STRELITZ STRELITZ
Strelitz Magazine- March 2026
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 In this issue
Hotel Escargot Spotlight 2 3 7 6 8 11 5 13 9 14
Head of School’s Message
A Dream Takes Root: Our New Natural Playground
Ari Mulligan Wins IBMA Student Excellence Award!
SIA Fifth Grade Exhibition: Inquiry in Action
Purim Joy at SIA: Smiles All Around!
SIA Celebrates the Arts: A Night of Creativity and Performance
The SIA Family Glow Run Campaign: Lighting the Way for Community, Philanthropy and Leadership
Strelitz Moments
PY5 Students Shine in Battle of the Books!
We’ve got spirit, how about you?!
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
As winter fades and the first signs of spring begin to appear, our campus is experiencing a renewal of its own Just as the season brings longer days, budding trees, and fresh energy, our school community is celebrating the opening of our new playground and the early stages of a beautiful garden that will continue to grow alongside our students.
Spring has always been a season of possibility. After months indoors, children instinctively gravitate toward the outdoors running, climbing, exploring, and rediscovering the simple joys of fresh air and open space Our new playground was designed with this spirit in mind: a place where children can move freely, test their abilities, and engage their imaginations.
Playgrounds are more than places to burn off energy They are spaces where children practice problem-solving, negotiate friendships, build confidence, and take healthy risks. When children climb higher than they did yesterday, balance across a log, or invent a new game with friends, they are developing resilience, independence, and creativity
Just as important as play is the opportunity to connect with the natural world. Research continues to show that time in nature supports children’s physical health, reduces stress, and improves focus and well-being Nature invites curiosity in a way few other environments can, encouraging children to observe, wonder, and ask questions about the world around them.
This connection to nature will deepen as our new garden begins to take shape What is now a promising space of soil, seedlings, and planning will soon become a vibrant outdoor classroom. In the coming months, students will help plant, nurture, and care for the garden, watching firsthand as tiny seeds transform into flowers, herbs, and vegetables Gardens offer powerful lessons that extend far beyond science They teach patience, responsibility, and the rhythms of growth. Children learn that meaningful things take time that watering, tending, and waiting are all part of the process. In many ways, the garden mirrors the journey of childhood itself
We are especially grateful to the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and the Sandler Family Campus for their partnership and support in bringing this beautiful new playground to fruition.
While the campus itself is blossoming this season, so too are the talents and ideas of our students
Our recent Evening of the Arts was a wonderful celebration of creativity across the school. Families enjoyed an inspiring display of student artwork, music, and creative expression that reflected the imagination and dedication of our young artists Events like these remind us that the arts are not simply an enrichment they are an essential way for students to explore identity, express emotion, and see the world through new perspectives.
Our Fifth Grade Exhibition was another highlight of the season This culminating project invites students to pursue meaningful research and inquiry into real-world issues. This year’s topics were both thoughtful and timely. Students explored subjects such as the growing role of artificial intelligence in our lives, the impact of sports betting on the integrity of athletics, and the challenges faced by children around the world who are unable to attend school or for whom accessing education is a daily hardship.
Through research, interviews, and presentations, our fifth graders demonstrated not only knowledge but empathy, curiosity, and a desire to understand the complexities of our world.
These projects would not be possible without the generous support of our mentors We are deeply grateful to the many community members and parents who guided students through their research process. A special thank you goes to the Hague School Junior Mentors, whose partnership and encouragement helped make this experience even more meaningful for our students
The arts also took center stage with our Drama Club’s fabulous performance of Hotel Escargot. The production was a delight from start to finish, showcasing the confidence, humor, and teamwork of our young performers From expressive acting to creative staging, the performance was a testament to the dedication of our students and the teachers who guide them. Watching students take the stage, support one another, and bring a story to life is always one of the joys of the school year
The timing of all these moments feels especially fitting. Spring reminds us that growth often begins quietly beneath the surface. Just as the earth awakens after winter, our playground, garden, performances, and student projects symbolize new beginnings spaces where children can explore, imagine, and connect with the world around them.
We look forward to seeing children fill the playground with laughter, watching the garden flourish as the season unfolds, and continuing to celebrate the creativity, curiosity, and compassion that our students bring to everything they do.
