STRELITZ
IB® Transdisciplinary Theme:
Where We Are in Place and Time
Strelitz Magazine- June 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
Graduation Speech 2024
Fifth Grade Graduates Enjoy a Fun-Filled Day Out on the Town
Grad Ads
Keeping the Learning Alive: A Summer with an IB® PYP Twist
Students Embrace Tzedakah on Strawberry Picking Field Trip in Memory of Richard Glasser Celebrating Growth and Diversity: Highlights from our Early Years Program
SIA Class of 2017 Celebrate High School Graduation with Heartwarming Reunion Fifth Graders Explore Global Governments and Culinary Traditions in IB® Exhibition
Strelitz Moments
Head of School’s Message
Heather Moore
Dear Strelitz International Academy Community,
As we bid farewell to another enriching school year at Strelitz International Academy (SIA), it's time to pause and reflect on the remarkable achievements and memorable moments that have defined our journey. This past year has been a testament to the unwavering commitment of our SIA community to excellence, innovation, and growth.
1) VAIS Re-accreditation Success: We are thrilled to announce that SIA has successfully completed our five-year re-accreditation with the Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS), meeting and exceeding all standards set forth by this esteemed organization. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, students, and parents who continuously strive for academic excellence and institutional improvement.
2) Surpassing Fundraising Goals: Thanks to the incredible generosity of our SIA families, faculty, trustees, and community donors, we have surpassed our Annual Donor Fund Goal. Your support has been instrumental in providing essential resources and opportunities to enhance the educational experience for our students.
3) Record Enrollment Rates: This year, we are proud to report one of the highest enrollment rates in our recent history. It speaks volumes about the trust and confidence that families place in SIA as a leading institution for academic excellence, holistic development, and nurturing a vibrant learning community.
4) Launching New Initiatives: The launch of our new STRELITZ Magazine has been a resounding success, with this being our fourth and final issue of the school year. Additionally, we ventured into the world of podcasts, producing 18 episodes that have been enjoyed by listeners in eight countries, highlighting educational and parental challenges.
5) Vibrant Events and Community Engagement: Throughout the year, we have hosted a plethora of events, from signature gatherings like the SIA Fall Festival and Glow Run to cultural celebrations such as Shabbat sing-a-longs and the Evening of the Arts. These events not only fostered a sense of belonging and camaraderie but also provided valuable opportunities for students to showcase their talents and creativity.
Summer Reading Recommendations: As we prepare for the summer break, I would like to recommend two insightful books for parents to explore: Jonathan Haidt's "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” and Lenore Skenazy's "Free-Range Kids: How to Raise Safe, Self-Reliant Children (Without Going Nuts with Worry)." Having personally read both, I highly recommend these thought-provoking works, which offer valuable insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities of parenting in today's world.
As we look ahead to the future with optimism and enthusiasm, let us carry forward the spirit of collaboration, resilience, and lifelong learning that defines the essence of Strelitz International Academy. Together, we will continue to inspire excellence and make a positive impact in the lives of our students and the broader community.
Wishing you all a restful and rejuvenating summer break filled with joy, exploration, and cherished moments with friends and family.
Warm regards,
Heather Moore Head of School
Board of Trustees
President’s Message
Wendy Goldberg
My name is Wendy Goldberg, and I have been actively involved with the Strelitz International Academy for over fourteen years as a parent and board member.
My son, Benjamin Goldberg, was a student of SIA, and due to an illness, he could not attend regularly. During that time, SIA not only fostered his education and Judaic values but also became a beacon of support for our family. The school's dedication to its students is unwavering, and it has enabled Ben's legacy to live on even today. The Benjamin Goldberg Foundation is proud to support SIA's annual Evening of the Arts, which is one of my favorite nights of the year. I am extremely proud of the collaborative efforts in support of the arts and education.
As a board member for the past six years, I have been privileged to witness the administration, teachers, parents, and the Jewish community wholeheartedly embrace the school’s mission, and it has been an honor to serve as your board president. Among my various roles as a community member, business owner, and nonprofit founder, it is this role that I cherish. It is my deep-rooted desire to continue providing the same warm and nurturing experiences that have indeed shaped our lives.
