CONNECTION COMMITMENT INTENTION JOY
ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019
INTENTIONAL CURRICULUM
During the Spring Trimester, Mr. Fuller's Advanced History class researched the 1962 Seattle World's Watch the video at bit.ly/novaworldfair Fair. Then they built it, at 1:100 scale, in the classroom.
FROM THE HEAD Classrooms, without the vitality and purpose that students bring to them, are only rooms. Likewise, the core values of an organization are only words unless the people who profess them actually live them. This year’s Annual Report presents evidence that at NOVA Middle School we bring our core values of Connection, Commitment, Intention, and Joy to life every day. The daily work of shepherding more than 100 intense learners and helping them to become a vibrant, intentional, and connected group requires thoughtful planning and bravery. Our faculty and staff are committed to this work, putting their minds and spirits into this task daily. GGGfffGG As you read through this report, exploring the images and words of faculty, staff, students and alumni, you will see how successful our efforts continue to be. The joy of being connected to each other, to our learning, and to the world is evident on every page. Relationships that are mutually supportive, authentic, and engaged underpin all of our endeavors at school. They provide the foundation for future adventures, challenges, and growth. GGGGG For all your support, in the many and varied ways that you provided it this past year, please accept our heartfelt gratitude. Most sincerely,
Barbara Mitchell Hutton Head of School
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2019-2020
Jennifer Williamson Forster - Co-President Ben Merrifield - Co-President Kate Scriven - Vice President David Mitchell - Treasurer Clara Shin - Past President Barbara Mitchell Hutton - Head of School Troy Bussey Dominique Coco Aaron Coby
Travis Hoppe Emily McMason Tara McQueen Nicole Miller Matt Murry Carrie Swindler Maddy Thompson Erin Timms
Many thanks to outgoing board members Lisa Herrick, Pamela Holsinger-Fuchs, and Adrienne Kuhn for their service!
WHO WE ARE
OUR MISSION
Fostering the joyful pursuit of intellectual, social, and emotional expansion through a challenging curriculum that nourishes highly capable students to develop identity, self-empowerment, and community. OUR VISION
Inspiring lifelong learning for a more compassionate, engaged world. OUR VALUES Connection
We embrace the power of care, compassion, and relationships. Valuing individuality, diversity, and shared experiences. Fostering self-awareness, community, and a global perspective. Cultivating social and emotional health through a safe and supportive environment Commitment
We are passionately devoted to our work. Nurturing a sense of responsibility, personal investment, and ownership of learning. Engaging fully in our interactions and with our content. Intention
We design experiences based on expertise and reflection. Utilizing emerging best practices for highly capable early adolescents. Maximizing opportunities for students to deeply explore content. Practicing communication that is clear, direct, consistent, and timely. Joy
We celebrate and delight in learning and discovery. Inspiring curiosity and growth. Linking intellectual challenge to satisfaction, purpose, and joy.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
We are pleased this year to welcome four new members to our board, including three current parents and one alumna.
Emily McMason "The middle school years are a unique time in a child's development. NOVA knows that, and builds the curriculum to grow students not just intellectually, but socially and emotionally as well. Being part of such an intentional community is priceless."
Tara McQueen '11 "Joining the NOVA board provides me an opportunity to ensure the generations to come are offered the same transformational experience that I had. I am delighted to be the board's connection to our alumni community."
Nicole Miller "Being part of the NOVA community has been transformational for our family. I am honored to be part of the NOVA board because it allows me to demonstrate my heartfelt gratitude and commitment to the NOVA community in a meaningful way."
Erin Timms "I’m excited to have the opportunity to serve as a Board Trustee and help NOVA thrive, so children for many years to come will have the chance to experience the joy of attending this very special middle school."
INTENTION
CAMP COLMAN
It's a NOVA tradition to spend a few days during the first weeks of the school year on an overnight team-building retreat at the YMCA's Camp Colman in Longbranch. This trip is designed to allow students and faculty to become acquainted with each other, for our new students to begin establishing community with the returning students, and to set the stage for a positive year.
CONNECTION
FROM NOVA TO NASA
Bjorn Cole '95 was one of the first graduates in NOVA’s history. His early interest in science led to a career in rocket science, including a seven-year stint with NASA. He is currently a systems engineer at Lockheed Martin.
You are literally a rocket scientist. I am! PhD in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech. What led you to this career? A big part of it was Eighth Grade Project at NOVA. My father and I built a robot together. We made our own circuit boards, we programmed chips, we ran things on Basic to control the actuators. I learned a lot! And I’ve long had an interest in space. I went to Space Camp as a kid, did basic studies in high school, went to University of Washington, which is where I got my first real taste for the parts of science I liked.
