What makes us different?

 
What “type” of student is NVSI best for?

 Simple answer – NVSI is a great fit for any student who values their education and wants to grow. If you’re looking for a supportive, engaging, and enriching learning environment, we’re here for you. Whether you’re eager for more academic challenge, seeking a place where your learning style is understood, looking for a community that truly supports your well-being, or simply ready for a fresh start, NVSI welcomes all students who are ready to take the next step in their educational journey.

Does your school have a State license to operate?

Yes, we are a licensed private school in the State of Nevada.  More about Nevada State private school requirements and listings can be found HERE.

What is your maximum enrollment?

28 students. Our goal is to provide students with the attention they deserve.

How does it work with 6th, 7th, and 8th grade in one classroom?

We operate as a one room schoolhouse the majority of the day. Our program is a three-year program where students will exit with exposure to all Middle School content standards. Science, Social Studies, PE, and Electives are all completed together with mixed grade levels. Math and ELA are taught in small groups that are differentiated by working levels.

What are your operating hours? 

For the 2025-26 school year, classes run Monday through Thursday, 8:00am - 2:00pm.  Each Friday, students have the option to attend in person or work from home.  NVSI also runs after-school clubs Monday through Thursday from 2:00pm  - 3:15pm.
 

What is inquiry-based learning?

Inquiry-based learning is a teaching style that focuses on students seeking answers through experiences rather than being fed information. Inquiry-based instruction focuses on questioning for problem solving. We want students to have the skills necessary to use claims, evidence, and reasoning to solve real-world problems.

Which curriculum do you use?

We teach the Nevada Academic Content Standards (NVACS). We utilize a variety of inquiry-based programs to provide high quality lessons and experiences. Some of the programs that we utilize are Full Option Science System (FOSS), Novel Studies, Illustrative Mathematics, Teachers Curriculum Institute (TCI), CommonLit, and EL Education.

Do you offer advanced classes? 

NVSI utilizes BYU Independent Study for advanced math students.  Students have the opportunity to take Algebra I and Geometry high school level courses, not offered in person. This allows students to enter High School with transferrable high school credits in advanced mathematics!  This is at no additional cost to families.

What makes NVSI different than other middle schools?

The small nature of our school ensures that the instructors build a relationship with each and every student. The instructors are more than teachers, they are coaches that meet each student where they are and develop an individualized plan to support and challenge each student at their level. In a traditional middle school, most teachers have over 150 students and struggle to provide each child with the attention they deserve and need.

At NVSI, all instruction is based on units that weave concepts through each curricular area. Each unit also includes multiple real-world experiences that get students out of the classroom and talking to experts to add to the content and understanding of the unit.

At NVSI, we believe in strong long-lasting relationships. Outside of school, we have activities monthly that bring families together to build a stronger community. These activities include hiking, camping, skating, pool parties, picnics, and more! In addition, our students lead student-parent conferences three times a year to inform families and teachers of goals and progress.

How much is tuition, and what exactly does it cover? 

Tuition for 2024-25 School Year at NVSI is $13,000.

Tuition can be paid monthly with a deposit of $1,000, and installments of $1,200 per month (Aug-May). Tuition is pro-rated for late enrollment.

Tuition covers all school supplies, application fees, testing fees, and all single-day class trips.

NVSI is registered with Nevada Choice Scholarship Program (Opportunity Scholarship).

Are there any additional costs? 

Our mandatory end-of-year field trip is NVSI's only additional cost.  The cost of this trip varies each year.  For reference, the cost for the 2024-25 end-of-year trip was $1450.00.  In 2024-25 NVSI students went to Yosemite National Park for a one-week adventure in learning with NatureBridge. Trip price covered all food, lodging, transportation, and learning fees.

Fundraising opportunities are available throughout the year for this trip.

Will  my students need to bring anything each day? 

As stated, all school supplies (notebooks, lab supplies, writing utensils, computer programs) are covered in tuition.  However, students are required to bring their own laptop computer, iPad with keypad, chromebook, or Microsoft Surface. NVSI also does not have food service, so remember to pack a lunch!

Are there any after-school events?
NVSI offers a variety of extracurricular activities.  We offer daily (Mon-Thu) clubs that vary depenending on student interest.  We also have family events and schoolwide service projects througout the year.  Our school also offers an Interact Club for students who are passionate about service and community involvement.