NVS connects its students strongly to the school’s location, just a few miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. They study the geography, history, flora and fauna through unit projects in Oregon history, science and art, and track the local climate through their participation in the international GLOBE program.
For 40 years, NVS has been known throughout the region and beyond as an exceptional independent elementary school, with a unique, innovative approach to curriculum that builds confidence, community-building skills and a passion for learning in its students. Students gain a desire for life-long learning, and the enthusiasm, confidence, and imagination to sustain it.
Teachers inspire individual creativity and emphasize individual talents and aptitudes through varied approaches to learning. Each teacher models the passion for and dedication to learning they expect from their students. Small classes mean teachers get to know each student well.
We place high value on integrated learning through an interdisciplinary approach to subjects, and by the focused attention derived from collaborative peer groups. NVS provides the foundation for life skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and the performing and visual arts.
Students are encouraged to be independent thinkers: to be curious, accept challenges and take risks. They welcome the benefits of mistakes and delight in the thrill of discovery and the pride gained from meaningful work.
Local watershed councils partner with NVS to involve children in propagation and planting of native trees and shrubs. Students explore soil ecology and grow vegetables through the NVS Garden & Grounds program.
NVS has a 40-year history of providing comprehensive arts education to students, including music, drama and the visual arts. The arts are not only core subjects, but are integrated into the rest of the curriculum.
Frequent field trips expand student experiences with visits to nearby natural areas such as the state Insect Museum, a salmon hatchery, a dairy, and the Children’s Clean Water Festival. The Olders class takes an extended trip each fall, where they might visit museums, historic sites, and wilderness or metropolitan areas.
With a focus on cooperation, not competition, students learn valuable skills for working in groups by learning to lead, follow and problem solve with their peers. 3rd through 8th graders participate in team and community-building exercises through special leadership classes.
Our location in a Coast Range watershed that flows to the Pacific means the study of a rich, temperate rainforest is right out the door. Slab Creek, a habitat for salmon and other freshwater organisms, lies just beyond the soccer field. A neighboring meadow is ripe for science studies and forays into an imaginative wilderness.
NVS celebrates the wonder of childhood through song, dance, narrative, artwork, contact with nature and play. Our teachers help students learn how to find meaning from new discoveries as they relate to each child’s expanding knowledge.
The breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding hills reminds visitors why the school was founded here. An alder grove and a natural creek cut through the schoolyard, and rubber boots are mandatory for playground exploration. Playground equipment, a covered play area, a labyrinth garden and lots of open space encourage imaginative play and physical exercise.
Join NVS for Summer Day Camps Starting in July.
Seeking Head of School ApplicationsThere are currently no events to display.

2nd Place
Joe Goodrich, James Prebble, Randall Koch and NVS Alum Aaron Koch each received a hand blow glass float from the Jennifer Sears gallery in Lincoln City.
3rd place
Pam and Lyle Rowland, Kayce Joyce and Debby Gerrish of Neskowin each received a bottle of wine.
Putting contest winner: Phillip Rissel, foursome at Tetherow Golf Club in Bend, OR.
Longest Drive Men: Alex Sifford, Callaway golf bag
Longest Drive Women: Lana Kowalski, Callaway golf bag
Closest to the Pin Men: Rod Hogevoll, gift certificate from the Spa at Salishan
Closest to the Pin Women: Kacey Joyce, gift certificate from the Spa at Salishan