On Wednesday, June 3, SIA hosted its annual graduation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. Head of School Heather Moore opened the program with reflections on the successes of the past year and shared future plans. The ceremony also marked leadership transition as Amy Weinstein presided over her final board of trustees meeting, welcomed new board members, and officially installed Steve Zuckerman as board president.
via jewishnewsva.org
Primarily designed to be used by Camp JCC campers and Strelitz International Academy’s students, the playground is another component of the Sandler Family Campus’ array of outdoor features – including the pool, Gaga pit, miniature golf course, tennis courts, and Marty Einhorn Pavilion.
“We wanted a playground that really allowed children to take safe risks and kind of create their own play,” says Elyssa Brinn, Strelitz International Academy’s director of the early years program. “There is no set right way to do anything, which is exactly what we wanted.”
I’m sure many of you have seen the photos of our new natural playground and the many ways your children have already begun exploring it. We officially opened the space in mid-February, and since then, it has been filled with laughter, curiosity, and discovery. Every day, we see smiling faces and hear wonderful stories from our students about their adventures outdoors. Whether they are climbing, swinging, pumping water through the water path and into the beach area, or simply exploring the space with friends, this new playground has quickly become a place where every child can find something exciting to engage in. We are especially grateful to the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and the Sandler Family Campus for their partnership and support in bringing this beautiful new playground to fruition.
Our new playground was thoughtfully designed as a natural learning environment, created to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and support meaningful play. Rather than filling the space with highly structured equipment, in collaboration with Bienstock Natural Playground Company based in Ontario, Canada, we intentionally created a setting that invites children to engage with nature, use their imaginations, and interact with the environment in countless ways.
Natural playgrounds offer children opportunities to explore, experiment, and learn through hands-on experiences. Every rock, tree, stream, and open space becomes part of a child’s adventure, allowing the playground to feel new and exciting each day.
In spaces like these, children naturally begin to: interpret in imaginative ways, create games and stories, take appropriate risks to build confidence, work together, negotiate ideas, explore, experiment, develop empathy, and problem-solve. Because the materials can be used in many different ways, children are constantly thinking, adapting, and discovering. The same space can transform into something entirely new depending on the ideas and creativity of the children playing there.
Our playground offers a variety of features designed to inspire exploration, creativity, and connection with nature.
SIA students can discover rock caves that invite hiding, problem-solving, and dramatic play. Our fairy tree houses create opportunities for storytelling, imagination, and social connection. Slides, swings, and climbing structures allow children to challenge their bodies and build strength and confidence.
For sensory exploration and creative expression, children can enjoy the mud kitchen and outdoor easels, where mixing, pouring, painting, and experimenting are all part of the fun. Natural elements such as streams, rocks, shrubs, and trees encourage investigation, observation, and even early engineering as children build, move water, and explore their surroundings.
These experiences invite children to touch, climb, build, pour, imagine, and collaborate, which are all essential parts of whole-child development.
Research consistently shows that natural play environments support children’s physical, social, and emotional growth. When children are given opportunities to explore their environment and take safe, manageable risks, they develop a deeper understanding of their abilities and a stronger sense of independence. Time spent in nature-based settings is linked to things such as lower anxiety, improved emotional regulation, increased resilience and confidence, and stronger empathy.
Our playground is more than just a place to play; it is a living, evolving learning environment where children can explore the natural world, build friendships, test their ideas, and develop confidence.
Each day brings new discoveries, new adventures, and new opportunities for children to learn through the joy of play. Schedule a visit to know more about all these.
At SIA, we strive to make learning transdisciplinary, hands-on, and connected to the real world. Learning extends beyond the classroom, and subjects are brought to life through meaningful, real-world experiences. The benefits of in-school guest speakers and out-of-school field trips are endless. When students experience what they are learning, they are more engaged, gain a deeper understanding, and build meaningful connections to their learning. Field trips provide learning opportunities that emphasize participation, hands-on exploration, and curiosity.
In the first half of the academic year, SIA students participated in many fun and engaging field trip adventures.
As part of the second-grade Who We Are Unit of Inquiry, students visited Operation Smile’s Interactive Learning Center. During the visit, students learned about cleft conditions and how Operation Smile helps children around the world receive life-changing surgeries. This meaningful experience evolved into a Tzedakah project to raise enough funds to cover the cost of at least one surgery. Inspired by their learning, the students chose to continue their efforts and ultimately raised enough money to fund three surgeries.
