SIA | Jewish News

Playground for Sandler Family Campus focuses on nature

Haley Bartel — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:21:16 +0000

Naturally curious creatures, children interact with the world around them through play. This instinctive engagement becomes even more pronounced in natural environments, where exploration is open-ended and sensory-rich.

As one study by the National Wildlife Federation found, children who play in nature “do so with more vigor, engagement, imagination, and cooperation than in wholly artificial environments, and the symptoms of attention deficit and depression are reduced.”

This philosophy was central to the vision behind the new playground on the Sandler Family Campus, which resembles a small woodland city more than a traditional play area.

“We wanted something much more natural than a traditional playground,” says Joe Frissora, Sandler Family Campus facilities manager.

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.”

Natural playgrounds are designed to foster cognitive, physical, and emotional growth in children while also strengthening environmental awareness. As with traditional playgrounds, they offer opportunities to climb, slide, swing, and crawl, but they also surround children with natural elements that help calm the nervous system and create a sense of ease.

“It just feels good to be out there and look at,” says Veronica Samonte, SIA assistant director of the early years program. “There’s just a calm to it.”
This shift also reflects a broader move at Strelitz toward inquiry-based learning. “Our philosophy is child-oriented and child-centered, and the play goes in the direction that the children take it,” Brinn says. “We’re just facilitators of that learning.”

One look at the new playground makes its design clear. In some ways, the layout mirrors the old space, with a fence separating play areas by age. In the section for younger children, tree stumps are hollowed out into small playhouses topped with triangular wooden roofs. Logs are arranged in varied formations for climbing—some laid side by side, others set upright with monkey bars between them. Two small slides descend from a low hill, and additional stumps double as tables for toys. Nearby, children use bowls and spoons for sand play or build with wooden blocks from a self-serve storage cabinet.

On the other side of the playground, older children pile onto large woven green basket swings suspended from timber structures. Like the younger area, it includes large sand areas but also adds a water pump and more advanced climbing features. Chalkboards and music makers offer points of creative exploration. From the previous playground, only the paved pathways and tyke bikes remain, allowing children to move through the space as they would a small town.

Children use the variety of resources at their disposal to create worlds of play at their own discretion. “They have to problem-solve to move things around and make things work a different way, and they have to work together. It’s really, really cool to see,” Brinn says.

The open-ended nature of the new playground allows imagination to run freely. “I just like watching them use their brains to play,” says Carin Simon, SIA director of advancement. “The old school playground… it told you what to do. That’s what the structure was. With this one, they get to do what they want.”

Behind the design of the new playground was a complex construction process involving multiple contractors, site challenges, and long-term planning from campus leadership. According to Glenn Saucier, the former facilities director for the Sandler Family Campus, Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds was selected after reviewing several competing proposals.

What ultimately set Bienenstock apart was its clear understanding of early childhood development and the essential role of natural environments in shaping how children learn, explore, and make sense of the world around them.

Although the company was responsible for the design and installation of the play structures, the campus served as its own general contractor, coordinating multiple local teams to complete the project. “We got the landscapers, the concrete guys, the fence guys, and we coordinated all of that,” Saucier says.

From there, the project moved through design selection and into a phased construction process that stretched from early site preparation through final installation. Saucier estimates that the active build took place over roughly four months, though groundwork began earlier with excavation and soil preparation.

However, the project encountered significant infrastructure challenges, particularly related to a crack in the storm drain.

Rather than halt construction, the team adapted the design and repair strategy to keep the project moving.

Despite the challenges, Saucier describes the finished playground as a standout addition to the campus. “It’s probably the showcase around this area for a playground.”

What stands out most is not just the design of the space but the way children inhabit it. “The things that they are creating and doing… we’re surprised every single day when we go out there,” Brinn says.

Even features like the large woven swings were intentionally designed to support social development and encourage collaboration. “Not only is it allowing children to get the needs met that they need, but they also have to figure out how to work with four other children,” Brinn says.

The impact has extended beyond the children themselves. “I’ve noticed a new freedom, not just with our children, but our teachers as well,” Brinn says. “It’s really helped our teachers embrace the philosophy of watching the children and letting the children guide them rather than them guiding the children.”

