Strelitz- April 2024

IB® Transdisciplinary Theme: Sharing the Planet

Strelitz Magazine- April 2024

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

Head of School’s Message

Cultivating Creativity: Fine Arts at Strelitz International Academy

“What Happened After Once Upon a Time ”

Unleashing Creativity in the Classroom: The Power of Provocation in Third Grade Songwriting

AI at SIA

Spotlight on Chumash Tu B’Shevat

Blossoming Into Spring!

Purim Celebrations

Strelitz Moments

Special Speakers & Professional Development Experiences

Alumni Corner

Student Glow Run Illuminates SIA Parent Campaign

Parent Volunteer Organization

Upcoming Events

Flash from the Past!

Head of School’s Message

Heather Moore

Dear Strelitz International Academy Community,

As we approach the spring season, I am excited to share with you an important milestone in our journey as an educational institution – our upcoming reaccreditation visit by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS) in April. This process is a significant moment for us, highlighting our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in providing an outstanding education for our students

Accreditation is not just a routine procedure; it is a thorough assessment of our school's standards, practices, and educational outcomes. It underscores our dedication to meeting and exceeding the highest standards of educational quality and effectiveness. Pursuing accreditation reflects our steadfast commitment to offering our students the best possible learning environment, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

For parents, accreditation offers assurance that their children are enrolled in a school that meets nationally recognized standards of excellence It signifies that our school is committed to ongoing improvement and adheres to best practices in teaching and learning Accreditation provides peace of mind, knowing that our school is held accountable to rigorous standards of academic rigor, student safety, and overall educational quality.

Moreover, accreditation extends beyond the confines of our school and resonates within the wider community. It demonstrates our school's dedication to being a responsible and contributing member of society. Accreditation affirms our role in shaping future leaders and citizens, instilling in them the values of integrity, compassion, and global citizenship

At Strelitz International Academy, we take great pride in our commitment to excellence, and accreditation serves as validation of our ongoing efforts to maintain and exceed the highest standards of educational quality. Our upcoming VAIS visit presents an opportunity for us to showcase the exceptional work of our dedicated faculty, staff, and students. It is a chance for us to celebrate our achievements and reflect on areas for growth and improvement.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the trustees, parents, faculty and students who participated in the visit preparation process and to those who allowed their children to take part in the visit on Sunday, including members of our Student Government Association, Drama Club, and Strings students. Your involvement and support are invaluable to our school community, and we are grateful for your dedication and commitment.

As we prepare for this important milestone, I encourage every member of our community to take pride in our collective accomplishments and to continue supporting our shared vision of educational excellence. Together, we will ensure that Strelitz International Academy remains a beacon of excellence in education, setting a standard that distinguishes us from others in the region.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our school I look forward to celebrating our achievements together and to the bright future that lies ahead for Strelitz International Academy Warm regards,

Heather Moore Head of School

At Strelitz International Academy, we prioritize a holistic approach to education, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also the development of well-rounded individuals. Central to this philosophy is the incorporation of fine arts subjects Our school offers a comprehensive fine arts curriculum including specialty classes in music, art, and Suzuki Strings, as well as our after-school Drama Club. These opportunities play a vital role in nurturing creativity, expression, and critical thinking skills among students.

In music class, students expand their musical horizons by exploring a diverse range of genres, instruments, and cultural influences. Beyond technical proficiency, music education promotes emotional intelligence as students learn to interpret and convey feelings through melody and rhythm Our students have the opportunity to learn various instruments such as the xylophone, rhythm tubes, recorder, keyboard, and ukulele.

Cultivating Creativity: Fine Arts At Strelitz International Academy

by Janet Jenkins, Primary Years Director

Art serves as a platform for selfexpression and imagination in our curriculum. Through exploration of various mediums and techniques, students develop their creativity and aesthetic sensibilities. Art education encourages risk-taking and experimentation, fostering a mindset of innovation and originality Our students' artwork is showcased annually at the SIA Art Show and Norfolk International Airport, providing them with global exposure.

Suzuki Violin, a cornerstone of our fine arts curriculum, instills discipline, focus, and perseverance in students as they master their instruments. The Suzuki method emphasizes ear training and group learning, fostering collaboration and cooperation. Our students have the opportunity to participate in strings specialty classes and xylostrings ensembles, culminating in performances such as with the Virginia Symphony, offering a unique and enriching experience.

