North Star News
June 5, 2026
Principal's Letter
Dear North Star Community,
That’s a wrap on the 2025–2026 school year!
We kicked off our final week with an incredible Field Day on Monday. Our scholars enjoyed a day filled with fun, teamwork, and school spirit, and it would not have been possible without the many parent volunteers who generously gave their time to help make the event such a success. Thank you for helping create a memorable experience for our students! On Tuesday evening, our community came together for the NSA Talent Show. A huge thank you to our organizers and volunteers for bringing this special event to life, and an even bigger thank you to all of our talented performers. Your courage, creativity, and hard work made for a truly wonderful evening!
Yesterday, we celebrated our graduating 8th graders, and we could not be prouder of all they have accomplished. We wish each of them nothing but success and happiness as they begin their high school journeys. This class leaves behind a legacy of kindness and service, having established North Star’s first annual 8th Grade Day of Service. On the day before graduation, our scholars spent their time giving back both on campus and at community organizations throughout the area. This act of service is just one example of the character, leadership, and compassion that make this graduating class so special.
This morning, our final Gryphon Gathering gave us the opportunity to celebrate and thank so many members of our community, including our Leadership and Junior Leadership students, NSA athletes, theater participants, Lunch Club members, staff, families, and scholars. We also held a special "clap out" for our graduating 8th graders and our 5th graders as we wished them well on their transition to middle school.
As we close another wonderful year together, thank you for your partnership, support, and commitment to our school community. We hope your family enjoys a summer filled with joy, rest, adventure, and lasting memories. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the fall!
Sincerely,
Erin Kekos
Principal
WE WILL MISS YOU 8TH GRADERS!
Congratulations graduates and families!
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As another school year comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the North Star Academy Class of 2026!
To our graduates, we are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished during your time here. Whether you’ve been part of our community for many years or joined us more recently, you have left your mark on our classrooms, campus, and school traditions. We hope you leave North Star with confidence, curiosity, resilience, and memories that will stay with you for years to come.
We would also like to recognize the families who are graduating out of North Star Academy. Thank you for your support, volunteerism, generosity, and partnership over the years. From classroom helpers and field trip chaperones to committee members and event organizers, you have helped shape the school we know today.
While we are sad to see you go, we are grateful for the time we have shared together. Once a North Star family, always a North Star family.
REPORT CARDS COMING SOON!
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Final report cards have been mailed to families. Thank you for a wonderful school year, and congratulations to our scholars on all they have accomplished!
GOODBYE DEAR FRIEND!
A fond farwell to Mrs. Snyder
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As we look ahead to the upcoming school year, we would like to recognize and celebrate the remarkable career of Mrs. Snyder, who is retiring after approximately 30 years of dedicated service in education.
Mrs. Snyder has been an important part of the North Star Academy community, teaching fifth grade and positively impacting generations of students and families. Throughout her career she has been known for her commitment to helping students grow both academically and personally.
Bon Voyage Mrs. Snyder!
GOOD LUCK MS. MAYRA
Saying goodbye to our beloved office manager
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We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mayra for her dedication and service as our beloved Office Manager. Mayra has been a friendly face, a helping hand, and a constant source of support for students, families, and staff alike. Her kindness, professionalism, and willingness to help made a positive impact on our entire school community.
We are grateful for all she has done for North Star and wish her the very best in her next chapter. You will be missed, Ms. Mayra!
Welcome Ms. Khaira to 5th Grade!
5th GRADE: NEW TEACHER
A Warm Welcome
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We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Navneet Khaira to our school community as our newest 5th-grade teacher! Ms. Khaira brings an exceptional academic background to our campus, having earned her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Georgetown University before completing her Master of Arts in Education and Multiple Subject Credential at Stanford University. She is already well-acquainted with the magic of this specific age group, having previously spent a summer planning academic lessons and team-building activities for rising 5th graders. Ms. Khaira has already visited our campus and has a planning meeting set with the team, exemplifying her eager, can-do attitude and true excitement to serve our NSA scholars.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, YEARBOOK!
Join the 2026-27 yearbook team!!
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While yearbooks are top of mind, consider helping!
Yearbook is entirely ran by a parent volunteer and students. We’re now building a bigger team for next year. If you’d like to help photograph events, organize images, collect 8th-grade tributes, remind parents to purchase, work with students, help sort/distribute (ahem), or assist with page design, we’d love to hear from you.
There are many shorter-term projects, and longer ones, big and small...and all FUN! Any contribution will help create a yearbook our students will treasure for years to come. Reach out and we'll find a job that you'll enjoy.
We especially need parents who can cover :
- Sports teams
- Gade-level collages
- Organize 8th grade baby photos/shout-outs
- Marketing (for awareness, not sales)
🔸Contact: Carol at gryphon.yearbooks@gmail.com
THE FALL PLAY IS....
Drum Roll Please!!
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The Day the Internet Died!
What happens when the internet vanishes? Find out this fall when we present this timely comedy! Gary Gerber returns as director, and auditions will take place during the first full week of school in August.
Actors: If you want to hit the stage, use the summer to practice your comedic timing and projection! Keep an eye out for details in August.
🔸Contact producers@nsaplay.org
NIGHT AT NORTH STAR RETURNS!
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WHO: All NSA Families
WHAT: NSA Campus Camping
WHEN: September 19 - 20
WHERE: North Star Field
COST: $45 one person | $150 family
The North Star Dad's Club is excited to host the popular Night at North Star Campout. The event includes exciting activities, a little competition, great food, a movie under the stars, live music, engaging conversations with fellow NSA families, and tons of fun for all ages.
SUMMER ENRICHMENT!
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Looking for summer plans, want your child to continue a favorite activity, or hoping for a second chance at a missed opportunity? Check out these amazing summer programs offered by our very own enrichment teachers!
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