Nansemond-Suffolk Academy

Posted: October 10, 2024

Posted: October 10, 2024

Posted: October 10, 2024

Posted: October 10, 2024

We love this school with the majority of our experience being with the Harbour View Campus. The classroom size and instruction has allowed our children to thrive and grow while also receiving additional support in areas that are more challenging for them.

They look forward to going to school every day and we attribute that to the school environment that feels like an extension of our family. All staff and teachers get to know teachers whether they are directly teaching them or not.

The opportunities to experience activities and events at both campuses increases the community and culture experience. Our children particularly love the chances they’ve had to interact with older students and the learning partnerships that are created.

Highly recommend!! If cost is a concern, they do have opportunities for financial support that would be worth exploring.

Posted: October 10, 2024

Posted: October 10, 2024

Posted: October 10, 2024

Posted: September 5, 2024

My son has been attending the Harbourview campus for the last two years and he loves coming to school to learn everyday. This school has made him passionate about reading books, exploring different sports, and has even peaked his interest in learning basic math already in pre-K. The teachers and classrooms are very well organized and provide a great learning environment for kids to explore their creativity. The teachers and administration are very personable. They are excellent about communicating what goes on in the classrooms on a daily basis by posting pictures on the protected social media page, sending flyers home every week about school events, and keeping parents up to date on the learning objectives and curriculum. The school provides a lot of opportunities to let parents be hands on with their child’s education. The teachers and administrators generally care about how your child is performing both at school and what goes on in their home and family life.

This school has been such an integral part in my son’s development in his early education. The before and after school programs and the summer program has offered my family lots of flexibility for work schedules and peace of mind knowing that our child is being well taken care of during the day.

It is definitely an investment sending our child to private school. For our family, I know we made the right decision by seeing how happy my son is to go to school everyday, seeing how excited he is to learn, and building a sense of community with his school.

Posted: September 5, 2024

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Posted: June 21, 2023

This school, like any school, is what you make of it. It offers academic programs for the extremely academically gifted students and those who are regular students. My daughter moved to the school in 2nd grade from a Catholic school that had not yet taught her to read. She was behind when she started at NSA. She has been fostered and nurtured by her teachers. She just finished her 9th grade year and is at the very top of her class academically. She loves her teachers and her group of peers.

Middle school teaches focus and how to study. High school takes off immediately with the academics. If your kid puts the work in and makes good decisions, the school will help them work towards their dreams. Coming from a public school, I have never seen a more devoted upper school guidance counselor and college counseling group.

Posted: June 21, 2023

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Posted: May 28, 2023

It’s no secret that many reviews that paint a negative pictures come from tgose who have bad experiences. But I feel this school does to much to try to cover up what actually goes on there. From the racisim to bullying. The administration and teachers turn blind eyes. It’s also no secret that there is a group out there that believe these negative reviews are nothing more than the ranting of a few disgruntled parents, and thus should be dismissed as such and ignored but they aim to recruit those of color and then allow our children to be mistreated, there safety is of no concern (there was several threats of school schooyings and the child still walks the hall today). When you try to pull your child for safety concerns they still hold ypu to the contract and even when paid they refuse to give your child the items they are obligated to such as yearbook, shirts, etc.

Posted: May 28, 2023

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Posted: May 14, 2023

Posted: May 14, 2023

NSA is one of those places that looks good on the outside but is unorganized and chaotic behind closed doors. This school lacks quality administrators, educators, and accountability for their actions. NSA does not truly care about your child…. they only care about upholding a false image at the end of the day.

Posted: May 14, 2023

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Posted: April 1, 2023

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Posted: April 1, 2023

I was happy that we were fortunate enough to send our kids here after being stationed in Norfolk, however, my middle schooler decided to leave after her first year and go to public school (a first for her) due to the bullying, favoritism, and safety concerns she had seen that had gone unaddressed. From the bigotry to the racism that the kids display that comes off as a joke to them but is red flags for those of the communities that will cause them issues as they go through life. My son elementary stayed for another year but we had to pull him abruptly due to increasing concerns and challenges. I am not sure what the issue is here as we are not natives but it seems that the school only cares about the money, they do what they can to try to make things look good on the outside but the children there are really not getting the social-emotional support they need. Bullying and exclusion are a big issue starting from elementary school on up and they don't take safety seriously. From not taking action on physical contact to only sending an email when a whole active shooter list was found.