Spring has arrived, and with it comes the promise of growth in the garden, on the playground, on the stage, and in every child who learns and plays here
Warm regards,
Heather Moore Head of School
A Dream Takes Root: Our New Natural Playground
by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director
I’m sure many of you have seen the photos of our new natural playground and the many ways your children have already begun exploring it. We officially opened the space in mid-February, and since then it has been filled with laughter, curiosity, and discovery.
Every day we see smiling faces and hear wonderful stories from our students about their adventures outdoors Whether they are climbing, swinging, pumping water through the water path and into the beach area, or simply exploring the space with friends, this new playground has quickly become a place where every child can find something exciting to engage in. We are especially grateful to the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and the Sandler Family Campus for their partnership and support in bringing this beautiful new playground to fruition.
Our new playground was thoughtfully designed as a natural learning environment, created to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and support meaningful play. Rather than filling the space with highly structured equipment, in collaboration with Bienstock Natural Playground Company based in Ontario Canada, we intentionally created a setting that invites children to engage with nature, use their imaginations, and interact with the environment in countless ways.
Natural playgrounds offer children opportunities to explore, experiment, and learn through hands-on experiences. Every rock, tree, stream, and open space becomes part of a child’s adventure, allowing the playground to feel new and exciting each day
Why Natural Play Matters
Play is one of the most important ways young children learn, and a crucial part of our philosophy of teaching at SIA In the Early Years of the IB Primary Years Programme, play is recognized as a powerful vehicle for learning, allowing children to explore ideas, ask questions, and make meaning through hands-on experiences Through play, students develop curiosity, independence, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that reflect the core values of the IB approach to inquiry and lifelong learning. In addition, environments that include open-ended natural elements encourage children to think creatively, solve problems, and collaborate with their peers
In spaces like these, children naturally begin to: interpret in imaginative ways, create games and stories, take appropriate risks to build confidence, work together, negotiate ideas, explore, experiment, develop empathy, and problem-solve. Because the materials can be used in many different ways, children are constantly thinking, adapting, and discovering.
The same space can transform into something entirely new depending on the ideas and creativity of the children playing there
A Playground Full of Possibilities
Our playground offers a variety of features designed to inspire exploration, creativity, and connection with nature
SIA students can discover rock caves that invite hiding, problem-solving, and dramatic play. Our fairy tree houses create opportunities for storytelling, imagination, and social connection Slides, swings, and climbing structures allow children to challenge their bodies and build strength and confidence.
For sensory exploration and creative expression, children can enjoy the mud kitchen and outdoor easels, where mixing, pouring, painting, and experimenting are all part of the fun. Natural elements such as streams, rocks, shrubs, and trees encourage investigation, observation, and even early engineering as children build, move water, and explore their surroundings
These experiences invite children to touch, climb, build, pour, imagine, and collaborate, which are all essential parts of whole-child development
The Benefits of Outdoor and Nature-Based
Play
Research consistently shows that natural play environments support children’s physical, social, and emotional growth When children are given opportunities to explore their environment and take safe, manageable risks, they develop a deeper understanding of their abilities and a stronger sense of independence.Time spent in nature-based settings is linked to things such as: lower anxiety, improved emotional regulaion, increased resilience and confidence, and stronger empathy.
A Space for Curiosity, Creativity, and Growth
Our playground is more than just a place to play, it it is a living, evolving learning environment where children can explore the natural world, build friendships, test their ideas, and develop confidence. Each day brings new discoveries, new adventures, and new opportunities for children to learn through the joy of play
Ari Mulligan Wins IBMA Student Excellence Award!
by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator
We’re excited to share that for the second year in a row, an SIA fifth grader has won the prestigious IBMA Student Excellence Award! The IBMA (International Baccalaureate MidAtlantic) is a regional association of International Baccalaureate World Schools that supports collaboration and excellence in IB programs across Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D C , Delaware, and Pennsylvania This award honors students who truly represent the values of the International Baccalaureate (IB), and we couldn’t be prouder of Ari Mulligan for being selected as this years Primary Years Program Recipient!
As part of the application, students reflect on a service project and their growth through the IB Learner Profile. Ari shared how participating in a community service project helped him understand the power of empathy, teamwork, and taking action to make a difference It was a great example of the IB mission in action; caring about others and helping build a more peaceful world
This year’s recipient, Ari Mulligan, exemplifies what it means to be a caring and reflective IB learner. As Ari shared: “In 2023 and 2024, for my birthday, instead of getting presents, I asked everyone to bring canned food. I took the food to the food pantry and stocked the shelves. The volunteers there told me who the food helped. This showed me the importance of intercultural understanding and respect. I learned that helping someone in need is better than getting something for your own benefit.”
