Mission Statement

Vista Academy at Open Window School nurtures and challenges students of high intellectual ability and inspires them to new levels of academic excellence, creativity, and personal accomplishment for participation in a changing world.

Statement of Philosophy

At Vista Academy, we believe that a deep understanding of the needs and passions of gifted adolescents is vital for fostering a spirit of inquiry and sense of personal responsibility in middle school students.  Recognizing that Vista students are passing through a period of rapid physical, intellectual, social, and emotional change, our program is specifically designed to guide students through the critical developmental tasks of personal identity, independence, organization, and relationships.  Vista offers a rich and dynamic academic program, with exceptional depth and challenge.  With a curriculum that transcends grade level boundaries, Vista students are empowered to pursue their passions and to make important connections through problem-centered, interdisciplinary study and investigation. 

Vista Academy’s size provides a nimble and individualized middle school program, where outstanding educators partner with students in creating a sense of belonging and connection.  This personal, nurturing environment allows faculty to promote all aspects of the middle school student’s identity and development.  Vista endeavors to provide students with relevant leadership opportunities, allowing for important connections to be made between their learning and the world around them.  Learning is ignited through connecting classroom concepts to real life applications.       

We strive to promote citizenship through the fostering of personal integrity, ethical awareness, and multicultural understanding.  A Vista Academy graduate is a confident individual equipped with the habits and skills necessary for academic and personal success at every stage of life.