Dear nex+Gen Community,

As the school year comes to a close, we want to wish everyone a relaxing and enjoyable summer break—and send our best wishes to the Class of 2025 as they take their next steps forward! We have so much to celebrate this year: the success of our school-wide Food for Thought project, the exciting launch of our Digital Film Production class, and the debut of our Speech and Debate team. Looking ahead to the 2025–2026 school year, we’re excited to introduce a new Computer Science Pathway, featuring a Cybersecurity course designed to prepare students for the digital age. Mr. Schlee will continue his sustainability efforts with the new Roots and Shoots gardening and composting class, and the Science Department will be opening a state-of-the-art Design Lab to inspire creativity and innovation. Thank you all for a fantastic year! 

• New Cyber Security Course: Protect the digital world with our new Cybersecurity course! Designed for beginners, this hands-on class teaches real-world skills to defend networks, investigate cyber crimes, and build strong digital defenses. Whether you're curious about cybersecurity or considering a tech career, this course is the perfect place to start. Taught by Michael Steele—an experienced IT professional turned educator—you’ll gain valuable insight from someone who’s worked on the front lines of the industry. No prior experience needed—just a passion for learning and a desire to make the internet a safer place. If you are interested in taking Cyber Security, please send me an email at lynch_d@aps.edu

• New Student Jump Start:  All students new to nex+Gen are welcome to join us on August 6th from 9:00 am-11:00 am for a new student jumpstart. Meet your facilitators, meet some classmates, see your classrooms, get your ID picture taken, and eat some pizza. 

• Retirements: We would celebrate the retirement of two dedicated facilitators who have made a lasting impact on our community. Ms. McCloskey-Romero, a beloved Spanish and French facilitator, has inspired countless students with her passion for language and culture. Dr. Jeff Saul, our physics and robotics facilitator, will also be retiring. We are deeply grateful for their years of service and wish them both joy and fulfillment in this next chapter of life.

• Parent Involvement Meeting: We invite all parents and guardians to join us for a Parent Involvement Meeting on Tuesday, August 6th at 9:00 AM in Room 102. This is a great opportunity to learn more about how you can get involved at Nex+Gen Academy. Throughout the year, we host a variety of events and classroom projects where your support can make a big difference. Whether you have a little time or a lot, your involvement helps strengthen our school community and enrich the experience for all students. We look forward to seeing you there 

• Design Lab: Nex+Gen Academy’s new Design Lab will be premiering in the Fall!

We are looking for monetary donations to purchase supplies! Cash or money order donations may be given to Stephanie Archibeque in the front office.  Be sure to specify Design Lab when you make your donation.

We can also use donations of the following items:

1. Sewing supplies and equipment (scissors, straight pins, thread, fabric, notions).

2. Carpentry tools (hammers, screwdrivers, hand saws, C-clamps, wood glue, nails, screws, files, sandpaper).

3. Cricut materials (vinyl sheets, adhesive sheets, card stock).

4. 3D printing filament (1.75 mm PLA).

If you have questions, contact Laura White at laura.white@aps.edu. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!

• First Day of School: The first day of classes for the 2025-2026 school year will be August 7th, 2025

• On-Line Registration: The online registration window for the 2025-2026 school year is now open. Parents should log on to ParentVUE and complete the 2025-2026 School Year Online Registration. If you have any questions, please reach out to Ms. Granone at (505)878-6400

• Space Still Available: Help us find the nex+Gen class of 2029. If you know someone interested in attending nex+Gen Academy, direct them to www.learnaboutnexgen.com/   

Nex+Gen Makes the New Tech Network Unpacked Podcast 

Listen to the podcast here: Food For Thought at Nex+Gen