The International Baccalaureate Approach to Learning in Preschool and Kindergarten

Posted on Wednesday May 31 , 2023 by Strelitz International Academy
The International Baccalaureate Approach to Learning in Preschool and Kindergarten

Since 2020, cultivating early childhood education to adapt to a global future has been more critical than ever. After all, how we teach plays a vital role in the child’s development. The International Baccalaureate (IB®) approach has gained worldwide recognition for its comprehensive and holistic framework, which propels students on a brighter path toward adulthood. Let’s explore the benefits of the IB® program in IB® elementary schools and highlight its key principles, application, and strategies for implementing the next generation of world leaders.

Understanding the IB® Approach

The International Baccalaureate program is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and hyperfocus on creating globally-minded individuals. In preschool and kindergarten, the IB® methodology extends these values to young learners, nurturing a love for learning, inquiry-based thinking, and the evolution of a solid skillset.

IB® Principles:

Inquiry-Based Learning

IB® encourages children to participate dynamically in their education through curiosity, asking questions, and embracing special interests. IB® students enforce valuable critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the world they live in.

Incorporating Play

Play is at the heart of early childhood development, and the IB® program understands this all too well. Preschool and kindergarten classrooms that engage in purposeful play can realize a wealth of opportunities for creativity, social skills, and problem-solving.

Holistic Development

Holistic development involves the child’s cognitive, social, physical, and emotional aspects. It prioritizes the interconnectedness of these areas to model a well-rounded education and healthy well-being.

Transdisciplinary Learning

The IB® curriculum uplifts children to use their knowledge and skills across various subject areas. This means that students can carry the lessons learned from one subject into another discipline, solving problems through transdisciplinary activities, connections, and understanding concepts more clearly.

IB® Benefits For Preschoolers and Kindergartners

Choosing the IB® path versus the conventional model opens the door to a range of possibilities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. When schools use this model, they create active members of society who contribute to our workforce and lead productive, fulfilling lives.

A Love For Learning

Education can be just as engaging and interesting as it is informative. Through instilling independent thinking and individuality, the IB® program allows children the freedom to love learning. The approach will enable students to find their respective paths and absorb complicated topics in a controlled and easy manner. The result is a positive attitude toward education and the stimulation of all areas of development.

Advanced Critical Thinking Skills

IB® highlights the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills from an early age. The inquiry-based learning style pushes the potential of the brain to analyze and retain information, ask meaningful questions, and master logical reasoning abilities.

Cultural Awareness and Global Understanding 

John Nicholls of the Bilingual European School in Italy states, “The beauty of the IB® is that it’s a global education community. All schools around the world face the same challenges, enjoy the same benefits, and can connect with one another.” This represents the IB®’s core value, global-mindedness, which realizes the interconnectedness of people within all cultures. The program implements the exploration of different cultures, languages, and perspectives and fosters empathy, tolerance, and appreciation for diversity in every classroom.

Strong Social and Emotional Skills 

Social and emotional intelligence are two sides of the same coin that contribute to developmental success. Preschool and kindergarten learners participate in collaborative activities, use communication tactics, and build positive and fulfilling relationships with their teachers and peers.

How IB® is Implemented in Preschool and Kindergarten Classrooms

Teachers Become Facilitators

With an IB® state of mind, teachers lead in facilitating the classroom. They guide preschoolers and kindergarteners through their unique learning experiences, pose lucrative opportunities and questions, and create an inclusive, supportive environment that encourages experimentation and discovery.

Children Choose Their Paths

Young IB® students take ownership of their self-discovery and learning transformation with their school’s guidance. Teachers can facilitate learning by equipping children with the right resources and advice that appeal to their interests and concerns.

Play-Based Environments

Preschoolers and kindergartners can learn and memorize concepts while developing social and motor skills by experiencing crafts, fun learning activities, and singsongy lessons. Art and gym classes are excellent environments to express creativity and boost physical activity in fun and meaningful ways. Students also deserve a break to unwind and recollect themselves during the school day, like lunch and recess.

Collaborative Learning

IB® classrooms need to focus not only on the individual but also on the collective group. Likewise, a child can only properly metamorphose if participating with other students during learning activities. This can include team exercises like group storytelling, obstacle courses, and building block games.

Alternative Testing

Moving beyond the norm of traditional assessment, IB® classrooms focus on authentic ways to evaluate children’s educational progress. Observation, milestone tracking, and portfolios are all stellar ways to give a detailed overview of the child’s growth, achievements, strengths, and areas of improvement.

Strelitz International Academy: A Premier IB School

Strelitz International Academy (SIA) is not only a top IB® elementary school—it’s an acclaimed Jewish day school in Virginia Beach. We follow suit in IB’s mission to do more than the average curriculum through cultural interconnectedness.  

Our vision is centered on educating the whole child.  Our mission is performed through our dynamic Jewish environment, where we enrich children’s lives and develop compassionate, lifelong learners. By collaborating with our families and the greater community, we promote a social and global consciousness that encompasses a profound respect for all humanity.

