FORT MYERS, Fla. - TelAve -- Nova Classical STEM Academy opened its doors Tuesday, Aug. 11, welcoming more than 400 students in grades K-7 for the first day of its inaugural school year. The tuition-free public charter school is the first in the world to integrate a Classical education foundation with STEM-enriched, project-based learning.

Faculty and staff greeted students and families at drop-off beginning at 7:30 a.m., and the first bell rang at 8:10 a.m. The morning marked the culmination of years of planning to bring a new education option to Southwest Florida families.

"After months and months of planning, long hours and long days, today we are opening a brand-new school together," said Matt Sheets, founding principal of Nova Classical STEM Academy. "The satisfaction of bringing such an amazing experience to the families of Lee County is something we have been looking forward to all summer, and it's hard to believe the day has finally come. The greatest thing to see is the smiles, not just on the kids' faces, but the parents are emotional as well."

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Students in every grade level took part in STEM activities and experiments throughout the day, and staff captured first-day photos to share with families. The school's opening followed a summer of community events hosted by the founding staff members, including monthly gatherings and a group outing to a baseball game.

"Today represents the realization of a vision years in the making," said Dr. Yalcin Akin, president of Discovery Science Schools. "Nova Classical STEM Academy was built on the belief that students thrive when rigorous classical learning is paired with hands-on scientific exploration. Seeing our scholars walk through these doors for the first time is a moment our entire team will remember."

Enrollment continues through January

While the school year has begun, enrollment at Nova Classical STEM Academy remains open. The school will continue enrolling students for the current school year through the end of January 2027. Seats are available in every grade level.

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"Changing schools in the middle of the academic year can be challenging," Akin said. "However, Discovery Science Schools and Nova have a plan in place, based on 18 years of experience, to help newly enrolled students transition smoothly and adjust successfully after the school year has begun."

Registration also remains open for the school's After Care Program, a structured extension of the school day where students complete homework, participate in activities and build friendships under the supervision of Nova staff. Spots are limited.

Families interested in enrolling may visit NovaClassical.net (https://www.novaclassical.net/) or call 239-483-8340.