The NOVA Experience
Kid culture
How does one put a value on the fact that the NOVA experience makes students
feel safe: a place where they are accepted for who they are? At NOVA
kids can stretch their wings and experiment in an accepting environment.
It’s
safe to be smart and hard working at NOVA without having to assume the
negative connotations of “nerdiness.” NOVA students love to
joke around with their teachers and enjoy a high level of humor and debate
in the classrooms and hallways. The NOVA culture allows students to be edgy
or quirky, shy or assertive, an athlete or a classical musician, a lover
of politics, fantasy or Manga….and still belong.
Many students claim that the “kid culture” is the very best thing about the NOVA Experience. The students are NOVA’s primary stakeholders. Let’s let them paint the picture:
Student comments:
“Overall, NOVA is a very accepting place. Although academically it isn’t easy, it isn’t competitive either. Socially, it’s a lot more laid back. You don’t have to be scared that a certain group of people might judge you or not want to hang around with you.” –Alayna
“The kid culture at NOVA is one of general acceptance. I’ve found friends here that in any other environment I probably wouldn’t be friends with. People of all styles, opinions, ideas, and groups can be friends with each other.” –Cooper
“Varying greatly from other schools, the culture at NOVA is closely knit and constructive. Everywhere you turn there is a friendly face and there are always people to support you.” –Monika
Alumni comments:
“I eagerly anticipated every day at NOVA: the small class atmosphere, the interesting and challenging work, the general feeling of excitement among my peers.” –Aaron
“NOVA and my time there will always have a special place in my heart. Everyone I met there, both staff and students alike, was motivated, smart, caring and inspired. People at NOVA are not only interested in learning, but in growing as a person and becoming an active life-long learner. It is truly a special place.” –Joe
“NOVA’s feeling of community is unbeaten in my mind, as it served as a second home where ideas could be presented comfortably and everyone worked to meet their own goals.” –Jesse
“Because of the incredible teachers, the interactive and challenging curriculum, and the wonderful sense of community, NOVA attracts students who have a passion for learning and an appreciation of each other’s individuality. I think the atmosphere at NOVA could be compared to that of a huge family. We laugh together, disagree with each other, and see each other at our worst and our best!” –Alanna