The IB® program allows children to forge their own learning paths and find the skills and confidence they need to make a global difference. From the IB®’s word of mouth, it “empowers teachers as the architects of learning excellence, working alongside engaged colleagues in a rewarding career supported by a strong global network. And it brings schools a strong reputation for successful outcomes that uplift the whole community.”

Together we can create a rich and fulfilling learning environment for our kindergartners and preschoolers. Read more about how you can send your child to the IB® program and learn how we shape the leading minds of the next generation. Schedule a visit with us to see how we implement it.

The Valuable Benefits of the IB® Program in Schools

Posted on Monday May 1 , 2023 by Strelitz International Academy
The Valuable Benefits of the IB Program in Schools

The International Baccalaureate ® (IB) program is a globally esteemed educational framework designed to foster growth in students through cognitive, functional, and behavioral learning. Created to help students adapt to an ever-changing world, the IB® program is offered at all levels of education, from primary to secondary. It is regarded for its rigorous academic standards, focus on critical thinking, and commitment to developing well-rounded, pinnacle global citizens. 

Strelitz International Academy (SIA) is an IB® program elementary school in Virginia Beach devoted to upholding IB values with its stimulating courses to inspire current and future young minds. Let’s explore some of the ways IB is transforming schools everywhere.

Benefits of the IB Program in Schools

1. International Mindfulness

International Mindedness is a core overarching concept in the IB® curriculum related to developing an awareness and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives. Intercultural understanding, global engagement, and multilingualism are all fundamentals learned to recognize the interconnectedness of global issues.

By studying a broad range of subjects and engaging in interdisciplinary projects, IB® students learn to think critically about the world around them and realize how their actions can impact others. This is especially important in today’s globalized society, where cultural sensitivity and intercultural competence are becoming increasingly essential.

2. High Academic Standards

The IB® program is widely recognized for its high academic standards and rigorous criteria. It is designed to prepare students for university-level studies, with varying assessments and final examinations in each subject. IB® students are required to study a broad range of topics, including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts. Examinations are reviewed by an international board of examiners, who are expertly trained and monitored by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

Additionally, IB® students are expected to engage in independent research to heighten their critical thinking skills through the analysis and evaluation of information. IB® elementary schools train children to prepare for higher education and the challenges of the modern workforce.

3. Holistic Education

Another key feature and benefit of the IB program is its holistic approach to education. Instead of focusing on the core competencies and “soft skills” of basic subjects, IB® students are encouraged to think outside the box and evolve their personal, social, and emotional skills.

Likewise, students engage in extracurricular activities like sports, arts, clubs, and community service to mature their leadership, teamwork, and social skills. This balanced approach tackles every major aspect from all angles, forming intelligent life perspectives and securing their futures as responsible citizens.

4. University Recognition

In almost every country worldwide, the IB® curriculum is known as excellent preparation for university. Being renowned around the world opens the door for students to explore academic and employment opportunities abroad in the future, as IB® is recognized as a post-16 qualification by employers.

Students who have IB® under their belts maintain the advantage because top universities often prefer them due to their articulate academic preparation and ability to think rationally and independently. Also, they are repeatedly given advanced standing or credit for university-level courses, which propel them to graduate more quickly—saving tuition money in return.

5. Career Preparation

IB® serves as a pathway to employment for students joining the 21st-century workforce. In a world where life places complex demands on graduates seeking work opportunities, the IB® program enables students to become self-confident, skilled, and career-ready learners. 

When children join IB® elementary schools, they become future business leaders, lawyers, scientists, artists, and beyond. Children learn the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing job market and master quick thinking, leadership, careful decision-making, communication, and problem-solving. On top of that, they discover the importance of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which are all too desirable in today’s economy.

6. Personal Development

Most importantly, implementing the IB® program in schools allows students to be the best version of themselves. It is engineered to focus on the individual’s unique needs, teaching them to become responsible and compassionate members of their communities.  IB® is different because it aims to do more than average curricula. It shapes brilliant minds who hunger for knowledge and excellence. It conceives empathetic people who take action on global issues to make a change for the better.  

This focus on personal development guides IB® students to become more self-aware, confident, and resilient and to establish a strong sense of personal values and ethics. Lastly, it embraces their full potential to become future leaders in a diverse world.

As an IB World School, We Make a Difference.

Strelitz International Academy cultivates a cross-cultural understanding of interconnectedness. With our deep knowledge of global issues, multiple perspectives, and the ability to communicate effectively to all communities, we instill our wisdom in our students to thrive and make a difference. Our IB® elementary school in Virginia Beach, Virginia, prepares children from toddler to primary with a strategic learning path in Judaic studies, developmental skills, technology, and so much more.