Drama Club offers students the chance to explore storytelling, character development, and performance Through dramatic play, students develop

communication skills, confidence, and empathy as they inhabit different roles and narratives. The club meets once a week, allowing students to prepare and conduct performances, such as "What Happened After Once Upon a Time," showcasing their hard work and talent

The Strelitz International Academy Evening of the Arts is more than just a showcase of talent; it's a celebration of creativity and expression, embodying the essence of our school's commitment to holistic education. This annual event brings together our community to witness the remarkable, artistic journey of our students in Suzuki Violin, Music Class, Art, and Drama Club It serves as a testament to the transformative power of fine arts education, empowering our students to become confident, innovative, and empathetic individuals. By nurturing creativity, expression, and critical thinking, the fine arts curriculum at SIA not only enriches our students' lives but also equips them with the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. As educators, we recognize the profound impact of fine arts in shaping the holistic development of every student, and we remain committed to fostering a culture where creativity and expression are celebrated and encouraged at every turn.

“WhatHappenedAfterOnceUponaTime”

by Ally St. Pierre, Admissions and Marketing Manager

At SIA, second through fifth grade Drama Club students recently wowed audiences with their production of "What Happened After Once Upon a Time." This imaginative play delved into the personalities of classic fairy tale characters, revealing facets beyond the ones we all know so well

With dedication evident in every scene, the young actors brought depth and humor to beloved characters like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. Under the guidance of passionate teachers Jamie Baker, Jo Nossen, Olivia Madrid and Tiala Blocker, they delivered performances that left audiences spellbound

At the end of the performance, thunderous applause filled the MPR, celebrating not just a play, but a testament to the magic of theater and the talent of the young actors. "What Happened After Once Upon a Time" was more than just a performance it was a journey of creativity, camaraderie, and boundless joy.

Storyteller Ari M. performing with Princess Mia P., Queen Emma B. and King Grayce B.

Storyteller Ari M. performing with Little Pig Ella G. and Big Bad Wolf Zane U.

Storyteller Ari M. performing with Rapunzel, Esme O.

Cinderella played by Calanit W.

Storyteller Ari M. and the Seven dwarfs Molly F., Madeline C., Willow B., Levi F., Noa C., Lillian Mae B. and Pearl M.

UnleashingCreativityintheClassroom: ThePowerofProvocationinThirdGradeSongwriting

by Michal Newman, Music Teacher

In the vibrant world of education, fostering creativity is paramount, and one inspiring example comes from SIA's third grade classroom where students embarked on a musical journey. The key ingredient? The power of provocation.

The process began with the students drawing inspiration from the play they had been working on and expressing their desire to write their own song The theme they chose: "Dealing with Annoyance " This autonomy sparked enthusiasm as the students eagerly embraced the opportunity to shape their musical narrative. Various roles were assigned, with students exploring jobs such as musician, lyricist, dancer, and choreographer to contribute to the project.

The first phase involved brainstorming and discussing ideas on how to approach writing the song, including whether to create their own melody or utilize a familiar one. This collaborative effort not only allowed students to share their unique perspectives but also honed their communication and teamwork skills. As they navigated through the creative process, the importance of collaboration became evident a valuable lesson extending beyond the confines of the classroom.

Next, the students delved into the heart of songwriting Different groups crafted verses and choruses, expressing themselves through lyrics and discovering the potency of words in crafting meaningful messages. This phase not only enhanced their language skills but also nurtured a deeper understanding of the power of music and songwriting. They then synthesized their ideas into a coherent song that not only expressed their sentiments but also synchronized with the rhythmic patterns of the chosen melody

The multifaceted project further unfolded as the groups chose their preferred mediums of expression. Some opted for the classic route of singing, allowing their voices to carry the resonance of their words. Others added depth by incorporating instruments, transforming their lyrics into harmonious melodies. Additionally, students created motions and dance moves to accompany the song, adding another layer of creativity to their performance

What makes this process significant is the emphasis on the journey rather than the destination. By allowing students to navigate the intricate pathways of creativity, the learning experience becomes more meaningful, and their motivation to participate increases. It's not just about producing a song; it's about the exploration, collaboration, and self-discovery that occur along the way

As the final performances unfolded, the classroom buzzed with a sense of accomplishment. The students had not only created music but had also forged a deeper connection with their own creative potential. The power of provocation had opened a gateway to limitless imagination, and the third grade songwriting project showcased the profound impact of fostering creativity in the music classroom

Briella B., Niv R., Avi W. and Andrew D. perform their song they created together in music class.

