STRELITZ
Strelitz Magazine- December2024
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
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Head of School’s Message
Celebrating Jewish Life: Building Community and SEL Through Meaningful Traditions
The Mitzvah Club is Back: A Successful Coat Collection for Our Community
Parent Perspectives Real Questions and Honest Answers About Strelitz International Academy Understanding Transdisciplinary Studies 13 18 Flash From the Past!
Embracing Gratitude and Community: Our Friendsgiving Journey
Support The Strelitz Annual Fund: Let’s Make This Year Shine Even Brighter!
Celebrating Grandparents and Grandfriends at Strelitz International Academy
Strelitz Fall Festival Creates an Unforgettable Autumn Celebration!
Legacy Spotlight-Celia Krichman, z”l, Let Go and Let Grow: Lenore Skenazy's Inspiring Visit to SIA
Sailing Into Inquiry: Jerome Rand Inspires SIA Students with His Voyage
Strelitz Moments
Head of School’s Message
Heather Moore
As we approach the end of the year, I find myself filled with gratitude for our incredible school community. Each day, I am reminded of the dedication and passion that define our students, families, faculty, and staff. This sense of purpose and connection fuels our collective journey toward excellence in education and nurturing young minds.
This November, we had the honor of hosting Lenore Skenazy at our school. Known for her groundbreaking work in fostering independence and resilience in children, Lenore's visit was nothing short of transformative. Her insights and the Let Grow program have already sparked meaningful conversations among our students, parents, and teachers. By encouraging our children to embrace independence and navigate challenges, we are equipping them with skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
November was also a month of meaningful connections and new traditions. We celebrated our first-ever all-school Friendsgiving, a heartwarming event that brought together students, faculty, and staff to share a meal and express gratitude for one another. This special occasion highlighted the spirit of community that makes our school such a unique and welcoming place.
We also had the joy of hosting our Grandparents Day. It was truly a delight to see our students proudly share their school experience with their grandparents and special Grandfriends. The smiles, stories, and connections made that day were a testament to the strength of our extended school family.
As we reflect on the progress made this year, it's also time to plan for the future. Re-enrollment for the 2025–2026 school year is just around the corner. Your continued partnership is essential as we strive to provide the best educational experience possible. Be on the lookout for re-enrollment communications in early February, and please reach out to our admissions team if you have any questions.
Additionally, in March 2025, we will be conducting a Parent Survey to gather your thoughts and feedback. Your voice is a vital part of our continuous improvement efforts, and this survey offers an important opportunity to shape the future of our school. We encourage all families to participate, as your insights are invaluable in helping us achieve our shared goals.
Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. Together, we are fostering a vibrant, supportive environment where our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. As we close this chapter of 2024, I look forward to all the opportunities the new year will bring and the continued growth of our school community.
Warm Regards,
Heather Moore Head of School
Left image: Heather Moore with students Avery G., Mara G., Ari M., Lena A. and Ella G. who contributed their earnings from a student-run business to support SIA.
Right image: Heather Moore with Lenore Skenazy at the Strelitz International Academy sponsored speaking event.
Celebrating Jewish Life: Building Community and SEL Through
Meaningful Traditions
by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic
Studies Director
Jewish life and learning is at the core of the Judaic Studies program at Strelitz International Academy. SIA Primary Students come together as a community to celebrate Shabbat, Rosh Chodesh (the start of a Jewish month) and Jewish holidays. SIA Jewish celebrations are designed to be engaging, fun, interactive and oftentimes delicious. The celebrations in the 2024-2025 school year have an added element of social-emotional learning (SEL).
Research demonstrates the importance of providing students with opportunities to explore and develop strong socialemotional skills. Providing these opportunities helps students learn to manage emotions, develop relationship skills, and make responsible decisions. Additionally a focus on SEL teaches the importance of being kind and caring. As both a Jewish day school and IB® World School, social-emotional learning integrates easily into our program.
This school year, SEL lessons have come to life in fun and exciting ways during Jewish celebrations! Students (and sometimes parents too!) have enjoyed a wide variety of activities while learning about reflection, gratitude, being caring, forgiveness, kindness, teamwork, being joyful, being helpful and sharing one’s light to the people around you. These lessons have been taught through interactive games, storybooks, food crafts and singing and dancing.
Through the duration of the school year, the Primary Years community will continue to celebrate Jewish life through the lens of social-emotional learning as we celebrate Chanukah, Tu B’Shvat, Purim, Pesach, Lag B’Omer and Shavuot along with Rosh Chodesh and family Shabbat celebrations.
