Middle School

Journey of Self-Discovery

The middle school years are without a doubt one of the most influential times in a young person's life. During this time, young adolescents push boundaries, try on new personalities and develop a better sense of self. The Middle School community creates a safe environment where differences are valued and mistakes are an important part of the learning process.

Middle School students are supported and challenged throughout the core classes. All students take English, math, science, history/world geography, physical education and an elective (band, chorus or art). Students are provided with structured time to complete assignments, learn new skills and to develop soft skills, including leadership and time management, during a dedicated study hall known as ACCESS (academic success time). Academic teachers also serve as advisors to students, providing yet another avenue to support social and academic growth. Students leave Middle School well prepared for the increased responsibilities and independence that they will experience in the Upper School.

Curriculum Overview

Sixth Grade

Sixth grade at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy provides a positive learning environment as students transition into the formative years of Middle School. Emphasis is placed on encouraging self-discipline, responsibility and independence. Every student has access to a device to not only enhance the course of study but also to develop computer literacy and cyber ethics. Through interdisciplinary project work, students make connections between the overarching themes presented. We encourage critical and independent thinking skills to ensure their success as Middle School students.

Seventh Grade

The interdisciplinary approach to learning in the seventh grade program at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy provides students with ongoing opportunities to see patterns and make connections within their academic environment and the world around them. Significant objectives are to help students develop critical thinking skills, improve research, writing, and oral communication competencies, and strengthen study and organizational habits with an emphasis on time management. Student learning is assessed using a variety of traditional and alternative assessments. The seventh grade teachers work closely as a team to ensure that academic goals support the school’s mission and are achieved through the implementation of pedagogical best practices.

Eighth Grade

Eighth grade at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy offers the opportunity for students to complete their studies at the Middle School level and prepare to face the challenges of the Upper School. Students are exposed to a curriculum that is both varied and developmentally appropriate. Through a differentiated curriculum, students may choose some courses based on individual interest, while the core classes provide a firm foundation for future academic endeavors. Emphasis is placed on developing study habits and organizational skills. The team approach offers a cohesive educational experience. The culmination of the eighth grade year is a capstone project, which includes a composition and an oral presentation component.

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Health and Wellness

Our guidance and counseling program ensures that we are also addressing the social and emotional development of each student.

Wellness at NSA

Advisory Program

To be a student at NSA is to be known as an individual. To guide our students through all of the changes, challenges and opportunities of Middle School, we pair each student with an advisor who oversees the general academic and social well being of a small group of students. Activities throughout the school year are designed to foster kindness and to build a sense of community. A child’s advisor is the primary liaison between the school and the family and the student and the teachers. The Middle School years are like no other, and our faculty’s love for, understanding of and experience with this age group all make an important difference in our students’ school experience.

Beyond the Bell

Beyond the Bell is a fee-based program after school for students in grades six through eight that operates from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday - Friday. Our Middle School students begin the afternoon with time to relax after a day of classroom learning. Students then participate in a study session before moving on to indoor activities. At this age level, students are given greater independence while still benefiting from adult supervision.

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When we made the decision to join the NSA family, we had no idea the incredible opportunity we were walking into. Words cannot express how pleased we have been. You have far exceeded our expectations. We have watched our son grow more confident in his own abilities, we have seen his self-esteem soar and we have seen his ability to persevere through hard stuff strengthen. We have truly fallen in love with NSA and will be forever grateful for the impact each of you had on our family!
NSA Parent

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Learn more about what makes NSA such a special place, and discover all of the opportunities that are here for you!

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Admissions Process

Fast Facts

Learn more about middle school at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy!

182

students in Middle School, grades 6-8

1

dedicated study hall known as ACCESS (Academic Success Time)

1

Daily Kind Program to promote kindness, acceptance and inclusion

1

Leadership program, Saints LEAD, to empower students

50+

Teams in 15 sports for middle and upper school students

3

Elective offerings: art, chorus or band

1:1

Students are paired with an advisor each year who supports and nurtures each student

1

Comprehensive health, wellness and physical education program

Middle School Administration and Staff

We are excited to become partners with you and your child and to show you why "Middle School Rocks!" Our nurturing environment provides the opportunity to explore new areas of interest as well as the chance to build upon the activities in which a student is already involved. It is our goal to provide a positive, well-rounded learning experience for every student. We look forward to working with you and your child!

Head of Middle School

Michelle Horton '89

Middle School Dean of Students

Justin Hartung

Middle School Dean of Faculty

Carmen Rich

Middle School Office Manager Wendy Blausey

Middle School Office Manager

Wendy Blausey '89