How did you end up at NASA? I had done a short internship at NASA Langley, and that was just enough of a crack to get my foot into. I was lucky enough to get hired right out of school. It was an incredibly fun place to be, the perfect mix of academics and actual industry. You had to be 110% all the time. It was literally using all your creative and intellectual talents with a bunch of people that were doing the same. Any special memories of NOVA? NOVA holds a very special place in my heart and memory. The timing of being able to go to a place like NOVA was very good, being nurtured and encouraged to pursue all these different kinds of interests, not just math and science. Being able to stretch and explore, right at that time when you're really starting to want to know what's out there in the world.
FUTURE ASTRONAUTS
In summer 2018, Kassie Hoisington '19 and Poppy Long '19 spent a week at Space Camp and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. They had an amazing time learning about STEM and training to be future astronauts.
JOY
For the mathematically uninclined, March 14 may hold no significance. But at NOVA, the date known worldwide as Pi Day is a cause for celebration. Many, many pies are eaten and students compete by reciting PI to as many decimal places as they can. Last year's winner, Kevin, won first place with an astounding 180 decimal places. His prize, naturally, was a pie.
CONNECTION
ALUMNI AT NOVA
Aren Wright '17 is a junior at Olympia High School. This summer, Aren returned to NOVA as a counsellor at our Discoveries Camp.
So, what's new and exciting? This year I’m applying for a Rotary Youth Exchange for my senior year. I’m hoping to go to Mexico or Uruguay — or anywhere that speaks Spanish. ggg
Any plans for college? I want to go to college in California. My family lives outside of Los Angeles, but also I want to go somewhere where there’s a large Spanish speaking population. I’m probably going to double major in Political Science and Spanish — I like Spanish! It’s my favorite class in school! And, yes, it didn’t start until I came to NOVA and had Spanish 1 with Maestra. Graeme Smith '05 majored in music at University of Washington, where he played harp for the wind ensemble, symphony and opera. In 2019, he spent time at NOVA teaching Art with Mr. Fleming.
How was it coming back to NOVA as a guest teacher? It was great getting the chance to come back because I remember how fun and weird middle school was. I feel like I can really put myself in the students' shoes. Coming back to NOVA to teach is a really reflective experience. On the one hand everything is really familiar but on the other hand, it is a totally new perspective. How do you think NOVA prepared you for life after middle school? NOVA taught me the value of collaboration. Some of my favorite memories are working on group projects and the feeling of being part of something bigger than myself. This prepared me for the more complex collaborations I experienced later in life, such as playing in symphonies and teaching in classrooms.
COMMITMENT
NOVA GALA: SWINGIN' IN THE RAIN
Every year our community comes together at our gala to celebrate NOVA, to raise funds, and to have fun! In 2019, the snows of February forced us to to hastily reschedule our event to May. Nevertheless, it was a grand party, with over 160 guests turning out to support NOVA. South Puget Sound Community College, once again, graciously donated the venue. The Olympia Jazz Senators provided fabulous entertainment, our alumna Alina Chandra '15 gave an inspirational speech, and our community raised $52,494 for financial aid that directly benefits NOVA students. Cheers!
We are truly grateful for our corporate sponsors!