JOYful dancing during Simchat Torah.
Second grader Meirav W. making a REFLECTIVE mirror on Rosh Chodesh
Third graders Mara G. and Rosangela M. constructing their edible Sukkah, showing TEAMWORK.
First grader Leo B. and his father working on his GRATITUDE jar at the first PY Family Shabbat.
PY students are CARING, they created Rosh Hashanah cards for seniors.
Third grader Noa C. SHARING HER LIGHT during Rosh Chodesh Kislev.
The Mitzvah Club is Back: A Successful Coat Collection for Our Community
by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator
We are thrilled to announce that the Strelitz International Academy Mitzvah Club is back again this year, continuing it’s mission to serve others and make a positive impact in our community. This school-wide initiative encourages students, teachers, and staff to come together for a common cause, embodying the values of compassion, responsibility, and social action.
Our first mitzvah project of the year was a winter coat collection drive, aimed at providing gently used coats to those in need. With the colder months approaching, we recognized the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to warm clothing.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our school community, we were able to collect an impressive 75 coats! These coats will be distributed to local families, helping to make the winter months a little warmer for those less fortunate.
The success of this drive reflects the commitment to the IB® values of being caring and principled, which guide our students in becoming responsible, compassionate global citizens. The SIA Mitzvah Club encourages us to think beyond ourselves and recognize our responsibility to others, teaching us the importance of empathy and kindness.
Additionally, this project aligns perfectly with the SIA Core Value of Tikkun Olam, the Jewish principle of repairing the world. Through our winter coat collection, we are not just donating items; we are actively participating in the healing and betterment of our community. Each coat donated represents a small act of kindness, coming together to create a larger, positive change.
The SIA Mitzvah Club is excited to continue engaging with these values throughout the year, with more projects and opportunities to make a difference. We are proud of how our school community has embraced this cause, and we look forward to even more opportunities to contribute to the well-being of those around us.
Stay tuned for future mitzvah projects, and remember that every small act of kindness matters. Together, we can make the world a better place, one mitzvah at a time!
Fifth grade studednts Calanit W. and Zeeva C. organize the winter coats collected during the SIA Mitzvah Club Winter Coat Drive,
Understanding Transdisciplinary Studies
by Janet Jenkins, Primary Years Director
At Strelitz International Academy, we frequently use the term transdisciplinary to describe the unique and meaningful learning experiences we provide to our students. As an International Baccalaureate (IB®) Primary Years Programme (PYP) World School, transdisciplinary studies form the cornerstone of our approach to education, particularly through the six Transdisciplinary Units that guide our inquiries. But what does transdisciplinary really mean, and why is it so integral to what we do?
What is Transdisciplinary Learning?
Transdisciplinary learning goes beyond the boundaries of traditional subject areas. It integrates disciplines to explore concepts and solve problems in a way that mirrors real-world learning. Rather than teaching math, science, or language arts in isolation, transdisciplinary learning connects these subjects around a central idea or inquiry. This method not only makes learning more engaging but also shows students the relevance of their education in a global context.
IB® highlights the importance of transdisciplinary units as a way to foster inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and collaboration. These units are designed to help students make connections across subjects, leading to a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it.
A Longstanding Tradition of Transdisciplinary Learning
At SIA, transdisciplinary teaching methods were in place long before we became an IB® school. Our educators have always embraced the idea of integrating disciplines to create meaningful learning experiences. Here are just a few examples of how this philosophy comes to life in our classrooms:
First Grade Hebrew and Science Connections In first grade, students learn the Hebrew letter ה (“Hey”). They explore words like “har” (mountain) and “har ga’ash” (volcano) in Hebrew. This learning extends to a study of the Torah portion, where connections are made to stories involving mountains. The integration continues with a hands-on science experiment where students create erupting volcanoes and learn about the formation of mountains and volcanoes. To round out the experience, they map famous mountains and discuss how communities adapt to living in mountainous regions.
Fourth Grade Science and Behavioral Studies In science during the Who We Are unit of inquiry. When learning about humans, students work in small groups to research a chosen body system. They use their research skills to create annotated diagrams of their system which the class then compiles into a layered “flip book” of human anatomy.
Why Transdisciplinary Learning Matters
Once they presented their body system diagram, students put their knowledge into action. They reflect on the job of a biologist by completing a frame of the discipline. Then, they zero in on the nervous system to do the work of behavioral scientists. This year, students created survey questions about the role of stress and responses to stress in the lives of their school mates. Language arts, math and social sciences.
