STRELITZ STRELITZ
Head of School’s Message
Looking Back, Looking Ahead: A Celebration of the School Year at SIA
One of the many reasons I love being part of a school community is all the beginnings and endings. There’s something magical about the rhythm of a school year. At the beginning, everything feels fresh and full of promise— new textbooks, new teachers, new classrooms. It’s a time of hope, excitement, and possibility.
Interestingly, I feel that same excitement as the school year comes to a close. The end of the year is not just about winding down; it’s a meaningful opportunity to reflect on all that we have accomplished and to look ahead with anticipation to what comes next.
As we reflect on this past school year, we realize how much SIA has to celebrate: We have spent the year thoughtfully preparing for our upcoming IB reauthorization visit next school year, reaffirming our commitment to excellence and global-minded education.
We are proud to have surpassed our Annual Donor Fund goal, thanks to the incredible generosity of our SIA families, faculty, trustees, and community supporters. Your belief in our mission sustains our progress and growth.
We continue to thrive with one of the highest enrollment rates in our recent history, a testament to the strength of our program and the vibrant community that surrounds it.
Through the pages of STRELITZ Magazine, we’ve continued to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our students and showcase the innovative teaching that defines SIA.
This year, we embraced a powerful new initiative by joining the Let Grow Movement, encouraging student independence and resilience. We’ve seen firsthand how age-appropriate challenges help children build confidence and a stronger sense of self.
And finally, our Board of Trustees had the unique opportunity to collaborate with Antonio Viva, a leading voice in futurist thinking. Together, we explored strategic ways to ensure our students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
Looking ahead, we are already building on this momentum to ensure another successful year. Two major academic initiatives will launch next school year:
We are introducing a new reading series, Amplify, in grades K–2, designed to strengthen foundational literacy skills and foster a lifelong love of reading.
In grades K–5, we will be implementing a new assessment model, the MAP Growth Assessment, which we believe is a more effective tool for tracking student progress. This data-driven approach will better support our faculty and families in ensuring that every student reaches their fullest potential.
For those looking to stay inspired and informed over the summer, here are a few recommended reads:
How to Break Up with Your Phone
by Catherine Price
A thoughtful look at technology use and how it shapes our attention and relationships.
The Let Them Theory by
Mel Robbins
A compelling approach to letting go and allowing others to grow.
The Amazing Generation by Jonathan Haidt
A powerful new book aimed at students in grades 5–8 that will explore resilience and thriving in today’s world. Coming this December.
As we turn the page on this chapter, I am filled with gratitude for all we’ve shared and accomplished together. Thank you to our dedicated teachers, supportive families, hard-working students, and everyone who makes the SIA community so special. We end this year not just with memories, but with momentum—and we can’t wait to see what next year brings. Happy summer, and see you soon for another fresh start.
Warm regards,
Heather Moore Head of School
Graduation Speech 2025
Tamir
Zach- Class of 2018
“Message to the SIA Graduates- Class of 2025”
To try to put into writing the impact that Strelitz International Academy has had on me is extremely difficult. I am so grateful to be able to call this place a second home for me. From sleeping on cots in preschool, to sitting at graduation with the cap and gown 7 years ago, it was a time that I will never forget. Because I attended Strelitz International Academy for so long, I ended up receiving the 9 Year Award, which is more than half of my life as of now. However, it is not the amount of time that left a mark on me the most, but something that grew its roots much deeper into what my character continues to grow into.
One of the most admirable qualities that this school offers is the relationships between classmates. Because the school is small, compared to my current school, I was able to not only form relationships in my own grade, but also the grades above and below. When I was in fifth grade I could name everybody in the school, as well as the teachers from first to fifth grade, which is something I cannot do now. I basically had a family here. The relationships that I formed at SIA keep me coming back even years after graduating. Recently, I even had the opportunity to participate in a class reunion which might have made me feel old, but was still a lot of fun. Being an alumni of Strelitz International Academy has the ability to keep these connections made from such a young age which is so important.
