SIA becomes first official Primary Years IB Programme in Tidewater
Carin Simon
After two years of candidacy, Strelitz International Academy (SIA) received full authorization this month as an International Baccalaureate® World School Primary Years Programme. For more than 65 years Strelitz International Academy has been an exceptional preschool through fifth grade program.
Under the IB® Authorization, preschool and elementary aged children of all faiths have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a comprehensive global learning approach. SIA focuses on shaping active, compassionate, and lifelong learners, grounded by intercultural understanding and respect. SIA’s advanced and enriching program ensure that SIA graduates are better prepared for middle school, matriculating to area gifted programs, IB programs, AP classes, and the area’s top private schools.
“I am so proud of our school community, faculty, and staff who have worked hard to provide a safe environment of in-person learning this past year, while also working to achieve our authorization to be an IB World School®,” says Heather Moore, Head of School. “Our teachers created engaging units of study for our Program of Inquiry—and met all requirements during the IB authorization visit in June.”
“SIA enrollment has grown since the beginning of the IB® authorization process,” says David Cardon, SIA board president, who says he’s thrilled about the school’s IB® authorization.
“Families know and trust the globally recognized IB education brand and are excited about the opportunities for learning that it provides their children,” says Cardon. “We are excited to welcome families from a broad spectrum of countries who have found our school, including Israel, Denmark, Britain, Czech Republic, and India to name a few.”
Amy Weinstein, parent of two SIA students, raves about her children’s rich learning experiences. “In kindergarten my son is already learning Hebrew and violin, and to think globally through his IB® Units of study. We are very excited to watch him grow and evolve as a learner and a citizen, as he progresses through the IB Primary Years Program.”
In addition, SIA has the largest infant care center in Virginia Beach. Feedback consistently points to parents who are appreciative for the opportunity to place their children in the nurturing environment provided at SIA—from infant day care up to fifth grade.
After a successful 2020–2021 in person school year, SIA looks forward to the first day of school, on August 23, 2021, with this official International Baccalaureate World School® designation.
Contact Carin Simon, admissions director, to inquire about openings or schedule a tour at 757‑424-4327 or csimon@strelitzacademy.org.