My tenure as president was marked by strategic initiatives. We created numerous opportunities for leadership, board development, and learning through our diverse speaker series, all aimed at advancing the organization's future. I am proud to say that thanks to our collective efforts, SIA now boasts a diverse, effective, and engaged Board of Trustees, a testament to our shared commitment to the school's success.
I often reflect on a conversation with a friend years ago when discussing philanthropy. She said, “You are the next best thing to the next best thing.” Those words I hold close, and as I pass the torch to Amy Weinstein, SIA’s next Board of Trustee's president, I can humbly express that you are in good hands.
As we approach the summer, I assure you that my support for our beloved school and community will continue. I look forward to SIA's future with great anticipation and hope.
Warmly,
Wendy Goldberg President, Board of Trustees
Wendy and Ben*. *Of blessed memory.
Fifth Graders Explore Global Governments and Culinary Traditions in IB® Exhibition by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director
As an IB® World School, students at Strelitz International Academy frequently explore topics through a global lens. On May 23, 2024, the fifth grade students highlighted their IB® Unit of Inquiry, How We Organize Ourselves, in their Primary Years Programme Exhibition. In their inquiry into how government systems work around the world, the fifth graders studied different types of governments, with a special focus on the governments of the USA, Israel, Canada, Sweden, Germany, and Mexico. Working in pairs, students did a deep dive into the types of governments and how each country selects its head of state.
While studying governments, the fifth graders also studied the different blessings for food and discovered how food is organized into different categories according to the Torah. The students explored whether foods were considered bread or regular baked goods, sorted fruits and vegetables based on whether they grow from trees or the ground, found that grape juice and wine have their own special blessing, and also studied the blessing for all foods that do not fit into one of the other blessing categories.
When studying the foods, the students selected a food for each blessing, connected it to a foreign country, and then gained culinary skills as they prepared one food for each country studied.
Students had to work closely with their partners and their mentors to prepare their exhibition presentations. As they prepared, they needed to lean on their IB® Learner Profile Traits as they worked to create their material to share with the school community. Students were risk-takers, inquirers, and communicators, to name just a few of the traits used as they prepared for their big day.
During the exhibition, the fifth graders presented their findings about their country’s government, displayed photos, and shared fun facts! They also taught visitors about their chosen food blessing and shared photos of foods in their given category. Each student also displayed their reflection on their study of the different governments, countries, and blessings for food. Visitors had the opportunity to visit the international buffet, where they could say the appropriate food blessings and taste grape juice (Israel), cinnamon buns (Sweden), soft pretzels (Germany), guacamole (Mexico), poutine (Canada), and chicken nuggets (USA).
It was a fun, informative, and tasty afternoon for all!
Esme O. and Sylvie L. (not pictured) - Israel Emma Z. and Sarah L.- Germany
Liana Y. and Hazel M.- Sweden
Tristan P. and Dalia P.- Canada
Noah B. and Sylar P.- Mexico
Shaya B. and Adam A.- USA
Graduation Speech 2024 Leila Abrams- Class of 2017
“Message to the SIA GraduatesClass of 2024”
My name is Leila Abrams and I graduated from the Strelitz International Academy in 2017 when it was still known as Hebrew Academy of Tidewater, or as we liked to call it, HAT. It feels like only a few years ago that I was graduating from this amazing school. However, time has passed quickly because in just a few days, I myself will be graduating from Princess Anne High School as a part of the IB® program and moving on to attend the University of Virginia in the fall.
I first want to say congratulations to all of you. This is a milestone that I hope you will remember forever. I certainly remember my graduation and much of my time at this school— from field day, to playing gaga at recess, to the excitement of moving to a classroom upstairs in second grade, to Shabbat celebrations and of course, just being with my friends everyday. When Mrs. Moore asked me to speak at your graduation, I was thrilled to come back which just goes to show what a lasting impression this school and the people in it have made on me.
I am still friends with many of the people I met at this school and not only learned what was being taught in my classes, but also learned how to work hard and be compassionate, generous, and curious. These values and many more have stayed with me, and I hope they stay with you as well.
SIA not only prepares you for middle school academically, but you learn how to be a good friend and community member. So as you continue on to your next schools, remember all of your time here. Remember your friends and all of the amazing memories you’ve made over the years and remember the crucial values you’ve learned as well.