Interested to see how our IB® program makes a positive impact? We invite you to tour our campus and unearth why we are one of Virginia’s leading IB® primary schools! Call us at 757-424-4327 to get started.z

5 Wonderful Reading Suggestions for Preschoolers in 2023

Posted on Tuesday February 28 , 2023 by Strelitz International Academy
Wonderful Reading Suggestions for Preschoolers

On a scale of one to ten, how much does your child love books? Whether your preschooler is a bookworm or not, studies show reading to children as young as nine months can accelerate childhood development. Finding a book that introduces pre-reading skills like numbers and sounds is one of the best ways to ease children into formal reading instruction.  

From The Very Hungry Caterpillar to Goodnight Moon, there are a few staples we read to children time and time again. Seeking something new and enriching for every kind of reading taste? At Strelitz Academy, one of Virginia’s top IB PYP schools in Norfolk, we list the five best reading suggestions that stimulate learning and growth in 2023. Let’s take a look!

Before We Dive In, Here Are A Few Things To Consider

Choosing the perfect book for your child depends on multiple factors. If your book checks off the following boxes, it’s golden:

  • Is the book engaging? Great characters and a fun, cohesive storyline pique a child’s interest.
  • Does it appeal to my child’s attention span? To attract a child’s attention, it must be child-friendly. Short dialogue and simple word choice help your preschooler travel from cover to cover.
  • Does it match my child’s interests? For example, your basketball-loving child isn’t going to enjoy a book on ballerinas. Choose something you think they will enjoy!

Best New Books for Preschoolers

This year’s top reading selection is more educative and engaging than ever, from catchy rhymes to tall tales.

“Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes,” By James Dean and Eric Litwin

“Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes” is a popular book about a cat walking down the street wearing brand-new white shoes. His shoes change from white to all kinds of funky colors and feelings as he steps in different messes along the way. Despite it all, his attitude remains positive while he sings his tune. This singsong story is an excellent way to teach children ages 3 to 7 to experience change with a positive mindset.  

“My First Book of Planets: All About the Solar System for Kids,” By Bruce Betts, PhD

Want to show your child the wonders of astronomy? This is the perfect book for introducing preschoolers to the solar system. Ages 3-5 learn science-driven facts about the eight planets and their size, distance from the sun, surface conditions, moons, and more! The author has a Ph.D. in planetary science but can write in a fun and understandable way for kids.

“Big Preschool,” By School Zone

Looking for practice problems your child can take on during the summer? This workbook contains 320 pages of pre-writing skills, alphabet, colors, shapes, following directions, numbers and early math, and more. This book combines reading comprehension, strategy, and memory retention with easy to advanced concepts, fun illustrations, and an award certificate upon completion. Motivate your preschooler to complete these practice problems during their free time to advance their knowledge and prepare them for school.

“How To Catch A Unicorn,” By Adam Wallace and Andy Elkerton

Brought to you by the New York Times Bestselling team, this picture book combines elusive imagery, STEAM concepts, stimulating puzzles, and fun rhymes to delight children, parents, and educators alike. Start your child’s mornings or end the day with this colorful and upbeat book that allows them to use their brains to solve complex, kid-friendly problems. The pages are filled with all kinds of different animals that your child can point at and admire.

“P Is for Pterodactyl: The Worst Alphabet Book Ever,” By Raj Halder, Chris Carpenter, and Maria Beddia

Don’t judge a book by its cover—this New York Times bestseller teaches the complicated subject of phonetics to children ages 3 to 10. This book brings preschoolers through a “raucous trip through the odd corners of the alphabet” by introducing words with silent letters like “aisle” and “gnat.” This whimsical book demonstrates a comedic take on the English alphabet by listing these more complex words and their pronunciations.

Ready To Kickstart Your Preschooler’s Reading Adventure?

Strelitz International Academy (SIA) is one of Virginia’s best affordable private schools in Chesapeake— setting up children from infant to primary with the education to succeed. With our Early Years Program, children ages 2 to 4 walk through various global, transdisciplinary themes as part of our IB World School curriculum. Our 10 to 12-month comprehensive program explores early reading practices and other learning modalities, development areas, language arts skills, Judaic education, and more.

To learn more about how Strelitz International Academy can help your child grow and excel intellectually, please get in touch with Carin Simon, Admissions Director, at 757 424-4327.

Why Should You Send Your Child to the IB Program?

Posted on Tuesday November 8 , 2022 by Strelitz International Academy
Send Your Child to the IB Program

Any parent preparing to send their child to school is likely overwhelmed by the various choices available. Should they go to public school? A private school? Home school? What is best for their development? One popular program that parents select is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). This program is designed to form the foundation of your child’s academic, social, and mental development in a transdisciplinary manner. Strelitz International Academy is an IB primary school in Virginia Beach that is dedicated to the lifelong success of your child. We believe that the IB program is beneficial for your child, so let us tell you why. 

What is the IB World School Primary Years Program?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) World School Primary Years Programme (PYP) is a program developed for children between the ages of 3 and 12. This program is related to a specific teaching/learning style meant to create a diverse and inclusive community of students. In the program, students discover agency through an inquiry-based approach to learning. Additionally, students are encouraged to form global connections and appreciate their fellow students and peers. Children develop academically and emotionally through this unique framework of knowledge, concepts, skills, attitudes, and actions. 

