STRELITZ STRELITZ
Head of School's Message
Heather Moore, Head of School
Dear
Strelitz International Academy Families,
As we close another remarkable school year, I find myself reflecting with immense gratitude and pride on all that our school community has accomplished together. This year has been one of tremendous growth, innovation, and connection—a year that truly exemplifies the spirit, resilience, and shared purpose that make SIA such a special place.
One of our most significant milestones this year was our successful reauthorization as an IB® World School for another five years. This achievement affirms our commitment to providing a rigorous, inquiry-based education that nurtures globally minded learners and ensures that our students continue to benefit from the highest standards of teaching and learning.
We also embraced important academic advancements. This year, we successfully implemented MAP Growth testing, providing us with valuable tools to better understand and support each student’s individual learning journey.We launched a new reading curriculum for students in Kindergarten through second grade, strengthening foundational literacy skills and fostering joyful, confident readers.
Recognizing the importance of supporting the whole child, we introduced new Social Emotional Learning (SEL) classes for students in grades K–5. These classes have given our students dedicated time and space to build self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and interpersonal skills, essential tools that will serve them both inside and outside the classroom.
Our fifth graders stepped into an exciting new leadership role this year as members of our first-ever Safety Patrol. This opportunity has not only encouraged responsibility and leadership but has also fostered meaningful relationships between our oldest and youngest students. Watching these bonds develop has been one of the many joyful reminders of the caring community we are building together.
Innovation and creativity also flourished in exciting new ways. We launched our first-ever Podcast Club, where students had the opportunity to create, record, and produce their very own podcasts. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and confidence in sharing their voices demonstrated the incredible potential of student-driven learning.
Another highlight of the year was the opening of our beautiful new natural playground. This thoughtfully designed space offers our students opportunities for imaginative play, exploration, and connection with the natural world—an environment that reflects our commitment to whole-child development.
Strengthening our partnership with families has remained a central priority, and this year we created several meaningful opportunities for parents to connect and engage. Through celebrations such as Purple Up Day, honoring military children, and RED (Remember Everyone Deployed) Day, we brought families together to recognize and support important members of our community. We also hosted in-person parent SEL workshops and early years parenting sessions focused on brain development, equipping families with valuable tools to support their children’s growth. Additionally, our new Kindergarten Parent Group helped families navigate the important transition from preschool to elementary school with confidence and community.
Our school’s future is also brighter than ever thanks to the incredible generosity of our community. This year, we officially launched our Endowment Campaign, and I am thrilled to share that we have already secured more than $250,000 in pledges. In addition, we exceeded our Annual Donor Fund goal, thanks to the extraordinary support of our trustees, faculty, parents, and the greater Jewish community. Their generosity ensures that we can continue to provide exceptional opportunities for our students for years to come.
Simply put, we have had an amazing year.
As I look ahead to next year, which will be my final year as SIA’s Head of School, I do so with both excitement and deep appreciation. I look forward to celebrating our cherished traditions while also creating many new opportunities for our students, families, and faculty. It will be a year to honor all that we have built together and to continue moving forward with purpose, joy, and gratitude.
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey. It is truly a privilege to lead and serve this incredible community.
For those looking to stay inspired and informed over the summer, here are a few recommended reads:
Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results
“No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving-every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.”
Warm regards,
H Head of School
“A practical and inspirational guide to stopping destructive patterns and imprisoning thoughts to find freedom and joy in life—now updated to address the challenges of the pandemic and a world in crisis.
World renowned psychologist and internationally bestselling author Edith Eger’s powerful New York Times bestselling book The Choice told the story of her survival in the concentration camps, her escape, healing, and her journey to freedom. Readers around the world wrote to tell her how The Choice moved them and inspired them to confront their own past and try to heal their pain. They asked her to write another, more prescriptive book. Eger’s second book, The Gift, expands on her message of healing and provides a hands-on guide that gently encourages readers to change the thoughts and behaviors that may be keeping them imprisoned in the past.”
