Welcome Head of School Ms. Raffanello!
Northstar is thrilled to welcome Bethany Raffanello as our next Head of School, beginning July 1, 2025. After an extensive international search, Bethany stood out as the clear and unanimous choice of our Board of Directors—thanks to her compassionate leadership, deep commitment to inclusive education, and decades of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs.
“Bethany Raffanello emerged as the clear choice to lead Northstar into its next chapter,” said the Board of Directors in a joint statement. “Her professional expertise, warm and engaging personality, and alignment with Northstar’s mission made a lasting impression on every group she met during her campus visit.”
"I've been inspired by the passion and commitment I've seen across the Northstar community, and I am eager to listen, learn, and work alongside you as we build on the school's strong foundation and move forward together," said Bethany.
Bethany brings nearly 20 years of experience from The New England Center for Children (NECC), where she has worn many hats—from classroom teacher to Director of Student Administration. Her work has taken her across the globe, including time spent at NECC’s campus in Abu Dhabi, where she led early childhood and secondary programs and supported staff and families alike with a thoughtful, student-first approach. At every step, Bethany has championed excellence in special education and built strong, collaborative communities around her.
She holds an MBA from Quinnipiac University, a Master’s in Education from Simmons College, and a bachelor’s in psychology and sociology from Drew University. She’s also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA), with specialized training in Applied Behavior Analysis from Western New England University.
Bethany will replace Crystal Trent, who has served as Northstar's Head of School since 2017. Under her leadership, Northstar notably relocated to a new facility in Henrico County in 2022.
Bethany’s blend of warmth, wisdom, and vision makes her a perfect fit for the Northstar community. We can’t wait for our students, families, and staff to get to know her and begin this exciting new chapter together.
Career Center Students Take Center Stage in Community Construction Project
“It was fun,” said Trey, a Career Center student, “I got to practice using the circular saw and I got better at taking measurements. It’s a lot of fun going off campus.”
Originally a 20ft x 20ft stage, the new construction added an additional 4 feet of width as well as an accessible 5 foot ramp, ensuring anyone who uses mobility aids will still be able to access the stage. The Shady Grove Family YMCA plans to use the stage as early as this summer for performances and ceremonies by summer camp attendees.
“We are incredibly grateful to the dedicated teen volunteers at Northstar Career Center who gave their time, energy, and heart to build this ramp. Their hard work has made a lasting impact, providing greater accessibility and independence. This partnership with Northstar and Project:HOMES is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together in service of others,” stated Jody Alexander, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Richmond.
Northstar Career Center serves young adults with disabilities to help them gain work readiness skills as they transition out of secondary education and into the workforce. The outdoor stage renovation was made possible through a partnership with project:HOMES, a nonprofit organization that offers home repair assistance to low-income homeowners in the Richmond area.
“project:HOMES is proud to be a partner to this meaningful project. The new stage and ramp will give the students more inclusivity and accessibility," said project:HOMES Director of Volunteer Services, Brad Burnum. "This was an opportunity to build much more than a structure. This project will also build community.”
While the class generally enjoyed the experience, the multi-week experience proved that construction work is not always an easy task.
“It took a long time,” said Bryan, another Construction and Maintenance student. “The hardest part was when there was ice and snow on the ground while we were building the ramp.”
When working on a project like this, Northstar Career Center students first build skills in the classroom, then go out into the community to practice their skills on the worksite. This twofold learning experience allows students to navigate real-world challenges, gain confidence through hands-on practice, and develop the independence and professionalism needed for future employment.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Friday, May 16th to dedicate the revamped space with attendees from Northstar Career Center, the Shady Grove YMCA, project:HOMES, and local community members.
About Northstar
Northstar is a 501(c)(3) non-profit school dedicated to serving students with autism, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, multiple disabilities, emotional disabilities, developmental delays, and speech/language impairments. Located in Glen Allen, Virginia, Northstar is licensed by the Virginia Department of Education and is a fully accredited member of the Virginia Association of Independent Schools. Northstar is committed to promoting educational excellence and career opportunities for students with disabilities.
About the YMCA of Greater Richmond
The YMCA of Greater Richmond is a non-profit, cause-driven organization committed to strengthening communities through enriching learning, preventing drowning, and advancing whole health. Serving over 210,000 people across 17 branches, the YMCA believes that everyone—regardless of age, income, or background—deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at www.ymcarichmond.org.
