Facility Expansion Plan
A Note from Our Executive Director
Over the past year, our team and Board have been carefully planning a facility expansion that supports Nova Classical students now and into the future. I’m pleased to share that we’ve reached a major milestone: financing for the expansion has been successfully secured, with strong investor support that reflects confidence in Nova Classical’s academic leadership and the classical model.
With this step complete, the project moves into final design and pre-construction planning, with construction anticipated to begin in spring 2026, weather permitting. The expansion will enhance learning spaces, safety features, and opportunities for athletics, the arts, and student support across our campus.
We’re grateful for the trust our families place in Nova Classical and will continue to share updates as the project progresses.
It’s a Great Day to be a Knight,
Dr. Brett Wedlund, Executive Director
Facility Expansion Plan
A Note from Our Executive Director
I am excited to share updates on our facility expansion project and introduce a dedicated space to keep you informed throughout the process. We have completed the “grammar” phase, gathering essential data such as land analysis and zoning requirements, and are now entering the “logic” phase. Our architect, incorporating key findings and community feedback, is finalizing the schematic design to outline the project’s scope. This aligns with the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, focusing on student safety, academic support, and enhanced opportunities for Nova students.
To ensure transparency, we created this page to feature project schematics, timeline overview, and provide a dedicated place for our students, families, staff, and larger community to give feedback or ask questions. Thank you for your continued support as we move forward together.
It’s a Great Day to be a Knight,
Dr. Brett Wedlund, Executive Director
What This Facility Expansion Provides
This facility expansion aligns with Nova Classical’s 2023–2028 Strategic Plan and reflects thoughtful, long-term planning grounded in our shared values. It represents a responsible investment in spaces that support purposeful learning, character development, and a strong school community—today and for years to come.
Enhanced Learning and Student Support Spaces
By moving administrative and staff offices out of the academic wing, Nova students will gain:
✓ Integrated student support services within the academic building
✓ Dedicated learning spaces for speech, OT, behavioral, and other student support services
✓ New flexible learning spaces including small testing spaces and seminar space
✓ Additional space for physical education classes
Improved Safety and Campus Flow
✓ Reduced hallway congestion during peak passing times and maintaining ADA compliance with the addition of a locker bay for ~150 students
✓ Restructuring the existing main door entry to open into the front office will add an additional layer to the overall building’s security
✓ New bus parking hub will add a measure of safety for students coming into the building from parent drop-off
✓ New gym facility will also serve as a larger storm shelter aligning within state law requirements
Expanded Opportunities for Athletics and Activities
✓ Before-school practices can be offered with the additional gym and locker room facilities
✓ Nova Classical will be able to offer additional middle school and lower school extra-curricular activities that were not available previously based on lack of space
✓ Additional facilities can also support physical education classes and provide indoor recess options on inclement weather days
✓ Sole use of the theater space by the drama department with new green room
Spaces Designed for Community and Connection
✓ Redesigned traffic patterns and dedicated stopping lanes will reduce congestion and enhance pedestrian safety along Victoria Way
✓ Event and meeting spaces available for rental, adding new gathering opportunities for the community
✓ Purpose-built and expanded space for emergency coordination with Sholom Home and surrounding residents
Facility Expansion Plan 2023-2027
What's Next?
In the weeks ahead, the project will continue through final design and city review steps. Final construction drawings are expected in January, and some city approvals remain conditional until those drawings are complete.
With financing secured and closing by the end of 2025, the project is moving into final pre-construction planning. Groundbreaking is anticipated in spring 2026 (weather permitting), and we will continue to update this page as major milestones are reached.
Projected Expansion Plan Timeline
- March 2024: Completed Facility Needs Analysis report
- November 2024 – Spring 2025: Schematic designs, Board approval processes & bond projections
- Spring – Fall 2025: Legislative approval process with the city of St. Paul
- Winter 2025 – Spring 2026: Final construction drawings submitted; final approvals expected as part of the city process
- Spring 2026: Construction of new building begins on adjacent parcel of land
Completion Projections (subject to change):
- Phase 1 (New Building): Targeted completion by December 2026
- Phase 2 (Existing Updates to Existing Facility & Skyway): Target completion March 2027
Facility Expansion Plan Committee Members
- Nova Classical Executive Director – Brett Wedlund
- Nova Classical Facility Manager – Jesse Prins
- Friends of Nova President – Brian Lapham
- Friends of Nova Treasurer – Duane Heidemann
- Friends of Nova Member – Cristina Geer
- Nova Classical School Board Member – Todd Sample
- Nova Classical School Board Member – Colleen Hansen
Sample Renderings
We are pleased to share sample renderings of our facility expansion project. These visual representations offer a glimpse into the future of Nova Classical, showcasing how the planned spaces will enhance learning and support our community’s needs. Please note that these renderings are preliminary, and final results may change as the project progresses.