Ultimately, the playground is exactly what it was designed to be: a place where imagination sets the boundaries and play is entirely their own.

Shavuot Mitzvah Fair at SIA

Rashi Brashevitzky — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:52:55 +0000

This year, Shavuot celebrated 3,338 years since the giving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai. To this very day, Jews continue to study the Torah, cherish it, and hold it close. The Torah serves as guidance on how to live and make the world a better place.

SIA’s Primary Years students prepared for Shavuot with a celebration sponsored by the Glasser family in memory of Richard Glasser, whose mantra was, “Do the right thing, the right way, for the right reason.” Glasser understood the value in being a “mensch” and leading a life based on values and doing good in the world. The Torah, which teaches how to do the right thing, was given on Shavuot, making this holiday the perfect time to honor Richard Glasser’s memory.

The Shavuot celebration included a variety of activities designed to foster a love of Torah, Jewish tradition, and helping others. Students learned to help those in need by packing lunches to be distributed to families in the ForKids family shelter. Students created paper flowers for a Shavuot service at a local senior living community, encouraging students to value and brighten the lives of others. Mt. Sinai cupcakes, complete with flower sprinkles and alef-bet cookies, served as a reminder to serve with joy. The celebration was rounded out with students decorating and filling vases with flowers as part of the tradition to decorate with flowers for Shavuot.

The Shavuot celebration was a beautiful way for students to recognize the gift of the Torah and learn how to put Torah teachings into practice.

Rashi Brashevitzky is Judaic Studies director at Strelitz International Academy.

SIA celebrates the class of 2026

Ally St. Pierre — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:48:32 +0000

Graduation is always a meaningful and emotional milestone at Strelitz International Academy. For the fifth-grade students, many of whom have been part of the SIA community since infancy, it is a time to reflect on their growth, celebrate their accomplishments, and prepare to spread their wings as they embark on their middle school journey.

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.

Ari Mulligan, Student Government Association president and Andrew Dodge, vice president, delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of their classmates. They spoke about their International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme Exhibition, which focused on technology, and expressed gratitude to the teachers, both past and present, who guided and supported them throughout their SIA years.

“We have had so many amazing memories from this year,” Andrew said. “Our class loved our time with Mrs. Bruns, all our field trips, and all of our extracurriculars at this school. This class has become like siblings. We have had such a great time at SIA, and even though we are splitting up, I hope we will remain in touch. We will continue to use what we have learned here in the future.”

This year’s Commencement Speaker was Shayna Friedman, a member of SIA’s Class of 2019 and a recent graduate of Kempsville High School Class of 2026. Shayna offered heartfelt wisdom and encouragement to the graduates, drawing on her own experiences and cherished memories of SIA.
“When I think about my elementary school years,” said Shayna, “a lot of memories come to mind. One that stands out is singing Hatikvah every morning. At the time, it just felt like part of the routine. But looking back now, I realize it was something much bigger. Hatikvah means hope. To me, it represents the hope people carry through their lives, especially when things feel uncertain. That is something I hope you all carry with you as you move forward into this next chapter. I hope you keep the ability to stay hopeful no matter the challenges you face.”

The graduation ceremony was a reminder of the lasting impact of an SIA education—one grounded in community, compassion, Jewish values, and a love of lifelong learning. As the Class of 2026 turns the page to its next chapter, the entire SIA community celebrates their achievements and looks forward to all they will accomplish in the years ahead.

Ally St. Pierre is admissions and marketing manager at Strelitz International Academy.

SIA Class of 2026: Honzi Hodicky, Levi Cohen, Andrew Dodge, Lena Aftel, Mia Pinto, Quinn Margulies, Harper Warranch, Avi Weinstein, Niv Rubin, Hadley Kaprielian, Avery Goldstein, Ella Gladstein, and Ari Mulligan.

