REVIEW OF The New School BY parent, Monika Plocica

(5) Student Experience

Choosing the right school for my children was one of the most important decisions I’ve made, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. As a psychologist and former school board staff, I understand the critical role a school plays in shaping a child's emotional well-being, character, and academic success. From the moment we joined the school community, it was evident that the educators here are deeply invested in each child’s growth, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. The modern curriculum, inclusive teaching methods, and strong sense of community create an environment where children feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn. Kids spend half their lives in school, and finding a place that prioritizes both education and emotional well-being was essential for me. The well-rounded approach, incorporating academics, creativity, outdoor exploration, and character-building, has allowed my children to flourish in ways I never imagined. I truly cannot say enough great things about this school, and I am beyond grateful for the incredible impact it has had on my children’s development.

(5) School Leadership

The leadership and administration at this school are exceptional, fostering a positive, inclusive, and structured environment where students thrive. They are responsive, approachable, and solution-focused, ensuring that parents stay informed and involved through clear and timely communication. Discipline is handled fairly and thoughtfully, emphasizing learning and growth over punishment, which helps students develop respect, accountability, and emotional intelligence. Their proactive approach to student well-being, both academically and personally, sets the school apart. It’s clear they are deeply invested in every child’s success, creating a space where students feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow.

(5) Teaching

What stands out the most is the genuine investment of the teachers, they treat their students as if they were their own, nurturing both their academic and personal growth. They take the time to understand each child's unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles, ensuring that every student feels supported and encouraged. Their patience, dedication, and passion for teaching create an environment where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and truly engage in their learning. As a result, my children have flourished academically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually, and their love for learning has only deepened. They come home excited to share what they’ve learned, eager to explore new ideas, and confident in their abilities. I’ve seen first-hand how a positive and nurturing educational experience can shape not just a child’s academic journey but also their self-esteem, resilience, and overall outlook on life.

(5) Academics

The academic program at The New School is built on a modern, engaging, and forward-thinking curriculum that emphasizes deep understanding and real-world application rather than just memorization. Students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and develop a genuine love for learning. One of the school’s greatest academic strengths is its inclusive and student-centered approach. The teaching styles are thoughtfully designed to cater to different learning styles, ensuring that each child receives personalized support that aligns with their unique strengths and needs. Whether a student thrives through hands-on learning, collaborative projects, or independent exploration, the curriculum adapts to support their growth. Beyond academics, the school fosters a culture of curiosity, creativity, and emotional intelligence. The environment is one where students feel valued, respected, and supported, allowing them to build confidence and take ownership of their learning. The integration of outdoor exploration, community engagement, and extracurricular opportunities further enriches the academic experience, giving students a well-rounded education. One area of growth for the school is continuing to expand its high school offerings, and I am excited that The New School is in the process of becoming an IB (International Baccalaureate) school. This is a fantastic step forward, as the IB program is recognized for its rigorous academic standards, global perspective, and emphasis on critical thinking. I also hope to see the school extend its program to Grade 12, allowing students to complete their entire educational journey in this nurturing environment. Overall, I am confident that The New School is preparing my children for their next steps in life, both academically and personally. The combination of strong academics, individualized learning, and character development makes this school an exceptional place for students to thrive, grow, and become well-rounded individuals ready for future success.

(5) Extracurriculars

A huge thank you for introducing my children to yoga, breath therapy, chess, piano, art, skating, acting, and outdoor exploration, the S.T.E.M. program, experiences that have enriched their education and personal development. We are especially excited for their upcoming tennis classes! The school's dedication to a well-rounded learning environment is truly remarkable, allowing students to grow in ways beyond the classroom.

