art museum, including the giant sculptures by artist Walter Babington. Students made meaningful connections across Judaic Studies, art, and science. Older students also connected the artist’s work to themes of sea level rise and global warming, deepening their understanding of how art can reflect environmental issues.

Aqua Avengers visited our school and put on an engaging performance that taught Early Years 4–Grade 5 students about the importance of water conservation. This experience provided a meaningful way to explore the IB® Key Concepts of Responsibility and Connection, while also making links to related concepts such as conservation and Tikkun Olam.

Our second graders took flight at iFLY as part of their IB® Unit, How the World Works. Students explored the science behind flight and experienced firsthand how forces and motion interact. They investigated how air, gravity, and motion contribute to balance and movement in our world. During the visit, students participated in a STEM challenge, engaged in a lab activity that involved data collection and analysis, and enjoyed a flight in the wind tunnel!

Visiting author Daryl Cobb came to our school in November. Early Years 4–Grade 5 students enjoyed his engaging stories, during which they learned how ideas become books and made connections between personal experiences and storytelling.

Students were especially excited to read a book that featured SIA teachers’ names. This experience supported literacy development, encouraged creativity, and reinforced the importance of perseverance, voice, and self-expression.

Fifth-grade students were curious about the local giant menorahs, so they visited the Mt. Trashmore Menorah and the giant menorah near Waterside and Town Point Park in downtown Norfolk. This experience was driven by student curiosity, reinforcing the IB® approach of student-led inquiry and authentic learning. As part of the outing, students also visited Aviva Pembroke, where they sang for senior residents, strengthening intergenerational connections and demonstrating learning through meaningful community engagement.

We can’t wait for the adventures in the second half of our academic year. Field trips create memories that last a lifetime!

7 October 2025

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Fall Fun and Community Spirit Shine at the 3rd Annual SIA Fall Festival

by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement The fall season at Strelitz International Academy is filled with excitement and meaning as students celebrate the holidays from Rosh Hashanah through Simchat Torah. At SIA, the spirit of the holidays continues to shine as our community eagerly anticipates the SIA Fall Festival!

Now in its third year, the Fall Festival has become a beloved school tradition at SIA. Open to the entire community, the campus transforms into a festive autumn wonderland filled with hay bales, pumpkins, colorful leaves, and laughter. Families enjoyed pony rides, hayrides, inflatables, crafts, and games—all while celebrating the warmth of Jewish community and connection.

The event was truly a community effort, as parents, faculty, and SIA alumni came together to make the day a success. With the help of generous sponsors, the Fall Festival served not only as a joyful family gathering but also as an important fundraiser supporting SIA’s mission of providing outstanding Jewish and International Baccalaureate education.

As SIA proudly celebrates its 70th year of inspiring generations of young learners, the Fall Festival has become a meaningful new tradition—one that highlights the values of family, community and joyful learning.

Mark your calendars—next year’s Strelitz Fall Festival will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Ella G., Lena A., and Mia P. posing in front of the bungee jumping activity—photo provided

by Ella G., SGA historian.

9 January 2026

Raleigh A. stacks fall-colored blocks to build an impressive tower.

Business Manager Irina Komarovsky and Assistant Director of Early Years Veronica Samonte pose with the very tall scarecrow.

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Kicking off the Annual Parent Campaign

by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement At Strelitz International Academy (SIA), our strength comes from our community. The Annual Parent Campaign is a vital part of sustaining SIA’s excellence as an IB® World School, supporting rigorous academics, enriching Jewish education, and the programs that allow every child to thrive.

The Student Glow Run is a powerful way our students and families come together to support the Annual Parent Campaign. This student-led celebration on culminating on Friday, January 30, 2025 builds pride, participation, and shared responsibility, showing our children the importance of giving back to the community that supports them.

Gifts to the Annual Parent Campaign directly support: Bridging the gap between tuition and true operating costs Expanding access through our Flexible Tuition Program Investing in faculty excellence and ongoing IB® training Supporting student well-being with on-site nursing, counseling, and learning services Enhancing classrooms with innovative technology and resources Every gift goes even further thanks to a generous $25,000 matching gift doubling the impact of our community’s support. Your participation, at any level, helps us reach this goal and ensures SIA continues to flourish.

