About Us

At Wake Preparatory Academy, we like to say school doesn’t end at the classroom door—it stretches into every hallway, every soccer practice, and every conversation at the curb after dismissal. Nestled in the heart of Wake Forest, NC., our campus blends rigorous coursework with the kind of day‑to‑day support that lets students try, stumble, and try again until they succeed.

What truly distinguishes us among local charter schools is our commitment to shared life: community first, character always, and parents as partners from day one. Whether you’re reading aloud in a kindergarten class, cheering beside us at a Friday‑night game, or lending your voice on the family advisory council, your involvement isn’t a side program—it’s woven into how we learn and grow together. Here, education is a team effort, and every family member has a seat at the table.

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What We Model

At Wake Prep, parent involvement isn’t a sideline activity—it’s the heartbeat of our campus culture. When mothers, fathers, and guardians read aloud in kindergarten, cheer at a middle‑school debate, or chat with teachers during afternoon pickup, school starts to feel like an extension of home. That closeness keeps communication flowing in both directions, so wins are celebrated quickly and challenges are addressed before they grow. In turn, students see the adults in their lives—educators and family members—modeling respect, accountability, and service together, reinforcing the same positive values wherever they go. The result is a learning environment that nurtures both academic growth and personal character, giving every child the confidence to stretch, stumble, and soar.

Our Vision

WPA welcomes a diverse student population and builds upon the shared virtues that have helped make our nation great; hard work, perseverance, integrity, civility, honesty, respect, honor, and kindness. These shared values are the foundation of our vision. We believe that all youth in our nation hold tremendous potential. Regardless of socioeconomic status or background, when students, taught by exceptional teachers, are given the tools and skills necessary to realize their potential they become empowered and can accomplish anything.

Expanding the Walls of the Classroom to the Community and Homes

Character and integrity aren’t add‑ons to a child’s education—they’re the bedrock. That’s why we work so hard to keep our campus atmosphere positive and principled, the kind of place where students feel safe to stretch themselves and learn what real leadership looks like. In daily practice that means servant leadership woven through lessons, a uniform dress code that reminds everyone to take pride in their appearance and respect one another, and a code of conduct that applies as much to the adults as it does to the kids.

Leadership, of course, has to leave the classroom to matter. Each year our students step beyond the school gates to complete sixty hours of service that answer a genuine need in the community—tutoring younger children, organizing food drives, cleaning local parks. Those projects sharpen empathy, strengthen initiative, and show students firsthand how the virtues they study can change the world around them.

Performance Grade information

2024 - 64% C

2023 - 62% C

School, Home, and Community: One Connected Learning Space

At Wake Preparatory Academy, learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door—it flows through our hallways, out onto the athletic fields, and into living rooms across Franklin County. Our modern labs, performance spaces, and collaborative commons are more than eye‑catching facilities; they’re gathering points where students, teachers, and families team up to pursue shared goals. Spend a morning touring campus or cheering at a school event and you’ll see parents everywhere—mentoring in the makerspace, coaching on the sidelines, or chatting with teachers about a project that will spill over into dinner‑table conversation. That seamless partnership between home and school is woven into the fabric of our culture and stands at the heart of why Wake Prep has become a leading charter school in Wake Forest.

Why Choose Wake Prep?

Wake Preparatory Academy is more than just a school—it's a thriving educational community dedicated to nurturing young leaders from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located in the heart of Wake Forest and proudly serving Louisburg, Youngsville, Franklinton, and all of Franklin County, we’re committed to providing a supportive, vibrant, and academically enriching environment tailored to each student's unique potential.

Here’s What Sets Wake Prep Apart:

Academic Excellence & Personal Growth

At Wake Prep, academic rigor meets personalized learning. Our exceptional educators inspire students to excel academically while building the confidence needed for lifelong success. From our acclaimed Pre-K program to our comprehensive K-12 curriculum, every student is empowered to dream big and achieve more.

Core Values that Shape Leaders (R.A.I.S.E.)

Our foundational R.A.I.S.E. values—Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, and Excellence—guide every aspect of life at Wake Prep. Beyond traditional academics, we nurture character development and servant leadership, preparing students not just for higher education, but for meaningful roles within their community.

Expansive Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

At Wake Prep, we believe education extends far beyond the classroom walls. Students actively engage with the community, providing at least sixty hours of meaningful service annually. These opportunities for hands-on learning, civic engagement, and leadership development distinguish Wake Prep from other charter schools.

Strong Community & Family Involvement

We believe that a student's educational journey thrives when families and educators collaborate. Our welcoming campus encourages active parent participation, fostering a supportive, community-focused environment. By partnering closely with parents, we create a cohesive learning atmosphere where positive values flourish and every student feels at home.

Exceptional Leadership Team

Our directors, Krista Wyman (Grades 7-12) and Crystal Cleveland (Grades K-6), bring extensive experience and passion to Wake Prep. With deep roots in education and a genuine commitment to student success, our leadership team sets a strong, positive tone across campus, ensuring students receive the support and inspiration needed to flourish.

A Commitment to Diversity and Shared Values

Wake Prep warmly welcomes a diverse student population, united by core values like hard work, perseverance, respect, and kindness. We believe every student, regardless of background, can achieve greatness when provided the right environment, tools, and support.

Ready to experience the Wake Prep difference firsthand? Schedule a tour today and discover how our supportive, values-driven environment empowers every student to excel.

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