This school greatly prepares you to be leaders. You have spent the past year as the role models for the rest of the school showing them how to behave when walking in the halls, how to be respectful to those around you, and how to achieve to the best of your ability within your academic subjects, the arts, and sports. And last week you once again proved your skills working together as a field day team. Being the leaders and oldest students in the school has granted you special privileges such as painting ceiling tiles, eating your last lunch on the stage, being the news anchors, and a graduation field trip. But this won’t be the case next year. Next year, as sixth graders, you all will be the youngest at the school. However, this does not mean that you should cease to be leaders. Be leaders within your grade and as you continue moving through the grades. Never be afraid to give your opinion, whether it’s in a group project, school government, or an extracurricular activity because all of your opinions have merit. I was a quiet child, some of the people in this room can confirm that I barely spoke out for many years, but this school helped me find my voice.
The experiences at SIA allowed me to be confident that my opinion could be shared and should always be considered valuable. Through class activities, singing songs in front of all of our parents, drama club, and the science fair, my confidence grew and that has stayed with me all the way until today as I stand in front of all of you.
As mentioned in my introduction, I am graduating from an IB® high school so I am very familiar with the IB® Learner Profile Traits. And I’m sure you’re all tired of hearing about them at this point, but they are truly important. My personal favorites are Inquirer, Open-minded, Risktaker, and Reflective. Being an inquirer will allow you to ask the important questions and never be afraid of finding the answers. Don’t simply be satisfied with the easy answer, but push yourself to delve deeper into the topic and work hard to learn. When I attended this school, we had a science fair in fourth and fifth grade, which has now been replaced with your PYP exhibition. This event helped me become an inquirer as it pushed me to challenge my thinking and explore topics I wanted to know more about.
The trait open-minded is equally essential because by being open-minded your world will greatly expand. Hearing multiple sides to an argument is imperative because it allows you to make the best decision you can. And never be afraid to change your opinion when you learn new facts.
Risk-taker is possibly my personal favorite. Last week you all took a field trip to Latitude Climbing, and I’m sure none of you know this, but that is where I spend about 90% of my free time, as a member of the competitive rock climbing team and as a coach for younger athletes. Rock climbing is scary, and each one of you was a risk-taker when there. You pushed yourself past your boundaries and accomplished great things. But being a risk-taker isn’t just with physical challenges. Whether it’s talking to someone you’ve never met before at your new school or trying a difficult new subject, anytime you push yourselves outside of your comfort zone you are being a risk-taker. This school couldn’t have prepared you any better to embody this trait. You learned multiple instruments, sang in front of the school, prepared presentations, and so much more. Trust me, you’re ready to continue being a risk-taker next year.
In my IB® schools, I found that the trait reflective was often overlooked. Maybe it's because of its placement as the last one on the poster and no one wants to read that far, or maybe because people truly don’t believe it’s as important as others, but I think it’s incredibly important. Being reflective means that you are able to consider your strengths and weaknesses, identify your past actions and most importantly, learn from them. Without reflecting on your past, you can never fully lean into the future.
And now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to add a couple more traits to the list that I believe are important for you all to carry with you. Resilience and perseverance. I don’t believe that success is solely based on natural abilities in school or in sports, but it’s how badly you want something and how hard you are willing to work. I’m sure we’ve all had our fair share of times crying at the kitchen table trying to understand homework while a parent gets frustrated explaining it over and over again. That moment of frustration, of not understanding the material, is not what’s important. What’s important is how you move on. Do you give up and say that you’re never going to be able to understand it? Or do you think to yourself that you are fully capable of understanding anything you want to, so you keep on trying. It’s a cliché to say that you can achieve anything you put your mind to, but it’s a cliché for a reason. If you want to accomplish something in school, sports, or any other aspect of your life you are fully capable of doing it, and this school has given you a lot of practice to make sure of that. Things will be hard in middle school and high school, there will be a lot of work, but it’s important to simply never give up and to always keep trying. With resilience and perseverance, you will succeed.
As you continue to move through life, you will change a lot as a person, although maybe your height won’t change if you’re anything like me, but never forget your roots at this school. Without a doubt, you’re ready for what comes next, and I look forward to what the future holds for all of you.
