- Wake County Public School System
- Schools and Themes
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Schools and Themes
Themes: Magnet, application, and year-round schools
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Application Schools
Southeast Raleigh Elementary School (PreK-5)
Partnering with the YMCA of the Triangle, this school is part of an endeavor to create pathways for an emerging neighborhood whose residents would be able to build a better future through education, wellness, housing, medical access, and access to healthy foods. The school will serve more than 400 students and will include a gymnasium, workout space, group fitness room, multipurpose space, and an outdoor swimming pool. All of the children who attend the school will be given free swim lessons.Crossroads FLEX, in partnership with North Carolina Virtual Public School, is a digital, hybrid/blended learning school that serves students whose outside interests and activities, called "pursuits", require considerable amounts of time during regular school hours. Pursuits can include highly competitive activities in the arts, sports, and entrepreneurship. The master schedule is designed to offer students a flexible schedule so they have more time in their "pursuit". Core content courses are primarily taught in a face-to-face setting, while most electives are offered asynchronously.
A Crossroads FLEX student is responsible, able to work independently, self-motivated, engaged, and exhibits the highest degree of integrity. Crossroads FLEX students must train 20+ hours a week and be highly involved in their chosen pursuit.
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Arts Plus
Creative Arts and Science (K-5)
This program has an emphasis on learning and expression through the integration of the arts in all areas. Arts teachers and science teachers are specialists who work with classroom teachers to help bring the arts into math, science, social studies, and language arts. With the addition of a science learning lab and a specialized science teacher, all students are provided with expanded hands-on science instruction beyond that taught in the regular classroom.
School: Douglas Magnet Elementary
Arts and Design (K-5)
The Arts and Design theme is the beginning of your child’s journey on a pathway of creative excellence. Students will experience working within the design cycle process to imagine and make their own ideas real. They will have opportunities to immerse themselves in a variety of art mediums to demonstrate their learning and visualize their creations.
In Arts and Design, students may work with their peers to create an amusement park that is accessible to everyone by building models of the rides. Or, students could make a new way to communicate and then write and perform a play that will explain this new system to people in the future. Pairing the design cycle with the arts is a powerful way for students to take control of their learning and develop the creative skills and flexible thinking necessary for success in our changing world.School: Wildwood Forest
Museums (K-5)
Through extensive partnerships with local museums, arts centers, and government organizations, students interact with these community resources for an enhanced learning experience that transcends the classroom walls. The Paideia Principles are applied throughout the day, which provides students the opportunities to create products that demonstrate their understanding of the Standards. Through these dynamic student interactions, the school is transformed into a museum of student work.School: Brooks Magnet Elementary
Academy of Arts and Design (6-8)
At East Millbrook Magnet Middle School Academy of Arts and Design, we believe that students of Arts and Design are not just learners – they are designers, creators, makers, and performers of the future. Our program is designed to actively connect the creative opportunities we provide to the critical skills needed to solve the challenges of tomorrow.
Students engage with their peers through design thinking and arts integration. This approach expands their understanding of core concepts, nurtures their creative curiosity, and allows students to explore a wide array of elective choices. With nearly 100 electives in our course catalog, students have the chance to explore novice creative interests or dive deep into established arts passions through leveled visual and performing arts electives.
These hands-on learning opportunities allow students to not only hone their skills but also understand the real-world impact of arts and design in action. Our students benefit from interactions with guest artists, exciting field experiences, and the thrill of participating in student-created performances.
We offer the option to enroll in a double period of an Arts Guild class. These daily 80-minute electives are available in eight different arts disciplines, and they provide a unique opportunity to deepen your child's passion for developing their craft and gaining a deeper understanding of the art world.
At East Millbrook Magnet Middle School Academy of Arts and Design, we are dedicated to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for the arts in your child.
School: East Millbrook Magnet Middle
International Baccalaureate
In the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), for grades 9 and 10, students learn through global contexts, key interdisciplinary concepts, and the application of social, thinking, research, communication, and self-management skills. A critical piece of student learning happens through action and service to the community. Students benefit from a wide range of course offerings in the arts, world languages, technology, social studies, science, and physical education. During the fifth year of MYP (10th grade), students complete a personal project that demonstrates initiative, organization, and creativity. The IB Diploma Years Programme (DP), for grades 11 and 12, not only offers intellectual rigor, but emphasizes ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. The IB DP student becomes a critical and compassionate thinker, lifelong learner, and informed participant in local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.Schools: Garner Magnet High and Millbrook Magnet High -
Gifted and Talented
The Gifted and Talented (GT) Pathway includes some of the district's oldest and most popular programs. It is rooted in the belief that every student has gifts and talents to be valued and nurtured. To that end, students on the GT pathway explore a wide variety of subjects through core subjects and an extensive menu of elective courses that develop strengths and interests. Students have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests.
Gifted and Talented (K-12)
This magnet program is rooted in the belief that every student has gifts and talents that are valued and nurtured through this model. Students in GT schools explore an extensive menu of electives, all of which enhance the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, and all of which are designed to develop students’ strengths and interests. Through this structure, students have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests. World Language instruction and expanded visual and performing arts opportunities are available K-12.Interactive Community (K-5)The Interactive Community Theme is about building dynamic communities within and outside of the school building. Inside the school building, a community is created through small class sizes, high parent involvement, and quality learning experiences. Community is built outside the school building through service projects, valuable off-campus learning opportunities, university connections, and partnerships with outside organizations. Partnership families are expected to volunteer an average of four hours per month in activities that support the school's mission. Partnership operates on a modified year-round calendar.
