NYA Viewbook 2023-2024

“I was nervous at first, coming from a big school to a small school. And I had a bunch of doubts, but it ended up being a really great place to be.”

possibilities .

discover the possibilities within you.

Build self-confidence and self-respect through a breadth of experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

The possibilities are endless, and the outcomes are more than you could hope for. Students are empowered to accept challenges, take chances, and try new things all within our safe and supportive community. NYA students are prepared to thrive in whatever comes their way.

—Emma ’25, Falmouth

“I really like equations and algebra and geometry. Mr. DeSantis and Mr. Smith are really great teachers. Mr. DeSantis is so fun, even if you don’t know him that well. I don’t have any classes with him, but he’s still always there if need help with something.”

discovering passions.

possibilities

Students learn there is space for their interests out in the world. Not only does this show them the possibilities of their futures, but they become invested in their communities, in Maine, and in the world.

From science to music, NYA students often collaborate with local organizations and incorporate external resources, connecting them to an education beyond the classroom.

—Poppy ’27, Freeport

“The more varied entry points you have to facilitate conversation with students, the better off you’re going to be. NYA has given me quite a bit of creative range to bring my life experience into the classroom, which has been really, really rewarding.”

—Mr. Hach, P’27, Upper School Biology and AP Environmental Science

possibilities creative curricula.

Teachers are encouraged to make their class a product of who they are and all the wide-ranging experiences they’ve had before teaching at NYA. This allows for flexible learning opportunities that keep students engaged and progressing at an incredible pace.

“As far as self-expression, music is a lot of myself and my identity. I’m in Higgins (NYA’s music building) a lot of the time, just playing music during study halls. I can even walk around the whole school with an instrument. I’m allowed to bring a guitar from class to class, which is really fun.”

—Cass

“I never thought I’d join the robotics club, but building robots and using the programs is so fun. I like the competitions and work with other schools. I want to do it every year.”

—Joyce ’

personal expression.

possibilities

NYA’s emphasis on unbridled individuality means students are not only uninhibited to participate, they jump at the opportunity. This excitement and joy radiates through the campus, creating a culture of inquisitive progress for students.

’24, Pownal

North Yarmouth Academy is an independent, college preparatory, coeducational school.

The Academy offers a structured program that establishes clear standards and high expectations in an environment that emphasizes values of mutual respect, trust, and community. North Yarmouth Academy is dedicated to fostering integrity, character, and intellect in its students.

“Every day, we empower our students to pursue their passions. All the while, they inspire us with their kindness, motivation, and creativity. I could not be more proud of them.”

Head of School

“Harper gave us a shout-out in her senior speech. She said working with our class helped her express herself. I feel the same way as the seniors. I think it’s really fun that they get to come into our class and spend time with us.”

—Noah ’31, Windham

interschool connection.

possibilities .

Upper School students pair with Lower School students in and out of the classroom. Fourth graders visit Upper School science classes where the Upper School students teach them about various exhibits currently showing at the science museum or the aquarium in Boston. This culminates in a trip to the locations in Boston with both grades. The Upper School students learn their subjects thoroughly to be able to properly teach them, and the younger students receive mentorship and learn confidence from their older peers.

“At NYA, it’s beyond the typical classroom experience and more into developing what you like and what you want to pursue.”

specialized interest.

At every age, students have the opportunity to chase their curiosity and discover new interests. An example is the Middle School X-Block, a section of their schedule with unique class options like music, art, STEM, athletics, games, and culture. In the Upper School, students can graduate with a Diploma with Distinction. There are seven distinctions, each providing the student a tailored course load to let them take ownership of their learning.

—Gabi ’24, Gray

“I feel it everywhere. It’s almost like each class is our own little team, and we work together on all the problems. It feels a lot better when everyone does a good job.”

—Hayden ’27, Cape Elizabeth

27,

possibilities

total support.

Our small classes mean there’s no place for unkindness or disrespect to hide. Whether students are pushing themselves academically, trying new things, or simply finding who they are, they have the support of their peers and teachers.

lasting relationships

There’s enough space in the school day, and a comfortable student-teacher ratio, to give students opportunities to really develop relationships with their peers and teachers and discover things about themselves. Students are commonly found in their advisories or in the Bicentennial Learning Commons, meeting with their teachers and working with their peers.

“My daughter is graduating from college this year, and she still keeps in touch with her NYA advisor. Their closeness is such a beautiful relationship.”

—Mrs. Gagne, P’19, Grade 4

—Mrs. Gagne, P’19, Grade 4

Why NYA?

Character, Leadership, and Wellness

“Each of my children has benefited from NYA’s small community. The teachers, coaches, staff, and peers come together to foster personal growth, as well as confidence, by providing encouragement while pushing everyone to get outside of their comfort zones. There is something special about being supported yet challenged, and we are grateful for the grounding that NYA has provided, which will serve them well in all future endeavors.”

We are committed to cultivating our core values – including respect, honesty, perseverance, compassion, and responsibility – to develop students of strong character.

We promote active, healthy lifestyle choices and teach skills necessary to manage stress, anxiety, and adversity while supporting the development of character.

The Kauffmann Program in Environmental Writing and Wilderness Exploration. From kayaking the coast of Alaska and learning about climate change to hiking in Maine and learning about stewardship in our state, we believe wilderness experiences help students dive into critical thinking, writing, positive action, leadership roles, and lifelong friendships.

Athletics and the Arts - not what you may think!

An Academic Experience Like No Other

Our youngest students begin their journey with the Montessori Method through kindergarten.

Middle School students learn to manage their time, develop study skills, and grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

We have a deep and intentional curriculum replete with a variety of offerings and accelerated class options, independent studies, and challenging electives.

Seniors work with an advisor to write and present a speech on a topic of their choice. Trust us, your future self will appreciate this experience!

Students can graduate with distinction in Global Citizenship; Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM); Music: Performance, Entrepreneurship, & Community; Outdoor & Environmental Leadership; Social Advocacy; Visual Arts; and/or Creative Writing.

Our daily schedules are carefully constructed to allow for full immersion in academics, arts, athletics, activities, and advisories –giving students time during the school day for clubs and activities, community gatherings, and meeting with teachers.

Middle and Upper School students participate in an after-school activity—athletics, musical theater, studio band, or another approved alternative—each season. We believe being part of a team is a valuable experience.

100% of students, from toddler to grade 8, take art and music. 75% of Upper School students are involved in performing and/or visual arts.

Personalized College Prep Support

Our college counseling program is so much more than you would expect! Representatives from approximately 70 colleges visit our campus to meet with students each year. The College Counseling Office partners with highly regarded college application, testing, and financing organizations to ensure all NYA families receive comprehensive and informed support, regardless of their individual needs.

For students, there are workshops with admission officers from a range of colleges, such as mock interviews, individual and group meetings, bi-weekly newsletters, personalized advising on college lists, crafting effective applications, detailed feedback on college essays, advice on standardized test prep and schedules, and support applying for financial aid and scholarships.

At NYA, every senior is treated as an individual, and the college counselor helps them to find their best college fit.

—Jen Rohde ’88, P’22, P’23, P’25, Cumberland