The NOVA Experience
Supportive community
What does it mean to be a part of and participate in a “supportive
community?” This is a question that we propose and address and guide
the 
students to answer, over and over again in many different ways. Our
most primary goal is that the students feel supported and learn to be supportive
of their peers, no matter who they are. We believe that a supportive community
requires respect, responsibility, and thoughtful communication and action.
This is not something that necessarily comes naturally to all middle schoolers,
but it can be taught and modeled. Our faculty makes every effort to also
be supportive: of each other, of the students, of the school, and of the
parents. Our goal is to create a climate where students experience a truly
supportive learning community, where they have the opportunity to take risks,
learn from mistakes, and thrive and develop socially, emotionally, physically
and intellectually in a group of like minded peers. This effort has become
one of the most highly valued aspects of the NOVA experience.
“NOVA taught me how to get along with all kinds of people. NOVA has very unique people. It is a small school, so you have to be okay with everyone there. Students and teachers both taught me excellent people skills.” –Bryson, high school senior
“While I really enjoyed the classes at NOVA, the things I value most about my middle school experience weren't academic. I learned both how to work better with people and to be a more empathetic person.” –Jack, high school senior