Through this meaningful service, Ari demonstrated the IB mission in action; developing empathy, understanding different perspectives, and choosing to make a positive impact
We are so proud of Ari for representing SIA with compassion, leadership, and heart. Two years in a row; what an incredible achievement!
Ari proudly receives his IBMA Student Excellence Award in recognition of his hard work and dedication.
In 2023, Ari and his brother helped stock the pantry at Jewish Family Service with donations from Ari’s birthday, supporting families in need.
SIA Fifth Grade Exhibition: Inquiry in Action by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB®
Coordinator
Our Fifth Grade Exhibition was a powerful showcase of student voice, choice, and real-world learning in action As the culminating experience of the Primary Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate (IB), the Exhibition challenges students to explore issues that matter, both locally and globally, and take ownership of their learning
1 March 2026
This year, students selected relevant 21st century topics they were passionate about, including driverless cars, sports related issues such as betting, injuries, and athlete compensation, inequities in healthcare and education, and the role of artificial intelligence in education. By choosing their own topics, students demonstrated curiosity, independence, and a deep commitment to understanding complex, real world challenges.
Collaboration was central to the process Students worked alongside junior mentors from The Hague School and senior mentors from our local community, gaining new perspectives and strengthening their ability to think critically They developed thoughtful research questions, conducted interviews with community experts, and applied strong communication skills to gather meaningful insights. Thank you to all of our mentors and community experts who helped make this year's exhibition a success!
The Exhibition culminated in a public presentation where students confidently shared their findings with families, peers, and community members This experience gives fifth graders an opportunity to hone their speaking and presentation skills while demonstrating depth of understanding
The 5th Grade Exhibition is more than a project; it is a celebration of inquiry, collaboration, and growth Through experiences like these, we continue educating future changemakers and nurturing the community experts of tomorrow.
Honzi H. and Andrew D. present their project to Kindergarten.
Hadley K. and Avery G. proudly displaying their research.
Ari M., Ella G. and Lena A. show off their study on AI.
Purim Joy at SIA: Smiles All Around!
by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director
Smiles were everywhere during SIA’s Primary Years Purim celebration! Student joy was unmistakable as they performed the four Purim Mitzvot, enjoyed a festive carnival, and danced to Jewish tunes in a silent disco. The spirit of joy continued when our 3rd–5th graders visited Aviva Pembroke to share Purim cheer with residents. Purim, often called the most joyous of Jewish holidays, reminds us of the importance of experiencing Judaism through happiness and celebration.
In Chapter 100 of Tehillim (Psalms), King David writes, “החמשב ׳ה תא ודבע” we should serve Hashem with joy. At SIA, Judaic experiences and lessons are designed to be joyful all year long, with an extra boost during Purim. Smiles appear when students receive their weekly Shabbat treat, light up when acting out stories from Jewish holidays or the weekly Torah portion, and radiate as they open their Siddurim and engage in prayer. Even small acts, like dropping coins in the Tzedakah box, teach that helping others brings happiness. Jewish joy is alive in our classrooms, on Judaic-themed field trips, and, of course, during holiday celebrations
By providing students with a joyful, engaging Jewish education, we teach them the value of serving G d with happiness and finding delight in Torah study and performing Mitzvot
Fourth graders embraced the joy of Purim,
Avery G. listens intently as the Megillah is read, soaking in the story and spirit of
Henry T. gets creative, bringing Purim to life with his festive artwork.
Teachers Mrs. Anglen, Ms. Plate, and Morah Jo join in the Purim fun. creation, combining creativity and holiday spirit!
SIA Celebrates the Arts: A Night of Creativity and Performance
by Meredith Carnazza, Primary Years Director
SIA’s fifth annual Evening of the Arts took place on Thursday, February 12, at 6:00 p m , bringing together students, families, and faculty for a joyful celebration of creativity and performance. This year’s theme, “Where We Are in Place and Time,” inspired each class to prepare a unique performance that reflected their learning and imagination. Rehearsals began in January, and the dedication of the students and teachers was clearly evident throughout the evening.
