Our Programs

Our curriculum framework includes Science, Math, Arts/Electives, Research, and Technology, designed in alignment with the Smart Schools principles for good education, developed by David Perkins and colleagues at Harvard University's Project Zero.

Preparation for college and career pathways begins as early as Kindergarten.

• Scholars in Grades K-2 will explore foundational questions such as “What is a College?” by learning about local institutions and building a career vocabulary.

• Scholars in Grades 3-5 will delve into themes like “College and Career Pathways,” engaging in hands-on projects that simulate real-world challenges in STEAM fields. For example, fifth-grade scholars might design a sustainable city prototype, integrating their knowledge of the SMART disciplines while practicing teamwork, research, and presentation skills.

• Scholars in Grades 6-8 will participate in advanced projects and career simulations, such as coding applications, engineering prototypes, and creating digital art portfolios, aligned with their interests and emerging career aspirations.

SEL is a cornerstone of scholar success at Novus SMART Academy (K-8). We will prioritize emotional intelligence, resilience, and interpersonal skills through structured SEL activities supported by CharacterStrong, an evidence-based, multi-tiered solution designed to improve behavior, increase safety, and support mental health. CharacterStrong's curricula and training will ensure our approach is intentional, research-based, and effective in addressing the holistic needs of our scholars.

Our SEI program is designed to support English learners (EL) in achieving successful outcomes by fostering English language acquisition and academic success. Our SEI program will focus on developmentally appropriate strategies that align with Tennessee Department of Education guidelines, ensuring English learners attain proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening to thrive academically.

• Scholars in Grades K-2 will build a strong foundation in English through targeted instruction in vocabulary, oral language development, phonemic awareness, and fluency. Strategies such as sentence frames, visual prompts, and interactive activities will be used to develop early literacy and communication skills. Successful outcomes include the ability to identify and use grade-level vocabulary, demonstrate phonemic awareness, and engage in basic oral language exchanges.

• Scholars in Grades 3-5 will receive instruction that emphasizes academic vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension strategies to help scholars decode, analyze, and understand texts. Scaffolded support will enable scholars to develop higher-order thinking and critical analysis skills. Successful outcomes include the ability to comprehend grade-level texts, apply academic vocabulary across content areas, and construct coherent written and oral responses.

• Scholars in Grades 6-8 will receive instruction with Advanced grammar structures, morphology, and syntax to enhance academic discourse and comprehension of complex texts. Scholars will engage in activities that promote critical thinking, advanced writing skills, and academic collaboration. Successful outcomes include the ability to produce written and oral arguments, analyze complex texts, and participate in academic discussions with proficiency.

Novus SMART Academy (K-8) will focus on hiring, investing in, and retaining high-quality educators and staff members who want to commit to the journey of giving scholars and families access to the educational experience they deserve. We will provide our scholars with a two-educator model in Grades K-5 across all subjects, and in Grades 6-8 for English/Language Arts and Math instruction; a ratio of 1 educator to 12 scholars in the classroom, and a smaller ratio of 1 educator to scholars in the inclusion classroom during English/Language Arts and Math instruction.