After graduating from Strelitz International Academy, also known as Hebrew Academy of Tidewater at the time, transitioning from this school to Norfolk Academy seemed pretty daunting. However, the lessons that I learned from my time at Strelitz gave me the ability to transition with a state of ease, despite the immense differences between the schools. I know that back then the school was not an IB® school, but when I was still in Strelitz, all of the qualities from the IB® learner profiles were there. Strelitz taught me to become the best version of myself. All of the lessons I have learned translated into my current school. From a young age I was taught to treat others with kindness and respect from SIA, and beginning a new journey in a new place, I carried these values to grow every community I was a part of. However, one of the most important values that Strelitz taught me was the importance of inclusion. The teachers at Strelitz taught me how to include everyone despite differences. I remember in my classes seeing the sign “No Bully Zone”, and thinking about how we should lift each other up because of our differences and not tear each other down. Because of this idea being introduced to me so early in my upbringing I was able to positively influence every group or club I participated in as the years went on. My teachers at Strelitz taught me how to lead with inclusivity which is a powerful attribute of a leader.
But that is far from the only takeaway. Since seventh grade, I have participated in three sports per year. This year was the first year in which I did all three endurance sports; cross country, swimming and crew. There were many times where the toughness of these sports was overwhelming. Some days I would think about the races or hard practices all day because of how scared I was. But then I remembered that I must push myself, because I have a team that I am fighting for and how can I give up because of that. The word grit means to dig deep and never cave in. It is a very important word that strengthens itself within me as I grow but was introduced to me by the teachers at this school. These teachers teach with a perfect middle ground of kindness and discipline. They taught me the determination I needed to conquer any battle. However, one of the main reasons I was able to go to Norfolk Academy in the first place was because of the care that the teachers gave me along with their definitive structure.
I was never strong at reading comprehension, specifically the books that we got with the paragraph and the questions about the passage. But with the help of my SIA teachers, I started to answer those questions correctly. I went from 60s to even 100s on those quizzes and that was because of the time and effort they put into me both in and out of the classroom. In the end, because of the care and guidance I got from SIA, I was able to graduate from Norfolk Academy with honor roll, which I can say for certain is a reflection of where I came from.
Even in the sector of the arts, art class has taught me to express myself through different forms and keep an open mind and to direct my creativity into something that can build and inspire both myself and others.
SIA has also exposed me to so many instruments such as the recorder, bells and violin. With an instrument like the violin, grace is absolutely crucial. However when I started in kindergarten, I do not remember myself being particularly graceful. In fact I was pretty harsh with the instrument when I played it. I remember always being the one to tear the horse’s hair on the bow. However, because violin was encouraged at Strelitz, I slowly improved throughout the years. This progression inspired me to continue in my current school, where I was even able to play as the second chair in orchestra. I do not think that anybody watching a video of me playing in kindergarten would have expected that. However, there are so many opportunities that can lie beneath the surface.
Unexpected success can bloom from even the smallest seed. It takes an open mind as well as a patient and determined character to grasp and learn from these opportunities in order to continue to grow. Yet, perhaps the most important aspect I could have recognized from this school is that I always have a place here, a home, and a family. Every time, I walk through the doors of the Strelitz International Academy, I am welcomed with smiling faces and hugs from all of the teachers whom I know and love, followed by an amazing conversation with Mrs. Lynette Rodriguez and Ms. Moe Sullivan. It is a feeling that I cannot describe with words. This school is not only a place of learning, but a place of connection. It is like an oasis in the desert, and whenever I get to visit, I am reminded of how special this place is. In conclusion, to the graduating class of Strelitz International Academy, 2025, put yourself out there and make every opportunity to participate in something or include somebody without any fear. There is never a set path and there exist no limits.
Tamir Zach, Hebrew Academy of Tidewater/ Strelitz International Academy Class of 2018.
Tamir Zach delivering his Graduation speech to the Strelitz International Academy Class of 2025.
SIA Celebrates the Class of 2025
by Carin Simon, Director of
Advancement
Graduation is always a meaningful and emotional milestone at Strelitz International Academy. For the fifth-grade students, some of whom have been part of the SIA community since infancy, it marks a moment to reflect on their growth and prepare to spread their wings as they head to middle school.