Graduation Speech 2026
Shayna Friedman - Class of 2019
"Message to the SIA Graduates - Class of 2026"
Hello, graduating Class of 2026. My name is Shayna Friedman I am a senior at Kempsville High School, and in just a week, I will also be graduating I am so honored to have the privilege to speak to you all today
I remember being in your shoes back in 2019 I was nervous, happy, and excited for what was to come I remember the summer before entering middle school I was anxious about stepping into a completely new environment. Having classes with more than just seven people felt overwhelming at the time. But deep down, I knew I was capable of handling whatever was ahead of me, and I know all of you are as well.
When I think about my elementary school years, a lot of memories come to mind. One that stands out is singing Hatikvah every morning. At the time, it just felt like part of the routine. But looking back now, I realize it was something much bigger. Hatikvah means hope. To me, it represents the hope people carry through their lives, especially when things feel uncertain. That is something I hope you all carry with you as you move forward in this next chapter.
One thing I have realized as I have gotten older is how easy it is to take those kinds of moments for granted Singing Hatikvah, reading prayers, and learning Hebrew every day just felt normal Everyone around me shared those same experiences, so I didn't stop to think about how meaningful they actually were
But I want to tell you what happens when you leave this building. When I went to middle school, I realized that not everyone has the same foundation we all share. I was suddenly in a place where I was one of the few Jewish students. I had to realize that the things I thought were "normal" were actually gifts.
The reason I felt more mature than other kids my age was because of this school, the place I knew as HAT and you know as SIA I already knew how to talk to teachers and how to be a leader. This school didn't just teach me how to be a student. It taught me how to be a person who is proud of where I came from.
This place will always feel like home to me. Even now, when I think about walking through these halls, I feel nostalgic. Even though I haven't been a student here in a long time, I still know my way around like I did in 2019 I can picture the classrooms, the rabbi's lessons, and the recitals where we sang for our families
Those moments might have felt small then, but they stay with you. They shaped me into a person who is proud to be Jewish and proud of where I came from.
So, as you all graduate today, I have one piece of advice. You do not have to realize the value of every moment while you are in it, but try not to overlook them either And before you move on to your next chapter, make sure to thank everyone who helped you get here whether that is your teachers, your parents, or your grandparents They are a huge part of the journey you are celebrating today.
Don't be afraid to share your voice or your perspective in middle school, because this school has prepared you for it. Like me, one day, you will see how much this place actually shaped you
Leave here today proud of who you are and excited for who you are becoming
Thank you, and congratulations to the Class of 2026!
Shayna Friedman, Hebrew Academy of Tidewater / Strelitz International Academy Class of 2019
SIA Celebrates the Class of 2026
by Ally St. Pierre, Admissions & Marketing Manager
Graduation is always a meaningful and emotional milestone at Strelitz International Academy. For the fifth-grade students, many of whom have been part of the SIA community since infancy, it is a time to reflect on their growth, celebrate their accomplishments, and prepare to spread their wings as they embark on their middle school journey.
On Wednesday, June 3, SIA proudly hosted its annual graduation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. Head of School Heather Moore opened the program with reflections on the successes of the past year and shared exciting plans for the future. The ceremony also marked a special leadership transition as Amy Weinstein presided over her final Board of Trustees meeting, welcomed new board members, and officially installed incoming Board President Steve Zuckerman.
Student Government Association President Ari Mulligan and Vice President Andrew Dodge then delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of their classmates. They reflected on their International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme Exhibition, which focused on technology, and expressed gratitude to the teachers, both past and present, who guided and supported them throughout their years at SIA.
“We have had so many amazing memories from this year.” Andrew said. “Our class loved our time with Mrs. Bruns, all our field trips, and all of our extracurriculars at this school. This Class has become like siblings. We have had such a great time at SIA, and even though we are splitting up, I hope we will remain in touch. We will continue to use what we have learned here in the future.”
This year’s Commencement Speaker was Shayna Friedman, a member of SIA’s Class of 2019 and a recent graduate of Kempsville High School Class of 2026. Shayna offered heartfelt wisdom and encouragement to the graduates, drawing on her own experiences and cherished memories of SIA.
“When I think about my elementary school years,” said Shayna, “a lot of memories come to mind. One that stands out is singing Hatikvah every morning. At the time, it just felt like part of the routine. But looking back now, I realize it was something much bigger. Hatikvah means hope. To me, it represents the hope people carry through their lives, especially when things feel uncertain. That is something I hope you all carry with you as you move forward into this next chapter. I hope you keep the ability to stay hopeful no matter the challenges you face.”