Why is the IB World School Primary Years Program Beneficial?

The IB Primary Years Programme is proven to be a challenging yet rewarding program for students to participate in. Many parents want to provide the best education possible for their children, and many choose the program because of its many benefits. With more rigorous academic requirements, artistic outlets, better resources, individualized approaches, and enriching programs, your child is more likely to develop a well-rounded educational foundation. Because of this, children in the PYP learn to be critical thinkers, adequately prepare for higher education, participate in an internationally-recognized program, and experience a holistic approach to childhood development. 

Students Learn to be Critical Thinkers

One of the first things students learn in the IB program is the importance of independence and critical thinking. Because governmental restrictions do not direct the IB Program, students can access various philosophies, ideas, and theories. This process allows them to expand their worldview and think critically about situations and experiences. In addition, students are encouraged to explore their interests and learn about them in a healthy and productive environment. By developing these critical thinking and problem-solving skills early, students have the tools to succeed in later education and the work environment. 

Adequately Prepared for Higher Education

Because of the multicultural and diverse environment of the IB program, students are prepared academically and socially for the next step in education. Students who graduate from the IB PYP program are successful in their middle school, high school, college, and work-life environments because they have access to a broad range of knowledge and skills developed throughout their education. In addition, studies have shown that students who attend an IB PYP school score higher in math, literacy, reading, and writing tests. 

Internationally-Recognized Program

Another benefit of sending your child to the IB program is the internationally-recognized education. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme is globally recognized by universities and colleges worldwide. In order to become an International Baccalaureate World School, the school must undergo a rigorous accreditation process. This process and subsequent accreditation ensure parents that their children are receiving a quality education. Similarly, this international recognition opens doors to a host of opportunities that students may otherwise not receive. 

Provides Overall Childhood Development

In addition to the high standard of education, students attending an IB World School are encouraged to participate in other activities in and out of school. This can include sports, the arts, language development, volunteering, etc. So, not only do students thrive in academic environments, but they also thrive in physical, spiritual, and personal spaces. Outside of the classroom, IB schools place more of an emphasis on community engagement and the students’ spiritual and emotional development. Respect and dedication to the overall development of students are rarely found in other schools. For this reason, many students go on to become successful in all areas of their lives once they have completed the Primary Years Programme. 

Strelitz International Academy—An IB Primary School in Virginia Beach

Are you looking for an IB elementary school in Chesapeake, Norfolk, or Virginia Beach? Strelitz International Academy is the solution you have been searching for. Our teachers, staff, and faculty, are dedicated to providing your child with the necessary skills they need to succeed. Plus, our well-rounded curriculum embraces the cultural differences that exist in our world and works to help students form an appreciation of these differences. Through our transdisciplinary approach to learning, our students become successful members of society that think critically and problem-solve. 

Learn more about the IB Primary Years Program at Strelitz International Academy, or speak with the Director of Admissions and schedule a tour today by calling us at 757-424-4327.

Most Significant Long-Term Advantages of Preschool Programs

Posted on Wednesday June 29 , 2022 by Carin Simon
Teacher and students in a preschool classroom

As a parent, you are dedicated to the long-term success of your child. You want them to thrive and become active members of the community at large. To set them up for success, it is important that you provide them with a quality education.

Strelitz International Academy is a private preschool near Virginia Beach that is dedicated to setting your child up for success in school and beyond. Our program is designed to have long-term advantages on your child’s life. Sounds too good to be true? Allow us to explain.

High-Quality Programs Have Lasting Effects

When discussing the long-term advantages of preschool programs, it is important to note that all evidence provided relates to the effectiveness of high-quality programs. But what makes a preschool program high-quality?

High-quality programs allow children to initiate their own learning activities, and create an environment in which children feel safe, secure, and loved. This includes kind and caring teachers, involved parents, an adaptive curriculum driven by the child, and developmentally appropriate activities. With this understanding, children are able to develop and thrive intellectually, socially, and physically.

Long-Term Advantages of a High-Quality Program

Now that you have a better understanding of the type of program that provides advantages, let’s take a look at the advantages themselves. The long-term benefits of a high-quality program can be split into two main categories—school performance and social integration.

Higher School Performance

According to a study performed by MIT College of Economics, children that attend high-quality preschool programs are more likely to graduate high school, more likely to take the SAT, and more likely to enroll in college.

Due to the nature of these programs, children develop a stronger connection and appreciation for education and the school system. This appreciation follows them through their primary school years and continues through their secondary school years and beyond.

Better Integration Into the Community

In the same study, students that attended a high-quality preschool had fewer school suspensions in high school and were less likely to experience juvenile incarceration. In addition, these advantages can increase in later life in regards to overall income, health, and life.