Fourth and fifth-grade students visited the Jamestown Settlement in October, bringing history to life. The visit deepened students’ understanding of early American history by providing an authentic, hands-on experience with the past. The field trip was directly connected to the fifth-grade “Where We Are in Place and Time” unit and the fourth-grade “How We Organize Ourselves” unit, with a focus on the concepts of perspective and responsibility.
Kindergarten through fifth-grade students visited the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, where they performed the Tashlich ceremony at the water, went on trail walks, and explored the art museum, including the giant sculptures by artist Walter Babington. Students made meaningful connections across Judaic Studies, art, and science. Older students also connected the artist’s work to themes of sea level rise and global warming, deepening their understanding of how art can reflect environmental issues.
Aqua Avengers visited our school and put on an engaging performance that taught Early Years 4–Grade 5 students about the importance of water conservation. This experience provided a meaningful way to explore the IB Key Concepts of Responsibility and Connection, while also making links to related concepts such as conservation and Tikkun Olam.
Our second graders took flight at iFLY as part of their IB Unit, How the World Works. Students explored the science behind flight and experienced firsthand how forces and motion interact. They investigated how air, gravity, and motion contribute to balance and movement in our world. During the visit, students participated in a STEM challenge, engaged in a lab activity that involved data collection and analysis, and enjoyed a flight in the wind tunnel!
Visiting author Daryl Cobb came to our school in November. Early Years 4–Grade 5 students enjoyed his engaging stories, during which they learned how ideas become books and made connections between personal experiences and storytelling. Students were especially excited to read a book that featured SIA teachers’ names. This experience supported literacy development, encouraged creativity, and reinforced the importance of perseverance, voice, and self-expression.
Fifth-grade students were curious about the local giant menorahs, so they visited the Mt. Trashmore Menorah and the giant menorah near Waterside and Town Point Park in downtown Norfolk. This experience was driven by student curiosity, reinforcing the IB approach of student-led inquiry and authentic learning. As part of the outing, students also visited Aviva Pembroke, where they sang for senior residents, strengthening intergenerational connections and demonstrating learning through meaningful community engagement.
We can’t wait for the adventures in the second half of our academic year. Field trips create memories that last a lifetime!
Schedule a visit to know more!
By Ally St. Pierre, Admissions and Marketing Manager
Moving to a new country is a big adventure, especially for families with young children. Between navigating new cultures, languages, and routines, finding the right school can make all the difference. For many NATO families stationed in the Virginia Beach area, Strelitz International Academy (SIA) has become that place of comfort, connection, and joy.
When choosing a school, NATO parents consistently emphasized what truly matters: a nurturing environment, caring teachers, and room to play and grow.
“We wanted small groups, lots of outdoor space, and a warm welcome from the staff,” one parent shared. “It was important that our children could learn through play and feel safe and excited to go to school.”
From the very first visit, many families say they felt that warmth.
“When we entered SIA, it immediately felt like a welcoming place for children—colorful, warm, and loving. Walking through the hallway felt like stepping into a happy home.”
Parents also appreciate SIA’s flexible, child-centered approach.
“No other school we saw was so open to new ways of raising children,” said one mother. “There’s no forcing kids to eat or nap—they can read, play, and explore. The swimming lessons are the highlight of the week, and the teachers are so open-minded and supportive.”
Adjusting to a new school system in a different country can be daunting, but SIA’s staff go out of their way to make international families feel comfortable from day one.
“Our child couldn’t speak any English at first, and the teachers did an amazing job helping him settle in, even learning a few German words!” shared one parent.
Another family described how teachers used translation tools and patience to ensure clear communication. “We always felt supported,” they said. “From the very beginning, there was help for everything.”
Many also felt reassured knowing that SIA had already welcomed numerous NATO families.
“We’d heard from other families that SIA was used to having international students, so we knew we were in good hands.”
For NATO parents, SIA isn’t just a school; it’s a community that embraces every culture and background.
“Everyone is friendly and genuinely interested in our culture,” one parent said. “The teachers gave our children space to start slowly, and the daily updates helped us feel connected.”
