Core Values

“Dream. Discover. Design.”

As the founder of NOVA STEAM Academy, our tagline is more than a slogan — it is the foundation of our school's identity. We have translated 'Dream. Discover. Design.' into three actionable core values that guide our students, staff, and strategic vision.

Core Value: Visionary Thinking

At NOVA, we encourage students to dream boldly — to imagine a future filled with possibilities and purpose. This value fosters innovation, goal-setting, and a growth mindset.

What it looks like:

• - Students set personal and academic goals each semester.
• - Faculty nurture student passion projects and personal interests.
• - Morning meetings and advisory include affirmations and vision-building.
• - Guest speakers and alumni inspire long-term aspirations.

Core Value: Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

We cultivate a culture where students are empowered to ask questions, seek knowledge, and explore beyond the textbook. Discovery is the foundation of meaningful learning.

What it looks like:

• - Project-based learning (PBL) and real-world challenges.
• - Cross-curricular STEAM labs and engineering design challenges.
• - Field trips to universities and maker spaces.
• - Dual credit, internships, and college prep from middle school onward.

Tagline Connection: "Discovery is where learning becomes real."

Core Value: Purposeful Innovation

Students are taught to think like designers — identifying problems, prototyping solutions, and improving the world around them. Design is active, hands-on, and student-led.

What it looks like:

• - Engineering curriculum via Project Lead The Way (PLTW).
• - Design thinking embedded into all subject areas.
• - Community-centered capstone projects and TSA competitions.
• - Emphasis on presenting, revising, and publishing student work.