Want to become a coporate sponsor of NOVA? Visit us at novaschool.org/giving
JOY
NIGHT OF THE NOTABLES
Each spring in Advanced Language Arts, 7th and 8th grade students research a historical or fictional figure and write a poem that hints at their chosen person. Then we host Night of the Notables, where students dress in character, and parents and staff try to discern who they are. Students recite their poetic riddles and answer questions about their character based on their research. Can you figure out who these students chose? From a tragic car crash that nearly took my life, to going back to the future with my future wife. An actor I am, with many movies well known. As in Teen Wolf, Stewart Little, and more of my own. I was born Jun 09, 1961, and starred in many movies with more parts than one. I am not just an actor but a comedian as well; with my disease, my future I cannot foretell. Because I have Parkinson’s, I take the hard way out. But my career was successful, I know that without a doubt. Four Golden Globes are what I have won, most of my movies are filled with action and fun. Back to the future was my main claim to fame. The whole world may know it, but do you know my name? •••
A pop/rock star of the 70s and ongoing, an experience well worth experiencing. In my work, I was always serious. Purple is the color people remember me by, And I always had my trusty axe nearby. From the city of coffee and the Pacific Northwest, my music later influenced some of the best. I had so much more that I would’ve gave if I had not been an early one to go to the grave. My skills on the Six String were unreal and so was my zeal. Overall, folks, you have definitely heard of me. I was popular in the 20th and 21st century. •••
I was born October 15, 1924, and I sure hope this poem doesn’t bore. I come from Allentown, Pennsylvania, which is nowhere near Transylvania. In 1946 I joined Ford, hoping someday to be on the board. In ‘63 I designed the Mustang, because of this, our profits soared. Becoming president of Ford in 1970 was quite the accomplishment, added to my legacy. My time at Ford came to an end in 1978, though I tried to defend. I was hired by Chrysler, which was nearly bankrupt, and turned it around with a bit of luck. Who am I? •••
Born in 1984, I am a living star athlete. I am hard to beat, but I learn from defeat. I started on the bench but nothing could quench my determination. I grew up in Kent, Washington, playing all sorts of sports. Now you will find me devoted to volleyball and the court. I attended University of Washington and landed in the Hall of Fame. Records and titles claim my name. I progressed to the 2012 and 2016 Olympics with Team U.S.A. I brought home bronze and silver, which was a confidence filler. I confess I never thought this would be my dream Currently, I am retired. Yet, I continue to inspire young athletes in their game. I climbed to fame, but what is my name?
Answers on next page.
COMMITMENT
EIGHTH GRADE PROJECT
At NOVA, the Eighth Grade Project is a culminating experience for all our students. It is a personally challenging project that imparts a sense of true accomplishment and results in increased self-discovery and selfrealization. Students are encouraged to choose an unfamiliar pursuit of personal interest that is independent of school, pushes their limits, and requires a sustained effort over the school year. Sophie taught herself to play the guitar. Watch the video at bit.ly/NOVA-EGP
WORLD OF WORK
During the spring of 2019, all of our eighth graders had the opportunity to go into the workforce as part of our job shadow program, World of Work. In addition to giving them the chance to explore various career paths, the program invites our students to connect with the greater Olympia community. Addie experienced what a science-based career might entail during her job shadow at WSDA’s Metrology Laboratory.
FINANCIALS
NOVA FINANCIAL SUMMARY 2018 - 2019 Fundraising & Development 4%
Item 3 9.8%
Item 2 16.1%
$1,988,864
$1,934,641
Item 1 74% Tuition and Fees 94%
INCOME
EXPENSES
TUITION & FEES
1,865,170
PROGRAM SERVICES
1,431,873
FUNDRAISING
75,124
FINANCIAL AID
312,328
RENT, OTHER
48,570
OPERATIONS
190,440
16%
OF EXPENSES WENT TO FINANCIAL AID, HELPING MISSIONAPPROPRIATE STUDENTS RECEIVE A NOVA EDUCATION.
34%
OF NOVA FAMILIES RECEIVED FINANCIAL AID.
MAKING AN IMPACT During the 2018-2019 school year, thanks to your support, we were able to: Upgrade our technology, including new desktop computers in the student computer lab and wireless microphones for school plays. Replace carpeting throughout the building and science tables in Room 5. Fund student trips to Camp Colman in the fall and Portland and the San Juan Islands in the spring. Give our faculty opportunities for professional development including: sending all faculty to the NWAIS Fall Educators Conference; Dave Fuller and Samantha Chandler attending a multiday workshop at Whitworth University's Center for Gifted Education; David Campbell writing a case study on cadmium poisoning for a course at Washington University in St. Louis. Finance the Head of School Innovation Initiative, which went to Lara Tukarski for a crossdisciplinary project focused on the use of real-time data to learn about environmental issues. Bring in nationally known educators Linda Silverman and Susan Daniels to work with our faculty and present to the public.
Night of the Notables Answers: Michael J. Fox, Jimi Hendrix, Lee Iacocca, Courtney Thompson.