According to another study by the National Bureau of Economic Research “Other important sources of benefit from the program are gains in parental income while participants are young, gains in later-life income, and decreases in criminal activity. The study finds an overall benefit-cost ratio of 3.2:1 and an internal rate of return of 11 percent.

When decomposed by gender, the results are much stronger for males because the main benefits are reduced criminal activity and improved health, both of which show stronger effects for males.”

A High-Quality Program—International Baccalaureate

One of the high-quality programs available to students in the United States is the International Baccalaureate (IB) World School program. The IB program allows students to drive their own learning experience, think critically, solve problems, become more culturally aware, and engage with a diverse community.

While the IB program is not currently available for preschool students, Strelitz International Academy (SIA) utilizes the same teaching style with its preschool children. By taking a similar approach to learning, preschool students at SIA are provided a high-quality program and prepared to take on our IB elementary program in Virginia Beach.

High-Quality Private Preschool Near Virginia Beach

Strelitz International Academy offers private pre-k programs in Virginia Beach. Our students are set up for success from the very beginning of their education journey. We take on a proactive teaching role in your child’s life, guiding them towards educational rigor, emotional development, and community engagement.

Students that attend SIA go on to attend rigorous programs in high school and beyond. Our well-rounded curriculum strives to impact your children and help them thrive in the world outside of school. Are you ready to increase your child’s long-term success? Speak with the Director of Admissions and schedule a tour today by calling us at 757-424-4327.

Essentials of Placing Your Child in a Preschool Program

Posted on Wednesday June 15 , 2022 by Carin Simon
Preschool Program taught to small students

As a parent, you want to set your child up for success in the best way possible. An excellent educational program is one of the ways you can do that. Learning and development begin from the moment we are born. In order to ensure your child develops properly, a quality preschool program can help. Strelitz International Academy is one of the best affordable private schools in Virginia Beach. We offer preschool classes that are dedicated to ensuring your child’s successful development and transition into elementary school.

Learning and Development in Preschool

It has long been determined that the early years of childhood development are essential for the long-term success of the child. According to a report from Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child, early experiences create a foundation for lifelong learning, behavior, and both physical and mental health. A strong foundation in the early years increases the probability of positive outcomes.

Outside of the home, preschool and early education programs have the largest impact on the child’s overall development. According to a report created by The Society for Research in Childhood Development, “Higher-quality preschool programs have larger impacts on children’s development while children are enrolled in the program and are more likely to create gains that are sustained after the child leaves preschool.”

Overall, there are numerous studies that demonstrate the positive impact a high-quality preschool (such as Strelitz’s IB PYP School Program) can have on your child’s overall development and success.

The Essentials Your Child Should Learn in Preschool

At the age of 3 and 4, your child is at an important stage of development. In order to ensure they are offered a high-quality preschool program, it is important to understand what they should be learning. In general, your child should be developing socially and emotionally, cognitively, academically, and physically. These key areas of development are essential for their long-term success. With these factors properly developed, your child can continue to be successful. The many preschool students who graduate from Strelitz International Academy go on to be successful in our IB elementary school program.

Social/Emotional Development

The social/emotional development of your preschooler refers to their ability to have meaningful interactions with others and form relationships with their peers and adults. To encourage their social/emotional development, teacher/student interactions are essential. A well-trained teacher will be able to engage with each of their students, ensuring they feel respected, listened to, comforted, and appreciated.

These interactions with teachers and peers allow them to be able to recognize facial expressions, regulate their emotions, understand social interactions, and develop necessary social skills. In the classroom, this will look like participating in group activities, following directions, communicating their needs, learning to share, and more.

What to Look For:

– Teachers interacting with students on their level
– Children feeling comfortable with teachers (hugging, hand-holding, etc.)
– Teachers responding to the emotions of children (expressing understanding of their anger/sadness)
– Teachers helping children solve disagreements (sharing toys)

Cognitive Development

Cognitive development in your preschooler takes the form of learning how to play pretend, remember information, solve problems, ask questions, and impulse control. In the classroom, this takes the form of providing new and interesting toys/objects to explore, asking children questions, and encouraging playtime and imaginative thinking.

What to Look For:

– Blocks
– Age-appropriate books (counting numbers, learning shapes, animals, etc.)
– Dress-up/costumes
– Play areas (kitchen, dolls, cars)
– Art supplies (paints, play-doh, puzzles)

Language and Literacy Development

Language and literacy development refers to the child’s ability to communicate effectively through language and to understand other forms of communication. This can include reading, writing, talking, and listening. In preschool, this may include learning letters, understanding emotions, and listening to stories.

What to Look For:

– Age-appropriate books (counting numbers, learning shapes, animals, etc.)
– Teachers reading stories to children
– Children learning songs
– Pointing to letters/words while reading to the child
– Providing materials that encourage children to write/draw

Mathematical and Scientific Reasoning

Mathematical and scientific reasoning skills refer to a child’s reasoning skills, spatial awareness, discovery skills, and exploration skills. In preschool, this can include introducing new ideas and topics to children, encouraging them to ask questions, counting/clapping to the beat of a song, and providing them materials to measure or count with.