Posted: November 23, 2022

I was initially very proud to send my daughter here, however after 5 years of increasing concerns and challenges, I FINALLY decided to listen to what I as feeling and made a change. The primary issues stem from the fact that this is a legacy school where last names and money matter most. Favoritism is rampant and blatant. Bullying and exclusion by these “special” students IS NOT addressed. In short, if you’re not alumni, your child will not matter much at NSA.

I’m not able to recommend. The staff is quite professional and does a fine job of putting on a great show. The overall presentation and environment is very polished which allows things to appear better than they are, however there are many issues underneath the surface. In summary, you don’t always get what you pay for, so my if you’re looking for a good private school, education and environment for your children —– keep looking.

Posted: November 23, 2022

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Posted: May 30, 2022

The administration has no integrity and fails to live up to the school’s “Honor above all” motto.

Posted: May 30, 2022

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Posted: November 8, 2021

My son left the public schools in Chesapeake, Virginia for a variety of reasons. We are so glad that he was able to attend the upper school at Nansemond Suffolk Academy. He has enjoyed the multiple sports, small class sizes, and the help with college prep and college admissions assistance. The ratio has been 12:1 in all of his classes. The lunchroom is not overcrowded, and food is often cooked to order. Everything about this school is reasonably priced. When my son went to public school the lunch schedule started at 10:30am and ended at 1:00pm due to crowding issues. This is before COVID-19.
Children with disruptive behavioral issues are shown the door. The school requires students to participate in extra-curricular activities which is good for development and college transcripts. The coaches are fair and reasonable. There are no "drill sergeants", and the students are not degraded. There is a simple dress code and honor code. The class scheduling is very progressive and unique. Please ask the admissions director about the way they schedule classes. It is a wonderful idea. It has an open campus setting, and kids develop a sense of independence. Each student needs to bring their own laptop. There are no thieves in the school, no hallway brawls, and each student wants to be there. I think the negative reviews are from unhappy people or they are fake. Every administrator, counselor, and teacher communicates the status of their students. Call them and take a tour during the school day.

Posted: November 8, 2021

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Posted: December 17, 2019

Posted: December 17, 2019

Posted: December 17, 2019

AWFUL!!! Bullying is a huge problem that they choose not to deal with!
"HONOR ABOVE ALL"

Posted: December 17, 2019

Posted: December 17, 2019

Posted: December 17, 2019

NSA has NO integrity
THE ONLY CHARACTER NSA BUILDS IS BULLIES

Posted: June 12, 2019

2 out of 10. A 1 for the teachers who care and are stuck because they need a job and a 2 for the good education.

Posted: June 12, 2019

Prep kids by using a collegiate approach

Posted: June 12, 2019

Play favorites based on donations, race,income, and alumni status.

Posted: June 12, 2019

Heads of lower school and head of school are bullies. Pick and choose who they will stand behind. Absolutely will lie to save themselves regardless of cost to student success or wellbeing.

Posted: June 12, 2019

There is no special ed, or services or learning disabled. Must attend outside school.

Posted: June 12, 2019

Bullies are typically fostered and kept inside school because their parents are large donors or socialites of the community. Victims are let go from school. NSA has raised multiple rapists that are now comfortable lawyers and engineers.

Posted: April 29, 2019

The homework is subpar. Could give more that will reinforce the child's learning.

Posted: April 29, 2019

Teachers are ok. Not the best but will due.

Posted: April 29, 2019

The school fails to develop or enforce integrity, compassion and respect in their students. Bullying is not reprimanded, just swept under the rug.

Posted: April 29, 2019

The schools administration is very cliquish and does not hold their admin accountable for their actions or lack thereof. They will make up lies to divert liability.

Posted: April 29, 2019

I am not sure how this school handles learning differences, but I can say that it is very apparent that some students do not belong in this type of school setting.

Posted: April 29, 2019

The administration fails to adequately address bullying specifically if it is against another child. The administration will defend their own by all means necessary even it if means telling lies when the truth obvious.

Posted: April 29, 2019

My overall experience is mediocre. I will say do your research on the school and its administration. This school clearly lacks diversity as you can see by the demographics and does not necessarily treat everyone equal. Also, I find that this school is all about who you know and if you're in the know you are fine, but if you are not in the "clique" you are not treated with the most upmost respect. Turnover rate is not at its best. I have witnessed a few kids leave mid year to attend another school. I do believe this school has potential, but they need to be consistent across the board and make immediate change for the better.