AI at SIA

By Alicia Pahl-Cornelius

At Strelitz International Academy we're embracing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to elevate the teaching and learning experience within our classrooms In a recent professional development session led by Dr Helen Crompton from Old Dominion University in January, our faculty gained valuable insights into the vast potential of AI, specifically focusing on ChatGPT in education.

Dr. Crompton's presentation sparked thoughtful discussions among our educators, exploring the nuanced landscape of AI in education. Delving into both its limitations and possibilities, Dr Crompton provided a foundation for our teachers to envision innovative ways to integrate AI into their teaching methodologies. If you haven't had a chance yet, Episode 11 of SIA: The Podcast, titled "Exploring AI, Education, and ChatGPT" on Spotify, offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between AI and education. It's a fascinating listen that provides a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the educational landscape

At SIA, we firmly believe that AI should augment the learning experience, not replace the invaluable personal touch our teachers bring to our school. AI serves as a catalyst for new ideas and inspiration, liberating our teachers from mundane tasks and allowing them to focus more effectively on interactive and engaging student interactions One common example of this is the time-consuming process of creating rubrics With the help of AI, this task that once took 30 to 45 minutes can now be completed in seconds, allowing our teachers to invest their time in more impactful educational endeavors.

Our teachers utilize the Toddle platform for planning and assessing units of inquiry. Toddle's AI feature has proven to be a game-changer, suggesting innovative learning experiences that foster critical thinking. From connecting Jewish Holidays to science topics to suggesting local field trips related to units of inquiry, Toddle AI has become an integral part of creating a curriculum that sparks curiosity and creativity

Acknowledging that AI technology is currently intended for students aged 13 and older, our AI committee at SIA is proactively incorporating AI education into our curriculum. While our students may not be immediate users, we recognize the evolving landscape and aim to prepare them to become ethical consumers of technology and information, building a foundation for responsible digital citizenship The possibilities that AI brings to education are limitless, and at Strelitz International Academy, we are excited to be at the forefront of this transformative journey, shaping the future of learning for our students.

Dr. Helen Crompton (center) with David Cardon, Heather Moore, Wendy Goldberg and Nan Zhang at the January Board Retreat.

Spotlight On Chumash

by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director

Our fifth grade students were recently seen measuring the length, width and height of the Sandler Family Campus While they may have appeared to be deeply engrossed in a math lesson, they were heavily engaged in a Chumash lesson related to the measurements of the ark. Chumash, the text study of the Torah, is a Judaic subject introduced in second grade. All students in Kindergarten through fifth grade study the weekly Torah portion, and students in grades two through five study a grade specific Torah portion during their Chumash lessons.

When studying Chumash, students at SIA rely on a wide variety of skills. Beginning in second grade, the students learn to navigate their way around a Chumash. They do this by studying the “Gematria” system which assigns numerical value to each of the Alef Bet. They learn to build large numbers, they learn to crack secret codes using this system and use their math and reasoning skills to help them become proficient in finding an exact chapter and verse in the text of the Torah.

As the students progress through third, fourth and fifth grade, they build on their Hebrew language skills, learn new vocabulary and begin to understand the language of the Torah. Many of our fifth graders are able to read a verse and extract the main ideas with very limited assistance. As an IB® World School, our students are accustomed to learning through the lens of inquiry, which is often used in the study of Chumash. Students learn to read the words of the verses, and then question the lessons meant for modern day students They learn to wonder about what is being shared in between the lines.

Chumash lessons at SIA are brought to life through the guidance of our skilled teachers. Our second graders study the verses of the Six Days of Creation. They learn what was created on each day and watch as Creation comes to life straight from the Chumash. Our third graders study Avram and Sarai’s big move to Israel and read the verses that describe what they took on their journey. The third graders think about what it might be like to move to a new place, and each student packs an overnight bag and shares what they’ve chosen to take along.

At each grade level, students explore different Torah stories and personalities, while learning relevant lessons and life skills. Students learn to be kind and principled, open minded and caring, inquisitive and reflective, all from the verses of the Torah. The Torah is the foundation of the entire Judaic Studies program, and as our students study Chumash they begin to connect the different academic, interpersonal and intrapersonal lessons that are taught across the disciplines

Students learn to be reflective and think about the world around them. In fourth grade, the students continue to study about Avraham’s journeys and detailed maps to demonstrate what they have learned Fifth graders read about Noach and the detailed instructions he received for building the ark. The fifth grade students discussed the importance of having a plan and following instructions, and even met with the campus maintenance director to examine the campus blueprints

Fifth Grade students measuring the Sandler Family Campus in a Chumash lesson related to the ark.