There will be many changes as you transition to middle school next year. One big one will be the lack of recess. Trust me, you’re always going to be missing that. But more notably, most of you, if not all of you, will find yourselves in much larger classes next year with many more people in your grade. Embrace the change in your environment and embrace the opportunity to create even more connections with the people around you. At SIA, everyone feels like a family because it’s such a small class. And it’s okay if it feels intimidating next year, but put yourselves out there, get involved in what interests you, and soon you will find another family.
And here’s one last piece of advice. Don’t think of middle school as just another step towards high school and your future. Enjoy every moment of it as you learn new things, explore topics that interest you, and make memories with both new friends and your friends that you’re leaving here with today. Don’t forget—it isn’t all so serious—have fun! Enjoy this next adventure and once again, congratulations to the graduates and their parents and families!
Leila Abrams delivering her graduation speech to the SIA Class of 2024, inspiring the graduates with words of wisdom and hope for the future.
Fifth Grade Graduates Enjoy a Fun-Filled Day Out on the Town
by Ally St. Pierre Admissions and Marketing Manager
The graduating fifth graders at Strelitz International Academy recently enjoyed an action-packed day out on the town, creating unforgettable memories with their classmates and teachers. The exciting itinerary included rock climbing at Latitude Climbing, solving puzzles at an escape room, enjoying lunch and playground time at Fun Forest, and ending the day with a friendly competition at the bowling alley.
The adventure began at Latitude Climbing, where students tested their strength, agility, and courage on various rock climbing walls. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, the students learned the basics of climbing safety and techniques, conquering their fears and cheering each other on as they reached new heights.
Next, the fifth graders headed to an escape room, where they put their problem-solving skills to the test. Working together in teams, the students deciphered clues, cracked codes, and unraveled mysteries in a race against the clock. The escape room experience not only challenged their intellect but also reinforced the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
After a morning full of physical and mental challenges, the students enjoyed a well-deserved break at Fun Forest. They relished a delicious lunch and spent some time playing in the playground. The open space and recreational facilities at Fun Forest provided the perfect setting for the students to unwind, socialize, and simply enjoy being kids.
The final stop of the day was the bowling alley, where the students showcased their bowling skills. Friendly competition ensued as they took turns rolling strikes and spares, with plenty of high-fives and laughter to go around. The bowling alley buzzed with excitement and camaraderie, making it a perfect end to an exhilarating day.
The day out on the town was not just about fun and games; it was an opportunity for the graduating class to strengthen their bonds, support each other, and develop important life skills in a dynamic and enjoyable environment. The experiences at Latitude Climbing, the escape room, Fun Forest, and the bowling alley provided a well-rounded mix of physical activity, mental challenges, relaxation, and teamwork.
Overall, the fifth graders returned to school with big smiles and plenty of stories to share. The day out was a resounding success, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next adventure.
Shaya B. scaling the rock wall with focus!
Noah B., Sylvie L., Esme O., Tristan P., Hazel M. and Mrs. Bruns celebrate their escape room victory!
Sylvie L., Noah B., Hazel M. and Liana Y. enjoying their day out!
Keeping the Learning Alive: A Summer with an IB® PYP Twist
by Janet Jenkins, Primary Years Director
We’ve all heard it or said it before: “Summer Slide.” The idea that kids lose academic skills over the summer break can be a worry for parents and educators alike. But what if we could turn this concern into an opportunity? Within the framework of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB® PYP), we can create summer activities that not only keep academic skills sharp but also enhance the IB® learner profile attributes, all while keeping students engaged in inquiry-based learning. By keeping our minds active and steering clear of the screen-time trap, we can make
continuous progress in our learning. It's simply part of who we are. Here are some summer ideas with an IB® PYP twist to keep your child’s curiosity alive and well:
1. Inquiry-Based Projects: What Sparks Your Child’s Interest?
Encourage your child to dive into a topic they're passionate about with these steps:
Research: Use books, online resources, and interviews to gather information.
Presentation: Create a project, presentation, poster, or digital story to share their findings.
Reflection: Write a reflection on what they learned and how they approached their inquiry.
2. Reading Meets Challenges
Transform reading into a summer adventure:
Genre Exploration: Encourage your child to explore different genres (e.g., fantasy, non-fiction, historical fiction.)