Graduation Award Winners

Abe and Anna Rudolph Award for Excellence in Mathematics – Lena Aftel
Rabbi Charles J. Mantel Memorial Award for Excellence in Judaic Studies – Niv Rubin
Harold and Jacqueline Spiro Goodman Award for Excellence in General Studies – Avi Weinstein
Hyman J. Stromberg Memorial Award for Academic Excellence – Ari Mulligan
I. James London Memorial Athlete of the Year Award – Levi Cohen
Lorna Legum Rising Star Award – Hadley Karpielian
Rabbi Philip Pincus Memorial Award for Excellence in Hebrew Studies – Harper Warranch
Shirley Helfant and Ruth Josephberg Award for Visual Arts – Ella Gladstein
SIA Inquirer IB Learner Profile Award – Lena Aftel
SIA Inquirer IB Learner Profile Award – Levi Cohen
SIA Reflective IB Learner Profile Award – Andrew Dodge
SIA Balanced IB Learner Profile Award – Ella Gladstein
SIA Caring IB Learner Profile Award – Avery Goldstein
SIA Risk-Taker IB Learner Profile Award – Honzi Hodicky
SIA Thinker IB Learner Profile Award – Hadley Kaprielian
SIA Communicator IB Learner Profile Award – Quinn Margulies
SIA Distinguished IB Scholar Award – Ari Mulligan
SIA Performing Arts Award – Avery Goldstein
SIA Risk-Taker IB Learner Profile Award – Mia Pinto
SIA Principled IB Learner Profile Award – Niv Rubin
SIA Open-Minded IB Learner Profile Award – Harper Warranch
SIA Knowledgeable IB Learner Profile Award – Avi Weinstein

SIA creates new initiatives to support their military families

Carin Simon — Fri, 15 May 2026 12:45:39 +0000

Strelitz International Academy supports a large population of military families, including those serving in the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, NATO, the IDF, as well as other branches. Understanding the unique challenges military children face including frequent relocations, new environments, and extended parental deployments, the school has made it a priority to ensure every child feels supported, connected, and valued.

In response to ongoing global conflicts, extended deployments, and the increasing demands on military families, Strelitz has expanded its efforts to provide meaningful, proactive support. Through thoughtful programming and a strong sense of community, the school is creating an environment where military children can thrive both emotionally and academically.

On Wednesday, April 15, Strelitz recognized Military Child Day with a purple t-shirt school-wide show of support. The following Friday, students and faculty wore red in honor of “Remember Everyone Deployed” (RED Day), demonstrating unity and appreciation for those serving. The celebration included a special Shabbat dedicated to recognizing military children.

Strelitz also created spaces for connection among both students and parents. A New Parent Coffee welcomed military families, where they could build relationships and share experiences. Plus, a special lunch for military students provided a safe, welcoming space to connect with peers and engage in conversations with school counselor Michelle Fenley.

These initiatives were supported by dedicated parents such as Leigh Casson, who played a key role in helping bring these programs to life.

“By fostering a strong and welcoming military community, SIA gives my boys a place where they feel understood on multiple levels: their faith, their service, and the unique challenges and strengths that come with both,” says Casson. “That sense of connection and belonging is something we don’t take for granted—it’s shaping not just their education, but their character and we are so incredibly grateful for that.”

Strelitz International Academy continues to set a standard for how schools can support and uplift military families, ensuring every child feels at home, no matter where their journey begins.

Nurse Ellie and her daughters Avery and Maura Goldstein are a proud SIA military family

SIA celebrates Class of 2025 • Strelitz International Academy alumni return

Carin Simon — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 19:57:38 +0000

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 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 some future plans, including the launch of a special Endowment Campaign.

Emma Belman, president of the Student Government Association, 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 said, “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.

Offering heartfelt wisdom and encouragement to the graduates, drawing on his own experiences and fond memories of SIA, he said, “I always have a place here, a home and a family. 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.

Class of 2025 Class: Zeeva Cooper, Emma Belman, Micah Kass, Charles Claudius, Jaxon Gordon, Zane Uduaghan, William Salyer, Calanit Warren, Benson Cost, Abby Walker, Grayce Burnette, and Ari Smith.