Facility Expansion Plan Documentation
Explore the plan details and supporting documents outlining Nova Classical’s planned facility expansion. These resources provide insight into the design, purpose, and strategic approach behind the project, highlighting how it aligns with our commitment to enhancing student experiences and addressing community needs.
During this Rhetoric Phase of the facility expansion plan, we will share details about changes related to establishing priorities, refining the desired architectural program, and alternate development scenarios within the defined budget.
Facility Expansion FAQs
The facility expansion project represents a significant step in enhancing the Nova Classical learning environment and achieving the goals put forward in the 2023-2028 Strategic Plan. We've designed this Frequent Asked Questions section to answer common questions and provide clarity about the plan’s vision, timeline, and key details. By addressing these inquiries, we aim to maintain transparency and keep our community well-informed.
No, there are no current plans to increase enrollment. The facility expansion will integrate support services with dedicated learning spaces for current Nova students.
In March 2024, Nova Classical conducted a comprehensive facility needs analysis to better understand how our spaces can best support students. This process helped identify the highest-impact improvements that would most directly enhance student learning, safety, and day-to-day experiences.
While the analysis identified many opportunities, this facility expansion is intentionally focused on the most essential upgrades at this time. We will continue to assess student needs and priorities and remain thoughtful stewards of resources as we plan for future enhancements.
The School Board has approved the facility expansion plans, construction contract, and financing. The project has also received the necessary easement and variance approvals.
Some approvals remain technical and procedural in nature and are tied to the submission of final construction drawings, which are expected in January 2026. These are a normal part of the building process and do not change the overall project timeline. Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2026, weather permitting.
The Board and Facility Expansion Committee will continue to oversee the project and provide updates as it progresses.
Construction is planned in two phases and is designed to minimize disruption to school schedules. Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2026, weather permitting.
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Phase 1 (new building): Targeted for completion by December 2026
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Phase 2 (skyway connection and updates to the existing facility): Targeted for completion by March 2027, with the most disruptive work planned during winter break 2026–27
Our goal is to complete the project by early 2027, while keeping learning environments stable and minimizing impacts on students and staff.
As we navigate this process, Nova Classical’s Executive Director, Brett Wedlund, will provide regular updates through the monthly e-newsletter, sharing any new information from the Committee. Additionally, this dedicated landing page will document progress and serve as a hub for all community resources related to the project. It will also include a feedback form for any questions or concerns regarding the facility expansion. We are committed to keeping our Nova Classical families and the wider community informed every step of the way.
The current gym will remain Nova Classical’s primary gym where games and conference meets will be held. The second gym facility will include extra locker rooms to add opportunities for morning student practices and also serves as a larger storm shelter. Adding a specialized strength and conditioning space along with an additional gym enables Nova Classical to remain competitive within the Skyline Conference.
As most of the construction is planned on a separate parcel of land, we expect minimal disruption during drop-off/pickup and school hours. If any changes to road flow or traffic patterns become necessary due to construction, we will promptly inform the public.
The remodel of the existing classroom building will be scheduled during school breaks whenever possible, minimizing disruption to students’ learning environment.
The adjacent sports field project is being led by the city of Saint Paul and is not a part of Nova Classical’s facility expansion project. The City plans to construct a full-size synthetic turf multi-purpose field next to Nova Classical Academy, located near the intersection of Victoria Way and Adrian Street. The City’s plans and information are available on their website.
Charter schools do not have the authority to levy taxes, so this project will not affect local residents’ taxes.
Facility Expansion - Feedback Form
We value your insights and feedback on the facility expansion project. Please use this form to share your thoughts or questions.