Posted: April 16, 2019

Overall my experience was terrible. I was lied to and insulted by teachers and administration, falsely accused of various things, and they attempted to rob me through coercion to support some "annual fund" thing. I'd like to mention that I switched over to a public school mid-year and I like it a lot better. I am more independent, doing better in school, and I don't feel like killing myself every morning when I wake up. I'm not really someone who cares about school, but from an educational perspective public school is way better. The work is easier, teachers and students are friendlier, there are more classes, offered, and they have better resources in general

Posted: April 16, 2019

They assign way too much, and the majority of it is useless busywork

Posted: April 16, 2019

Most of the teachers aren't great, and some are horrible people who will go out of their way to harass students

Posted: April 16, 2019

They instill conformity in students and constantly try to push their "honor code" on them but ironically they will lie and go back on their word if it is against a student

Posted: April 16, 2019

The administration has lied to me repeatedly and accused me of things without evidence. Also, they have acted unprofessionally and asked me personal questions that violate my privacy

Posted: April 16, 2019

They have a few special needs kids to meet some quota but this school is not a good place for them

Posted: April 16, 2019

The teachers will bully students, yet when I was accused of bullying for getting in an argument with someone, they tried to give me ISS and make me do work for the school, which I see as bullying/humiliation

Posted: June 9, 2017

Do yourself and your child/children a favor and research the top private schools in Virginia to see where NSA ranks among others in the Hampton Roads area.

Posted: June 9, 2017

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Posted: November 26, 2015

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Posted: November 26, 2015

Posted: November 26, 2015

We have the children currently enrolled. Our oldest, a junior, has been a student since pre-k 4. Honestly can say there is no school we would rather send them to.
Top notch education. Safe. Family atmosphere.

Posted: October 26, 2014

Nansemond-Suffolk Academy is truly dedicated to developing each student to be the best he or she can be. Through academics, athletics and arts, every single child has the ability to excel in their own individual way. Teachers care about the students and take the time to make sure each child is receiving the best education possible. From PreK-12 grade students are developed in a warm loving environment where they can feel free to explore new opportunities and be who they want to be. Each child has the opportunity to play a sport, participate in the school drama, try an elective course or volunteer for a club or organization - the possibilities are endless. I choose to send my child here because of the opportunities my child will be afforded in a safe, loving environment. We are proud to be NSA Saints!

Posted: September 29, 2014

Honor above all is Nansemond-Suffolk Academy's motto and it is an ideal in which my family believes. The faculty and staff are committed to providing an excellent, well rounded college preparatory education for our children. My husband and I are proud our children are members of the Saints family and consider sending our children to NSA an extremely worthy investment.

Posted: September 28, 2014

I have never felt more welcomed to a school in my entire life. Every single school has its flaws and it is always hard to remember when reading reviews that most everyone who is writing a review has had a poor experience. I hope my review helps those that are looking into private schools in the area. I truly believe that NSA is a top school with amazing teachers and strives everyday to bring in new educational experiences to their students. They partner with many outside vendors and colleges to broaden the scope of how child learn in todays society. The school allows the faculty to step outside of the box with how they teach. Where else can you go and use professional engineering software to create 3D models of fish in a science class, and then print it off on a 3D printer? NSA's middle schoolers can say they have. If you are looking for an intellectual and stimulating learning experience, look no further.

Posted: September 28, 2014

I am an alumna of the school, and more recently, I am a new NSA parent. I was so pleased to come back to the place that had such a positive impact on my education and childhood to find that NSA is still such a community-oriented, education-centered, family. While this aspect has remained the same since my time at NSA, everything else has greatly changed! The campus has expanded to include a middle school building, there are extra practice fields on the back 40 acres of the campus, and a new media center, just to name a few. In addition, students are doing great things in the classrooms - 3D printing/program design in the middle school, one-on-one iPad work in the Pre-K, and even an economics class in the Upper School, whose year end project centers around the popular "Shark Tank" show. I had a chance to sit in on this class and was amazed at what the students could invent as well as support with real life analysis techniques used in the business world. It's amazing to see what students can do who are charged by their teachers to strive for excellence! I'm so glad to have my children here and can't wait to see what NSA offers in the future!!

Posted: September 28, 2014

Nansemond Suffolk Academy is one of the best Independent schools in the area. They have a mission statement that reads, "Honor above all." I firmly believe that they strive to achieve this. It is a well balanced school with Academics geared toward college preparation. They offer a wide variety of sports and some are offered even at the JJV level. I also am very impressed with the arts and marching band. Not many schools of this size offer so much and do it so well for the price. I have 2 children in upper school that have been attending since the 7th and 8th grade. They have been greatly supported and guided by the teachers and administrative staff. They also have a very strong Alumni base and almost all of the students, faculty, and board give to the Annual Fund. That says that they believe in their own school! I am very pleased.