The graduation ceremony was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of an SIA education—one grounded in community, compassion, Jewish values, and a love of lifelong learning. As the Class of 2026 turns the page to its next chapter, the entire SIA community celebrates their achievements and looks forward to all they will accomplish in the years ahead.
Mazel Tov to the Graduation Award Winners:
Abe and Anna Rudolph Award for Excellence in Mathematics— Lena Aftel
Rabbi Charles J. Mantel Memorial Award for Excellence in Judaic Studies - Niv Rubin
Harold and Jacqueline Spiro Goodman Award for Excellence in General Studies —Avi Weinstein
Hyman J. Stromberg Memorial Award for Academic Excellence— Ari Mulligan
I. James London Memorial Athlete of the Year Award - Levi Cohen
Lorna Legum Rising Star Award - Hadley Kaprielian
Rabbi Philip Pincus Memorial Award for Excellence in Hebrew Studies - Harper Waranch
Shirley Helfant and Ruth Josephberg Award for Visual Arts—Ella Gladstein
SIA Inquirer IB® Learner Profile Award. - Lena Aftel
SIA Inquirer IB® Learner Profile Award. - Levi Cohen
SIA Reflective IB® Learner Profile Award. - Andrew Dodge
SIA Balanced IB® Learner Profile Award. - Ella Gladstein
SIA Caring IB® Learner Profile Award - Avery Goldstein
SIA Risk-Taker IB® Learner Profile Award- Honzi Hodicky
SIA Thinker IB® Learner Profile Award- Hadley Kaprielian
SIA Communicator IB® Learner Profile Award- Quinn Margulies
SIA Distinguished IB® Scholar Award- Ari Mulligan
SIA Performing Arts Award- Avery Goldstein
SIA Risk-Taker IB® Learner Profile Award- Mia Pinto
SIA Principled IB® Learner Profile Award- Niv Rubin
SIA Open-Minded IB® Learner Profile Award- Harper Waranch
SIA Knowledgeable IB® Learner Profile Award- Avi Weinstein
Members of the SIA Class of 2025 will attend the following schools:
Cape Henry Collegiate
Great Neck Middle School
Kempsville Middle School
Norfolk Academy
Old Donation School
Plaza Middle School
Avery Goldstein poses with her diploma with Mrs. Cornelius, Mrs. Carnazza and Mrs. Moore.
Summer Ideas for IB® Students
by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator
Summer can feel a little complicated for IB® families. On one hand, it’s tempting to fill the calendar with enrichment camps, reading goals, and educational activities. On the other hand, preschool and elementary aged kids also need time to rest, play, and simply be kids.
The good news is that keeping children engaged over the summer doesn’t have to look like recreating school at home. In fact, some of the most meaningful learning happens when kids have ownership, freedom, and space to explore their own interests. For IB® learners especially, summer can be a perfect opportunity to nurture curiosity, agency, and a love of learning in a more relaxed way.
One of the easiest ways to keep learning alive over the summer is through reading. But that doesn’t mean assigning long book lists or turning every reading session into a comprehension exercise. Agency matters. Let kids choose what they read, even if their choices seem random or repetitive. Graphic novels, joke books, nature magazines, cookbooks, sports statistics, animal encyclopedias, audiobooks; it all counts. When children get to follow their interests, reading becomes connected to joy rather than obligation. A child who spends three weeks obsessively reading about sharks is still building vocabulary, comprehension, and research skills. More importantly, they’re learning that their interests matter.
Family reading time can help too. Visiting the library regularly, creating cozy reading spaces at home, or listening to audiobooks during car rides can make literacy feel like a natural part of summer rather than another assignment. Summer is also a great time for children to try something they don’t normally get to explore during the school year. It doesn’t need to be impressive or expensive. It could be learning to bake their favorite treat or planting vegetables. What matters most is the process of learning, experimenting, and making mistakes.
Not every moment of summer needs to be productive. Children benefit from boredom, downtime, unstructured play, and slow mornings. Those spaces often spark creativity and imagination in ways overscheduled days cannot. Some of the healthiest summer memories come from running through sprinklers, making forts with friends, and family movie nights. Rest is not separate from learning. Emotional well-being, connection, and play are essential parts of child development too.
