Nansemond-Suffolk Academy

I was perhaps the poorest kid that ever attended Nansemond-Suffolk Academy. I was worried about not fitting in but my parents were determined to send me because the school was college preparatory and it had a good reputation. I should not have wasted my time worrying. I enjoyed every single minute at this school. The students could have cared less about the clothes I wore or the car I drove. They were sweet and caring and I still count many of them among my close friends today. I took demanding courses at Nansemond-Suffolk and entered college with credits due to my scores on the AP tests. Because NSA is a small school, everyone has the opportunity to be involved in extra-curricular activities. I played on several teams and was very involved with the class activities such as the prom committee. NSA provided us with so many opportunities to be part of something and to have fun. Although I was in the minority at NSA, I loved going to this school and it is great to see NSA still going strong.

My children went to NSA for 13 years and it has really gone downhill over the years; so much so that we left the school to attend another private school in the Hampton Roads Area. The move was the best thing we have ever done for our children. NSA has become very negative over the years. They have several very negative teachers, many of their graduates go to community college ever though they pride themselves in being college prep school. There have been many drug problems and bomb threats. There have been several thefts and vandalism of property over the years, even though they claim that there is no need for locks on the lockers. My children are in such a better place now; positive and nurturing bringing out the best in each child, very positive and academically challenging at our new school. We regret that we stayed at NSA too long and when our children could have been thriving more at other area private schools. It's very sad that NSA has deteriorated so much over the years. So many children/families have left to attend other private schools in the area.
--Submitted by a parent

Our star, Prem Patel has discovered his love of learning at NSA. He moved from Pennsylvania, where he wasn't making the best choices and completely changed his ways at this school. He has met many inspirational teachers, coaches, and friends at NSA and possible the love of his life. The track team has turned him into an elite, strapping, young man. GO SAINTS!

Great teachers who deserve six stars; however, the school has gotten very elite and snobby as the price has climbed. Many of my kids friends have left, and all too many of the kids that have remained have an attitude of entitlement that has really changed the character of the school. Sad, sad, sad.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended NSA beginning with Early School 3 and is currently in Kindergarten. What a wonderful school. She is academically challenged and has school spirit that is truly mind blowing. I know many families who have children at all levels in the school. They love the academics, extra-curricular activities, caring faculty and staff, as well as the stellar reputation. Even though it costs more than some other local schools, I believe that I am getting what I pay for. Go Saints!
--Submitted by a parent

Our son has discovered a love of learning at NSA. It is a safe and nurturing environment. He is fortunate to have kindergarden teachers with years of experience under their belts. School can be both fun and educational. So far it's be a very positive experience. It's pricey, maybe even overpriced, but it's a fantastic way to start out the elementary school experience. I rate it 4 out of 5 only because of the price.
--Submitted by a parent

ACADEMICS At NSA, students can have as much academic attention as they want. This is a great strong point. If I am ever struggling, there is always a teacher willing to put in extra time to help me out, whether it be before school, break/lunch, or after school. However, approaching them and requesting the help is key if you are struggling but not failing. There are plenty of classes, and if a student would like to get into a class that they have been recommended for, there is usually no problem. Students previously from larger schools will appreciate this in particular. Teacher recommendations from NSA are above average, mainly because the teachers know the students so well. The small classes and dedicated staff are the reasons for this. As far as academics go, NSA is top-notch.
--Submitted by a student

I attended NSA for 6 years. I was one of the VERY few minorities, and I must say in my opinion many of the teachers and student were racially judgemental. They seemed suprised that a minority like myself could do so well in the upper level classes. Many of my friends felt the same way. The principal lacks leadership and my parents wondered where all their money was going. The headmaster in my opinion cared more about sports than the curriculum. I would never send any of my kids to NSA or recommend any student to go there.
--Submitted by a parent

As a graduate of NSA, I am well aware of the profound impact this school makes on the lives of her students. What a wonderful school! The faculty is stellar - involved in the lives of the students and always willing to help them succeed. My child enrolled in the Early School program and I have seen profound changes in her growth & development since this fall! She loves coming to school every day and I feel confident she is in a safe & nuturing environment. I enjoy attending the many alumni programs planned throughtout the year and appreciate the school's outreach efforts directed toward alumni! A better school in Hampton Roads, you will not find - if you are looking to enroll your child in a great school -look no further! Go Saints!
--Submitted by a parent

I was most impressed when I requested a 'teacher conference' for my 9th grade (son). He is an A student, but has needed a bit of a 'nudge' lately. I set up the meeting with 4 of his core teachers and all 4 of those ladies met me 'together', it was wonderful. What was so impressive, was that those ladies all 'knew' and 'described' my son and his study habits, personality, and methods of learning to a 'tee'. It is a rare occasion when you as a parent realize that these teachers see your child as an indivdual, and gives you the confidence that they 'care' about that child. Like any school, there are things you would like to see. But overall, a very caring and nurturing environment. Both my sons play school sports here and have been complimented by other parents and staff @ other schools.
--Submitted by a parent