The Forward-Thinking High School
Quest Forward Academy Omaha
On the Campus of Bellevue University
1000 Galvin Road South
Bellevue, NE 68005
402-403-1267
omaha@questforward.academy
About Us
Students should be active in and excited about their learning. School is the journey that leads to their futures. Quest Forward Academy challenges them, equipping them with the tools they will need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Combining rigorous academics with a solid framework of real-life, valuable skills, Quest Forward Academy is demanding, exciting, engaging—anything but boring.
2017
Founded
21
Staff
68
Students
2
Counselors

Small and Mighty
Small class sizes, typically about 12 students, allow for active, project-based learning, personalization geared toward interests and goals, ample opportunities to accelerate, and the attention each student deserves from a mentor. The school will continue to grow toward a target of 256 students, with 64 students per grade.
Part of a Global Network
Quest Forward Academy Omaha is part of a global network of schools that offer Quest Forward Learning to their students. Built on a common vision for quality education and a shared course of study, each Quest Forward Academy is committed to rigorous academics, active learning, and personal growth.
“After one semester at the school our boys are all smiles. They come home animated about what they are learning and both have experienced growth and successes. Our sons are inquisitive young men, challenged daily by their mentors to put their best foot forward. The mentors have high expectations and through encouragement and compassion they look forward to school everyday.”
“I like how independent it is, and how you can get ahead and you don’t have to wait for others.”
“The start of a new school year doesn’t make me nervous like how it used to… I get help and support as needed from my mentors and I get to collaborate a lot with my peers.”
A Truly Unique High School Experience
While operating independently, Quest Forward Academy students have access to world-class resources on the Bellevue University Campus:
- State-of-the-art science laboratory
- University library and media
- Makerspaces and art studios
- …and more!


Seamless Transition To College
From their first moment at the Academy, students learn to feel at home on a university campus, making the graduation leap to college nearly seamless.
While many high schools claim “college readiness,” few can offer the confidence imparted by 4 years of learning on a university campus with peers and mentors.
Meet the Staff

Director
B.A. in Education, M.A. in Education 8-12 Principal, M.A. in Education PK-8 Principal, Specialist Degree School Superintendent

Social Sciences and English Mentor
B.S. Journalism, M.A. Communications, M.A.T. Language Arts and Social Sciences

Catherine Dempsey
Math Mentor

Science Mentor
B.S. in Physical Science Education, M.S. in Educational Psychology, M.S. in Instructional Technology

Molly Kuehl
Office Manager

Social Science Mentor
B.S. Political Science, B.A. Education, M.A. Educational Administration

Art Mentor
B.A. Art & Art History, B.S. K-12 Art Education, M.S. Secondary Education, M.S. Education
Check out our open positions and apply.
A School Year that Makes Sense
The academic year consists of:
- Four terms, eight to nine weeks each
- Two-week fall Intersession
- Three-week winter Intersession
- Two-week spring Intersession
This schedule enables innovative, personalized programming for students. The Intersessions provide opportunities for:
- Intensive work in electives
- Internships or work experiences
- Independent projects
- A change of pace from the core academic content
A five-week Summer Session is also offered. The Summer Session provides students with opportunities to catch up in courses, as well as new opportunities for service learning, internships, project work, and electives.

Days with Structure and Flexibility
- 8:00 a.m.: Academy opens. Students work on projects, enjoy breakfast, and get ready for the day.
- 9:00 a.m.: Classes Begin
- 12:00 p.m.: Lunch
- 3:30 p.m.: Classes end. Club activities begin, as well as additional work time and mentor support.

During the regular terms, each class meets 5 times every 2 weeks. In addition to regular class meetings, students also have:
- Planning periods
- Open quest time
- One hour each day for electives and project work, which allows students to receive additional support
School lets out after morning classes every other Friday to provide time for professional development of staff and for students to engage in independent work.
Students also have regular opportunities for field trips and other exploratory projects in the surrounding community as part of our City as Campus program.
A Quest Forward Academy education may be more attainable than you think. Our scholarship program ensures that qualified students, regardless of finances, can attend Quest Forward Academy.
Upcoming Events
Get a One-on-One Virtual Tour
Take a personalized virtual tour when it’s convenient for you, tailored to what you are most interested in learning about. Contact an admissions counselor today to schedule.
Contact AdmissionsLatest from our blog
See MoreThe Ins and Outs of Grades in Quest Forward Academies
We have a unique approach to grades. Rather than focusing on a letter, we help students focus more... Read More
Enriching High School with College Courses
Quest Forward Academy Omaha students enjoy countless benefits from concurrently taking Bellevue... Read More
The Skills High School Students Need
The skills students develop through Quest Forward Learning — learning skills, work skills, and... Read More