Global Perspectives: Select books from various cultures and countries to promote international-mindedness.
Reading Meets: Keep a journal to reflect on what they read, connections made, and questions they have. Host fun discussions with other school families at the pool, park, or beach.
3. Community Projects
Make a positive impact with community service:
Local Issues: Identify a local issue and work on a project to address it, such as a clean-up drive or a fundraiser.
Collaboration: Work with friends or family members to promote teamwork and communication.
Reflection: Reflect on the experience and its impact on the community.
4. Math in Real Life
Show your child how math is everywhere:
Budgeting: Plan a budget for a family event or a small trip.
Cooking: Use recipes to practice measurements and fractions. Shopping: Compare prices and calculate discounts while shopping.
5. Creative Arts
Let creativity flow with arts and crafts:
Art Journals: Keep an art journal to draw or paint daily.
Music Projects: Learn a new musical instrument or compose simple songs. Drama and Role-Playing: Write and perform short plays or skits.
6. Science Experiments
Turn your home into a mini-laboratory:
Daily Experiments: Try out a new experiment every week and document the process and results.
Nature Exploration: Explore local parks and nature reserves, observing and documenting flora and fauna.
Citizen Science: Participate in citizen science projects and contribute to real scientific research.
7. Language Practice
Keep language skills fresh and fun:
Pen Pals: Write letters or emails to friends or family members.
Language Apps: Use language learning apps to practice a new language or maintain skills in a second language.
Storytelling: Create and share stories, either written or spoken, with family and friends.
8. Cultural Exploration
Explore the richness of different cultures:
Virtual Tours: Take virtual tours of museums, historical sites, and landmarks around the world.
Cooking International Dishes: Try cooking recipes from different countries and learn about their cultural significance.
Cultural Festivals: Attend local cultural festivals or create a mini-festival at home to celebrate different traditions.
9. Personal Goal Setting
Teach the importance of setting and reflecting on personal goals: Goal Chart: Create a chart with personal goals for the summer and track progress.
Reflective Journals: Maintain a journal to reflect on daily activities and achievements.
Mentorship: Pair up with an older student or adult mentor to discuss goals and progress.
10. Digital Literacy
Use technology responsibly and creatively:
Coding: Learn basic coding through online platforms and create simple games or apps.
Digital Storytelling: Create digital stories using photos, videos, and narration.
Online Safety: Learn about online safety and digital citizenship. By integrating these activities with the IB® PYP framework, you can help your child continue to develop their academic skills, maintain their curiosity, and grow as globally-minded individuals over the summer break. Most importantly, don’t forget to use their ideas and interests to guide the goals. Children will learn about the things they love. Let’s make this summer a season of growth, learning, and fun!
…And as always, keep reading for 15-20 minutes every day! Read the research. The impact is worth it. Listening to stories works too, just differently, listening and following in a book, amazing!
SIA Mitzvah Club Shines at Beach Clean-Up: A Day of Service and Fun
by Ally St. Pierre, Admissions and Marketing Manager
The sun shone brightly as students and families from the Strelitz International Academy Mitzvah Club gathered at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront for a beach clean-up event that blended service with fun on Sunday, June 2, 2024. The day began with laughter and joy as children played with bubbles and created colorful chalk art on the boardwalk, setting a vibrant tone for the community effort ahead.
Armed with gloves, trash bags, and a strong sense of purpose, the volunteers spread out across the beach to pick up litter. The initiative, which took place on a beautiful Sunday morning, was not only about cleaning up the environment but also about embodying the Jewish value of "Tikkun Olam" — the concept of repairing the world.
Throughout the morning, participants collected bags full of trash, including plastic bottles, food packaging, and other debris. The dedication of the volunteers turned the usually crowded beach into a cleaner, more inviting space for everyone to enjoy.
After the clean-up, the group took a well-deserved break, enjoying a peaceful moment of relaxation on the now pristine beach. The event ended on a high note, with participants feeling a deep sense of accomplishment and community spirit.
This beach clean-up is just one of the many impactful activities organized by the SIA Mitzvah Club throughout the year. The club has been a beacon of kindness and generosity, engaging in several projects that have made a significant difference in the community. Highlights of the past year include:
Donating 24 honey jars and heartfelt cards to homebound seniors for Rosh Hashanah, bringing sweetness and joy to those who might otherwise feel isolated during the holiday.