THANK YOU FY2019 SUPPORTERS Kathleen Andres Kay and Gene Baxstrom Guy Bergstrom and Vini Samuel David and Dorothy Bjornson Paula Bjornson Benjamin Brauer Jim and Tammy Brazil Doug and Nancy Broach Amy and George Brockman Bryan and Lanelle Brown Dena and Michael Buchanan Troy and Carie Bussey Alison Campbell and Brenden McFarland David Campbell Don and Cathy Carr Steve and Sudawan Carras David Carter Katie Carter and Brian Kennedy Sasha Cavanagh Mark and Megan Celedonia Samantha Chandler Arun Chandra and Lori Blewett Jeff and Heather Christenson Dominique Coco and Jessica Starr William Conklin Brian and Jenni Crain Laurie and Quigg Davis James Del Gianni and Darla Murphy Jesse Driskill and Charisma Scheffer William and Emily Ecker Linda Evans Jack Fallat and Christine Nettle Laura Farris Erik and Tiffany Felch Rosann Fitzpatrick and Gustavo Aviles Eric Fleming Sydney Forrester David and Jennifer Forster Karrie and Adam Fox Dave and Sandi Fuller Jason Gacek Anne and Ron Gajadhar Carlos and Veronica Garcia Jamie and Becca Glasgow LaVon Golliet Mark and Sam Golliet Eric Sarai and Jen Grady Jay and Debby Grant Rebecca Green Mike Gregory and Melissa Meade Tom Gries and Erika Hoffman Marnie and Shane Hamlin David and Julie Hankins Katherine and Luke Hansen Scott and Michele Harriage Scot Harrison and Rebecca Bolles Crystal Hart Diane and Brian Henderson Judy Henry Lisa and Tom Herrick
We couldn't do what we do without your support!
Pamela Holsinger-Fuchs and Thomas Fuchs Tracey Hooker Meghan Hopkins Colonel Al and Lynn Hoppe Travis Hoppe and Juliette Erickson Brad and Janet Hubbard Bonita Jacques Kay Johnson Barbara Jones Muriel Jorgensen Shakib Kamal Peter Kane and Alice Cunningham Kane Kyle Kenoyer Mary Kiblan Terry Kissick and Hillary Allen Kissick Molly Knox and Parker MacCready Kenia Krembs Adrienne Kuhn Jeff and Patty Lemon Dennis and Nancy Madigan Catherine Mangino Kathy Manning Linda and Carl Manning Elizabeth and Michael Marchand Jan and Tom Marshall George and Georgiena McCord Robert and Marion McIntosh Pamela McKinnie Emily McMason Samuel McMillan Vivian Merker Ben and Sarah Merrifield Raymond and Ruth Miles John and Korri Miller Morris and Nicole Miller Gwen and Joel Minto David Mitchell and Sasha Henry Barbara Mitchell Hutton Anne Montgomery Jeff Morse and Susan Williams Tanya Mote Matthew and Amy Murry Edward and Patricia O'Brien Jeffrey Olfson Laurel Olfson-Manning Sharonne O'Shea and Mike McGauly David and Inger Owen Terry and Gretchen Owen Catherine Pellicer and Marc Fedou Kate Perry Elizabeth Petrich and Allen Pleus Drew and Kylie Phillips Steffani Powell and Scott Richards David and Midge Price Ann and Steve Pulkkinen Jester and Melissa Purtteman Sarah and Michael Quaadman Mircea and Corina Rachita Jeanette and Robert Ragsdale Collette Rauch
Clint Robbins Virgina Roberts Mark and Kazuko Rosen Scott and Amy Rowley Dr. John Ruhland and Angela Ying Tom Wright and Therese Saliba Jay T Scott and Nikki McClure Saima Scott Kate and Todd Scriven Lynn and Don Scriven Charles Shen and Wenjing Yan Clara and Ki Shin Joshua Shin Georgeann Smith Scott and Sheila Smitherman M'Lissa and Alex Solis Craig and Debra Stephens Suresh Bhagavan and Asha Suresh Geoff and Colleen Swett Carrie and Gary Swindler Stephen and Wendy Taylor Sam and Indu Thomas Madeleine and Bob Thompson Robert B. Thompson Erin and Ian Timms Ted and Lexie Trople David Trujillo Greg Tudor and Kate White Tudor Lara Tukarski Ken and Mary Turcotte Janet and Scott Waeschle Craig Wallace John and Sally Warjone Mike and Bree Warjone Stacey Waterman-Hoey and Richard Hoey Anne Weldon Cathy Williams John and Suzanne Winans Teresa Winstead and Aaron Coby Lisa and Adrian Wolf Michael and Jackie Wolf Kelly and Jocelyn Wood Elizabeth and Alex Zerbe Businesses Panorama Small to Tall StraderHallett PS Sunset Air Timberland Bank TwinStar Credit Union Port Blakely Tree Farms South Puget Sound Community College Arbutus Folk School Group Benefit Solutions
This list reflects the support of donors from July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019. If you find an error, please notify Mike Gregory at mgregory@novaschool.org and we will make a correction.
NOVA Middle School 2020 22nd Ave SE Olympia, WA 98501 360.491.7097 • nova@novaschool.org novaschool.org