Families who are not Jewish especially value SIA’s inclusive environment and the warmth with which Jewish traditions are shared.
“The Jewish traditions are full of love for all people,” one parent reflected. “I’ve even started learning about the holidays and singing Hebrew songs at home. It’s beautiful to see that kind of openness.”
Parents consistently remark on how much their children have grown—socially, emotionally, and academically—since joining SIA.
“Our son now speaks English better than I,” one parent laughed. “He knows his letters, can count in English and Hebrew, and loves coming to school every day.”
Another family noted, “Our daughters have gained confidence, made friends, and become bilingual learners. They feel accepted and happy just being themselves.”
Whether it’s the excitement of the Fall Festival or the pride of the End-of-Year Celebration, SIA families treasure their time together.
“Every morning, our kids run to their classrooms with huge smiles,” said one family. “That’s when we know we made the right choice.”
Even though SIA serves many students, parents say it still feels intimate and connected.
“It doesn’t feel big once you get to know it,” a parent explained. “The community is strong, and everyone knows each other.”
As an International Baccalaureate® (IB) school, SIA encourages children to think globally and act with compassion, something that resonates deeply with international families.
“The transition for our kids—and for us—has been so smooth because SIA understands and appreciates international families,” said one NATO parent.
When asked what they’d tell other families arriving in Virginia Beach, NATO parents didn’t hesitate:
“Tour the school—there’s nothing else like it.”
“We saw every other option, but SIA listened to our needs and worked with us.”
“No need to look further—SIA is your place.”
For these families, Strelitz International Academy offers more than an exceptional education. It provides a loving, inclusive, and globally minded community where children thrive, and where families from around the world feel right at home.
Carin Simon, Director of Advancement
At Strelitz International Academy, fall is a season bursting with joy, tradition, and community spirit! From decorating the sukkah and harvesting our vibrant Fall Garden to exploring hands-on seasonal activities, this time of year is filled with wonder for our students.
That magic comes alive for the whole community at the 3rd Annual SIA Fall Festival on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 11 AM – 3 PM at the Sandler Family Campus.
✨ What to Expect:
Bring the entire family for a day packed with unforgettable fun! Children of all ages will delight in pony rides, train rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, and classic carnival games. Our partners—PJ Library, Camp JCC, Konikoff Center of Learning, and Jewish Family Service—will be adding their own creative programming to keep the excitement going all day long.
🌭 Food & Festivities:
No festival is complete without delicious bites! Treat yourself to a variety of kosher festival favorites like hot dogs and hamburgers—perfect for a mid-day meal or a quick snack between adventures.
🎟 Fun with Purpose:
More than just a celebration, the Fall Festival is a vital fundraiser for Strelitz International Academy. Every sponsorship, wristband, and raffle ticket helps fuel innovative learning and enrich the lives of our students. With raffle baskets brimming with amazing prizes and sponsorship opportunities at every level, there are countless ways to show your support.
📅 Save the Date!
Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join us for a spectacular day of fall festivities—all while making a meaningful difference for the incredible students of Strelitz International Academy.
If you would like to support the Third Annual Strelitz Fall Festival, celebrating young families in Tidewater, please contact Carin Simon, Director of Advancement: csimon@strelitzacademy.org or 757.424.4327 ext. 4189.
For more information and to buy a Children’s Festival Activity Wristband, please go to https://strelitzinternationalacademy.org/fall-festival/
The first month of school at Strelitz International Academy has been filled with joy, connection, and a sense of community spirit as students, parents, and teachers came together to launch another exciting academic year.
We kicked off the school year with our annual Open House, where students eagerly met their teachers, brought in school supplies, and reconnected with friends after summer break. Families also enjoyed a sweet treat from the Magic Treats Ice Cream Truck, adding an extra scoop of fun to the day.
For our kindergarten families, a new initiative began this year: the Kindergarten Parenting Group, led by Rashi Brashevitzky. Each Tuesday morning, kindergarten parents gather to share experiences, exchange ideas, and discuss the joys and challenges of parenting during this important milestone year.
Another highlight of the month was our Back-to-School Night, where parents had the opportunity to learn more about classroom routines, curriculum, and the exciting year ahead. Our Parent Breakfast brought families together in a warm and welcoming environment, strengthening the bonds of our school community.