Contributing approximately 500 bottles of water to the Judeo-Christian Outreach Center, helping to provide essential hydration to those in need.
Collecting and donating 100 winter coats, ensuring that many could stay warm during the colder months. Gathering and distributing 300 books to REACH, promoting literacy and the love of reading among children.
Raising and donating $268 to the Benjamin Goldberg Foundation, supporting the healing arts.
The SIA Mitzvah Club's commitment to service and community reflects the core Jewish value of "Gemilut Chasadim" — acts of loving-kindness. Through their various projects, members of the club demonstrate that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
As the sun set on the day's activities, there was a palpable sense of fulfillment among the participants. The beach clean-up not only made the oceanfront a cleaner place but also reinforced the importance of community service and the power of collective action. The Mitzvah Club's efforts remind us all that when we come together with a shared purpose, we can make the world a better place for everyone.
Quinn M., Calanit W. and Grayce B. pose with their beautiful chalk art before the beach clean-up.
SIA Families gather together after a successful day of cleaning the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
SIA Students Marvel at Partial Solar Eclipse, Sparking Curiosity and Learning
by Alicia Pahl-Cornelius, IB® Coordinator
On April 8, 2024, Strelitz International Academy students witnessed a special phenomenon: they saw a partial solar eclipse. This rare event gave our learners a chance to learn about space in a fun way.
With special glasses, students watched as the moon passed between the Earth and the sun, making the sun look like a crescent. Some classes constructed special viewing devices made out of paper towel tubes and cereal boxes. Teachers helped students understand what was happening, and they did activities to learn more about eclipses.
Early Years Fours also joined in the fun, doing simple crafts to learn about the sun, moon, and shadows. The best part was seeing the eclipse darken the sky, making everyone cheer in excitement. The energy on the white top was palpable! Adults and children alike were in awe of the wonders of our unique place in the solar system.
After the eclipse, students kept talking about the experience and asking questions. It truly showed them how amazing space can be and sparked their curiosity to learn more about the universe. This event was a reminder of how important it is to encourage kids to explore and wonder about the world around them. It was also an opportunity for students to witness their teachers and administrators getting excited about science! At SIA, we are all lifelong learners.
Third graders gearing up for a celestial adventure, safely viewing the eclipse with their stylish solar shades!
First grader, Asher M. prepares his viewfinder, ready to catch a glimpse of the eclipse magic.
EY4 students Bety H. and Mimi G. gaze up in amazement, marveling at the sun's celestial wonders!
Kindergartners using a strainer to create shadows in the sun.
Students Embrace Tzedakah on Strawberry Picking Field Trip in Memory of Richard Glasser
by Rashi Brashevitzky, Judaic Studies Director
At Strelitz International Academy, a love for Tzedakah, kindness, and helping others is fostered at each grade level. As students learn new Tefillot (prayers), they explore G-d’s kindness and brainstorm ways to emulate G-d’s ways in caring for others. As they meet Torah personalities in their study of the weekly Torah portion, Jewish holidays, or Chumash, they seek to follow in our ancestors' ways of kindness and caring. Tzedakah, helping those in need, is a foundational Jewish value, and students take these lessons to heart by bringing coins for charity and organizing a wide variety of Mitzvah and Tzedakah projects throughout the school year.
On Tuesday, May 21, 2024, SIA Primary Years students had the opportunity to go on a Tzedakah field trip! Students were very excited as they headed to Greenbrier Historic Farms to pick strawberries. Arriving at the strawberry fields, the students got right to work choosing bright red, juicy strawberries. After a quick snack, students enjoyed playing on the playground and jumping in the inflatables.
The strawberry picking field trip was held in memory of Richard Glasser, of blessed memory. Ahead of the field trip, students learned about Richard’s motto in life: “to do the right thing at the right time for the right reason." In memory of Richard, the students not only picked strawberries for themselves but also for children living in a family shelter run by ForKids. The students took this Mitzvah very seriously, with some even offering to donate their entire basket of strawberries to the families in need.
