Facility Expansion Plan
A Note from Our Executive Director
Over the past year, our team and Board have been thoughtfully planning a facility expansion that supports Nova Classical students now and into the future. With financing secured and construction now underway, this work has officially entered its next phase.
As this project progresses, it reflects a long-term investment in spaces that support purposeful learning, strong community, and the daily experiences of our students. The expansion will strengthen our campus in ways that align with Nova Classical’s mission and the needs of our school community.
We will continue to share updates as this next chapter takes shape.
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?
With groundbreaking complete, the project is now moving into the early stages of construction as site work begins. Work will continue throughout the coming months, with a focus on maintaining a safe and consistent school environment while construction progresses.
The expansion will be completed in phases, with the new building targeted for completion in late 2026, followed by updates to the existing facility. We will continue to share updates here as key milestones are reached.
Projected Expansion Plan Timeline
- Spring – Summer 2026: Construction of new building on adjacent parcel of land
- Winter 2025 – Spring 2026: Finalized construction drawings and official city approval
- November 2024 – Spring 2025: Schematic designs, Board approval processes & bond projections
- March 2024: Completed Facility Needs Analysis report
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 and City of Saint Paul have approved the facility expansion plans, construction contract, and financing, and all required approvals have been secured.
With these steps complete, the project is moving forward into the early stages of construction following groundbreaking. Work will continue in phases over the coming months.
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 has broken ground as of April 2026.
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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.