On Wednesday, June 5, SIA proudly hosted its annual graduation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. Head of School Heather Moore opened the program with reflections on the past year’s successes and shared exciting plans for the future, including the launch of a special Endowment Campaign.
Student Government Association President Emma Belman then delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of her classmates. She reflected on their International Baccalaureate Final Exhibition Project, which focused on health and wellness, and expressed gratitude to all the teachers, past and present, who guided them throughout their journey.
“As we move on to middle school,” Emma shared, “we take with us the lessons we’ve learned, the friendships we’ve made, and the memories we’ll always treasure. We’ve grown, not just in height, but in our minds and hearts. Over the years, we've become more like a family, sharing laughter, challenges, and so many exciting moments together.”
This year’s Commencement Speaker was Tamir Zach, an SIA Class of 2018 alum and a recent graduate of Norfolk Academy’s Class of 2025. Tamir offered heartfelt wisdom and encouragement to the graduates, drawing on his own experiences and fond memories of SIA.
“I always have a place here, a home and a family,” Tamir said. “Every time I walk through the doors of the school, I’m welcomed by smiling faces and warm hugs from the teachers I know and love, followed by meaningful conversations with Mrs. Rodriguez and Ms. Moe. It’s a feeling I can’t describe in words. SIA is not only a place of learning, but a place of connection.”
The graduation ceremony was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of an SIA education—grounded in community, compassion, and a love of lifelong learning.
Mazel Tov to the Graduation Award Winners:
Abe and Anna Rudolph Award for Excellence in Mathematics— Emma Belman
Rabbi Charles J. Mantel Memorial Award for Excellence in Judaic Studies - Micah Kass
Harold and Jacqueline Spiro Goodman Award for Excellence in General Studies—Calanit Warren
Hyman J. Stromberg Memorial Award for Academic Excellence— Grayce Burnette
I. James London Memorial Athlete of the Year Award - Benson Cost Lorna Legum Rising Star Award - Abby Walker
Rabbi Philip Pincus Memorial Award for Excellence in Hebrew Studies - Abby Walker
Shirley Helfant and Ruth Josephberg Award for Visual Arts—Calanit Warren
SIA Creative Innovator Award - Charles Claudius
SIA Distinguished IB Scholar Award - Grayce Burnette
SIA Future Entrepreneur Award - Jaxon Gordon
SIA Innovative Learner Award - Zeeva Cooper
SIA Inquirer Award - William Salyer
Middot Award - Micah Kass
SIA Performing Arts Award- Ari Smith
SIA Renaissance Award - Zane Uduaghan
Members of the SIA Class of 2025 will attend the following schools: Academy for Discovery at Lakewood (IB Middle Years Program)
Cape Henry Collegiate
Great Neck Middle School
Greenbrier Middle School
Landstown Middle School
Norfolk Academy
Plaza Middle School IB Middle Years Program
The Williams School
Jaxon Gordon poses with his parents while holding his SIA Future Entrepreneur Award.
Supporting the IB® Learner Profile Over the Summer by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator
The International Baccalaureate program is more than an academic curriculum it's a holistic educational philosophy that aims to develop well-rounded, responsible, and reflective individuals At the heart of the IB® approach is the IB® Learner Profile, a set of ten attributes that reflect the ideals of an IB education These traits guide students toward becoming active, compassionate, and lifelong learners
As a parent, your support is essential in nurturing these traits beyond the classroom, especially during school breaks like summer vacation Here's a closer look at the IB® Learner Profile traits and practical ways you can help foster them at home
1. Inquirers
Trait: Students develop natural curiosity and actively enjoy learning
How to support:
Encourage your child to ask questions and explore topics of interest
Visit libraries, museums, or nature centers together
2 Knowledgeable
Trait: Students explore concepts and issues that have global and local significance
How to support:
Read books, watch documentaries, or follow news stories together
Discuss current events and how they affect your community or other parts of the world
3. Thinkers
Trait: Students use critical and creative thinking to solve problems.
How to support:
Play strategy games or puzzles as a family (e g , chess, Sudoku)
Encourage brainstorming and decision-making when planning family activities.
