There's no place like NOVA-where highly capable students thrive. Warning: Your child might actually enjoy middle school. There's a certain spark you feel when you walk through our halls. Maybe it's the sixth grader asking a philosophical "what if?" at lunch. Or the eighth graders debating science ethics before heading to orchestra practice. It might be the sound of Spanish lines (or songs!) being rehearsed. Or the sudden burst of laughter from the corner where students are practicing their spoken word presentation.
Our students don't just sit and learn. They move, ask, build, stretch, stumble, and try again. At NOVA, learning is loud, expressive, vibrant, and real.
We believe middle school should be a place where students figure out who they are while they dig deep into how the world works.
It's not always easy (they're growing a lot!), but they're doing it in a place that feels safe, ensures they feel seen, and prepares them for the next steps out into the world.
Quick Facts (2026)
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: 6-8
- Enrollment: 105 students
- Yearly Tuition: $23,634
- Acceptance rate: 76%
- Average class size: 16 students
- Application Deadline: Feb. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-8
Year Founded
1992
Last Day of School
Wed. Jun 3, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
105 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
36%
State avg.: 31%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
16 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
We want everyone to be themselves
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$23,634
Tuition Notes
Tuition is an all inclusive fee that covers textbooks, all field trips, lab supplies, and other incidentals. We offer three payment plans. Financial aid is awarded based on information we receive from FAST and the families. Funds are awarded during the admissions process. We make all admission and financial aid decisions independently.
% on Financial Aid
40%
Acceptance Rate
76%
National avg.: 82%
Admissions Director
Julie Hankins
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
1 sport
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
9 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Adventure ClubChess Club
Environment ClubFirst Lego League (FLL) Robotics Team
Arts and Music Programs:
ArtBand and Choir
Spring PlayStrings Orchestra
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Volleyball
School Notes
- "I love NOVA, because it immerses highly capable,exceptionally motivatedmiddle school students like my daughter in a challenging, engaging and broad curriculumwith unique experiences to champion their development into future leaders, innovators and philanthropists."- Class of 2015 Parent
- Middle school isn't just a bridge-it's a launchpad.When your child becomes a NOVA student, they embark on a transformation that serves them for the rest of their life. Each year builds on the one before, and offers up rich experiences and opportunities for celebration and growth.Read more about your child's transformation at NOVA.
- 6th Grade:Foundations and Firsts. Your child arrives with excitement, uncertainty, and a backpack stuffed with all the materials and supplies they could possibly need for the first day and perhaps, even the entire year. 6th grade is about easing your child into what can be a big transition with care, structure, and a whole lot of encouragement.
- 7th Grade: Stretching and Strengthening. By now, your child knows their way around. They've got the hang of lockers and planners, they know which microwave heats up leftovers best, and they've got at least one enrichment they absolutely love.But 7th grade isn't just a repeat of 6th-this is when your child starts putting all those foundational tools into motion as they step into advanced classes and are integrated with 8th graders. They're testing boundaries (in a good way), discovering what excites them, and stepping into a new level of independence.
- 8th Grade: Leadership and Launch. This is it-the final NOVA year. It's amazing how far your child has come. Remember that nervous sixth grader with the backpack falling off one shoulder? Now they're the one holding the door open, giving directions to classrooms, and making sure the new kids feel seen.8th grade is about preparing for what comes next, yes-but it's also about recognizing just how far your child has come.
- You'll see it in who they become. NOVA graduates are ready for what comes next.
- NOVA, to date, is the most impactful experience and three years of my life. Critical thinking, exposure to viewpoitnts, and being challenged to consume the type of content I wouldn't see again until university made me a more well rounded person and has helped me in every ounce of success I've achieved in my life. - Class of 2006 Graduate
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Hal Schrieve - 2010 - Published writer
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does NOVA Middle School cost?
NOVA Middle School's tuition is approximately $23,634 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of NOVA Middle School?
The acceptance rate of NOVA Middle School is 76%, which is lower than the national average of 82%.
Who are famous alumni from NOVA Middle School?
NOVA Middle School famous alumni include: Hal Schrieve - 2010.
What sports does NOVA Middle School offer?
NOVA Middle School offers 1 interscholastic sports: Volleyball.
When is the application deadline for NOVA Middle School?
The application deadline for NOVA Middle School is Feb. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is NOVA Middle School located?
NOVA Middle School is located in the Indian Creek neighborhood of Olympia, WA.
School Reviews
5 4/6/2019
Nova changed my child`s life. I watched my sullen, bored 5th grader come alive again at Nova. It`s not just the incredible academics, but the staff and teachers that make Nova such a special place to be. Kids know it`s a safe place to take academic risks and that allows them to open up in incredible ways. You watch your child grow to new heights and in new ways you were never expecting. Sending my child to Nova was one of the best decisions I have made not only for my child but for our family as well. The Head of School, Barbara, offers amazing parent workshops and brings in lecturers to speak to supporting, loving, and living with your gifted child. It helped us become an even stronger family unit. We miss being at Nova dearly. It was truly a life-changing few years.
5 4/23/2013
My son was just accepted to this school. I am pleased with the staff so far. With him being in the gifted program in elementary school, I am excited for his entire curriculum to be ''gifted'' education. I want to make a note, however, that this school is NOT grades 7-9. It is grades 6-8.
Endorse NOVA Middle School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Financial Aid 101 for Private School Families 2026
Guide to private school financial aid in 2026, with current costs, key planning timelines and practical steps parents need to maximize aid options.
Why Extracurricular Activities Matter in 2026
Discover why extracurricular activities remain essential in 2026, with updated research, costs, and admissions insights for parents and students.
How to Appeal for Financial Aid After Admission
Learn how to appeal for financial aid after admission to a private school, with expert steps, timelines, and 2026 updates for families.





