We Are Novus SMART Academy
Novus SMART Academy is a tuition-free public charter school scheduled to open in Fall 2026 and will serve families across Rutherford County. Designed to be a different kind of school experience, we offer a joyful, welcoming learning environment where students are known by name, challenged academically, and supported every step of the way.
Our mission is clear and powerful: to provide scholars with an extraordinary learning experience, where college and career begin in Kindergarten.
The SMART Learning Model: Connecting Every Subject
At Novus SMART Academy, children learn through a hands-on, integrated approach built around Science, Math, Arts, Research, and Technology. This helps scholars make real-world connections, think creatively, and stay excited about learning.
Our curriculum is inspired by research from Harvard University’s Project Zero and grounded in the belief that learning is a consequence of thinking, and good thinking is learnable by all scholars.
SMART Model Highlights:
Hands-on projects that bring learning to life
Creativity at the center of everyday instruction
Real-world problem solving and collaboration
Integrated learning across all subject areas
Our Core Values
Five core values. One powerful school culture.
At Novus SMART Academy, our values guide everything we do:
Beacon of Joy
Why Families Choose Novus SMART Academy
We are dedicated to empowering our scholars and families, and teachers and staff members to break free from limiting beliefs by unlocking their true potential. We foster a school community where all thrive as changemakers, partnering together to model transformational leadership and stewardship, reaching new heights of greatness, and making a positive impact on the world.
Personalized Learning That Meets Every Child's Needs
Every scholar receives instruction tailored to their strengths, needs, and learning style so they grow with confidence and stay excited about school.
Small Class Sizes With A 1:12 Learning Ratio
With two educators in early-grade classrooms and an average 1:12 ratio, scholars get more attention, stronger support, and more opportunities to succeed.
Strong Leadership Families Can Trust
A highly experienced board and founding team provide strong oversight and guidance to ensure a safe, high-quality, and innovative school experience.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
We believe our scholars and families deserve access to a high-quality academic educational experience that fosters a relentless drive for academic success, innovation, and personal growth. Through the implementation of rigorous curricula, our teachers, school leaders, and staff members aim to inspire and model a love for learning, critical thinking, and creativity. We are committed to creating a community of lifelong learners on their chosen college and career paths, striving for excellence in all aspects of life.
INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY
We believe in fostering rigorous learning experiences between our teachers and scholars as they question, discover, and pursue knowledge relentlessly. We strive to create a global community that celebrates the joy of learning, where curiosity is not only encouraged but cherished through high-quality academic instruction.
Inclusive Education For Every Learner
Novus SMART Academy is open to all students and committed to serving the needs of every child, including scholars with disabilities and scholars learning English.
Free, Reliable Transportation Across Rutherford County
We offer safe, convenient, no-cost bus transportation, so families can count on reliable routes, secure stops, and an easy ride to school every day.