IB® education places so much value on inquiry and reflection, and summer offers space for children to discover what learning feels like outside of formal academics. Sometimes the best learning happens when there’s no grade attached. At the end of the day, summer doesn’t need to become a race to stay ahead. If children finish the summer feeling loved, relaxed, curious, and excited to keep exploring the world, that’s already a successful summer.
Our EY2 students checked out the pond and questioned how the water fountains “shoot so high into the sky!”
Reflections on a Year of Growth
by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director
As I reflect on this school year, it is impossible not to feel an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for all that our school community has accomplished together. From exciting new spaces to beloved traditions and meaningful learning experiences, this year has truly been one to remember. One of the most exciting highlights of the year was the opening of our new natural playground.
Designed to inspire creativity, exploration, and connection with nature, the space quickly became a favorite for students and teachers alike. Whether children were balancing on logs, building with loose parts, learning how to channel water, or simply enjoying the outdoors, the playground brought learning to life in so many new and meaningful ways.
This addition reflects our continued commitment to play-based learning and to creating environments where children can take risks, solve problems, collaborate, and develop confidence through hands-on experiences.
This year also marked the second annual schoolwide Friendsgiving celebration, an event that beautifully reflects our values of gratitude, belonging, and community. Students and staff worked together to prepare dishes, gather around shared meals, and participate in a meaningful action project by collecting Thanksgiving foods for families in need. In the midst of busy schedules and daily routines, Friendsgiving offered an opportunity to pause, connect, and celebrate the spirit of giving together. The event has quickly become a cherished tradition and a favorite memory for many within our school community.
Our second annual Hanukkah Parade was another joyful success and has quickly become a treasured school tradition. The creativity, excitement, and school spirit on display were truly incredible. From imaginative float themes to music, dancing, and festive costumes, the parade brought together students, families, and faculty in a celebration filled with pride, joy, and connection. Rooted in both Jewish values and the IB® philosophy, the event encouraged students to express themselves as creative communicators and caring community members while deepening their understanding of tradition, identity, and belonging. More than just a parade, it highlighted the warmth and energy of our community and the meaningful ways we celebrate Jewish life together.
Behind the scenes, this year marked a major academic milestone with the creation of our new Early Years Learning Progression. Springboarded from the standards and developmental benchmarks of the Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program (VKRP), this important work represents hours of collaboration, reflection, and intentional planning by our Early Years faculty and leadership team. This new Learning Progression was designed to ensure continuity, purpose, and growth across every age level while honoring the unique developmental journey of each child. By clearly outlining age-appropriate skills and learning goals, it provides teachers with a thoughtful framework for supporting students in meaningful ways and strengthens communication with families about children’s progress and development. Most importantly, this work helps ensure that our students build the strong foundational skills, confidence, and independence needed for Kindergarten readiness and long-term success as learners. It reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence in early childhood education and to continuously evolving and strengthening our school community.
While these major milestones stand out, some of the most meaningful moments of the year happened quietly in classrooms, hallways, and on playgrounds each day. We celebrated friendships formed, milestones reached, challenges overcome, and countless moments of curiosity, laughter, creativity, and care.
This year, our students painted, planted, danced, built, questioned, explored, and grew in ways both big and small. Our teachers continued to bring passion, dedication, and heart into every classroom, and our families remained invaluable partners in creating such a strong and supportive community!
Grady K and Rylan R enjoying the new playground together!
Gideon B checking out his delcious plate of food prepared for Friendsgiving!
Aiden N dressed in his animal gear for the Second Annual Chanukah Parade!
MAP Testing Updates
by Meredith Carnazza, Primary Years Director
This school year, our school implemented a new standardized assessment program, MAP Growth by NWEA. Previously, students in grades 1–5 participated in the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) assessments once each spring. While the ERB provided helpful information, administering the assessment only at the end of the school year limited its usefulness in guiding day-to-day instruction and student support.
MAP Growth is an adaptive assessment designed for students in grades K–5 and is administered three times each year. This testing schedule allows teachers to regularly monitor student progress and set both class-wide and individual goals after each testing cycle. The data helps teachers adjust instruction, identify students who may benefit from enrichment opportunities or additional support, and guide school-wide academic goals. In addition, the Student Support Team uses MAP Growth data to inform intervention and enrichment programs, ensuring that instruction is tailored to meet the needs of all learners.