Moon Phases and the Jewish Calendar Students studying the phases of the moon also connect their learning to the Jewish calendar. They create edible models of the moon’s phases using Oreos, blending science with cultural studies in a deliciously memorable way.
Fifth Grade Inquiry: Food and Social Responsibility Our fifth graders explore the blessings for different food groups, combining their study of Jewish prayers with an investigation of global cuisines. This unit also addresses food insecurity, as students collaborate on ways to help their community. Through this inquiry, students weave together Jewish studies, global awareness, and social responsibility.
Cross-Cultural Music and Art Studies In specialty classes, students study the music and art of different cultures, integrating these creative disciplines with their inquiries into history, geography, and cultural traditions. These studies often connect to science or language arts, such as reading and analyzing texts about different artists or exploring the science behind artistic materials and techniques. Students may also incorporate math by measuring and creating precise geometric designs or tessellations, blending creativity with mathematical accuracy.
Olympics in Physical Education During the Olympics, our students experience a Junior Olympics event in PE, connecting their learning about global sportsmanship and cultural traditions with physical activity and teamwork. Who would have thought you could combine social studies and PE. Mr. Leiderman helped add to the experience.
The beauty of transdisciplinary learning lies in its ability to inspire curiosity and joy. At SIA, we prioritize connections that are meaningful to our students, helping them understand why they need to learn to read, do math, and explore science. These connections not only make their learning more relevant but also empower them to take ownership of their education.
By integrating disciplines, we equip our students with skills they will use far beyond our school walls. Whether they are solving complex problems in high school, excelling in college courses, or navigating their careers, the ability to make connections across disciplines will serve them well. Transdisciplinary learning helps students see the bigger picture, fostering a lifelong love of learning and a readiness to engage with the world in meaningful ways.
At SIA, we are proud of how our transdisciplinary approach shapes our students into critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and global citizens. We remain committed to creating learning experiences that connect, inspire, and prepare our students for a future filled with possibilities.
Embracing Gratitude and Community: Our Friendsgiving Journey
by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director
As we welcomed fall in our classrooms, Strelitz International Academy embarked on a heartwarming journey to celebrate Thanksgiving with a focus on gratitude, community, and giving. This year, our festivities were enriched by a meaningful collaboration that left an indelible mark on everyone involved.
Each Early Years class, guided by their teachers, partnered with their Primary Years buddy class to contribute to the Jewish Family Service (JFS) Thanksgiving Food Drive. This initiative
became a beautiful way for our students to connect with the broader community while learning the value of compassion and generosity. The students and their families embraced the spirit of giving by collecting items that aligned with the dishes they were preparing for our Friendsgiving feast. From canned cranberries to boxes of stuffing mix, every contribution carried the values and care we strive to instill in our SIA community.
Through their combined efforts, we proudly helped JFS assemble over 15 bags of food. These contributions not only supported JFS in their mission to provide for those in need, but also extended our celebration of gratitude beyond the walls of our school. Our young learners experienced the joy of giving firsthand, deepening their understanding of what it means to be part of a community. This project was just one facet of our Friendsgiving celebration. Within the classrooms, the children explored themes of gratitude, kindness, and togetherness through stories, songs, and creative art projects. The culminating event—a joyful Friendsgiving feast— brought our SIA family together, highlighting the power of community and connection.
In these moments, we saw the embodiment of our school’s mission: nurturing not only academic growth but also the social and emotional development of our students. By partnering with JFS and engaging in this meaningful act of giving, our students learned that even small hands can make a big difference.
As we reflect on this experience, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the incredible families, staff, and students who made it all possible. Together, we embraced the true spirit of Thanksgiving—celebrating with open hearts and extending our blessings to others. May this be a tradition that inspires our community for years to come.
Ari and Avery S. enjoying their feast together. EY4 student Rocky F. pausing to smile!
Third graders Benjamin S. and Benjamin T. enjoying Friendsgiving!
Support The Strelitz Annual Fund: Let’s Make
This Year Shine Even Brighter!
by Carin Simon, Director of
Advancement
At Strelitz International Academy (SIA), we believe in the transformative power of education. Each year, we raise funds through The Strelitz Fund to support our mission of providing an exceptional IB® World School experience and enriching Jewish education developing the leaders of tomorrow. Your support helps us nurture a community of lifelong learners and secure the future of our school, making it the cornerstone for our community's young families. SIA is a place where lifelong connections are made and students can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
The funds raised through this campaign benefit SIA by:
Bridging the gap between tuition and actual operating costs. Offering access to an SIA education for all eligible children through our Flexible Tuition Program. Supporting the ongoing professional development of our faculty, including International Baccalaureate® (IB®) training. Ensuring our students' well-being with dedicated on-site School Nurse, Counselors, and Student Support Services. Upgrading classroom technology to keep our students engaged with the latest educational tools—and so much more!
