NSA plans North Suffolk campus

Published 10:44 pm Thursday, November 20, 2014

Nansemond-Suffolk Academy has announced plans for a satellite campus in Harbour View.

Currently in the planning phase, the satellite campus would open in fall 2016 and serve students in pre-K through grade three, the school announced in a news release Thursday.

To make the plans a reality, the school has announced “the largest fundraising campaign in the school’s history.”

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“Our Saints. Our Future,” as it has been dubbed, aims to raise $6 million for the satellite facility and other new projects.

Other projects include an enhanced science, technology engineering and math curriculum for students in pre-K through 12th grade, including an Innovation Lab providing hands-on learning.

The Center for Academic Excellence would provide additional support, resources and assessments to students in all grades, “aimed to help them maximize their academic potential.”

NSA has also announced plans for capital enhancements for arts and athletics, including locker room, training facility and track renovations; upgraded sound, lighting and recording systems; and “improvements to the overall facility, such as security, amenities and outdoor spaces.”

Plans are also afoot for “faculty benefits, such as leadership development, technology and continuing education.”

NSA says the plans were developed by its Board of Trustees, “an active and committed group of top industry and community leaders.”

They would address the school’s needs and ensure its future, the news release states.

“We are devoted to further enhancing each student’s experience with a strong emphasis on technology, collaboration, experiential learning, community service and extracurricular enrichment activities to give our students a competitive advantage,” stated trustee and fundraising campaign chair, Charles Birdsong.

Head of School Debbie Russell stated: “Nansemond-Suffolk Academy is dedicated to striving for excellence in every aspect of the school from our programs, pedagogy and technology to our facilities and operations.”

“By striving for excellence in all areas, we can best position our students for success in the future and help them reach their full potential,” Russell added.

The campaign was launched at the school’s annual Fleur-de-Lis Society Leadership Society event on Thursday.

The first phase, according to the school, has already raised $3.7 million, and the campaign will conclude in the fall of 2016, coinciding with NSA’s 50th anniversary.