What to Look For:

– Playing with blocks and counting
– Puzzles
– Activities outside the classroom (Pond, School Garden, Playground)
– New topics of learning (watching caterpillars turn into butterflies)
– Setting out materials for children to explore

Physical Development

Finally, physical development is another key area that children are developing in. This includes a range of skills that refer to a child’s ability to move their bodies, including gross motor skills and fine motor skills. In preschool, the development of gross motor skills includes providing children with time to run, jump, skip, roll, crawl, and climb. The development of fine motor skills includes offering children opportunities to draw, paint, cut with scissors, and grasp small objects.

What to Look For:

– Art supplies (paint, pencils, crayons)
– Outside time with a playground or toys

The Best Affordable Private School in Virginia Beach

Finding a preschool that provides your child with all the tools they need for development can be difficult. However, it is important to try and find the best solution for your child as it can be crucial to their overall success as a student and an adult. Strelitz International Academy is an IB PYP school in Virginia Beach. We offer a preschool program that focuses on providing your child with an environment that allows them to properly develop. Our preschoolers have access to a wide variety of toys, materials, and activities that encourage their social/emotional, cognitive, academic, and physical development.

Interested in learning more about the daily life of a Strelitz preschool student? Check out our Day in the Life page, or call 757.424.4327 to schedule a tour of our preschool classroom.

Reasons Why Private Schools Are The Best Choice For Education

Posted on Monday May 23 , 2022 by Carin Simon
School girl making diy robot in a private school

When it comes time to select a school for your child, you likely want to ensure they get the best of the best. In terms of a well-rounded education, private schools are the best choice. Private schools focus on the educational, spiritual, and emotional development of the child and prepare them for success. In this blog, Strelitz International Academy – one of the best private elementary schools in Virginia Beach – discusses the reasons why private schools are the best choice for your child’s education.

Better Educational Foundation

One of the main reasons parents choose to send their children to private schools over public schools is the better educational foundation they receive in private schools. With more rigorous academic requirements, artistic requirements, better resources, individualized approach and enriching programs, your child is more likely to develop a well-rounded educational foundation.

Rigorous Academic Requirements

Private schools have notoriously rigorous curriculums that their students are required to complete. A study by the CollegeBoard discovered that college-bound seniors who attended private or religiously-affiliated schools scored higher on standardized tests. This is due to the high expectations and requirements students have at private schools.

Artistic Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements, students who attend a private school are more likely to become well-rounded individuals due to the artistic requirements. Unlike public schools, private schools place more emphasis on enrichment activities including music, dance, art, theater, and language classes. Studies have shown that artistic endeavors increase test scores, strengthen community, improve engagement, and develop learning skills.

Better Resources

While public schools depend on state funding to purchase new resources or improve current resources, the tuition requirement at a private school ensures that new and improved resources are always available. Students learn with the latest technology, up-to-date textbooks, most effective teaching strategies, and unique extracurricular opportunities.

These offerings allow students to explore the studies and interests they are passionate about, thus fostering a sense of self-confidence and independence. At the best affordable private school in Virginia Beach, Strelitz International Academy offers students a range of activities and resources to enrich their lives.

Smaller Classes

In public schools, the student-to-teacher ratio averages 16 students per teacher. In private schools, the average student-to-teacher ratio is 11:1. With smaller class sizes, teachers have the ability to spend more one-on-one time with each student. This individualized teaching approach allows students to learn and grow at their own pace.

Enriching Programs

Similarly, private schools often have enriching programs that allow students to specialize in a certain topic or take more rigorous courses. Examples of this include Advanced Placement courses, the International Baccalaureate Program, and gifted programs. Strelitz International Academy is an IB PYP school in Virginia Beach.

Community Engagement

Outside of the classroom, private schools place more of an emphasis on community engagement and the students’ spiritual and emotional development. Many private schools have a religious affiliation that aligns with their family’s values.

For example, one of the best private elementary schools in Virginia Beach area is Strelitz International Academy which focuses on developing an appreciation for Jewish heritage and beliefs. In addition, private schools value communication with the parents or guardians of the child. Parental involvement is an important aspect of the child’s education and private schools foster this relationship.

The International Baccalaureate Program

The International Baccalaureate (IB) World School is a program that aims to help students become individual thinkers that respect and remain open-minded to international dilemmas. This challenging curriculum creates well-rounded students and develops intercultural competence and respect. In each aspect of their education, students learn empathy and compassion and discover a love of learning.

Best Affordable Private Schools in Virginia Beach

Strelitz International Academy is an IB PYP school in Virginia Beach that focuses on educational rigor, emotional development, and community engagement. Students that attend SIA go on to attend rigorous programs in high school and beyond. Our well-rounded curriculum embraces the cultural differences that exist in our world and works to help students form an appreciation of these differences. Are you ready to increase your child’s potential? Speak with the Director of Admissions and schedule a tour today by calling us on 757-424-4327.