MAP Growth measures academic progress using the RIT scale and national growth norms.
RIT Scale: MAP Growth uses the RIT (Rasch Unit) scale, which typically ranges from 100–350, to measure a student’s academic achievement level independently of grade level. Changes in a student’s RIT score over time indicate academic growth.
Growth Norms: Growth is not based on arbitrary grade-level expectations. NWEA provides national growth norms developed from data collected from millions of students. These norms allow teachers to set realistic and personalized growth goals based on each student’s starting score and academic progress over time.
Each student’s growth data is tracked across five consecutive testing periods, allowing teachers and families to see long-term progress and trends in student learning. We are excited to continue using this valuable tool to support student achievement, strengthen instruction, and help every child reach their full potential.
Strings & Music Performance
by Meredith Carnazza, Primary Years Director
After careful consideration, SIA decided to bring the Strings & Music Performance back as its own show in 2026. This proved to be a wonderful decision and truly allowed our Strings & Music teachers, Alexandria Marlin and Michael Newman, to showcase the incredible talents and hard work of their students.
Our kindergarten students delighted the audience with "Rest Position Song," "Playing Position Song," and "Pop Goes the Weasel." First grade performed "Hot Bagels," "Boil Them Cabbage Down," and "Bolo de Limão" alongside several fifth-grade students. Second grade charmed the crowd with "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," while third grade performed "Lightly Row" and "I Am a Fine Musician."
Our fourth- and fifth-grade students did an amazing job performing "Dragonhunter," demonstrating their growing musical skill and confidence. To conclude the performance, students in grades 2–5 came together for a beautiful ensemble performance of Suite of Whistle, Wheat & Ragtime Treats, arranged by Michael Newman.
The performance was a wonderful celebration of our students' dedication, creativity, and love of music, and we are so proud of all they accomplished on stage.
Gabe S with his violin in hand after a wonderful performance of “Hot Bagels ”
Hadley K , Willow B and Avi W performing “Dragonhunter ”
Shavuot Mitzvah Fair
by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director
This year, Shavuot celebrated 3,338 years since the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. Our ancestors accepted the gift of the Torah from Hashem, and to this very day, we continue to study the Torah, cherish it, and hold it close The Torah serves as guidance from Hashem on how to live our lives and make the world a better place
SIA’s Primary Years students prepared for Shavuot with a celebration sponsored by the Glasser family in memory of Richard Glasser Richard’s mantra was, “Do the right thing, the right way, for the right reason ” Richard understood the value in being a “mentsch” and leading a life based on values and doing good in the world The Torah, which teaches us how to do the right thing, was given on Shavuot, making this holiday the perfect time to honor Richard’s memory.
The Shavuot celebration included a variety of activities designed to foster a love of Torah, Jewish tradition, and helping others. Students learned to help families in need by packing lunches to be distributed to families in the ForKids family shelter Students created beautiful paper flowers for a Shavuot service at a local senior living community, encouraging students to value and brighten the lives of local seniors. Mt. Sinai cupcakes, complete with flower sprinkles and alef-bet cookies, served as a reminder to serve Hashem with joy. The celebration was rounded out with students decorating and filling vases with flowers as part of the tradition to decorate with flowers for Shavuot
utiful way for students to recognize the gift of the Torah and learn how to put Torah
Raleigh A., Liam K. and Benji B. decorating Shavuot flowers.
Haley B. and Thomas D. continue packing bags of lunches.
Bryson J. decorating his cupcake for Shavuot.
Scarlett S. and Noa G. decorating Mt. Sinai themed cupcakes.
Nolan C. and Ozzy B. packing lunches for ForKids.
Lori and Michael Glasser during the Shavuot Mitzvah Fair.
Strelitz Moments
1.Shayna L. is ready for takeoff! Standing in front of a photo of Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, she kicked off our Yom Ha'atzmaut celebration with excitement and Israeli pride
3.Johnny A. and his mom smile proudly as they celebrate Johnny receiving his new Chumash, a meaningful milestone in his Jewish learning journey
2.Holly Utt, Nettie Rosenbaum, and Evalyn Horowitz put their creativity to work during a LEGO activity at Elyssa Brinn's Brain Under Construction parent workshop.