Sculpture Exhibit Takes the Cake in Local News Feature
This month’s Plate and Goblet feature in the Henrico Citizen includes a special creative touch from Northstar students.
As part of a classroom project called Celebrating Success, students explored the playful food sculptures of artist Claes Oldenburg and then created their own party-themed food art. The exhibit was the first art show to display in the Daly Family Community Room and shown for two of this spring's biggest public events: the student talent show and the community ribbon cutting for Northstar's new gymnasium and community center.
Their whimsical creations—ranging from oversized cupcakes to sculpted grapes—reflect the imagination, joy, and confidence our students bring to their learning.
We’re thrilled that Northstar students’ artwork is part of this month's edition, showing how our students' talents and creative voices are being celebrated across the community.
Plate and Goblet is a popular food-focused column that highlights local culinary stories, restaurants, and community food events.
See more featured student artwork and read the full Henrico Citizen: Plate and Goblet article here.
Northstar Announces Grand Opening of State-of-the-Art Gymnasium and Community Center
Enhancing Educational and Athletic Opportunities for Students with Disabilities
Northstar Academy and Career Center is proud to announce the grand opening of its new gymnasium and community center. This milestone marks a significant enhancement in Northstar’s commitment to providing comprehensive educational and extracurricular opportunities for students with disabilities.
The almost 16,000 sq ft facility features a state-of-the-art gymnasium equipped with an integrated audio induction loop system, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with hearing impairments. This system is the first of its kind in a K-12 school gym in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition to serving as a venue for physical education classes, the gymnasium will host school assemblies, performances, and graduations, fostering a sense of community and school spirit.
During a ribbon cutting ceremony, students, faculty, and community members dedicated the space with pomp and circumstance. Festivities included a performance by the Northstar Cheer Club, a speech from recent Northstar graduate Will Griffin, as well as remarks from Board Chair Richard Bennett, M.D. and Crystal Trent, Head of School.
"This new facility embodies our dedication to creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive," said Trent, "It not only provides a space for physical development but also enhances social interactions and community building among our students."
The event concluded with 9th grade student Emerson shooting a ceremonial first basket in a newly-dedicated basketball hoop.
Northstar’s quest to enhance its educational home began in 2022, when the school combined its separate K12 Academy and Career Center campuses and moved to the current Nuckols Road campus. The school now looks forward to the completion of a 200-meter track and activity field. The conclusion of this capital project brings Northstar closer to its vision of an inspiring campus tailored to the diverse needs of its students.
Northstar Planning $7M Gym on Henrico Campus
Check out this feature article from Richmond BizSense about the groundbreaking for our new gym and track & field. CLICK HERE TO READ ARTICLE.
Spring Open Houses
Both our Northstar Academy AND Northstar Career Academy campuses will be open to visitors during our Spring Open House on Saturday, April 23rd between the hours of 9am-12pm.
RSVP is strongly encouraged. RSVP HERE!
Northstar Academy provides instruction for students who have academic, physical or social challenges ages 5-21.
While Northstar Career Academy builds pathways to employment for young adults with academic, physical or social challenges ages 16-24.
We serve students from localities across Central Virginia including students from 16 different school systems.
This informal open house is open to everyone! Priority enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year is currently happening. Discover if Northstar is the right fit for your child or young adult.
Drop by either or both campuses anytime between the hours of 9am-12pm on Saturday, February 19th and you will have the opportunity to:
- Tour the campus
- Learn about our programs and curriculum in lower, middle and upper school
- Learn about the 5 technical training programs offered at Career Academy - Business Technology, Construction & Maintenance, Hospitality, Materials Handling, Veterinary Assisting
- Speak with our Director of Admissions
- Learn about tuition and scholarships
- Get a glimpse into what the future holds for Northstar
Come Visit Campus!
Both our Northstar Academy AND Northstar Career Academy campuses will be open to visitors during our Winter Open House on Saturday, February 19th between the hours of 9am-12pm.
RSVP is strongly encouraged. RSVP HERE!
Northstar Academy provides instruction for students who have academic, physical or social challenges ages 5-21.