SIA’s Evening of the Arts: How We Express Ourselves

Posted on Saturday April 9 , 2022 by Carin Simon
Students performing SIA’s Evening of the Arts program

On Thursday, March 24, a packed house of Strelitz International Academy parents watched their children perform on stage, many for the first time! After two years of Covid mitigations, including no family programs or performances, SIA’s Evening of the Arts: How We Express Ourselves was everything our families have been anticipating. The proud parents were smiling from ear to ear, some even cried tears of joy.

“Originally scheduled for February 17, we decided to postpone the show to March in the hopes that Covid cases would go down, and we could plan for an in person student showcase. Parents have been longing for in person events, and we wanted to give our students the spotlight to show off all that they have been learning,” explains Janet Jenkins, Director of the Primary Years Program.

The evening kicked off with a Strings Performance showcasing SIA’s xylo-strings ensemble which included SIA violinists, cellists and percussionists. Students at SIA begin violin lessons in kindergarten and have the opportunity to add percussion instruments in second grade. The students were so excited to show off their new skills!

This was also the first Evening of the Arts since the school’s rebranding as the Strelitz International Academy. The show was a wonderful celebration of all the unique aspects of the school.

The program opened with the EY4 Classes singing, “One Small Voice” sharing the power that we have in changing the world. Other songs included Kindergarten’s Thankful Song, Second Grade’s Lean on Me, Third Grade’s ABC and First Grade’s It’s a Small World After All celebrating SIA’s international representation and emphasis on Global Learning.

Fourth Grade performed the prayers Adon Olam and Oseh Shalom in Hebrew while Fifth Grade students illuminated themselves – creatively dressed in black and lined with Glow Sticks and danced to Mi’Shenichnas Adar, a traditional Purim Song.

All 120 students got up on stage to perform the Finale – Oseh Shalom and Salaam which was followed by a reception in the Cardo.

Heather Moore, Head of School is so proud of SIA’s students and faculty members, “Everyone worked together to produce such a wonderful spring show in a relatively short amount of time. The students brought to life SIA’s Evening of the Arts in a way that perfectly combined their learning of the Fine Arts, Global Mindedness and Jewish culture.”

The Fine Arts are an important part of the curriculum at the Strelitz International Academy. Students begin learning violin in kindergarten. In second grade, students have the option of switching to percussion or cello.

In addition, all students take a weekly art and music class. In art class, students learn about artists, popular art techniques and art appreciation. Music lessons focus on rhythm, beat, and reading music. Many SIA students continue their music studies in middle school after graduating from SIA.

The Strelitz International Academy is the community’s Jewish Day School and authorized International Baccalaureate® program for Infants through Grade 5. SIA is currently enrolling for the 2022-2023 school year.

To find out more and schedule a campus tour, please call 757-424-4327.

The Ethics of a Successful Private Preschool in Virginia Beach

Posted on Wednesday February 16 , 2022 by Carin Simon
Preschoolers playing with teacher in the classroom

In many public schools, underfunding, lack of resources, and strict lesson plans can prevent your child from being successful. This can lead to an ethical dilemma for parents who are looking to set their children up for success. In this article, Strelitz International Academy, a private school with a preschool program in Virginia Beach, discusses the ethics of sending your child to a private preschool program.

Pre K Private School

As their children grow, many parents are concerned about setting their children up for success. In order to get ahead of the curve, these parents enroll their children in pre-school. Pre-school acts as a way for students to learn motor skills while also playing and having fun. However, as later education (elementary school) becomes more intense, so too do the pre-schools. Instead of allowing 3 or 4-year-olds to be children, many pre-schools are moving to a stricter, academic environment.

However, unlike public schools, private preschools are able to provide balance. They can adjust these new academic expectations to fit the child’s needs. This shift towards a more academic environment has led many parents to an ethical dilemma. They want to set their child up for success, but they also want them to be a kid. This leaves them with one question in mind—should I send my child to private preschool?

Ethics to Consider of Private Preschool for 3-Year-Olds

Many parents are turning to private schools in order to better meet their child’s needs. Let us consider the ethics of sending your child to a private school. With a private preschool education, your child will have the resources, teaching style, schedule, foundation, and support system to succeed in middle and high school.

Resources

In private preschools, children are able to benefit from the abundance of resources that private schools provide. This can include physical resources such as up-to-date textbooks, advanced technology, or class space. It can also include intangible resources such as after-school programs, disability resources, liberal arts courses, or even highly-qualified teachers.

Different Learning Styles

Different children have different learning styles. As discussed in the International Baccalaureate Approach the best way to blend these styles is through hands-on learning. The hands-on learning style is a blend of visual and auditory learning, thus it works for almost every child.

When your child goes to a private preschool, they are introduced to an inquiry-based learning program. Because private schools do not rely on government funding they are able to adapt lessons. This allows them to spend more time with each child. Thus ensuring they learn in a way that is best for them.