4 Communicators
Trait: Students express themselves confidently in more than one language and in many ways
How to support:
Practice writing letters, keeping a journal, or storytelling.
Encourage them to learn new words in a second language.
5 Principled
Trait: Students act with integrity, honesty, and a strong sense of fairness and justice
How to support:
Model ethical behavior and talk openly about values and consequences.
Volunteer together or discuss charitable giving and community service
6. Open-Minded
Trait: Students understand and appreciate their own cultures and the perspectives of others
How to support:
Celebrate cultural diversity through food, music, books, and events
Encourage empathy by discussing different points of view
7 Caring
Trait: Students show empathy, compassion, and respect.
How to support:
Encourage acts of kindness, both big and small
Involve your child in caring for a pet, sibling, or garden
8. Risk-Takers (Courageous)
Trait: Students approach uncertainty with courage and try new things
How to support:
Encourage trying new activities like sports, arts, or travel.
Celebrate effort over outcome to build confidence and resilience.
9. Balanced
Trait: Students understand the importance of intellectual, physical, and emotional balance
How to support:
Create a daily routine that includes time for reading, exercise, play, and rest
Promote mindfulness or relaxation techniques
10. Reflective
Trait: Students thoughtfully consider their learning and experiences
How to support:
Ask reflective questions like, “What did you enjoy most today?” or “What would you do differently?”
Review achievements and set goals together for the next school year.
Supporting the IB® Learner Profile at home doesn’t require formal lessons it simply means integrating these values into your everyday interactions and routines Summer break offers a great opportunity to deepen learning in meaningful and enjoyable ways By modeling and encouraging these traits, parents can help children become more confident, compassionate, and globally-minded individuals
Your involvement makes all the difference With intentionality and creativity, the learner profile can become a way of life not just during school, but all year round
Celebrating a Joyful and Meaningful Year of Growth by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director
As another school year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting with immense gratitude on all that our youngest learners have experienced and accomplished. In the spirit of our IB® philosophy in the Early Years, every moment is an opportunity to inspire curiosity, nurture empathy, and build the foundation of a lifelong love of learning. This year has been no exception, and what a year it has been!
One of the most heartwarming highlights was our first annual Hanukkah Day Parade, a joyful inquiry driven celebration of light, community, and creativity. The colorful, handmade floats that brought each class’s unique spirit to life put our child-centered curriculum in the spotlight. Seeing families and children come together to celebrate a holiday so rich in meaning was a reminder of the power of tradition and the magic of seeing it through a child’s eyes.
Throughout the year, we have continued to embrace innovative hands-on learning, knowing that young children learn best when they can touch, move, build, and explore. Whether it was building and rebuilding towers in the block area, serving up fun in our dramatic play “restaurants”, or experimenting with light and shadow in our discovery corners, the energy in each room filled with excitement and inquiry. We witnessed future scientists, engineers, chefs, and artists in the making, guided not by worksheets, but by wonder and inquiry
Outdoor play has also taken center stage in our approach this year We relished our time outside, in all different kinds of weather Following our inspiration from the Reggio Emilia Approach to learning, we believe the outdoors is more than just a space to run, it should be looked at as the third teacher From our mud kitchens, puddle jumping, and nature scavenger hunts to observing the life cycle of plants in our gardens, children deepened their connection to the natural world. There is something profoundly joyful in watching a group of toddlers gather around a worm or wondering what lies beneath that grate in the ground.
At the heart of it all, our Jewish holidays and values anchored our year with rhythm and purpose. Whether we were baking challah for Shabbat, building our own sukkahs, “booing” Haman during Purim, or dancing with flags on Simchat Torah, these traditions offered not only moments of celebration, but also opportunities for reflection, gratitude, and community connection Our students didn’t just learn about the holidays, they lived them, embodying the values of kindness, responsibility, and joy
As we close this chapter, I want to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary Early Years teachers, who make all of this possible Behind every discovery, every milestone, every joyful song and tender moment, is a dedicated teacher pouring their heart into their work. Their creativity, patience, and unwavering commitment to nurturing each child’s growth is what truly brings our program to life. I am endlessly grateful for the passion and purpose they bring to our community.