While Northstar Career Academy builds pathways to employment for young adults with academic, physical or social challenges ages 16-24.
We serve students from localities across Central Virginia including students from 16 different school systems.
This informal open house is open to everyone! Priority enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year is quickly approaching. Discover if Northstar is the right fit for your child or young adult.
Drop by either or both campuses anytime between the hours of 9am-12pm on Saturday, February 19th and you will have the opportunity to:
- Tour the campus
- Learn about our programs and curriculum in lower, middle and upper school
- Learn about the 5 technical training programs offered at Career Academy - Business Technology, Construction & Maintenance, Hospitality, Materials Handling, Veterinary Assisting
- Speak with our Director of Admissions
- Learn about tuition and scholarships
- Get a glimpse into what the future holds for Northstar
Masks are required while on campus.
Transformational Move For Northstar Academy And Northstar Career Academy
RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Since 1999, Northstar Academy has proudly served hundreds of students with learning differences from our Shrader Road campus in Henrico County, Va.
The school has grown over the last 25 years, with approximately 125 students annually across two campuses (Northstar Career Academy is housed on Staples Mill Road). As a school that serves the Greater Richmond, Va. area, including 18 public school districts, and driven by Northstar's most recent Strategic Plan, the school's leadership sought a new property to support the critical need to expand and provide the most accessible and inclusive environment possible for their community of learners.
Northstar purchased an incredible property that exceeded all hopes and expectations - the former Strayer University campus on Nuckols Road in Henrico County, Va. This new location offers ample opportunity and benefits, some of which include:
- It is just over 5 miles from its current location.
- It is very accessible from major roadways - Interstates 295 and 64, and State Route 288.
- The facility sits on over 10 acres and is more than 21,000 square feet.
- It provides access to nature and greenspace.
- The facility is fully ADA-compliant and has spacious hallways and classrooms.
- The facility and property are large enough to accommodate both Academic and Career Academy students in one location.
According to Northstar's head of school, Crystal Trent, "This property is what we would build if we were raising a school from the ground up. Our students are excited about a highly engaging learning space with more natural light and green space. This new building will offer more space for our teachers to implement the customized learning approaches they develop for our students."
This announcement comes at the midpoint of Northstar's capital campaign. Though additional community support is still needed to realize the full vision for the space, this property was undeniably the best option for Northstar students and faculty. Northstar is incredibly thankful for the early campaign donors who have supported this exciting purchase and believed in our vision to relocate to a space worthy of our exceptional students. With the support of our donors, and because Northstar Academy has been an excellent steward of its funds in the past, the school was able to secure this building while still in the midst of its campaign fundraising. Northstar will continue to solicit funds for vital improvements to the property, including adding a gymnasium, athletic fields, and interior facility renovations.
"The board of trustees has done an enormous amount of work to create the foundation for a successful campaign, both in terms of planning and fundraising," said Northstar's director of development, Lindsay Lane Robinson. "Their generosity is a testament to the community's belief in the importance of this project."
For more information about the move, or to make a donation to the capital campaign, contact Lindsay Lane Robinson at 804-747-1003 or lrobinson@northstarva.org.
About Northstar Academy: Northstar Academy promotes educational excellence and career opportunities for students with disabilities who have academic, physical, or social challenges. Northstar Academy is licensed by the Virginia Department of Education and is a fully accredited member of the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and the Virginia Association of Independent Specialized Education Facilities. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its education policies, admission policies, programs or athletic and other school administered programs. Learn more at www.northstarva.org.
View press release here: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/transformational-move-for-northstar-academy-and-northstar-career-academy-301378989.html?tc=eml_cleartime
Richmond student collects 100-plus books for abilities library to inspire classmates
RICHMOND, Va. -- A Richmond student is inspiring classmates by showing them what they can do despite daily challenges they may face.
Brennan, a middle school student at Richmond's Northstar Academy, donated the Discovering Abilities Library at the school.
Each book features a main character living with a disability.
Read more of the WTVR CBS 6 article here.
Northstar Career Academy student raised money to support those impacted by Hurricane Dorian.
RICHMOND, Va. --
Northstar Career Academy student raised money to support those impacted by Hurricane Dorian.
To see the video from The American Red Cross, click here.