Philosophy

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At Via Nova we believe that children are endowed with innate knowledge and learning abilities, and that social interactions and community play a central role in their learning.

We respect each child’s individuality and provide a warm and safe environment in which children can fully explore who they are. Via Nova’s approach has three major components:

Learning through diversity
Via Nova has an anti-bias approach to education and a strong tradition of family diversity. Our curriculum is designed to help children respect themselves and others by becoming aware of our similarities and differences. Via Nova’s teachers, school environment and curriculum reflect our diverse community and provide children with a more holistic view of the world.

Learning through play
We believe that children learn the most through individual and cooperative play in a supportive and stimulating environment. At Via Nova, children initiate their own learning by choosing among art, drama, science, conversation, reading, and children-inspired/ teacher-directed activities.

Peaceful problem solving and setting limits
One of our primary goals is to help children develop inner controls and social competency, so they can make appropriate and effective choices about their behavior. At Via Nova, they learn about their emotions and how to talk about their conflicts in a way that supports mutual respect. Our older children and teachers serve as role models for our younger children.