We also celebrated our first Early Years Shabbat Sing-Along of the year, where young students and their family members joined together in song and tradition. This cherished event reflected both the joyful spirit of our youngest learners and the importance of family in the SIA experience.
It has been a busy and meaningful first month, filled with milestones, memories, and community connections. We are excited for the year ahead and all the learning, growth, and celebrations still to come!
The excitement is in the air at Strelitz International Academy as we officially welcome our IB® students back for the first day of school! With bright smiles, eager hearts, and a community full of energy, it’s clear that this year will be one to remember.
The SIA campus is buzzing with new opportunities and growth. This year, we are thrilled to introduce our brand-new recording studio, giving students a space to explore podcasting, creativity, and technology innovatively. In addition, construction is underway on our new playground, which will soon provide our students with even more ways to learn, play, and grow together.
We are also proud to welcome new students and new faculty members into our SIA family. Their fresh perspectives, talents, and enthusiasm will enrich our classrooms and strengthen our community.
At SIA, every school year is a chance to build on our tradition of academic excellence, global learning, and Jewish values. With so many exciting initiatives in place, 2025–2026 promises to be filled with joy, growth, and discovery.
Here’s to a wonderful year ahead! Welcome back, Strelitz International Academy! Call Us!
The 37th Annual Strelitz International Golf Tournament, proudly known as the “Bob Josephberg Classic,” co-chaired by David Leon and Tim Thornton, is set for September 10, 2025, at the Virginia Beach National Golf Club.
Each year, the event raises close to $150,000 to support the students and families of the Strelitz International Academy. This year, we are excited to welcome a new golf committee with some new faces ready to get involved.
This year, the school is celebrating 70 years strong in 2025, and we have so much to celebrate. 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. Enrollment is growing, the facility is top-notch notch and the faculty continues to be the best in town.
The Annual Golf Tournament presents the opportunity for businesses and individuals to show their support of the school’s 70th anniversary and make a significant impact in helping to support student scholarships, faculty development, and quality programming. 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 silent auction with unique items and trips, and a fun awards reception featuring a kosher dinner and great networking opportunities.
Your participation is more than just a game; it’s an investment in the future of our children and the strength of our community. Join us for a day of camaraderie, competition, and community spirit.
For more information on how you can sponsor or participate in the tournament, please contact Carin Simon, Director of Advancement, at 757.424.4327 or csimon@strelitzacademy.org.
You can also visit our tournament site: https://strelitzinternationalacademy.org/support-us/annual-golf-tournament/
We can’t wait to see you there! Together, we can make a lasting difference. Schedule a Visit!
By Ally St. Pierre, Admissions and Marketing Manager
Graduation is always a meaningful and emotional milestone at Strelitz International Academy. For the fifth-grade students, some of whom have been part of the SIA community since infancy, it marks a moment to reflect on their growth and prepare to spread their wings as they head to middle school.
On Wednesday, June 5, SIA proudly hosted its annual graduation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. Head of School Heather Moore opened the program with reflections on the past year’s successes and shared exciting plans for the future, including the launch of a special Endowment Campaign.
Student Government Association President Emma Belman then delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of her classmates. She reflected on their International Baccalaureate Final Exhibition Project, which focused on health and wellness, and expressed gratitude to all the teachers, past and present, who guided them throughout their journey.
“As we move on to middle school,” Emma shared, “we take with us the lessons we’ve learned, the friendships we’ve made, and the memories we’ll always treasure. We’ve grown, not just in height, but in our minds and hearts. Over the years, we’ve become more like a family, sharing laughter, challenges, and so many exciting moments together.”
This year’s Commencement Speaker was Tamir Zach, an SIA Class of 2018 alum and a recent graduate of Norfolk Academy’s Class of 2025. Tamir offered heartfelt wisdom and encouragement to the graduates, drawing on his own experiences and fond memories of SIA.
“I always have a place here, a home and a family,” Tamir said. “Every time I walk through the doors of the school, I’m welcomed by smiling faces and warm hugs from the teachers I know and love, followed by meaningful conversations with Mrs. Rodriguez and Ms. Moe. It’s a feeling I can’t describe in words. SIA is not only a place of learning, but a place of connection.”
The graduation ceremony was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of an SIA education, grounded in community, compassion, and a love of lifelong learning. Schedule a visit to know more!
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