Exploration of the natural world is a cornerstone of NGA’s educational approach. We introduce our students to local watersheds, indigenous plants and trees, birding, amphibian and reptile identification, insects and macroinvertebrates, local mammals and tracking, fish identification, native and invasive flora, shelter building, fire starting, and hiking through outdoor expeditions in various NOVA parks. By dedicating a day to field lessons, students not only master outdoor knowledge but also cultivate a profound appreciation for nature. Rather than treating outdoor education as an extracurricular activity, NGA prioritizes the integration of nature-based learning into the core curriculum.

Students learn valuable outdoor skills, discover native plants, animals, and observe the changes of seasons through group activities, free play, exploration, storytelling, and skill building. Emphasis will be on becoming comfortable with things they encounter outdoors, observing and appreciating discoveries in nature, safe exploration of the woods, and how to be a good steward of nature.

Starting in 5th grade, one full school day each week, students step out of the school building and have the world as their classroom. They will attend life skills lessons in the fall and spring; ice skating in the winter; and undertake service learning, field science, and indoor rock-climbing trips throughout the year. The weekly opportunity to work hard and play hard in the woods builds a high level of comfort in rugged environments and the determination to hone their outdoor skills.

At NGA, we believe in nurturing the whole child, which includes fostering creativity, self-expression, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of our faith and the world around us. Our Art Program is designed to inspire students to explore their creativity through the lens of Islamic teachings and values.

Here’s what makes our Art Program special:

1. Integration of Islamic Themes: In our Art classes, students explore themes and motifs inspired by Islamic art, history and culture. From intricate geometric patterns to calligraphy, students learn about the rich artistic heritage of the Islamic world while also understanding the spiritual significance behind these art forms.
2. Creative Expression: We encourage our students to express themselves authentically through their artwork. Whether it’s painting, drawing and crafting, our students have the freedom to explore various mediums and techniques while staying true to their individual artistic voices.
3. Connection to Core Curriculum: Our Art Program is designed to complement and enrich our core curriculum. Through interdisciplinary projects, students make connections between art and subjects such as history (seerah), literature, and science, allowing for a holistic understanding of the world around them.
4. Cultivating Cultural Awareness: By studying Islamic art, students gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and traditions within the Muslim world. Our Art Program celebrates the diversity of Islamic art across different regions and time periods, fostering cultural awareness and respect for global perspectives.
5. Community Engagement: We believe that art has the power to build bridges and create connections within our school community and beyond. Through art exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative projects, students have the opportunity to share their creations with their peers, families, and the wider community, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
6. Emphasis on Spiritual Reflection: In addition to technical skills, our Art Program encourages students to reflect on the spiritual dimensions of their artwork. Through guided discussions and reflective exercises, students explore how art can be a means of connecting with the divine and expressing their faith journey.

We invite you to explore the vibrant artwork created by our students and learn more about the creative journey unfolding within our Art Program. Together, we celebrate the beauty of Islamic art and the boundless creativity of our students as they continue to inspire and uplift our community.

For more information about our Art Program or to inquire about enrollment, please contact our environment educator.

Service to others is at the core of the NGA mission and vision. Whether they are cleaning up local parks and neighborhoods, planting a community garden or collecting donations, NGA students explore local and international issues by giving back to their communities. NGA students develop a clear and concrete sense of what it means to contribute to the betterment of society.

Kids and teens need physical activity to grow up strong and healthy. Getting frequent physical activity can help you feel better right away such as:

• Better sleep
• Better mood
• Better grades

NGA believes in regular physical education classes that help students develop grit on the field and in the classroom. We offer a unique approach to empower students with stronger mind and body. We offer one 60miniute class of physical education to all NGA students per week