The program featured an exciting variety of performances, including songs with choreographed movements, poetry, a wax museum, a cheer performance from our Cheerleading Club, a commercial promoting the Drama Club’s upcoming play, and a student-written play Each performance highlighted the creativity and confidence of our students
In addition to the stage performances, families were invited to explore a beautiful student art show in the Cardo, curated by our art teacher, Ms Blocker The display showcased a wide range of artwork created by students and allowed guests to appreciate the visual arts alongside the evening’s performances.
Through their preparation and performances, students gained valuable experience in stage presence, collaboration, and perseverance. They learned the importance of practice and the courage it takes to perform in front of a large audience. The evening concluded with a very special moment, our first-ever Ensemble Finale. Under the direction of Mrs. Newman, students from EY4 through PY5 performed “The Circle of Life.” Each class contributed by playing a different instrument, creating a powerful and unified musical experience. It was a memorable and inspiring finale to a wonderful evening celebrating the arts at SIA.
A special thank you to the Benjamin Goldberg Foundation for sponsoring this wonderful event and supporting the arts at SIA.
Alexa K. performing “I Hope You Dance” with her class.
Avery G., Ella G. and Mia P. performing a Hamilton inspired Purim Play. Rocky F., Lilliana B., Nolan C. and Emelia S. peforming “Count on Me.”
The SIA Family Glow Run Campaign: Lighting the Way for Community, Philanthropy, and Leadership
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Now in its third year, the SIA Glow Run has become one of the most anticipated events of the school year. What began as a fun and energetic tradition has grown into something even more meaningful, an opportunity for students and families to come together in support of Strelitz International Academy while learning the importance of philanthropy, leadership, and community responsibility
Through the Glow Run Parent Campaign, our students experience firsth and how generosity and collective support help strengthen their school. Students enthusiastically create their own fundraising pages and reach out to family and friends, learning valuable lessons about leadership, gratitude, and the power of working together toward a shared goal Thank you to every family who participated in the SIA Parent Campaign and helped model this culture of generosity for our students
This year’s Glow Run campaign kicked off the new year with tremendous energy and excitement Throughout a month filled with Spirit Days, classroom enthusiasm, and the highly anticipated Glow Run event itself, students proudly rallied support for their school. Adding to the excitement was a generous $25,000 matching gift from John and Renee Strelitz, doubling the impact of every dollar raised and inspiring students to aim even higher.
Their enthusiasm paid off. To date, the Glow Run has raised $25,300, supporting scholarships, innovative programming, and the talented educators who make SIA such a special place to learn and grow Even more exciting, in total for the year, SIA families have contributed almost $35,000 in support of the school.
Mazel tov to our Top Three Students who each raised more than $2,000:
Lincoln Kennedy (EY3): Mom - Lauren enthusiastically reached out to friends and family to support the Glow Run. Altogether, those gifts added up to an incredible $2,705.
Niv (PY5) & Shai Rubin (PY1): Naturally competitive, the boys encouraged their parents to share their fundraising page and even created videos explaining why they love their school. Their Glow Run page said: “There are so many reasons we love our school Strelitz International Academy the lifelong friendships, caring teachers, the challenging IB curriculum, and the Hebrew classes ”
The Glaser Girls added a sweet twist to their strategy by promising cookies to donors. Their creative approach worked beautifully and demonstrated another important lesson in philanthropy: showing appreciation to those who give.
The Glow Run is more than a fundraiser. It is a celebration of school spirit, community partnership, and the generosity that sustains our school. Watching our students step forward as ambassadors for SIA is a powerful reminder that leadership begins early and that philanthropy is a lifelong value.
The fifth grade boys were ready to glow!
Mr. Leiderman pumping up the Early Years 4 students for their run!
SIA Cheerleaders rallying up our students to run.