Wishing everyone a safe, restful, and joyful summer!
Splish, splash and smiles! Noah E. makes the most of a rainy day in his rain gear.
Big smiles and even bigger imaginations! Oliver R. and Avery N. making joyful memories together on the playground.
Shavuot Mitzvah Fair
by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director
Primary Years students at Strelitz International Academy had excitement in their eyes as they entered the room for the Shavuot Mitzvah Fair on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The unique holiday celebration was dedicated in memory of Richard Glasser, of blessed memory, by his family. His brother Michael, and sister in law Lori, were in attendance for the special occasion. Students learned that Richard Glasser had a mantra with which he lived his life, "Do the right thing, the right way, for the right reason". This view on life is very much connected to the holiday of Shavuot. Shavuot celebrates the day on which the Torah was given and the students were
reminded that the Torah is a gift from Hashem that teaches us how to do Mitzvot and be kind to one another.
The Mitzvah Fair was filled with a wide variety of Mitzvah themed activities. Students enjoyed tasty snacks and said the accompanying blessings for each of the snacks and decorated cookies to look like flowers in honor of Shavuot. Students enjoyed using their creativity to decorate rocks for the JFS Rock Healing Garden and to design lunch bags for the ForKids family shelter summer program. Students practiced writing like a scribe using authentic Torah writing quills and created their very own Havdallah kits complete with candles and spices. Students learned about Shabbat through a fun filled dancing game and reviewed the Mitzvah to love your fellow as yourself while creating heart shaped puzzles. Students enjoyed a Jerusalem scratch art craft and used Legos to create Jewish holiday themed creations. Lively Jewish music added to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Mitzvah Fair was a wonderful way for the Primary Years students to culminate, and celebrate, a year of Jewish life and learning. SIA prides itself on providing students the opportunity to learn about Torah and Mitzvot in a joyful and engaging manner.
Scarlett S. painted a rock that says “Best Day” to contribute to the JFS Rock Garden.
Ariella B. and Lior C. decorating lunch bags to be donated to the ForKids organization.
Benji B. decorating a cookie with flowers to honor Shavuot.
Harper W. and Avery G. experience what is like to write like a scribe.
Micah K. and Liam G. create Jewish holiday themed lego designs.
Lori and Michael Glasser during the Shavuot Mitzvah Fair.
Strelitz International Academy Alumni Return for Annual Senior Sendoff Tradition
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
When the SIA Class of 2018 received their invite to attend a Senior Year Reunion this past May, they were hesitant to respond. Although they had stayed in touch through snapchat, many had not seen each other recently. As they arrived, welcomed by their fifth grade graduation picture, they immediately reconnected and reminisced about their fond memories during their time at SIA, which was then HAT!
The students were thrilled to reconnect with each other over Pizza and a delicious Edible Arrangement generously donated by the Rivera Family. While many of the grads had visited the Sandler Family Campus since graduation, most had not seen each other or former teachers in some time. The excitement was palpable as they observed the changes in the school, shared memories, and enthusiastically greeted former teachers while exploring their old classrooms.
The current SIA students enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the visiting alumni, eagerly asking questions about their experiences in middle and high school. The alumni, now recent graduates from Cape Henry Collegiate, Norfolk Academy, Norfolk Collegiate, Tidewater Collegiate Academy, and First Colonial High School, were quizzed by students to see if they remembered their Hebrew and math facts.
The once young students have grown into such accomplished and well spoken adults with bright futures ahead! We are immensely proud to have provided these students with a strong Jewish and academic foundation. They have grown into accomplished high school graduates, ready to embark on their next journeys in higher education.
We wish them all the best as they begin the following programs: Allegheny College following Gap Year in Israel
American University
Christopher Newport University
Florida Atlantic University
George Mason University
James Madison University
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Old Dominion University
Radford University
Strelitz International Academy remains committed to fostering the growth and success of its students, and we look forward to celebrating their future achievements.
HAT/Strelitz Alumni - please send your updated contact information to Carin Simon, Director of Advancement: csimon@strelitzacademy.org to keep in touch.