Once back at school, SIA students donated more than 600 strawberries to ForKids! What a beautiful and tasty Mitzvah!
Jackson T. carefully picks strawberries, embracing the spirit of Tzedakah during the memorable field trip.
Fourth graders in the strawberry fields, harvesting sweetness and spreading kindness with every berry picked.
Leo L. and Liam K. proudly display freshly picked strawberries.
Excited third graders on the tractor, all set to pick strawberries!
Yom HaAtzmaut!
Lag Ba’Omer Field Day!
Celebrating Growth and Discovery: Highlights from Our Early Years Program
by Elyssa Brinn, Early Years Director
As the school year comes to a close, I cannot help but be filled with a deep sense of pride in our Early Years Program this year. Reflecting on the past year in the Early Years, it is truly remarkable to see how much our children have grown, not only cognitively, but socially and emotionally as well. This year has been a journey of exploration, discovery, and joy, and I am delighted to share some of our highlights with you, using two of our important IB® components.
Relationship Building
Social-emotional development is a cornerstone of our Early Years curriculum, and it has been heartwarming to see the friendships blossom among our students. Through collaborative play, group activities, and learning about conflict resolution, the children learned important social skills that will serve them well beyond their preschool years. Our playground, with its new collaborative and creative themed areas, was a center for laughter and teamwork, where new friendships were forged and old ones strengthened. Family engagement allowed us to further build our community relationships, and the bond between school and home became even stronger this year. The room was filled with joy during our monthly Family Shabbat Sing-alongs, and our newer family activities, such as our walk-through Seder for Tu B'Shevat, were well attended and enjoyed by all.
Creativity and Learning through Play
Reflecting on the year, we’ve seen an incredible journey of inquiry and discovery from our youngest learners. From the very first day of school, our classrooms buzzed with curiosity as children asked questions, explored new ideas, and delved deeper into learning with our new concept-driven framework. Whether they were experimenting with erupting volcanoes, exploring their artistic style just like Vincent Van Gogh and Todd Parr, or inventing new ways to play in our new Small World Play area outside, our little learners consistently demonstrated an eagerness to understand the world around them. Through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and imaginative play, they developed critical thinking skills and a love for learning that we hope will remain with them for years to come.
As we look forward to the next school year, we are excited to build on this year’s successes. We have several new initiatives planned, including expanded outdoor learning experiences, enhanced language and literacy programs, and diving deeper into the pedagogy of play. We are so grateful for the community that surrounds us and cannot wait to learn more together!
Aarav A. taking a closer look at volcano lava.
Anne-Marie H. enjoying the new small play area outdoors.
Oliver B. and Cara T. rocking their shades and friendship!
Strelitz International Academy Alumni Celebrate High School Graduation with Heartwarming Reunion
by Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
Time flies! It feels like just yesterday the Strelitz International Academy’s Class of 2017 graduated, yet seven years have passed, and now they are graduating from their respective high schools this year.
This past May, these alumni and their parents returned to SIA for a special Senior Sendoff reunion, revisiting their preschool and elementary school days.
The students were thrilled to reconnect with each other, picking up right where they left off. While many had visited the Sandler Family Campus since graduation, most had not been back to the school wing for seven years. The excitement was palpable as they observed the changes in the school, shared memories, and enthusiastically greeted former teachers while exploring their old classrooms. They were astonished at how small everything seemed compared to their elementary school days.
The current fifth-grade students enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the visiting alumni, eagerly asking questions about their experiences in middle and high school. The alumni, now recent graduates from Cape Henry Collegiate, Norfolk Academy, Norfolk Collegiate, Tidewater Collegiate Academy, and First Colonial High School, shared their insights and stories.
We are immensely proud to have provided these students with a strong Jewish and academic foundation. They have grown into accomplished high school graduates, ready to embark on their next journeys in higher education. We wish them all the best as they begin the following programs:
Baylor University College of Charleston
Young Judaea Year Course in Israel
Dartmouth College
Hollins University
Syracuse University
University of Central Florida
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Strelitz International Academy remains committed to fostering the growth and success of its students, and we look forward to celebrating their future achievements.
