Nawa Academy practices the proverb, "I heard and I forgot. I saw and I remembered. I did and I understood." In support of this, John Dewey, a progressive educator of the late 19th century, once said that the term, experiential education is redundant. In order to learn, we need to experience what we are studying. Quoting Mr. Dewey, "Experiential education is education, pure and simple."

Who does well at Nawa Academy

Nawa Academy puts the "I did and I understood" back into education with its experiential (hands-on) educational approach that is ideally suited for non-traditional learners. This approach has proven to be effective for students who desire a more interactive educational experience and for students with learning differences, attention deficit, time management, organizational, and motivational issues.

Many students enter Nawa Academy desiring a blend of education and adventure. Others enroll because they are frustrated with large classes and feel that they are not achieving their potential. At Nawa Academy, students find that it is easier to focus on their studies because they are actively involved in each class.

Each student, including those who require additional assistance for learning differences, is amazed how rapidly a previously difficult subject begins to make sense. Renewed excitement toward education is achieved as they feel the pride in being successful and develop the awareness that learning is a lifelong process that has no boundaries.

The Academics

Nawa Academy is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and units and grades earned are transferable to public and private schools. Following the California state guidelines, Nawa Academy requires 230 units to graduate from high school. Diplomas are granted to students who meet the educational requirements established by the Nawa Academy Board of Directors and WASC. Our curriculum is approved by the University of California system and meets four-year college and university entrance requirements. Courses are taught by highly skilled teachers, and most have advanced degrees or teaching credentials.

Our goal is to provide each student with a top quality education. Students may choose college preparatory, general or vocational education. Along with Nawa Academy's hands-on approach, students learn to write research papers, use computers and conduct scientific research.

Our students develop skills in sequential thinking and problem solving, and learn to express themselves through written and verbal formats. Nawa Academy limits courses so students can fully understand and focus on each subject. To accomplish this, Nawa Academy has four academic blocks during the year. This fulfills the standard six courses required each semester. Each course requires a minimum of 60 hours of class time per semester, and units are earned as students integrate what they read in a textbook with a hands-on approach.

New students often discuss the pride and excitement they feel about understanding and enjoying what they are learning. They talk about their happiness in being treated with respect by their teachers and how they are performing tasks in school that they previously might not have attempted.

Download Admissions Packages:

• The California Academy is located on our 556-acre campus in the Trinity Alps of Northern California and offers academics with vocational training in an active, stimulating environment.
• Snowboard USA, also located on our Northern California campus, combines academics with skateboarding and competitive and non-competitive snowboarding.
• International Academy combines academics and intercultural experiences with international and domestic travel.
• Nawa Academy English as a Second Language combines English as a Second Language with life at Nawa Academy.
• Summer Programs are available through a partnership with 3HG Enterprises Inc. These programs combine outdoor adventure and academics with personal growth and leadership development.

Learning Lab

Students who require additional academic support can benefit from the on-campus learning lab. Trained specialists work individually with students to integrate the hemispheres of the brain, which in turn increases reading comprehension, language, spelling and writing skills. For additional information about this service, contact the office of admissions.

Activities and Opportunities

Our students have opportunities to get involved in many activities. They can choose between attending a Shakespeare festival in Ashland, Oregon, or other local cultural events and theater productions. In addition, students learn to become active members of the community by assisting with community service, such as the Clear Creek Watershed Restoration Project.

Nawa Academy is different from many schools because it uses outdoor sports and challenges to heighten self-esteem and classroom performance. Trained and qualified Nawa Academy staff teach climbing, rappelling, caving, rafting, snowboarding, skateboarding, backpacking, camping, wilderness first aid and rescue, all of which increase teamwork and leadership skills. Such instruction is always in a controlled setting with safety as the main focus.

Simply stated, our food is great. Objectives are set and reviewed by the Food and Nutrition Committee and carried out by a skilled team of chefs. Careful attention is given to health and nutrition, portion control and individual dietary needs.

Updated: Monday, January 08, 2007 8:21:32 PM