The Class of 2018 reunite, sharing laughs and favorite memories from their early years together.
Ilan Rivera, Nate Simon, Aaron Alofer, Jack Poorman, Tamir Zach, Ariana Dail, Ophir Newman,Emily Leon pose with their HAT Class of 2018 picture.
Save the Date for the Golf Tournament of the Year! by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
The 36th Annual Strelitz International Golf Tournament, proudly known as the "Bob Josephberg Classic," co-chaired by David Leon and Tim Thornton, is set for September 10, 2025 at the Virginia Beach National Golf Club.
Each year, the event raises close to $150,000 to support the students and families of the Strelitz International Academy. This year we are excited to welcome an excited golf committee with some new faces ready to get involved.
This year the school is celebrating 70 years strong in 2025, and we have so much to celebrate. Serving students from infancy through fifth grade, SIA lays a solid foundation for future leaders, deeply rooted in the values and support of the Tidewater Jewish community. Enrollment is growing, the facility is top notch and the faculty continues to be the best in town.
The Annual Golf Tournament presents the opportunity for businesses and individuals to show their support of the school’s 70th anniversary and make a significant impact in helping to support student scholarships, faculty development and quality programming. Sponsorship opportunities range from $400 to $10,500, catering to a variety of giving levels. The event is open to all golf enthusiasts and volunteers, promising a day packed with excitement, including a silent auction with unique items and trips and a fun awards reception featuring a kosher dinner and great networking opportunities.
Your participation is more than just a game; it’s an investment in the future of our children and the strength of our community. Join us for a day of camaraderie, competition, and community spirit.
For more information on how you can sponsor or participate in the tournament, please contact Carin Simon, Director of Advancement, at 757.424.4327 or csimon@strelitzacademy.org.
You can also visit our tournament site: strelitzinternationalacademy.org/support-us/annual-golf-tournament/
We can't wait to see you there! Together, we can make a lasting difference.
The 2025 Golf Committee:
David Leon, Co Chair
Tim Thornton, Co Chair
Ross Bangel
Bill Carden
Chip Friedman
Kasey Molloy
Steve Zuckerman
Brigitte Gottlieb, Terri Kraley, and Patti Seeman at the Hole in One Challange during the 2024 Golf Tournament.
Support Jewish Day Schools in Tidewater and Get a Tax Break
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF) still has approximately $200,000 in available Education Improvement Scholarship Tax Credits (EISTC) for 2025. This means donors have a limited-time opportunity to support local Jewish day schools and receive a substantial 65% Virginia state tax credit. June 25, 2025, is the deadline for scholarships for the 2024-2025 school year. Tax credit gifts made after that date will apply to the next calendar year.
Through the EISTC program, your charitable gift to TJF directly funds scholarships for students from lower- and middle-income families—helping ensure a strong Jewish future and accessible education for all. And the financial benefit? Remarkable.
For example, a $10,000 donation can result in a net after-tax cost of just $2,459, thanks to the combined impact of the state tax credit and federal/state charitable deductions.
“If our Jewish schools meet their scholarship goals through this program, it will make a meaningful difference for our students, families, and the community as a whole,” says Naomi Limor Sedek, President & CEO of TJF.
TJF is an approved scholarship foundation under the Virginia EISTC program. However, all donations must be pre authorized by the Virginia Department of Education before they can be completed—so time is of the essence. Donors are encouraged to act quickly to ensure their contribution qualifies.
To learn more or begin the process, contact Naomi Limor Sedek at (757) 965-6109 or nsedek@ujft.org, or Randy Parrish at (757) 9656104 or rparrish@ujft.org.
Secure your tax credits by June 25, 2025 for FY 24-25 and by Dec 31, 2025 for your 2025 tax credit.
How to Participate:
1.Request a Preauthorization Form - Contact Randy Parrish at TJF
2.Reserve your Tax Credit - TJF submits your form to the Virginia Department of Education
3.Make your Gift to TJF -Donate within 180 days of approval
4.Claim your Credit - Enjoy a 65% Virginia Tax Credit and potential federal deductions
Support Strelitz International Academy and Receive a 65% Virginia State Tax Credit
The Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF) has Education Improvement Scholarship Tax Credits (EISTC) for 2025 to support SIA students. This presents a limited-time opportunity for donors to support Strelitz International Academy while receiving a 65% Virginia state tax credit.