Members of the SIA Class of 2025 will attend:
Academy for Discovery at Lakewood (IB
Middle Years Program)
Cape Henry Collegiate
Great Neck Middle School
Greenbrier Middle School
Landstown Middle School
Norfolk Academy
Plaza Middle School IB Middle Years
Program
The Williams School

Strelitz International Academy alumni return for Annual Senior Sendoff

When the SIA Class of 2018 received their invite to attend a Senior Year Reunion in May, they were hesitant to respond. Many had not recently seen each other. As they arrived, welcomed by their fifth-grade graduation picture, they immediately reconnected and reminisced about their fond memories during their time at SIA, which was then Hebrew Academy of Tidewater.

The students were thrilled to reconnect with each other over pizza and an Edible Arrangement generously donated by the Rivera Family. While many of the grads had visited the Sandler Family Campus since graduation, most had not seen each other or teachers in some time. The excitement was palpable as they observed the changes in the school, shared memories, and enthusiastically greeted former teachers while exploring their old classrooms.

Current SIA students enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the visiting alumni, 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, were quizzed by students to see if they remembered their Hebrew and math facts.

The once young students have grown into accomplished and well-spoken adults with bright futures ahead. SIA is immensely proud to have provided these students with a strong Jewish and academic foundation.

Ilan Rivera, Nate Simon, Aaron Alofer, Jack Poorman, Tamir Zach, Ariana Dail, Ophir Newman, and Emily Leon.

SIA (HAT) graduates are entering the following programs:

Allegheny College following
Gap Year in Israel
American University
Christopher Newport
University
Florida Atlantic University
George Mason University
James Madison University
Massachusetts Maritime
Academy
Old Dominion University
Radford University

Inspired and energized: Bringing Prizmah Conference insights back to Strelitz International Academy

SIA Staff — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:28:54 +0000

Carin Simon, Strelitz International Academy’s director of development, and Ally St. Pierre, SIA’s admissions manager, recently attended the 2025 Prizmah Conference in Boston, Massachusetts. This gathering brought together Jewish day school leaders from across the country, providing a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.

Throughout the conference, the SIA team participated in inspiring workshops and discussions on innovative strategies in education, community building, and school advancement. The team explored new approaches to strengthening its admissions process, fostering deeper engagement with families, and enhancing development efforts to support the long-term success of the school.

One of the most powerful takeaways was the emphasis on collaboration and the sharing of best practices among Jewish day schools. SIA’s team returned energized and full of fresh ideas — from creative ways to showcase the school’s unique IB® approach to building a more vibrant and inclusive school culture.

By implementing the strategies and insights gained at Prizmah, SIA aims to further enrich the educational experience offered at the school and to deepen the partnerships with families and community

Celebrating grandparents and grandfriends at Strelitz International Academy

Carin Simon — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:39:56 +0000

A heartfelt celebration that brings together students, families, and friends to honor the special bonds between generations, Strelitz International Academy’s annual Grandparents and Grandfriends Day achieved its goals. The event was marked by warmth, gratitude, and the inspiring voices of SIA’s students, who opened the gathering with a rendition of One Day. Their performance set the tone for a day filled with reflection, connection, and celebration.

Amy Weinstein, president of the school’s board of directors, welcomed everyone and emphasized the unique role grandparents and family friends play in shaping the lives of the school’s young learners. “Grandparents have a profound influence on their grandchildren, shaping their lives in the most meaningful ways,” she said.

Grandparents and Grandfriends Day capped off an especially meaningful week at SIA, which included an all-school Friendsgiving and a successful food drive benefiting Jewish Family Service. These events highlighted the school’s commitment to core values such as kindness, generosity, and a shared dedication to making the world a better place – principles that are integral to the fabric of the SIA community, fostering an environment where students learn while they grow as compassionate and engaged individuals.

The day’s festivities were made possible through the generous support of Beth Sholom Village, the event’s sponsor. “We are so honored to have Beth Sholom Village’s support each year,” Weinstein noted. “Together, we’re shaping not just the future of our students, but the future of our community and our world.”

As the event concluded, attendees were invited to visit classrooms and spend quality time with their students, further strengthening the bonds that make the SIA community so special.

For more information on the Strelitz International Academy, contact Carin Simon, director of advancement, at csimon@strelitzacademy.org or www.strelitzacademy.org.

Levi Foleck with his grandparents, Rick and Janice Foleck.