Blossoming into Spring!

by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director

Spring has sprung at SIA! This is an exciting time in the Early Years Program for so many reasons. Our littlest learners are eager to spend more time outdoors, connect with nature, and more specifically to begin working in one of our favorite places, our school garden. Our school garden does something very important for our children’s growth, allowing an opportunity for them to care for and take responsibility for something outside of themselves In addition, there is a profound impact that connecting with nature can have, especially for young children.

We’ve learned over the past few years that gardening isn't just for adults with green thumbs; it's also a valuable activity that can provide a host of benefits for the development and well-being of children. From fostering a love for the environment to teaching patience and responsibility, gardening offers a plethora of opportunities for young minds to grow Gardening encompasses so many areas of our curriculum: social and emotional, scientific exploration, environmental awareness, early math skills, and motor coordination.

In our school garden, the children have agency and many opportunities to take full responsibility They choose what to plant, where to plant, and even as young as our EY3 children, they research sustainable solutions to many of these questions. Last year, our EY4 students chose to plant marigolds next to their tomato plants, because, according to one very reflective student, “marigolds are the tomato's friends and help to keep them safe ” This was a connection made after a lesson about plants that are beneficial to one another along with the reasons for this. A favorite of many of our Early Years students are our sunflower plants, which have become something of a tradition in our garden Students love seeing the first stems pop up, and teachers incorporate lessons in measurement, prediction, and cause and effect as a result.

This year, we have some fun additions planned for our garden learning We will be growing strawberries in different ways, using a variety of techniques as our EY4 children track and chart which system seems to cultivate the most growth. We are also adding a “small world play” area to the garden so that the children will have an area to use some imagination alongside our beautiful garden

The SIA garden has also encouraged community action and collaboration The NADIV Men’s philanthropic circle will be collaborating with us early this spring to get our garden ready. This is a wonderful community partnership which began last year when they worked with the EY staff to reimagine our garden space, painting and working on areas in need of repair

By nurturing plants, children also cultivate their own growth, developing important life skills and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and wonder of nature. SIA is proud to sow the seeds of curiosity and discovery in the hearts of our young gardeners

Keren S. enjoying the sunflower garden.

Strelitz Moments

1. To gear up for our Glow Run, SIA held Spirit Days throughout the month of January. Willow G. and Calla June C. showed their superhero spirit!

2. Second grade students received a visit from Operation Smile. The classes worked so hard to fundraise enough money to fund two operations!

3. Palmer W. celebrated the 101st day of school with his first grade class. The day had a dog theme and they used their STEM knowledge to construct a doghouse for their furry companions.

4. Crew H. exploring a sensory sock in honor of Read Across America Week. The socks were accompanying the story “Fox in Socks” by Dr. Seuss.

5.In the month of March, SIA second and third graders had the opportunity to participate in STEAMinist Mondays. Honzi H. created his own paper airplane after learning about Amelia Earhart.

7, Kindergarten student Ellie S. rocked her best 100year-old inspired outfit for the 100th day of school!

6 The SGA had the opportunity to eat lunch with Erica Perl on March 13, 2024 Erica Perl is an award winning children’s author who visited our school to engage and inspire our students.

8. Tiny tiger Arlo G. playing outside on the infant playground.

Special Speakers

SIA has welcomed many visitors this school year. Our faculty, staff and board are continuously learning!

Professional Development

Experiences

Thanks to a generous grant from the Philip S. Rovner Professional Development Fund of the Tidewater Jewish Foundation, Inc on March 14-16, 2024, some of our dedicated Early Years staff immersed themselves in the enriching atmosphere of the VAEYC annual conference Engaging in numerous workshops tailored to our youngest learners, they eagerly absorbed insights and strategies Armed with newfound knowledge, they're poised to enrich our educational environment, eagerly anticipating th d implement their learnings for the benefit of o

Erica Perl Award Winning Author

Burt Segal LCSW Fairfield Psychological Associates

Wendy Goldberg Founder and President, The Benjamin Goldberg Foundation SIA Board President

Jody Balaban Investment Advisor Frieden Wealth Management

Michael Goldsmith Regional Security Advisor Secure Community Network

Dr. Helen Cromtpton Executive Director of the Research Institute for Digital Innovation in Learning, Professor of Instructional Technology ODU Global, Old Dominion University

From Classroom to Community: Ephraim Blair’s (‘21) Journey of Excellence and Service! Alumni Corner

Old Donation School (ODS), ranked as the number one middle school in Virginia by U.S. News and World Report, selected Ephraim Blair (SIA class of '21) for an in-person TV interview with WTKR TV reporter Beverly Kidd last month to discuss his educational journey. Ephraim felt both humble and grateful for the opportunity to participate in this interview.

