On Thursday, the NEIA campus was full of energy, curiosity, and celebration as students, families, and faculty gathered for the 2025 NEIA Expo. This annual end-of-year showcase offered a vibrant look into the learning journeys of students in Grades 7 through 11, featuring projects that reflected months of growth, creativity, and hard work.
From the moment the Expo began, it was clear that each presentation was deeply personal and thoughtfully crafted. Students were eager to share not just what they had created, but why it mattered to them—offering parents and peers a unique glimpse into the passions that have fueled their learning this year.
Examples of projects included Nathan Wilkinson ‘28, who presented his final work from a Global Online Academy (GOA) course, in which he collaborated with a student from New York to study a foreign country. For Nathan, the most memorable part of the experience wasn’t just the research—it was building a connection and working across state lines with a peer he’d never met in person. His project reminded many of the power of learning that reaches beyond the classroom walls.
Erika Lundberg ‘26 took attendees on a visual journey through her evolution as a photographer. From candid vacation snapshots to behind-the-scenes photos from NEIA school productions, Erika’s presentation told the story of how photography became a meaningful and creative outlet—one that continues to grow with her.
William Sobchak ‘28 impressed the crowd with a 3D model of a spaceship he designed using Blender software as part of an Innovation Studio course. His passion for digital design shone through as he explained how this project helped him level up his Blender skills and bring his imaginative vision to life.
And while each project differed in subject and style, what unified the Expo was the sense of authenticity and excitement each student brought to their presentation. Whether exploring a personal passion, reflecting on a collaborative journey, or showcasing a newly developed skill, students demonstrated innovation and exploration—two things that define NEIA.
The evening also included a performance by the founder of DJ Club, Emmett Buck-Thompson, and a shared meal, turning the event into a true celebration of community. As families connected and students proudly stood by their work, the Expo served as a fitting close to a year defined by curiosity, creativity, and the courage to learn in new ways.
The NEIA Expo is more than just a showcase—it’s a celebration of what happens when students are empowered to lead their own learning, take creative risks, and share their unique perspectives with the world.
