Big ideas start in kindergarten. At North Bend STEM Academy, young learners are encouraged to explore, build, and discover through hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and creativity from day one.

Why Families Choose Us

Families choose us because we offer:

· Tuition-free kindergarten education

· Safe, supportive classrooms

· A positive learning culture built on curiosity, collaboration, and innovation

· Hands-on, project-based learning experiences

· Strong partnerships between students, families, and educators

Our Learning Culture

At North Bend STEM Academy, kindergarten classrooms are places where questions are encouraged and ideas are explored. Our learning culture empowers students to think critically, experiment, and learn from both success and challenge.

Our STEAM learning culture emphasizes:

· Curiosity and inquiry, encouraging students to ask “why” and “how”

· Creativity and innovation, blending arts with science and technology

· Collaboration, helping students learn through teamwork and shared problem-solving

· Confidence and growth, so every child feels supported to try new things

In this environment, students develop early skills that prepare them for future learning—while still enjoying the wonder and joy of kindergarten.

The STEAM Approach

Our kindergarten program balances academic foundations with time to explore, build, and play. Students engage in developmentally appropriate learning that supports both intellectual and social-emotional growth.

Our Kindergarten students experience:

· Early literacy and math instruction

· Hands-on STEAM activities and projects

· Opportunities to build, design, and experiment

· Social-emotional learning and collaboration

· Plenty of time to play, move, and explore

This approach helps children build confidence, independence, and a love of learning.

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Kindergarten seats are limited, and early applications are encouraged.

Discover North Bend STEM Academy: A New Path for Young Learners
We’re excited to introduce North Bend STEM Academy (NBSA), a brand-new, tuition-free public charter school for grades K–5 serving the College Hill and Mt. Airy communities. Whether you’re exploring school options for the first time or looking for a fresh start, here’s what makes NBSA a place where young learners can truly grow.

Our Approach
At North Bend STEM Academy, we believe children thrive when they feel safe, supported, and seen. That’s why we pair strong academics with a whole-child approach—helping students grow not only as learners, but as confident, caring individuals. Classrooms are warm, structured, and engaging, with hands-on learning that builds both foundational skills and real-world thinking. From daily routines to classroom relationships, everything we do is designed to help students navigate school—and life—with confidence and curiosity.

Our Symbol: The Compass
Just like the compass in our logo, North Bend STEM Academy helps guide every student on their learning journey. We meet students where they are, and walk alongside them as they grow—one step at a time.

What Families Can Expect
• Tuition-free, K–5 education in a safe, supportive setting
• Strong academic foundations with a focus on personal growth
• Art and Physical Education for every student
• Daily routines that build connection and confidence
• A close-knit school culture where every child is known
• Family-friendly communication and community events

Want to Learn More?
North Bend STEM Academy is more than a school—it’s a place where families feel welcomed, and children are guided with purpose. Schedule a tour (coming soon), reach out with questions, or explore our website to see if we are the right fit for your family.

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Ready to Join North Bend STEM Academy for Fall 2026?

We are a proud member of ACCEL Schools—a public charter school network serving thousands of PK-12 students throughout the United States. ACCEL was founded in 2012 by the early pioneers of online learning. Our leadership believes that all children, regardless of location or socio-economic background, deserve a quality education that prepares them to succeed in school and become productive global citizens.  

ACCEL Schools Instructional Model provides: 

• Aligned Academics meet or exceed state standards ensuring your child is on track for rigorous college and career opportunities.    
  
• Certified, Licensed Teachers and a student-centered staff are united in executing our mission to make a difference in the life trajectory of each student.    
  
• More Time on Task and double the instructional minutes for ELA and Math maximizes learning in your child’s school day.   
  
• Short Cycle Assessments keep track of how students are progressing in the program, giving teachers ongoing feedback so they can tailor instruction to your student’s needs.    
  
• Individualized Instruction driven by assessment data means we are familiar with the needs of each child and set students up for success in each course of study.    
  
• State Testing Preparation reduces the anxiety often associated with high stakes tests, helping our teachers and students feel confident with the structure and methodology of state exams.    
  
• Academic Support including education technology, interventional specialists, and instructional aides assist students during the school day. After school tutoring, summer school, and Saturday school programs extend support services beyond the traditional school day and year.   
  
• Extracurricular Courses & Activities round out our educational offerings providing students social-emotional learning, athletics, arts, service learning & more.   

We are proud to be accredited by Cognia™ for meeting the highest standards of education in ongoing third-party review. Learn more »