Last year, we saw the incredible energy and spirit of our students at the Student Glow Run—an event that brought our community together in support of SIA. The excitement was palpable, and the funds raised were a testament to our shared commitment to the school. But why stop there? Let’s aim even higher this year! Together, we can exceed what we raised last year and make an even greater impact on the future of SIA.
Thank you for your continued support. SIA is thriving because of you—our dedicated and wonderful donors. Let’s keep the momentum going and make this year’s campaign the most successful yet!
Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Please Donate to the 2024-2025 SIA Annual Fund:
Mail a check to: Strelitz International Academy, 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach, 23462
Donate online: https://strelitzinternationalacademy.org/strelitz-fund/
Call and give your credit card over the phone: 757.424.4327
Email your pledge today Carin Simon: csimon@strelitzacademy.org, and we will send you an invoice to be paid by June 30, 2025.
Celebrating Grandparents and Grandfriends at Strelitz International Academy
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Strelitz International Academy (SIA) recently hosted its annual Grandparents and Grandfriends Day, a heartfelt celebration that brought together students, their families, and friends to honor the special bonds between generations. The event was marked by warmth, gratitude, and the inspiring voices of SIA’s students, who opened the gathering with a touching rendition of One Day. Their performance set the tone for a day filled with reflection, connection, and celebration.
Amy Weinstein, President of the Board of Directors, welcomed attendees and emphasized the unique role grandparents and family friends play in shaping the lives of the school’s young learners. “Grandparents have a profound influence on their grandchildren, shaping their lives in the most meaningful ways,” she shared. “We hope you see those same cherished values reflected in the heart and mission of our amazing school.”
Grandparents and Grandfriends Day capped off an especially meaningful week at SIA, which included an all-school Friendsgiving and a successful food drive benefiting Jewish Family Service. These events highlighted the school’s commitment to core values like kindness, generosity, and a shared dedication to making the world a better place. These principles are integral to the fabric of the SIA community, fostering an environment where students not only learn but also grow as compassionate and engaged individuals. Events like Grandparents and Grandfriends Day exemplify the collaborative spirit that defines the SIA community. The day’s festivities were made possible through the generous support of Beth Sholom Village, the event’s sponsor. “We are so honored to have Beth Sholom Village’s support each year,” Weinstein noted. “Together, we’re shaping not just the future of our students, but the future of our community and our world.”
As the event concluded, attendees were invited to visit classrooms and spend quality time with their students, further strengthening the bonds that make the SIA community so special. With gratitude in their hearts and a shared vision for the future, the SIA family celebrated not just a day, but a legacy of love, learning, and giving.
Fifth grader Calanit W. and her grandfather.
Kindergartner Theo T. with his grandmother.
Infant wee student Willa C. with her grandparents.
First grader Johnny A. with his grandmother.
Third grader Levi F. with his grandparents.
Strelitz Fall Festival Creates an Unforgettable Autumn Celebration!
Carin Simon, Director of Advanceme
On a cool October Sunday, the Sandler Family Campus transformed into a magical Fall Wonderland for the 2nd Annual Strelitz Fall Festival!
This signature Strelitz International Academy event brought the community together with delicious food, unique vendors, activity rentals, and even some live animal encounters. This year’s festival was more vibrant than ever, drawing in record excitement and participation!
Lining the Cardo were beautiful themed raffle baskets, each created by the SIA classes. From a dreamy Vacation Basket to a beautifying SelfCare Basket and even a Pet Care Basket, families purchased tickets in hopes of winning their favorite. The basket raffle’s grand drawing at the festival's end kept everyone on their toes, adding a burst of anticipation to wrap up the day.
As people stepped out of the Cardo doors, they were greeted with scarecrows, hay bales, pumpkins, and 2 live scarecrow juggler and stilt
Admission included unlimited access to carnival games, pony rides, and even train rides looping around the campus white top. Fresh kosher hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, and other treats kept families fueled for all the fun.