Alumni, parents and grandparents of alum, please update your information here or email csimon@strelitzacademy.org
Recreating their graduation photo - left to right: Backrow: Jonah Zuckerman, Skyel Nidam, Talia Chapel, Sam Stromberg. Frontrow: Leila Abrams, Sylvie Cardon, Izzie Seeman, Isabella Leon
Izzy Seeman, Talia Chapel and Isabella Leon greet their fifth grade teacher, Mary Opitz
Strelitz Moments
1. “There’s a dinosaur, knocking at my door, and he wants to have Shabbat with me!” Ozzie B. with the dinosaur at March’s Early Years Family Shabbat Sing-along.
3. In April we honored “Month of the Military Child” by wearing purple to recognize our military- connected students and show our support for their personal and educational success during all stages of transitions and deployments.
2. SIA hosted the Hampton Roads Naval Museum for an in-house field trip. Our Primary Years students explored tools used for navigation, as well as other hands- on experiences!
4. On Yom HaZikaron, Connor L. used chalk to write Ahava (love) during a chalk drawing activity, embracing a theme of peace.
5. SIA parents enjoyed a lovely volunteer appreciation breakfast where we honored all of our volunteers this past school year. We could not do half the things we do with out our community’s help and support!
7. EY4 student, Jaxon H. and his mom at our EY4 Surfing Up Ceremony. We can‘t wait to see what our amazing students do in Kindergarten!
6 Our Annual Family Pizza Picnic was a success! Everyone enjoyed pizza, snacks and Icees, as well as face painting and great conversations.
8. Asher Y. enjoying the sunshine and the thrill of the slide on the infant playground.
Strelitz Moments
9. Thomas D. and his father decorating Thomas’ Siddur (prayer book) cover for the First Grade Siddur Presentation that took place in May.
10. Fourth graders collaborating on a Pesachthemed science experiment. Thank you to Mr. Walker who came in as a community expert!
11. Maren L. planting in our beautiful garden. Sunflowers, squash, cucumbers and tomatoes are just a few of the plants and vegetables that we are growing!
4. Niv R. presenting his basketball prototype during third grade’s “Shark Tank” project. Each student created an invention that would be useful to solve an every day problem.
13. Rising 4th Grade Parents had a “Parents-Only Pool Party” the weekend after school ended, to celebrate a fantastic 2023-2024 school year.
15. Mara G. and Rosangela M. pose with their Chumash following the annual Third Grade Chumash presentation.
14 Jackson T and his Mom pose for a picture with Jackson’s new Siddur after the First Grade Siddur Presentation.
16. Molly F. smiles as she walks out of school on the last day of the 2023- 2024 school year!
Save the Date for the Golf Tournament of the Year!
The 36th Annual Strelitz International Golf Tournament, proudly known as the "Bob Josephberg Classic," co-chaired by David Leon and Babbi Bangel, is set to be the highlight of the season on August 28, 2024, at the renowned Virginia Beach National Golf Club.
This isn't just another golf tournament; it's the cornerstone of our fundraising efforts and a cherished tradition passionately embraced by the entire Tidewater community. Each year, the event draws over 100 players and 100 sponsors, raising $150,000 to support the students and families of the Strelitz International Academy.
This past school year, the Strelitz International Academy celebrated remarkable achievements. As a result of our school’s exceptional Jewish education and International Baccalaureate curriculum, enrollment has soared to record levels since our move to the Sandler Family Campus. Serving students from infancy through fifth grade, SIA lays a solid foundation for future leaders, deeply rooted in the values and support of the Tidewater Jewish community. The 36th Annual Golf Tournament presents a unique opportunity for businesses and individuals to make a significant impact. Sponsorship opportunities range from $400 to $10,500, catering to a variety of giving levels. The event is open to all golf enthusiasts and volunteers, promising a day packed with excitement, including a captivating silent auction and a vibrant awards reception featuring a delectable kosher dinner.
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: onecau.se/siagolf.
We can't wait to see you there! Together, we can make a lasting difference.
Babbi Bangel and David Leon, Golf Tournament Co-chairs.
John Strelitz at the Bob Josephberg Classic Golf Tournament.
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 in 2001 on the eighth grade trip to Israel and features students Sarah Engel, Natalie Mahgerefteh, Gal Cohen, Jacob Marten, Jennifer Becker, Emily Vatner and Benjamin Panitz.
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