In January 2024, Ephraim led the ODS Academic Challenge team to victory in the city championship, securing their spot in the National competition. In addition to his relentless pursuit of knowledge, he quietly devoted his time to altruistic pursuits, using his musical talents to offer comfort and build connections among those in need As a result, he will be honored with the prestigious Presidential Service Award

Ephraim expresses gratitude to the SIA teachers who equipped him with public speaking skills, time management abilities, leadership qualities, and a dedication to serving others from an early age. He encourages support and donations to SIA to enhance student access and retain exceptional teachers at this world-class IB® school, which provides unparalleled opportunities for boundless growth and success.

We love to hear what our SIA alumni are up to! Please share with us by emailing astpierre@strelitzacademy.org.

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StudentGlowRunIlluminatesSIAParentCampaign

by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement

Strelitz International Academy kicked off 2024 with an exciting fundraising event that not only boosted school spirit but inspired students and their families to participate in fundraising for the school through the first Strelitz International Academy Glow Run!

The Strelitz Student Glow Run, which took place on Friday, January 19, served as the centerpiece of a month-long initiative designed to foster community engagement, promote physical activity, and raise funds for the school's various programs and activities.

To kick off the fundraising festivities, Strelitz International Academy organized a series of Spirit Days throughout the month of January to motivate families to fundraise. Each week featured a unique theme, encouraging students, teachers, and staff to showcase their SIA School Spirit, aimed to build excitement and a sense of camaraderie within the school community These Spirit Days not only added a fun and vibrant atmosphere to the school but also served as a platform to remind everyone about the Glow Run and the importance of fundraising for SIA.

The highlight of the fundraising initiative was the student Glow Run that took place on January 19, 2024. In the dark gym, the black lights and illuminated track created a fun and festive atmosphere Students circulated between the “Glow Up” stations with glow sticks, paint and neon tattoos, running the glow rack and cheering on their friends to an energizing music and celebratory atmosphere.

15 April 2024

In addition to the spirited Glow Run, Strelitz International Academy implemented a family-driven fundraising approach. Families were encouraged to reach out to their extended networks, friends, and colleagues, seeking donations to support the school's various programs and initiatives. This collaborative effort ensured that the fundraising initiative extended beyond the school walls, creating a network effect that amplified the impact of the campaign

By leveraging the power of personal connections, Strelitz International Academy reached its fundraising goals while fostering a strong sense of community involvement and support. SIA supporters John and Renee Strelitz generously contributed a $25,000 match campaign to incentivize SIA Family Fundraising Thanks to motivational videos on social media, text solicitations and old fashioned phone calls to friends and extended family, our students and parents raised over $33,000!

Strelitz International Academy's Glow Run fundraising initiative was not just about raising funds; it was about illuminating the spirit of the school community. Through a month-long celebration of themed Spirit Days, a vibrant Glow Run and generous match, SIA fostered a sense of togetherness, physical well-being, and community support. As families came together to raise funds for the school, they also contributed to the bright future of Strelitz International Academy.

Kimberly Hunstad

Nikash Jaisinghani

Danielle Jones

Bo and Josh Lepchitz

Donita Lozada

Julia Ludwig

Kendall Mager

Rebecca McClurkin-Lyles

Ashley Mills

Amanda Moll

Alexander Monk

Rocio Morales

William Nuckolls

Jay O'Toole

Shana Paul

Kristen Powers

Jennifer Rosenbaum

Kathrin Schneider

Nancy Smit

Joslyn & Ariel Stein

Callah Terkeltaub

Crystal Ton

Rhonda Walton

Elizabeth Waranch

Julie Watson

Kimberly West

Michael Yaary

Carin Simon awarding Shaya B. with his first place prize.

Carin Simon recognizing student fundraisers.

Avi W. holding his prize from fundraising.