The whole community pitched in to bring the event to life, with parents, faculty, and volunteers coordinating setup, check-in, and food stations, while SIA alumni and community teens ran the lively carnival games. Generous sponsors helped make the Strelitz Fall Festival a fantastic fundraiser and a heartwarming community event.
In addition to games and food, the festival showed the power of unity, with volunteers from local groups like Congregation Beth El’s Bogrim program and Tallwood High School’s Israel Club pitching in to support the festivities. One highlight was the chance for alumni and their families to reconnect with each other and with the SIA faculty, reflecting the lasting bonds within the Strelitz community.
Mark your calendars—next year’s Strelitz Fall Festival will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025. We can't wait to make it even better and see everyone again for another unforgettable celebration!
Mollie G. riding the RVA Express Train.
PY teachers Leandra Bruns, Meredith Carnazza and Jamie Baker helping with checkin.
Cara T., Lyla T. and Rocky F. enjoy the sensory table with Morah Kyra.
Rabbi Ari and his children Lia and Ben ride the train.
Legacy SpotlightCelia Krichman, z”l
It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we have named SIA's Annual Grandparents and Grandfriends Day to honor the incredible legacy of Celia Krichman, a cherished member of the SIA family, Aunt of Ed and Bob Stein, both former SIA Board Presidents, and a true pillar of our community.
Celia was originally from Brooklyn and made her way to Norfolk where she married Morris Krichman. Though she did not have children of her own, she embraced her role as a devoted great-aunt to her sister's grandchildren, who are proud SIA alumni.
After the passing of her beloved husband in the late 1970s, Celia’s pride and joy were found in watching her great-nieces and nephews sing and perform at school events. She saw the magic of education, the value of creativity, and the joy it brings to young lives. Her love for SIA inspired her to create a transformative endowment—a gift that ensures her passion for learning and the arts will continue to enrich the lives of our students for generations to come.
We are truly grateful for Celia's incredible generosity, and for her vision for the future of our school. Her legacy is not only reflected in the opportunities she has created, but also in the love and spirit that live on in every corner of our school. We plan to honor her memory by continuing to nurture the dreams of our students, just as she so passionately believed in doing. We thank Celia Krichman, of blessed memory, for her enduring gift and for showing us the true meaning of giving back.
Let Go and Let Grow: Lenore Skenazy's Visit to SIA
Lenore Skenazy, renowned advocate for childhood independence and the Let Grow movement, recently visited our school and was delighted by the creativity and initiative of our Primary Years students. She spent time engaging with the students, learning about the Let Grow projects they have been passionately working on, and expressed her admiration for their accomplishments. Before her evening presentation to the community, Lenore met with our faculty, sharing insights on fostering resilience and independence in children. Her message to "let go and let grow" resonated with everyone, inspiring our school community to continue empowering students to embrace challenges and discover their potential.
Sailing Into Inquiry: Jerome Rand Inspires SIA Students with His Voyage
Jerome Rand, adventurer and author of Sailing Into Oblivion, visited our school to share the incredible story of his solo sailing voyage that inspired his book. Speaking to students from EY4 through 5th grade, Jerome captivated his audience with tales of resilience, exploration, and the power of perseverance. Our students were eager to learn more, asking thoughtful questions that sparked engaging discussions. His visit became a springboard for inquiry, as students delved deeper into topics like navigation, self-reliance, and the natural world, connecting his journey to their own learning and curiosity.
Annette Kleinfeld Stein (left image) and her sister Celia Kleinfeld Krichman (right image.)
Strelitz Moments
EY3 student Jonah J. takes a moment of reflection, considering his past choices and envisioning better ones for the new year, as part of a thoughtful activity honoring Yom Kippur.
3. EY4 student Ben O. with his parents at the Family Havdalah and Simchat Torah celebration.
2. Second grade students Daniella W., Haley B. and Asher M. demonstrate teamwork and collaboration as they come together to build an edible sukkah, celebrating unity and tradition.
4. Kindergarten students Gavin B. and Declan L. decorate smiley face cookies during the Primary Years Simchat Torah Celebration.
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5. SIA Moms Talia C., Gabby T., Trisha M. and Elizabeth W. enjoying our annual PVO Breakfast in the Sukkah event.
7. Third grade student Liam K. drops his vote in the ballot box with the help of fifth grader William S. during the mock elections held in November.
6 First grade student Emily L learning about Bereshit during an engaging activity with the first and fourth grade classes.