Lena & Johnny Aftel
Joseph Anderson
Mallory Antonucci
Corah, Lilliana & Rowen
Beasley
Haley Belman
Belote Family
Bernadt Family
Omar Bernal
Gavin Blanks
Isabella Brent
Annie Carden
Nolan & Miles Casson
Leni Cohen
Levi & Lior Cohen
Thomas & Andrew Dodge
Levi Foleck
Alex Friedman
Maxine Freundlich
Ella Gladstein
Noa & Zoe Glaser
Liam & Mollie Glassman
Avery & Mara Goldstein
Willow Gordon
Gloria & Miriam Graves
Miriam Greer
Levi Guritzky
Ben Hassan
Liel Itzhak
Guin Jung
Hadley Kaprielian
Alexa Kass
Audrey & Theodore Kastens
Lincoln Kennedy
Luke & Zach Kingsland
Asher & Eliana Lawson
Paige Le
Emily Lord
Declan Lozada
Quinn Margulies
Addie & Somaya Mitchell
Rosangela Morales
Asher & Ari Mulligan
Isaac Nerem
Eleanor Norman
Lia & Ben Oliszewski
Josephine & Angeline
Persaud
Makinley Rayner
Camille Rivers
Daniel & Sarah Rosenbaum
Niv & Shai Rubin
Nora Schroder
Benjamin Silverstein
Levi & Aviah Slawsky
The St. Pierre Family
Jackson Teasley
Henry & Theo Trem
Avalon & Liam Turner
Eliora Uduaghan
Harper & Brynn Waranch
Palmer Washburn
Avi & Dani Weinstein
Phineas & Arieh Williams
Asher & Emmett Yaary
June 30, 2025 - July 1, 2026
Strelitz International Academy
Madeline C. shining bright & ready to run!
Strelitz Moments
1.Grayson M. exploring texture, patterns, and creativity with our Bubble Wrap Window Painting activity while building strength and coordination along the way!
3. Early Years 2 enjoying story time with Morah Tori.
2. Bernadette Z. and Theodore K. bring in Shabbat as Ima and Aba.
4. Declan L. and Malex M. reading fiction stories together. They then answered questions from the story in complete sentences.
7. Benji B., Madeline C. and Willow B. present their project on music to their classmates.
8. Quinn M., Mia P. and Harper W. pose with Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Carnazza during the Purim Celebration Goosechase.
5. Gideon B. exploring textures, strengthening fine motor skills, and letting creativity soar with shaving cream play!"
6. Eliora U. and Lior C. with their hands-on STEM project.
PY5 Students Shine in Battle of the Books! by
Meredith Carnazza, Primary Years Director
This winter, our PY5 students dove into the Battle of the Books, an exciting reading competition organized by the Virginia Beach Public Library. Designed to celebrate students who love to read, the event challenges teams to read a list of preselected titles and compete in fast-paced, trivia-style “battles.”
The Books
Our fifth graders explored seven captivating titles:
The Accidental Apprentice by Amanda Foody
Any Day with You by Mae Respicio Clairvoyance by Kristiana Kahakauwila
Popcorn by Rob Harrell
Show Me a Sign by Ann Clare LeZotte
A Strange Thing Happened in Cherry Hall by Jasmine Warga
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Two Teams, One Goal
SIA formed two enthusiastic teams: The Enchanted Readers (Avi, Ari, Avery, and Hadley) and The Knight Readers (Niv, Levi, Quinn, Lena, and Harper). Guided by passionate team managers Ms. Plate and Mrs. Graves, the students met every Tuesday during lunch. They enjoyed it so much they added Thursday sessions as well lunch became their literary playground!
Competition Highlights
Round 1 took place on Tuesday, February 10th, at the Central Library The Knight Readers placed 3rd, while The Enchanted Readers finished 1st, advancing to Round 2
Round 2, held on February 24th at the Central Library, brought fierce competition Out of 87 teams in the entire competition, The Enchanted Readers finished in the top 12, an outstanding achievement! Even more inspiring, The Knight Readers continued to meet after their round ended to help The Enchanted Readers prepare, showing true teamwork and school spirit.
Even more inspiring, The Knight Readers continued to meet after their round ended to help The Enchanted Readers prepare for the next stage. True teamwork and school spirit in action!
Battle of the Books Teacher Edition!
The excitement didn’t stop there The PY5 students loved the experience so much, they created a Battle of the Books – Teacher Edition, inviting all staff to join in. Students took the lead as question creators, MCs, floor judges, scorekeepers, and timekeepers. This edition featured two books:
The Misfits: The Royal Conundrum by Lisa Yee
The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels by Beth Lincoln
With curiosity, creativity, and teamwork, our PY5 students turned reading into a community celebration, proving that literacy can be fun, collaborative, and inspiring for all ages
SIA Fifth Graders at the Central Library on February 10, 2026
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