ParentVolunteerOrganization

Can you believe we are so close to Spring Break and the end of the year?! This year has flown by and the PVO has been busy! Let’s catch up on the past few months

Our annual Chanukah Shop raised almost $1,300. If you were new to the SIA Chanukah Shop this year, I truly hope you enjoyed it My family still asks every year if they will be receiving their Chanukah Shop present from my son, Liam Though the gifts have become more thoughtful each year, the whole family still chuckles at what miscellaneous treasures Liam brings home for them! Each year, the Chanukah Shop receives gently used, and sometimes new, items that are donated by each of you. And each year, the PVO and other amazing parent volunteers help our students shop for their loved ones.

This year, the PVO started a new fundraiser selling Carnations at the SIA Evening of the Arts, raising just over $400. This idea came to us after seeing how many families brought store-bought flowers for their students at last year’s Evening of the Arts. A pre-order sale launched on ParentSquare and guaranteed us the need to buy 300 carnations! FUN FACT: Just before the carnation sale, I saw a TikTok showing that pennies in a vase can ensure that flowers last longer than expected. Southern Living explains, “the reason pennies are considered a smart way to keep flowers alive longer is because copper is a fungicide, so it naturally kills off those pesky bacteria and fungi that are trying to camp out in your flowers' vase and shorten the lifespan of your stems.” So next year, when you’re getting ready to pre-order your carnations, don’t forget to put aside some of your pennies!

Now let’s focus on the next few months…

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6-10, and will include School Nurse Appreciation Day on May 8. Each year, the PVO comes up with a week’s worth of gifts and appreciation for our teachers While this is a big week for our teachers, this is also a week where we ask for volunteers Please be on the lookout for updates regarding the THREE dates that week in which we would love to have you volunteer with us!

Last on my list is our Volunteer Thank You Breakfast on May 17. This breakfast is for ANYBODY who has volunteered at the school this year. Are you a Room Parent? Did you help with our Fall Festival or Chanukah Shop? Maybe you volunteered for Morah Elyssa with an Early Years event or helped plan your class Chanukah party? As I stated in my last article- and all the time- no task is too small! This breakfast is for YOU! More information will be forthcoming after Spring Break!

This year’s Teacher Appreciation Week Schedule:

Monday: SIA couldn't have picked you better! Students will bring in one flower for each of their teachers. Teachers will then receive a beautiful bouquet of assorted flowers.

Tuesday: You are just 'write!’ Students will write encouraging notes for their teachers on Post-It notes for the front of each classroom door.

Wednesday: We would be muffin without you! Our teachers will enjoy a huge brunch spread with a to-go style buffet to enjoy throughout the day Because it is also School Nurse Appreciation Day, students will be asked to bring in a note or card for Nurse Ellie.

Thursday: You are the key to our success! Each teacher will receive a SIA Keychain as well as a Cardo Cafe gift card.

Friday: If you give a teacher a cookie…! This year, instead of a Candy Bar, our teachers will enjoy a Cookie Bar! Students will bring in Kosher Cookies to add to our Cookie Bar and teachers will be able to create their own assortment of cookies to take home!

As always, thank you for supporting our school and our students.

L’Shalom,

Melissa Kass, Nikki Glassman, Kristy Foleck, Nina Kruger (Author)

Upcoming Events

April 7- 9- VAIS Visit

April 18- Primary Years Pesach Family Seder, 2:00pm

April 19- Early Years Seder Experience

May 6-10- Teacher Appreciation Week

May 9- SIA Family Pizza Picnic, 5:00pm

May 23- PYPX 2024

May 28- SIA Field Day

May 31- Early Years Family Shabbat Sing-along/ EY4 Surfing Up Ceremony

June 4- Graduation, 1:00pm

June 5- Last Day of School

Save the Date!

Flash from the Past!

Can you identify anyone in the above photograph?

We need your help to identify the students, activity, and time frame for this photo! If you or someone you know recognize the people in the picture, please don't hesitate to contact us at astpierre@strelitzacademy.org with any information you may have.

Identified!

Thank you to everyone who submitted answers to help us identify the students in this picture! This picture was taken Chanukah, 1956 and features students Fay and Rebecca Wenger, Frima Messer, Ethel Sonkin, Marlene Ackerman, Carol Weinberg, and Frances Gutterman.

The mission of SIA: The Podcast is to offer thoughtful and inspiring parenting and educational podcast programming. We are committed to producing impactful podcasts that add value to conversations around education, student advocacy, and parental challenges.