8. Fifth grade student Emma B. and EY4 student Lyla T. work together to collect donated food items from each classroom to donate to Jewish Family Service for their Thanksgiving bags
9. Beaming with pride, grandparents capture special moments as students perform their heartfelt rendition of 'One Day' on Grandparents Day. (Photo Credit Danny Rubin)
10 Sisters Abby and Emerson W share smiles and delicious food while celebrating together at the school-wide Friendsgiving event.
11. Fifth graders Benson C. and Zane U. lend a helping hand, transferring over 300 presents to JFS for the annual Chanukah Gift Drive, spreading joy and generosity this season
12. Primary Years students celebrate Rosh Chodesh Kislev with warmth and light, bringing joy to our community.
EY2 student Sparrow G. enjoying some outdoor time. 14 Audrey K mixing up some corn muffins as the Toddlers prepare for the school-wide Friendsgiving event.
15. Maddie K. and Hadley K. proudly display their circulatory system models, showcasing their learning during the fourth grade 'Who We Are' science unit of inquiry
16. Kindergarten students and Morah Jo play 'Knotty Arms,' a teamwork game inspired by the story of the Tower of Babel. Through this activity, they learned the value of communication and working together to solve challenges.
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Parent Perspectives
Real Questions and Honest Answers About Strelitz International Academy
We recently spoke with three families from the Strelitz International Academy. We asked them a series of questions, and are excited to share with you their heartfelt responses.
THE DODGE FAMILY
What initially brought you to SIA, and what stood out during your decision-makingprocess?
When we moved to Norfolk, we were looking for Andrew to have a well-rounded preschool experience Through word of mouth, we heard great things about SIA. The thing that stood out during our decision-making process was the welcoming atmosphere the moment we walked through the doors. The security guard, Mr. IssacwelcomedAndrewwithastickerandasmile,settingthetone for what sets SIA apart Carin Simon showed us all around the campus and spoke of current programs and the future for the school with sincere care that you will not find around the community We were eventually introduced to what would become Andrew’s first teacher, Miss Elizabeth, and her class of toddlers She was so engaged with the children, and they responded to her in such a positive manner that we knew we had foundtherightschoolforhim
THE RUBIN FAMILY
child’s learning experience?
The IB® approach to education has really allowed Andrew and Thomas to view the world as one big community. They are always asking questions about the way the world works and are willing to step out of their comfort zones to try new things. The way the IB® approach nourishes Thomas’ inquisitive nature allows him to thrive by asking lots of questions and getting his class and parents thinking A LOT!
What experiences at the school have made your family feel a strong sense of community?
We have always appreciated the EY Shabbat Sing-a-longs and the ability to celebrate Shabbat as a community. More than that, the Shabbat Sing-a-longs allowed us to meet other families and develop friendships within the school.
Are there any particular programs, events, or teachers that have had a significant impact on your family’s experience?
Grandparents Day is a great idea, and Niv and Shai's grandparents always look forward to it. The day allows OUR parents to see what goes on inside SIA and why our kids love being here. That event should always continue!
How does the integration of Jewish traditions and values into the curriculum impact your child’s growth and development?
The Judaic component is critical for us. While we stress holidays and traditions at home, SIA provides another safe space where Jewish traditions are prioritized. For example, our youngest son, Shai, received a
small, wooden Torah this fall. Shai was so excited about the Torah that he brought it to school to show his kindergarten class. Given the Judaic curriculum that SIA fosters, that kind of "show and tell" is what makes SIA special.
THE GORDON FAMILY
What has been your family’s favorite experience or memory so far at the school?
Well, we have two children, so naturally we have to pick two experiences! Both of which reflect upon the importance of the unique community atmosphere within the school. Last year, several students presented a skit to the VAIS review. Jaxon, then in fourth grade, was on stage, sitting with elbows bent and hands behind his head, with his feet outstretched and crossed at the ankles. He answered questions and looked like a small man on stage, never skipping a beat with his responses. In this moment, we realized how comfortable and confident he is within this community. It was as if he was at home. Additionally, when Willow was just beginning at SIA, as a toddler, we were nervous about her transition from a tiny daycare into the EY program. After several weeks at SIA, we came to pick her up and as she left, she had to stop and hug and speak to every teacher and child on the way out of school. We realized at that point, she too, was at home!
If you were to recommend the school to another family, what would you highlight as the top reasons to join?
The IB® program certainly sets SIA apart from other independent schools in our area. It fosters an environment creating life-long learners. We hope that our children will continue to seek knowledge and internal growth as they move through childhood and into adulthood.
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 during the 2003- 2004 school year and features students Ellie Gordon, Emma Segaloff and Jilly Blais.
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