(5) Students

The student body at this school is close-knit, diverse, and supportive, fostering strong connections and a sense of camaraderie. Students are encouraged to collaborate, respect one another, and grow together. Like any social environment, conflicts arise, but what stands out is how they are handled. Teachers approach these moments with fairness and care, turning them into valuable lessons in empathy, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. I also appreciate that the school practices Christian values, giving my children the opportunity to learn about faith and spirituality in a nurturing setting. Most importantly, class sizes are small so the students receive more one-on-one attention. Overall, the school provides a positive, inclusive, and engaging atmosphere, where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow, both academically and personally.

(5) School Life

The overall quality of student life at The New School is truly exceptional. My children love going to school every day, and as a parent, that speaks volumes. The school provides a nurturing, engaging, and well-rounded environment that supports their academic, emotional, social, and spiritual growth. One of the biggest reasons my children enjoy their time here is the dynamic and inclusive learning experience. The curriculum is modern and interactive, with teaching styles that cater to different learning needs, making learning both meaningful and enjoyable. Beyond academics, they have been introduced to chess, piano, art, skating, acting, outdoor exploration, and soon, tennis, creating a truly holistic education that keeps them engaged and excited. The school also fosters a strong sense of community, where students feel safe, valued, and connected. Social interactions are positive and well-supported, and when conflicts arise because they naturally do, the teachers handle them with fairness, care, and a focus on growth. These real-life lessons help students develop strong emotional intelligence and conflict-resolution skills. Another aspect I appreciate is the school’s commitment to Christian values, giving my children the opportunity to explore faith and spirituality in a way that nurtures their character and personal development. A particularly exciting development is that The New School is in the process of becoming an IB (International Baccalaureate) school. This is an incredible step forward, as the IB program is known for academic excellence, global-mindedness, and a focus on critical thinking. I truly hope that as the school continues to grow, they expand to include Grade 12, providing students with the opportunity to complete their education in this strong and nurturing environment. Every great school continues to evolve, and one way The New School could further enhance student life is by developing a Board of Directors or a dedicated leadership team to help discuss and shape the future direction of the school. This would allow for collaborative decision-making, long-term planning, and continued growth in alignment with the school’s mission and values. I appreciate that they are already working on this, and I look forward to seeing how it will further strengthen the school community. If you’re looking for a school that prioritizes academic excellence, emotional well-being, and character development in a warm and inclusive environment, The New School is truly a standout choice. With the exciting transition to the IB program and the potential for high school expansion, the future looks incredibly bright. My children have thrived here in every way, and I am incredibly grateful for the positive impact it has had on their growth and love for learning.

(5) Community

One of the most remarkable aspects of The New School is its strong sense of community, extending beyond students and staff to include parents as well. It’s wonderful to see how engaged and supportive everyone is. There is a genuine sense of belonging, where parents, teachers, and staff work together to create a nurturing and enriching environment for the students. Parents are welcome and encouraged to be involved in school life, and I’m happy to know that even more projects to connect parents are in the works. One of the most powerful experiences for me was spending the day with other parents at the Christmas market, supporting our children as they sold their crafts. It was a beautiful reminder of how community-driven and student-centered this school truly is. I look forward to seeing more opportunities for parental involvement as the school continues to grow, strengthening the bonds between families and making The New School an even more inclusive and connected place for all.

(5) School Location

The New School is connected to the surrounding neighborhood. While the school itself provides a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment, students are also encouraged to engage with the broader community through various activities. The school integrates outdoor exploration, local outings, and community events into student life. Whether it’s field trips, daily nature walks/exploration, or school-organized events, students have the opportunity to experience learning beyond the classroom. This balance between a structured school environment and real-world engagement makes the learning experience even more enriching.

(5) Admissions

There’s a lot to take in during The New School tour, but it’s truly an opportunity to immerse yourself in the school’s philosophy, programs, and community. It allows you to see first-hand how the school operates and to make a well-informed decision on whether it’s the right fit for your child and your family. To make the most of it, I’d recommend writing a list of questions a few days before booking the tour so that you can ensure all your concerns are addressed and leave feeling confident in your decision.