The Glow Run is more than a fundraiser. It’s a celebration of connection, commitment, and community. Together, let’s make 2025 our strongest year yet.

Thank you for supporting SIA and for investing in our children’s future.

To support the 2025 - 2026 SIA Annual Fund: Mail a check to: Strelitz International Academy, 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach, 23462 Donate online: https://strelitzinternationalacademy.org/strelitz-fund/ Email your pledge to Carin Simon: csimon@strelitzacademy.org, and we will send you an invoice to be paid by June 30, 2025.

Dani W. and Avi W. pose with their fundraising certificates at the conclusion of the 2025 Glow Run.

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Strelitz Moments 1. Toddlers Paxton S. and Declan M. take part in a

2. Heather Moore, Allison Graves, Jessica

toddler-friendly Tashlich activity alongside their

Laderberg, Pati Oliszewski, and Carin Simon

teacher, Morah Katie.

enjoying time together at the annual PVO Breakfast in the Sukkah.

3. Fifth grader Honzi H. and kindergarten student

4. Nolan C. and his mother Leigh Casson dancing at

Henry T. color their flags together in celebration of

the Early Years Havdalah and Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah.

celebration.

11 January 2026

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5. Second grader Johnny A. and EY4 student Brynn W.

6. EY4 student Samuel U. showing his support for

enjoying a meal together at the schoolwide annual

SIA at the annual Impact Day hosted by UJFT.

Friendsgiving feast.

7. Kindergarten students explore the wonders of

8. Infants Talia R. and Miriam G. sharing smiles as they

fire and light the Hanukkiah for Chanukah with

enjoy playtime.

Morah Jo.

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Legacy Giving Spotlight Joel & Sara Jo Rubin As a proud SIA grandparent, my wife, Sara Jo, and I have watched our grandsons grow, learn, and thrive at the Strelitz International Academy—and we cannot imagine a better place for them to begin their educational and Jewish journeys.

Our son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Shikma Rubin, enrolled their boys at SIA as soon as they were old enough. Today, Niv is a confident fifth grader preparing for middle school, and Shai is in first grade with several more joyful years ahead in these halls. Their time at SIA has been nothing short of transformative.

Recently, when Sara Jo and I received an inheritance from my late parents, we knew immediately what we wanted to do: honor my mother’s legacy by investing in the future of SIA. My mother, Sarah Brenner Rubin, known to generations of students as Morah Rubin, devoted 25 years to teaching Hebrew and Jewish traditions after school. Her love of Yiddishkeit shaped our family deeply. Supporting SIA felt like the perfect way to continue the values she instilled in us.

Every time we’re with our grandchildren, we see the impact of this school. Whether it’s hearing Shai chant the blessing over the wine at our Shabbat table with confidence beyond his six years, or watching Niv explore academics, sports, and even podcasting with enthusiasm—SIA is helping them grow into proud, capable, thoughtful young people.

This is what a school like Strelitz does: it partners with families to raise children who are grounded in their heritage, engaged in the world around them, and prepared for whatever comes next.

As Niv graduates this year, I know he will miss the small classes, dedicated teachers, and strong friendships he built here. But he is ready because SIA has given him a foundation that will last a lifetime. And Shai is right behind him.

That is why Sara Jo and I chose to make a significant legacy gift to SIA. We want every child to have the same opportunity our grandchildren have enjoyed: a nurturing environment, exceptional academics, joyful Jewish learning, and educators who care deeply about each child’s growth.

I invite you to join us in supporting this remarkable school. Your gift, of any size, strengthens the programs, teachers, values, and experiences that shape our grandchildren’s lives every single day.

Together, we can ensure that SIA remains strong for the next generation and for all the generations to come.

13 January 2026

Grand Moments: Celebrating Grandparents Day at SIA

Asher Y. having a great time with his grandfather.

Thomas D. and his grandmother doing a STEM activity in third grade.

Madeline C. and her grandmother making salt dough ornaments.

Mari R. and her grandparents creating a frame together.

Lena G. and her grandmother enjoying a special activity in Early Years 2.

Benjamin T. and his grandparents having fun decorating mugs together in Grade 2.

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5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 180 Virginia Beach, VA 23462

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