4.Jackson T., Palmer W., Asher M., and Thomas D. show off their third-grade spirit in red as they enjoy a fun-filled day of games and friendly competition during Field Day
5.Aviah S. cools off with a frozen treat while enjoying this year's Pizza Picnic, one of SIA's favorite end-ofyear traditions.
6.Dani W. and Thomas D. proudly pose with their Shark Tank creation, showcasing their creativity, innovation, and teamwork.
7.Ella G. and Julianna J. sit together during the final Early Years Shabbat of the school year, where the fifth graders were invited back to sing their favorite Shabbat songs one last time before heading off to middle school.
8.Alex F., Sonny B., and Moria K. sing proudly during their First Grade Siddur Presentation.
11.Willow B. proudly displays her Certificate of Victory after a job well done.
10.Joseph U. dives into the foamy fun during this year's exciting Field Day celebration.
12.Tasan S. and Liam T. celebrate learning at the Aleph Bet Celebration.
9.Talia R. explores the joy of music during a fun-filled day in the infant classroom.
15.Ezra
enjoys a hands-on sensory experience with shaving cream.
16.Lola L. celebrates Israel's Independence Day during our joyful Yom HaAtzmaut celebration.
13.Noah E. shares an invite with Hadley K. to the final EY Shabbat Sing-along of the school year.
14.Daniel S. and Luke K. proudly present a poem during our Military Shabbat celebration.
W.
Supporting Military Families at SIA
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Strelitz International Academy supports a large population of military families, including those serving in the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, NATO, the IDF, and other branches. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges military children face including frequent relocations, new environments, and extended parental deployments, the school has made it a priority to ensure every child feels supported, connected, and valued.
In response to ongoing global conflicts, extended deployments and the increasing demands on military families, Strelitz has expanded its efforts to provide meaningful, proactive support. Through thoughtful programming and a strong sense of community, the school is creating an environment where military children can thrive both emotionally and academically.
On Wednesday, April 15, Strelitz proudly recognized Military Child Day with a purple t-shirt school-wide show of support. The following Friday, students and faculty wore red in honor of “Remember Everyone Deployed” (RED Day), demonstrating unity and appreciation for those serving. The celebration included a special Shabbat dedicated to recognizing military children.
Strelitz also created intentional spaces for connection among both students and parents. A New Parent Coffee welcomed military families, offering a warm and supportive environment to build relationships and share experiences. Additionally, a special lunch for military students provided a safe, welcoming space to connect with peers and engage in meaningful conversations with school counselor Michelle Fenley.
These impactful initiatives were supported by dedicated parents like programs to life. Reflecting on the experience, Casson shared, “By fostering boys a place where they feel understood on multiple levels: their faith, with both. That sense of connection and belonging is something we don’t character and we are so incredibly grateful for that,” highlighting the family.
Through its unwavering commitment to community, compassion, and a standard for how schools can support and uplift military families, journey begins.
Nurse Ellie and her daughters Avery and Mara Goldstein
Levi G with his military child certificate on RED Friday
Our PY students enjoyed a special Military Kids lunch
Save the Date for the Golf Tournament of the Year!
The 38th Annual Strelitz International Golf Tournament, proudly known as the "Bob Josephberg Classic," co-chaired by Tim Thornton and Ross Bangel, is set for September 2, 2026 at the Virginia Beach National Golf Club.
The Annual Golf Tournament presents the opportunity for businesses and individuals to show their support of the school’s mission and make a significant impact in helping to support student scholarships, faculty development and quality programming.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $12,000, catering to a variety of giving levels. The event is open to all golf enthusiasts and volunteers, promising a day packed with excitement, including raffle prizes, 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!
Staff Spotlight
TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
This year, we are proud to recognize two outstanding educators at Strelitz International Academy as our Teachers of the Year, each representing the heart of our school community.
Our Early Years Teacher of the Year, Nicole Bernal, inspires curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning through her engaging, thoughtful, and innovative approach to teaching. Our Primary Years Teacher of the Year, Tiala Blocker, rings warmth, patience, and creativity to her classroom, fostering a joyful and nurturing environment where our youngest learners feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow.