Through the EISTC program, your donation to TJF helps provide critical tuition assistance to Strelitz families from lower- and middle-income households—ensuring more children can access a high-quality Jewish and IB education.
The financial benefit to you is substantial.
For example: A $10,000 gift could cost you as little as $2,459 after tax benefits*, thanks to the 65% Virginia tax credit plus state and federal charitable deductions.
We have a limited number of tax credits available each year. To learn more, contact Carin Simon, 757.424.4329 or csimon@strelitzacademy.org
*Actual costs may vary depending on individual tax circumstances. Consult your tax advisor.
Strelitz Moments
1.Asher M. and his family proudly displays his Chumash after the Second Grade Chumash Celebration.
3. Ben O. with his family and teachers at the Annual Early Years 4 Surfing Up Ceremony!
2. Sisters Wilma A. and Heidi A. chalking the outside white top on a beautiful, sunny day.
4.Fourth grade shows their class spirit with their team banner at the annual SIA Lag B’Omer Field Day.
5. Gavin B., Malex M., Isabella B., Eliana S. and Alex F. smile with their shaafam, mustaches, to celebrate their learning of the Alef Bet in Kindergarten!
6. Ben T. with his new Siddur and his proud grandparents at the First Grade Siddur Celebration.
7. Oliver R., Nona L., and Raelynn B. enjoy the sprinklers during water play the last week of the school year.
8. Guin J. splashing around the puddles in her rainboots; making the best of a rainy day!
Strelitz Moments
9. Luke V. shows off his hands covered in sea foam (dish soap and food coloring whisked together!)
11. Mrs. Anglen, Ben T. and Levi F. with a very special reptile visitor. SIA was visited by Reptile Education of Virginia Beach to celebrate the end of ERB Testing.
10. Fourth graders Andrew D., Quinn M., Briella B. and Avi W. with their edible earth landscapes to demonstrate movement of tectonic plates.
12. Ari S., Elijah W., Ariel L. and Johnny A. focusing hard in the SIA Chess Tournament Competition.
13. Tasan S. shows off his “chicken adoption” certificate after celebrating Chicken Day in his Early Years 4 class, complete with a chicken dance party!
15. Fourth grade collected tzedakah throughout the year and used the funds to purchase hygiene essentials to donate to the Jewish Family Service Food Bank
14 Corah B exploring the butterfly garden at the SIA annual Lag Ba’Omer Field Day.
16. Jonah J. and Bennett B. worked together to construct a colorful bed for Spiderman using Magnatiles.
A Grateful Heart: Reflections on a Journey of Learning and Community
by Janet Jenkins, Primary Years Director
After 35 years in the field of education, this moment of reflection fills me with deep gratitude for the supportive and inspiring community at Strelitz International Academy. For the past 25 years, Strelitz has been a place where learning is celebrated, curiosity is nurtured, and the spirit of community guides every endeavor.
The path that led me to Strelitz was shaped by experiences that bridged traditional and innovative practices—beginning in Norfolk Public Schools, where I was part of a NASA-sponsored initiative to integrate learning about the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. That early work sparked a belief in the power of real-world, hands-on learning that carried me through further experiences, including developing curriculum for a Friends School in New Mexico that honored community-based, student-centered learning.
When I arrived at Strelitz as a substitute teacher, it was clear that this was a place where those values would be deeply honored and expanded upon. From there, I moved through roles as a first-grade assistant and fourth-grade teacher, but it was my many years as a kindergarten teacher that hold a particularly special place in my heart. Watching our youngest learners discover their voices and read their first words has been one of the most magical parts of my career—moments of joy and wonder that I will carry with me always.