Adjust the Schedule

Private preschools are able to adjust their schedule according to the needs of their community. Instead of relying on government-mandated school closures, the private school system operates independently and forms its own schedule. This allows them to close/open based on weather conditions, religious holidays, or even illness/COVID.

Strong Knowledge Foundation

One of the main goals of preschool is to prepare children for the lessons they will receive in later years. With a private preschool, they are able to continue with a strong foundation which will support them through middle and high school. With a private primary school/preschool experience your child is set up to thrive as a student and as an individual.

Lifelong Friendships

With a private school education, students are set up to have lifelong friendships with people who hold similar values. In preschool, students form a foundation of values and beliefs that persist throughout their adult lives. This set of values is a large part of student life in a private school. As they progress through the grades these values follow them and remain an important part of their education. Because of this, students grow and develop with children who share their values and belief systems, creating a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

Private Preschools Set Your Child Up For Success

As you can see, there are a variety of benefits to sending your child to a private preschool. With private preschool, your child has the resources, qualified teachers, and adequate funding they need. And they can learn and develop the building blocks of knowledge at their own pace. A Pre-K private school is able to focus on your child’s individual success. This ensures they are ready to move on to the next level.

With the International Baccalaureate approach to learning, your child learns the curriculum. But they also learn communication and social skills that set them up to be successful adults.

Private Preschools in Virginia Beach

Are you looking for a private preschool in Virginia Beach? Strelitz International Academy is the place for you! Our preschool curriculum fosters the natural curiosity/imagination of your child and funnels it into productive, academic learning. Teachers develop learning activities centered around student’s interests. Because of this, your child is set up to be a successful student and global citizen.

Interested in learning more? Visit our Early Years Program page to see a detailed “day in the life” of our private preschool in Virginia Beach. Like what you see? We are currently enrolling for the 2022-2023 academic year. We would love to schedule a campus tour with you! Reach out to us at 757-424-4327.

How Private Kindergarten Programs Have Changed In Past 10 Years

Posted on Thursday February 10 , 2022 by Carin Simon
Kindergarten students sitting on the floor listening to teacher

The private kindergarten school system has come a long way over the past ten years in developing a teaching curriculum that works for children. As the world shifts to a more child-focused teaching environment, private schools are leading the charge. In this article, Strelitz International Academy, a private kindergarten near Chesapeake, VA , reviews the ways that kindergarten has changed over the past ten years.

Kindergarten 10 Years Ago

Within the past ten years, school programs and curriculums have evolved to meet the needs of childhood development. As with many psychological discoveries, new information and techniques are learned every day. Because of this, teachers and administrators are constantly changing school curriculums to meet the needs of their students.

Public Kindergarten

In the public school system, we have seen this develop through the switch from the No Child Left Behind Act (2001) to the new Every Student Succeeds Act (2015). Up until recently, it was standard for kindergarten students to be pushed hard academically. Students were expected to leave kindergarten with enough knowledge to succeed in first grade. This rigorous academic expectation was made at the detriment of the child’s development of inquiry, social skills, and imagination. While this academic approach was effective, it was not the most effective approach.

Private Kindergarten Program

In the private school system, the development of learning objectives and curriculums has followed a similar path. In more recent years, a 2018 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics demonstrates that students learn best through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. This shift towards a more student-centered learning environment has been fully implemented in the private kindergarten program at Strelitz International Academy.

Private Kindergarten Program Now

Unlike public schools, private schools are not directed to teach a specific curriculum by the state. Because of this, private schools are able to stay on top of the most recent childhood development research, and implement it into our learning environment. This has allowed us to switch much faster to a student-led learning environment and perfect this style of teaching much quicker.

Private schools are able to offer student-led learning activities instead of relying on memorization techniques. Similarly, students are not required to meet standardized testing measures and are instead encouraged to learn and explore things that interest them. This provides an opportunity for children to learn basic motor skills in kindergarten without relying on outdated methods of teaching.

International Baccalaureate

One of the ways that private kindergarten programs have created this environment is through the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program. This program uses the inquiry-based learning approach and encourages kindergartners to explore, play, and learn in a way that suits them. This teaching style has proven to be effective in developing well-rounded, high-achieving, global citizens that exceed inside and outside the classroom.

Your child’s success story starts in the classroom, you want to set them up for success with the right balance of values and academics. International Baccalaureate students are in an environment where their interests and strengths are fostered. This allows them to realize what they learn in the classroom is a reflection of the world around them.

Private Kindergarten in Virginia Beach

Are you looking for a private kindergarten in Virginia Beach that offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program? Strelitz International Academy is the private school for your child! Our team of teachers, administrators, and staff are dedicated to cultivating an environment when your little one can thrive. Our goal is to set them up for success. Not only for their goals as a student, but also for their goals as an individual.

You can read more about our Primary Years Program on our website and discover how your child can thrive. We are currently enrolling for the 2022-2023 school year and would love to see your kindergartner walking our halls.

To find out more and schedule a campus tour, please call 757-424-4327.

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