We are so grateful for both Nicole and Tiala for the dedication, passion, and lasting impact they bring to our students and our school each day.
ADA R. MICHAELS FACULTY DEVELOPMENT FUND
The Ada R. Michaels Faculty Development Fund supports SIA faculty in attending classes, workshops, and conferences that enhance their professional growth and enrich student learning at Strelitz International Academy.
This year, we are excited to recognize Carin Simon as she heads to a development conference. We look forward to the insights, ideas, and inspiration she will bring back to share with both faculty and students in the upcoming school year, continuing our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK
At Strelitz International Academy, Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 was a joyful celebration of the educators who make learning meaningful every day. Students and families shared heartfelt notes, small gifts, and thoughtful surprises throughout the week, filling the school with gratitude and appreciation. It was a beautiful reminder of the strong community and lasting impact of our dedicated teachers.
Nicole Bernal and Tiala Blocker, our 2026 SIA Teachers of the Year.
Abby Hubert, Leeraz Kremisi and Kiara McCray enjoying sweet treats during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Student Shoutouts!
Past & Present
Adelina M., Water Awareness Calendar
We are thrilled to announce that one of our talented students, Adelina M. from second grade, has been selected as a winner in the Virginia Beach Public Utilities Water Awareness Calendar competition!
Adelina’s artwork, which beautifully highlights the importance of water conservation, will be featured in next year’s calendar and shared with households and schools across the city. This recognition celebrates not only her creativity and artistic talent, but also her strong understanding of environmental responsibility.
We are incredibly proud of Adelina’s achievement and the thoughtful way she represents Strelitz International Academy through her work.
We loved welcoming alumni Ari Simon, Nate Simon, Elijah Muhlendorf, Asher Guthrie, and Shayna Friedman back to SIA! It’s always special to see former students return to campus, reconnect with teachers, and share all they’ve been up to. Hearing about their future plans is a meaningful reminder of the lasting SIA community they continue to be part of long after graduation.
Mrs. Joan Kaplan London: Supporting SIA for decades through a meaningful endowment gift
by Carin Simon, Director of
Advancement
When I recently sat down with Joan Kaplan London, it quickly became clear that although she retired years ago, her connection to Strelitz International Academy remains as strong as ever. As she reflected on her years at the school, she shared stories not only about SIA’s growth, but also about the deeply personal decision to create an endowment in memory of her husband, Jimmy London, z”l.
Joan was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and spent decades at Strelitz International Academy, beginning in the mid-1970s and continuing through the early 2000s. After the birth of her third child, she was invited to work part-time in admissions. What began as a small role quickly grew. Joan went on to build the school’s admissions department and later became Director of General Studies.
The school became a central part of her life, and even today, she speaks about it with deep pride and affection. She has watched SIA grow into an anchor of the Tidewater Jewish community and an educational home for so many families.
“SIA is so important,” Joan shared. “In order to attract Jewish leaders to Tidewater, we must have a Jewish day school for their children.”
In 1996, after the untimely passing of her husband, I. James London, Joan made a decision that would connect his memory to the school in a lasting way.
Jimmy loved the outdoors and sports. To honor that part of his life, Joan established an endowment in his memory that created SIA’s Athlete of the Year Award. Each year, the graduating students look forward to the announcement of the winner at SIA’s Fifth Grade Graduation. Each year the name of the recipient is added to a plaque outside the gymnasium, a meaningful tradition that continues to this day.
Joan’s gift is an example of how an endowment works. An endowment is a fund established with a gift that is invested over time. Donors can contribute to it all at once or build it gradually. The fund is held at the Strelitz International Academy’s Foundation and generates earnings each year that is then used to support the school’s annual programs and experiences.
In Joan’s case, her endowment continues to support the Athlete of the Year Award, ensuring that Jimmy’s love of sports and the spirit he brought to life are remembered year after year.
At the same time, gifts like these help strengthen the school itself, providing steady, reliable support that allows SIA to continue growing and serving future generations of students.
For Joan, the decision was both personal and practical: a way to honor her beloved husband Jimmy London, of blessed memory, and a way to support the school that had meant so much to her life.
And years later, her gift is still doing exactly that.
Joan London and her grandchildren.
Joan and Jimmy London
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