Posted: April 29, 2014

My son is now a 10th grader and has attended NSA since kindergarten. I started to regret my decision to send him to this school around 7th grade, but continued because my son didn't want to change schools. Students have left this school and gone to IB programs in the area because the education is better.The academics and teachers are marginal and the administration is totally clueless about the components of a quality education. The true test will come in 2 yrs when we apply to colleges. Hopefully he will be able to get into a school that will make up for all the money I have spent unnecessarily.

Posted: January 5, 2014

Don't waste your time or money with this school. There are other area private schools that are much better. We found this out the hard way at the expense of our child...time wasted at NSA.

Posted: December 21, 2013

NSA offers much more than a quality academic program. The experience at NSA is priceless. As a parent, I appreciate all that the school is and does each and every day. Highly recommended!

Posted: November 20, 2013

After looking at several independent schools in the area, we decided to send our children to NSA. It was the best choice and investment we have ever made for our children. My children started at NSA in Pre-K and have loved every teacher they have had at NSA. Each teacher takes the time to get to know them as individuals and finds a way to challenge them each and every day. The opportunities for students are endless - even in the Lower School as they have many after school clubs, athletics and math/science initiatives. The school focuses on character education and giving back which I believe has has all helped to make my children more well-rounded. I couldn't be happier with our choice and NSA! I highly recommend this school over all others in Hampton Roads!

Posted: November 20, 2013

It's nice to see that NSA strives to provide ABOVE and beyond what has come to be expected from others. Again, thanks to NSA Staff for showing in every way that all things matter!

Posted: November 20, 2013

We chose NSA for our kindergartner because of the welcoming and enthusiastic environment. Everyone we have encountered here as visitors and now as a current family have always been always excited to see us and our child and so excited about the school, the students and their education. Teachers here are dedicated to developing well-rounded students and are involved in their development both as students and as people. The school seems committed to staying current and competitive in the education and tools used for instruction. Our child has had a very positive experience and is both challenged and supported in the classroom. Great spirit of family and community here.

Posted: November 20, 2013

As the parents of four children who attend NSA, my husband and I could not be happier with the school, its dedicated faculty and staff and the lessons, both academic and in life, that they are being taught each and every day. Honestly, I feel grateful that they are Saints and I am committed to do whatever I can to keep them at NSA. Every morning I drop them off is one less day I worry about their education and their safety - it's like putting them in the care of family. Thank you NSA for providing excellence everyday!

Posted: November 20, 2013

My children have attended NSA starting in pre-school and we've now been Saints for 12 years. It has always been a nurturing environment where my kids have learned and thrived. As far as cost- when compared to other comparable private schools in the area, it is quite a bit lower and for the class size is a great deal. What I love about it is the sense of community. There are lots of opportunities for parental involvement- but it's not required or forced on you. The school has had a big technology push over the past three years and is keeping up with this fast paced world we live in. NSA is also fortunate to have a new headmaster, Debbie Russell, who's children attended NSA before she started working there- so she truly understands things from a parent's perspective. We have been fortunate to have wonderful donors who allow the school to continue to grow and get better. The future is bright for NSA and I'm thankful for my children's experiences there.

Posted: October 25, 2013

We watched the school deteriorate in every way for the 10 years between our eldest and youngest. We finally made the choice to move our youngest to another private school. We are extremely happy with our new choice and wish we had made the move earlier.

Reviewed: November 19, 2012

K-12 Private School that is totally worth the investment! VERY military friendly and incorporate family and student support to military students and veterans.
My kids have attended for 7 years (yep, Geo-Bachelor and extended orders).
My oldest graduated and with the support of NSA, garnered a full ROTC scholarship to UVA.
He was one of 3 other classmates out of a graduating class of 74 students to receive ROTC scholarship! That's a pretty impressive ratio.
The school is reaching out continually to ask military families what they need to help support the student when mom or dad is deployed. Teachers stay on top of the student to offer that "extra support" that our kids need.
This school is NOT near as far out as you folks might think! Home prices and COLA are
less in this area, so making the $$ commitment to a private school is worth it!
LOVE IT!!!

Reviewed: November 14, 2012

NSA is a small, independent PK-12 school located near downtown Suffolk. We chose to send our children there after researching public/private schools in Hampton Roads. The atmosphere at NSA is warm and welcoming and they love their military families! Class sizes are small and the teachers really get to know the students and their families. The curriculum is academically rigorous and is not driven by any state-required testing! Students actually learn to think critically and not just regurgitate facts for a test.