As our program evolved from traditional learning approaches to Project-Based Learning, and ultimately to an inquiry-based curriculum as an IB® Primary Years Programme World School, it has been a privilege to collaborate with a dedicated team of educators who embraced each new challenge with creativity and compassion. Our students’ growth, from the excitement of the PYP Exhibition and Health Exhibition to the daily small discoveries in their classrooms, is a testament to the spirit of curiosity and community that defines the Strelitz International Academy.
The heartbeat of this school has always been its community—the families who entrust their children to us, the staff who give so much of themselves each day, and the students who fill our halls with laughter and wonder. Working alongside such talented and caring individuals has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. As I retire and move into this next chapter, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for the memories we’ve created together and the unwavering spirit of learning that will continue to guide Strelitz for years to come.
Thank you for the joy, the laughter, and the shared belief in the power of education to change lives. It has been an honor beyond measure.
With deepest appreciation and warmest wishes for the future,
As always, Excite, Ignite, Inspire Learning,
Janet Jenkins
Outgoing Director of Primary Years
Strelitz Staff Spotlight!
TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
This year, we are proud to honor three outstanding SIA educators as our Teachers of the Year, each representing the heart and soul of our school community. Our Early Years Teacher of the Year, Jacquie Lam, brings warmth, creativity, and patience to our youngest learners, creating a joyful and nurturing environment where children flourish. Our Primary Years Teacher of the Year, Terri Kraly, inspires curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning in her students every day through her dedication and innovative teaching. And our Teacher Assistant of the Year, Lynette Rodriguez, is the quiet force who uplifts every classroom she supports; always ready with a helping hand, a kind word, and an unwavering commitment to student success. We are grateful for their passion, their care, and the lasting impact they make on our school.
ADA R. MICHAELS FACULTY DEVELOPMENT FUND
The Ada R. Michaels Faculty Development Fund will provide assistance for faculty members to attend classes, workshops and conferences, enabling them to provide SIA students with the best educational opportunities. This year, we are excited to award the grants to our mustic teacher, Michal Newman, our art teacher, Tiala Blocker and our strings teacher, Alexandra Marlins as they attend various workshops this summer. We look forward to what they will share with the faculty and students in the upcoming school year!
TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK
Teacher Appreciation Week was truly something magical this year, thanks to the incredible efforts of our dedicated parent volunteers who brought a whimsical Willy Wonka theme to life! Each day, our teachers were showered with thoughtful surprises; from beautiful flower bouquets and golden tickets for Cardo gift cards to exciting raffle giveaways that added extra joy to the week. The halls were transformed with charming decor, thanks to the creative talents of Sharon Grossman at Smiling Camel Creations. While this week was a special celebration, we are grateful for our SIA teachers every single day and deeply appreciate the passion, care, and dedication they bring to our students and school community.
Jacquie Lam, Terri Kraly and Lynette Rodriguez, our 2025 Teachers of the Year!
Early Years teachers Samantha Barber and Kyra Jones hold their beautiful floral bouquets on the first day of Teacher Appreciation Week 2025.
Student Shout Outs!
We are thrilled to announce that one of our talented students, Haley B. rising third grader, has been selected as a winner in the 2026 Virginia Beach Public Utilities Water Awareness Calendar competition! Haley’s artwork, which beautifully illustrates the importance of water conservation, will be featured in next year’s calendar, seen by households and schools across the city. This recognition not only highlights her creativity and artistic skill, but also her deep understanding of environmental responsibility. We are so proud of Haley’s achievement and the way she represents Strelitz International Academy with such thoughtfulness and talent.
In celebration of World Water Day, one of our talented rising second graders, Ruby M., was selected as a winner in the World Wildlife Fund’s Give an Hour for Earth art competition. This special campaign invited young artists all over the country to creatively express why we need water —and why water needs us. Ruby’s artwork was chosen for its unique and meaningful interpretation of the vital role freshwater plays in our lives and the importance of protecting it for future generations. We are incredibly proud of Ruby’s achievement and the powerful message she shared through her art.
Haley B., Water Awareness Calendar
Ruby M., Give an Hour for Earth Campaign
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 members of the HAT class of 2015; Bella Cardon, Tal Zach, Abby Seeman, Evan Nied, and Abbie Friedman.
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