At NOVA Middle School diversity, equity, and inclusion are important building blocks in creating a learning community where every member can flourish. Our collective work is centered around dignity, belonging, and justice. We ground our commitments in the integration of joy, curiosity, social-emotional support and development, social responsibility, and the cultivation of lifelong learning. This work is crucial for each individual, and by working together as an institution, we can make a meaningful impact on our community at large.
Celebrating Diversity
Equity as a Foundation
Equity is a pivotal part of our mission. We seek to make NOVA affordable and accessible; a place where every student has what they need to be successful and flourish. We examine and address barriers that may keep our students from attaining their highest potential. We work towards cultural awareness and an understanding of the relationship of privilege to power through school-wide programming, staff professional development, and external engagements, leading to ongoing self-examination, learning, and forward movement. Our approach is not one-size-fits-all; instead, we are committed to fostering an environment where every person has the capacity and resources to thrive.
Building a Welcoming and Inclusive Community
Our goal is to establish a school culture where every student, family, faculty, and staff, regardless of their identity and experience, is authentically welcomed and encouraged. We cultivate this environment where diversity is recognized and celebrated through all-school assemblies, community events, twice-yearly student trips, our advisory program, and so much more. Every student leaves NOVA with a sense of belonging and an understanding of themselves and how they fit into the world around them.
Incorporating Social Justice
Our vision at NOVA is to inspire lifelong learning for a more compassionate, engaged world, and we do that by interweaving social justice into our curriculum. In every grade, students develop an appreciation of the aspects of society that impact our world. By teaching students how to engage deeply and compassionately with issues, we help them to be involved citizens who contribute respectfully in an ever-changing world.
Ongoing Reflection and Action
Our dedication to furthering our understanding and our work around diversity, equity, and inclusion is never done; it is an ongoing path of reflection and growth. We are passionate about reviewing our practices and policies to ensure they match our core values and our responsibilities to equity and justice. This continual analysis of our program, who we serve, and how we serve them empowers us to better meet the needs of our community. True inclusivity requires more than just good intentions; it requires action, accountability, and a willingness to learn and grow.
Nurturing Courageous Conversations
At NOVA, we encourage and support courageous conversations and civil discourse. These are imperative for creating a deeper understanding of cultures, addressing barriers, and combating biases. Our intention is to connect with others empathetically and respectfully, uplifting every voice and experience. We are committed to creating a school culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered.
Economic Diversity
Economic diversity in our school reflects the variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and financial situations among students and families. By bringing different perspectives and experiences into the classroom, the NOVA community is enhanced to the benefit of everyone. With approximately 40% of our student body on some form of financial assistance, we strive to offer a NOVA education to highly capable children no matter their financial means. By championing socioeconomic representation, we help ensure that all students have equitable access to a NOVA education.
Our Shared Mission
As one community, we are establishing NOVA Middle School as a place that embodies diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize the importance of articulating our beliefs while acknowledging belief without action is an empty gesture. Our values require us to make intentional choices and take action to nurture an inclusive community throughout all aspects of school life, including admissions, financial aid, hiring, curriculum, and teaching philosophy. This continual process of assessment and reflection helps us recognize and address areas for growth.
We know that this work only succeeds when all members of the NOVA community take responsibility for its success. We are committed to building interpersonal connections, nourishing social responsibility, and supporting the deliberate co-creation of a diverse, inclusive, equitable, and just community. By working together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Meet the NOVA School Team
Connection, exploration, and joy are at the heart of our community. Meet the faculty and leadership that support our vision and values.
NOVA Faculty & Leadership