Willa Crutchfield with her grandparents, Leonard and Mary Jane.

Theo Trem with his grandmother, Natalie Trem.

Calanit Warren with her grandfather, Jay Warren.

Strelitz International Academy awarded prestigious VAIS Accreditation

Ally St. Pierre — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 18:54:33 +0000

An independent school serving students from infants and toddlers through kindergarten and then to 5th grade, Strelitz International Academy recently earned full accreditation from the Virginia Association of Independent Schools.

Founded in 1973, VAIS is the leader in advancing and advocating for independent school education in Virginia. The VAIS accreditation program is one of a select few recognized at the international level through the International Council Advancing Independent School Accreditation. VAIS also is recognized and approved by the Virginia Board of Education through the Virginia Council for Private Education (VCPE).

Strelitz International Academy was established in 1955 to provide exceptional education in Tidewater. As the first Primary Years International Baccalaureate (IB®) World School in the area, SIA offers a specialized curriculum that is both challenging and globally focused. The academy prioritizes inquiry-based learning to inspire and encourage students to explore within and beyond classroom walls. With a diverse student body and a dedication to building a rich, inclusive community, SIA works to nurture the next generation of compassionate and knowledgeable global citizens.

“Parents can be sure that when choosing a VAIS-accredited school for their children that the school has been through an intense period of self-reflection and evaluation which strengthens the entire institution,” says Betsy Hunroe, executive director of VAIS. The voluntary accreditation process is a rigorous undertaking involving a comprehensive self-study, including input from all school constituents. A team of peer evaluators from VAIS member schools spends several days on campus reviewing the self-study report, documentation, and curriculum, meeting with administrators, trustees, students, parents, and teachers, and observing campus life. The team concludes the in-depth visit with a detailed written assessment. The finalized report is then submitted for accreditation approval by the VAIS board of directors.

“At Strelitz International Academy, we take great pride in our commitment to excellence, and accreditation serves as validation of our ongoing efforts to maintain and exceed the highest standards of educational quality,” says Heather Moore, SIA head of school.

“Our VAIS visit presented an opportunity for us to showcase the exceptional work of our dedicated faculty, staff, and students. It was a chance for us to celebrate our achievements and reflect on areas for growth and improvement,” says Moore. “I encourage every member of our community to take pride in our collective accomplishments and to continue supporting our shared vision of educational excellence. Together, we will ensure that Strelitz International Academy remains a beacon of excellence in education, setting a standard that distinguishes us from others in the region.”

To learn more about SIA, visit https://strelitzinternationalacademy.org/. To learn more about VAIS accreditation and its member schools, visit www.vais.org.

SIA receives TJF grant for Stop the Bleed and first aid kits

Jewish News VA — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 18:52:52 +0000

A recent Tidewater Jewish Foundation grant enabled Strelitz International Academy to purchase 50 enhanced emergency first aid and Stop the Bleed kits, significantly improving and enhancing the school’s emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

In addition to the 25 emergency first aid and 25 Stop the Bleed kits, TJF’s grant helps fund comprehensive staff training and materials. Certified professionals are leading multiple training sessions for all staff members, covering the use of both the enhanced first aid and Stop the Bleed kits to ensure that staff are confident and capable in handling various medical emergencies.

The presence of these enhanced first aid and Stop the Bleed kits in every classroom along with comprehensive staff training has the potential to drastically reduce response times during medical emergencies, allowing for prompt and effective intervention, according to Eleanore Goldstein, BSN, RN SIA school nurse.

In addition, “parents and community members have expressed greater confidence in the academy’s preparedness, reinforcing trust in our commitment to student safety and well-being,” says Heather Moore, SIA head of school.

“The funding from Tidewater Jewish Foundation has had a profound impact on the safety and emergency preparedness of Strelitz International Academy,” says Jason D. Capossere, security director for the Sandler Family Campus. “By equipping each classroom with critical emergency kits and providing thorough training for staff, we have significantly enhanced our ability to respond to emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of our students and staff.”

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tidewater Jewish Foundation for this generous support,” says Moore.

“This investment in our school’s safety infrastructure has made a lasting difference, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in fostering a secure and nurturing educational environment.”