About Nevada Classical Academy Elko
Academic Excellence. Virtuous Living. Civic Responsibility.
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The founders of Nevada Classical Academy Elko believe in school choice.
We believe parents deserve a choice in education for their children.
We believe in the integration of spirit, mind, and body of the whole child.
We are committed to inspiring and cultivating wonder in humans of all ages.
Our Mission
Nevada Classical Academy Elko will cultivate within students a lifelong pursuit of academic excellence, virtuous living, and civic responsibility through a classical, content-rich education in the liberal arts and sciences.
Our Vision
Nevada Classical Academy Elko (NCAE) will develop the academic potential and personal character of students and fully prepare them to live responsible, independent, and productive lives. NCAE is an open-enrollment, tuition-free, state public charter school which provides a high-quality education for students through a traditional classical education in the liberal arts and sciences. NCAE seeks to foster life-long learning in all students regardless of background, socio-economic status, or ability.
Articles & History About Nevada Classical Academy Elko
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Nevada Classical Academy Elko is in the early stages of garnering support from the community with the goal of opening a classical school in Elko County.
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The Nevada Classical Academy in Elko is actively fundraising to establish a new elementary school. The proposed institution aims to offer a classical education curriculum, emphasizing traditional liberal arts and sciences. The academy plans to open its doors in 2025, initially serving students in kindergarten through fifth grade, with aspirations to expand in subsequent years. Community support is crucial for the academy to achieve its fundraising goals and provide an alternative educational option in the Elko area.
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Listen to the full conversation that Lee Hoffman & Cadi Hatch had with Cami on the Community Conversation podcast HERE.
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The Nevada Classical Academy in Elko is actively seeking a headmaster to lead its new elementary school, scheduled to open in 2025. The ideal candidate will have experience in classical education and a passion for fostering academic excellence. This leadership role is pivotal in shaping the school's curriculum and culture, aiming to provide students with a robust foundation in liberal arts and sciences. The academy encourages qualified individuals to apply and contribute to the educational development of the Elko community.
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The Nevada Classical Academy in Elko is preparing to reapply for a Nevada charter after its initial application was denied. The academy remains committed to offering a classical education curriculum and is revising its proposal to meet the state's requirements. Community support and feedback are being sought to strengthen the application and ensure the successful establishment of the school.
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Listen to Lee Hoffman & Cadi Hatch on the Community Conversation Podcast HERE.
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Cadie Hatch and Hank Thurston, Founding Board Members of Nevada Classical Academy of Elko, discussed ongoing efforts to establish a Charter School featuring the Hillsdale College model for education and teaching. Elko’s school would initially include as many as 150 students K-3 and be located on Railroad Street in the facility being vacated by The Elko Institute for Academic Achievement. The academy is hosting an event on Saturday, March 9th at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Elko. The academy will learn if the charter has been accepted by the state board in August of 2024.
Listen to full interview HERE.
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The Nevada Classical Academy group in Elko recently convened to explore alternative pathways for establishing their school after facing challenges in obtaining a state charter. Discussions centered on potential options such as reapplying for the charter, seeking sponsorship from the Elko County School District, or operating as a private institution. The group remains committed to providing a classical education to the community and is evaluating the best course of action to achieve this goal.
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Nevada Classical Academy Elko will be hosting a Community Meeting on Saturday, March 9th 2024 from 5-6:30pm at The Boys and Girls Club of Elko.
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The Nevada Classical Academy in Elko is finalizing its charter application for submission to the Nevada State Public Charter School Authority. The academy aims to offer a classical education curriculum, emphasizing traditional liberal arts and sciences. If approved, the school plans to open in the fall of 2026, initially serving students in kindergarten through fifth grade, with intentions to expand in subsequent years. Community support and involvement remain crucial as the academy progresses through the application process.
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In "Classical Essence: Part 1," Dr. Brandolyn Thran, School Leader of Nevada Classical Academy Elko, delves into the multifaceted meaning of the term "classical." Tracing its origins to the 17th-century Latin word "classicus," meaning "the highest class," she discusses how the term has evolved to describe art, music, and literature reminiscent of ancient Greek and Roman creations. Dr. Thran emphasizes the importance of engaging with classical works in today's fast-paced world, suggesting that such engagement fosters a deeper understanding of what is good, true, and beautiful. She encourages readers to explore classical literature, music, and art to cultivate their best selves and appreciate the enduring human condition.
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In Part 2 of her series Classical Essence, Dr. Brandolyn Thran of Nevada Classical Academy Elko explores the timeless ideals of the True, the Good, and the Beautiful—known as the transcendentals. Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, she examines how these principles have been interpreted throughout history and how they continue to shape human nature, purpose, and culture today. With clear definitions and thoughtful reflections, Dr. Thran encourages readers to pursue these ideals in everyday life, fostering a deeper understanding of classical education and its relevance in the modern world.
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In Part 3 of her Classical Essence series, Dr. Brandolyn Thran of Nevada Classical Academy Elko explores how individuals can experience the transcendentals—truth, goodness, and beauty—in everyday life. She draws upon insights from philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, and theologian Thomas Aquinas, emphasizing that while these ideals may transcend full human comprehension, they are accessible through intentional engagement with art, nature, literature, and meaningful relationships. Dr. Thran underscores the importance of mindful choices in media consumption and daily habits, advocating for a life oriented toward the transcendentals to foster personal growth and a deeper appreciation of the world around us.
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Nevada Classical Academy Elko is preparing to welcome its inaugural team of teachers and staff with a three-day professional development training focused on phonics-based literacy instruction. Led by Access Literacy trainer and curriculum author Dorothy Kardatzke, the training will equip educators with tools to teach reading through structured, multisensory methods. A family literacy event is also planned, offering interactive activities and a chance for teachers and students to connect before the school year begins. The school is nearing capacity, with waitlists in first and second grade, limited spots in kindergarten, and availability in third grade. NCAE opens for grades K–3 in the 2025–2026 school year and will add a grade each year. A public grand opening event is set for August 8 and will feature tours, activities, and student speeches.