BRINGING NYA OUT THE BEST
Toddler through Grade 12
Interim Head of School, John Drisko
A quality education is the single most important foundation for people in the world today. At NYA, students prepare for their place in the world by exploring their limits under the guidance and caring support of a first rate faculty. Students develop effective communication skills, strong habits of mind, and a powerful ability to advocate for themselves in the adult world. Most importantly, students learn the importance of becoming good people. Here, character counts. The supportive student and parent community of NYA all contribute to the quality of the educational experience. When you come to visit and experience the inside of NYA, I trust you will see the power and quality of the education yourself. I look forward to meeting you.
John Drisko
Character Culture Community In a small school environment, we are privileged to know every student very well. The relationships that develop between our students and our faculty and staff enable us to guide each individual on his or her journey to adulthood. That individual attention also enables us to help mold students’ character and integrity as they face choices and challenges. High expectations go hand in hand with exceptional support. The culture at NYA is one where it’s cool to work hard and do well, where students support each other, and where teachers always make time for students and parents. All of this creates a community that is a safe place in which students can take risks, fail and succeed, discover their passions, and learn how they fit into not only NYA, but into the wider world beyond.
Lower School, Grow With Us
Founded in 2013 and expanded in 2014, the Lower School embraces Montessori methods through kindergarten. In the first and second grades, the program builds off a Montessori foundation, continuing to provide an active and engaging learning experience. In the third and fourth grades, the approach continues to foster curiosity and motivation to learn while also preparing students for an easy transition to the Middle School at North Yarmouth Academy. Middle and Upper School teachers find ways to include the Lower School students in their classes, and children have full access to all of NYA’s facilities. Students participate in music, foreign language, physical education, art and even ice skating as part of the curriculum.
Definitely Not Your Parents’ Middle School
In grades 5-8, we focus on giving students a solid foundation - academically, athletically, artistically, and socially - to prepare them for further academic challenges and life. NYA’s Middle School is a safe, nurturing environment; it is also a vibrant, stimulating place where you can feel the energy in the air. On any given day, you may find a science class gathering macro invertebrates from the Royal River, a school fundraiser for Preble Street’s Thanksgiving Turkeys, a U.S. History class discussing the origins of a Civil War and conducting an archaeological dig on our campus, or an art class experimenting with stop motion animation. Learning the basics is important. So is cultivating the curiosity and confidence to want more. NYA Middle School students feel safe to take risks and feel supported in their efforts every day.
Upper School, Higher Aspirations
Alumni consistently tell us that they are better prepared for college work and life than their college classmates. In the Upper School, students learn not only the critical thinking and writing skills that are essential in every field, but they also learn how to manage their time and how to collaborate with others. They gain the confidence to establish relationships with professors, mentors and other adults. NYA students develop lifelong friendships with fellow students that blur the typical high school boundaries of athletes, artists and academics. The work is challenging; the days are full; the rewards are sweet.
What’s the NYA Difference?
College Counseling Over the last several years, 62% of graduates have gained admission to their top choice college and 94% to one of their top three choices. Representatives from over 100 colleges visit campus each year. Colleges know us!
Advisors Every student has a Faculty Advisor to guide them as they navigate challenges and take advantage of opportunities. These relationships are lasting.
Broad Extracurricular After School Offerings
Arts Every Day
Students are required to participate
performing arts enrich every student’s
in activities all year, including at least
education experience here. The
two team or individual sports, to
program is uniquely broad and offers
build teamwork, physical fitness, and
paths to discover and explore inside
confidence.
and outside the classroom.
As part of the school day, visual and
200 Years of Excellence
Other
Just over 200 years ago, there was a
Dress code, visiting artists and writers,
need to educate the area’s young people,
small classes, amazing faculty, Travis
prepare them for college and to be good
Roy Ice Arena, experiential education
citizens, and to thrive in an unpredictable,
and interdisciplinary courses. With two
demanding world. That need is greater
centuries to cover, there are enough
than ever today, and NYA approaches it
differences at NYA to fill a book of its
in a way like no other school.
own.
NYA at a Glance The Academy Established 1814 Toddler to Grade 12 College preparatory day school
Athletics 28 Team State Championships since 2004 100% of student body participates in team sports Prep League ice hockey offered with an on-campus ice arena Other facilities include a gym, artificial turf field, workout/weight room, tennis courts, and softball field
330 students
Arts
Academics
Program includes performing, visual, and fine arts
6:1 student faculty ratio
Seasonal theater productions
Average class size of 14
Band, jazz band, steel band, bluegrass band, string ensemble, chorus, and numerous other music ensembles tailored to student interests
17 AP classes 70% of faculty have advanced degrees
School Philosophy Students develop: Problem-solving skills based on sound analytical and creative thought;
100% of Middle School and 75% of Upper School students participate in arts through classes or activities
Concern for the larger community and an appreciation for the natural environment; Desire to continue the process of lifelong learning.
Sophistication in writing, speaking and artistic expression;
Financial Aid
Appreciation for the importance of athletic activity, teamwork and cooperation;
Approximately 45% of student body receives some aid each year
Self-confidence and self-respect through a breadth of experiences that extends beyond the classroom;
Awards are based on need
148 Main Street Yarmouth, Maine 04096 207.846.2376 www.NYA.org