Nova International School Skopje
NOVA International School Skopje () is an independent, university-preparatory, coeducational, day school that offers an educational program from pre-kindergarten (three-year-olds) through grade 12. The school was founded in 1997, and the campus is situated in a residential neighborhood near the city center. The school year is divided into two semesters and extends from late August to mid-June. During the year students have a one-week fall break (October), a three-week winter break, a shorter (February) break, and a one-week spring break (April). Early Education Center (grades PK3-K) The youngest students study the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC). This internationally recognised curriculum was developed with global best practice and the developmental needs of 2-6 year olds in mind. It supports key areas of learning through holistic enquiry and play-based approaches. Elementary School (grades 1-5) NOVA Elementary School is an independent, co-educational international school comprising Grade 1 through Grade 5. All instruction is delivered in English with Macedonian language and Macedonian culture and language being offered to elementary students too. The curriculum is based on the child-centred ‘International Primary Curriculum’ which is used by over 1000 schools worldwide. The school also uses the US Common Core Standards as a reference for both Literacy and Numeracy. Middle Years Programme (grades 6-10) The Middle Years Program (MYP) at NOVA prepares students for the Diploma Program. Students in this program take courses from each of the eight subject groups. Each year of the program students have at least one interdisciplinary learning experience. Students are also expected to be active participants in the community through service as action projects. The program culminates in the personal project, an individual student project that allows students to showcase their ATL skills and personal learning passions. Diploma Programme (grades 11-12) The IB Diploma Programme is a program that prepares 11th and 12th graders at NOVA for the academic rigor of university studies and beyond. Diploma candidates select six courses at either higher or standard level in each of the five groups, thus providing experience in the languages, social studies, the experimental sciences and mathematics. The program has three core requirements: the Extended Essay (EE), the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Students may opt for the Course candidacy pathway, rather than the full diploma. The program is taught over two years and has gained the recognition of many of the world’s leading universities. NOVA offers a variety of subject choices in each of the subject groups. Course offerings are listed in the IB handbook. Organization The school is advised by a nine-member school board (two members are appointed by the U.S. Ambassador). The leadership includes the school’s founder, director, division principals, business manager and human resources manager. The school is also supported by a security team, facilities and ICT department, business and accounting office, administrative and admission office, and five counselors. NOVA International School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS); authorized by the International Baccalaureate