School: Partnership Magnet Elementary
Play and Ingenuity (K-5)
Welcome to the only school in Wake County rooted in play theory and curriculum. This program builds ingenuity within the culture of the teachers, learners, and staff by embedding elements of Play and game-like learning within all curricular areas. Teachers use games to teach students about strategy, cooperation, communication skills, and problem-solving. In grades K-3, learning comes through playing games. In grades 3-5, it evolves into learning more about game theory and game design, helping students understand more complex concepts. This approach to learning offers developmentally appropriate challenges and enhances academic and socio-emotional proficiency.School: Powell Magnet ElementaryGifted and Talented/AIG Basics (K-8)
This magnet program is rooted in the belief that every student has gifts and talents that are valued and nurtured through this model. Students in GT schools explore an extensive menu of electives, all of which enhance the standard curriculum, and all of which are designed to develop students’ strengths and interests. Through this structure, students have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests. World Language instruction and expanded visual and performing arts opportunities are available K-12.Students in the AIG (Academically or Intellectually Gifted) Basics program are cluster-grouped with other AIG-identified students for language arts and/or math, according to their individual qualifications. Schools that offer the AIG basics theme offer it in conjunction with the GT magnet theme.Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics Middle School (6-8 modified calendar)
This magnet program is rooted in the belief that every student has gifts and talents that are valued and nurtured through this model. Students in GT schools explore an extensive menu of electives, all of which enhance the Common Core and Essential Standards, and all of which are designed to develop students’ strengths and interests. Through this structure, students have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests. World Language instruction and expanded visual and performing arts opportunities are available K-12.Students in the AIG (Academically or Intellectually Gifted) Basics program have cluster time with other AIG-identified students for language arts or math, according to their individual qualifications. All schools that offer the AIG basics theme offer it in conjunction with the GT magnet theme. Local partnerships with state museums, government organizations, and cultural art centers provide students with enhanced learning experiences that transcend the classroom walls.
School: Moore Square Magnet MiddleGifted and Talented/IB Diploma Programme (9-12)
This magnet program is rooted in the belief that every student has gifts and talents that are valued and nurtured through this model. Students in GT schools explore an extensive menu of electives designed to develop their strengths and interests. They have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests.
Beyond intellectual rigor, a strong emphasis of the IB Diploma Programme (11th & 12th grades) is placed on the ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. Students become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants on local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.School: Enloe Magnet High -
International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) pathway is an internationally standardized program of study that is offered in about 160 countries and has garnered worldwide recognition for its rigor and high academic standards. IB students become increasingly knowledgeable and interested in international understandings, and actively work to effect positive change. The IB Organization offers three programs: the Primary Years Programme (grades K-5), the Middle Years Programme (grades 6-10), and the Diploma Programme (grades 11-12). Many colleges and universities give special admissions consideration to students who take IB classes and earn an IB Diploma.
IB Primary Years Programme (K-5)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) has four programmes that span from kindergarten through 12th grade. In elementary, students participate in the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The PYP develops the whole child as a responsible and contributing member of society. Through the K-5 years, the community starts local and spans to a global understanding, all connected to empowering students to take action as they deem appropriate and necessary. PYP students learn how to take control of and responsibility for their learning, therefore increasing their confidence and self-motivation.Through PYP, schools develop students' academic, social and emotional wellbeing while enhancing their international-mindedness and personal commitment to society. The IB Learner Profile creates a platform for everyone to develop human responsibilities that surpass academic excellence. These characteristics imply a commitment to helping the entire school community learn to respect themselves, others, and the world around them. IB-trained teachers work together to create units of inquiry grounded in real-life contexts that inspire students to think about big ideas that promote international understanding and a global perspective. The IB PYP helps students question the world through an inquiry model of teaching and learning, increase positive, cross-cultural attitudes and create an understanding of the world through community involvement and collaboration.Schools: Farmington Woods Magnet Elementary, Fox Road Magnet Elementary, and Smith Magnet ElementaryCenter for Spanish Language/IB PYP (K-5)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) has four programmes that span from kindergarten through 12th grade. In elementary, students participate in the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The PYP develops the whole child as a responsible and contributing member of society. Through the K-5 years, community starts local and spans to a global understanding, all connected to empowering students to take action as they deem appropriate and necessary. PYP students learn how to take control of and responsibility for their learning, therefore increasing their confidence and self-motivation.Through the PYP, schools develop students' academic, social and emotional wellbeing while enhancing their international-mindedness and personal commitment to society. The IB Learner Profile creates a platform for everyone to develop human responsibilities that surpass academic excellence. These characteristics imply a commitment to helping the entire school community learn to respect themselves, others, and the world around them. IB-trained teachers work together to create units of inquiry grounded in real-life contexts that inspire students to think about big ideas that promote international understanding and a global perspective. Additionally, at Joyner, daily in kindergarten through fifth grade, students explore the Spanish language and culture through reading, art, music, and dance. Together, the IB PYP and daily Spanish learning help students question the world through an inquiry model of teaching and learning, strengthen literacy and communication skills in English and Spanish, increase positive, cross-cultural attitudes and create an understanding of the world through community involvement and collaboration.School: Joyner Magnet ElementaryIB Middle Years Programme (6-8)
The MYP programme encourages your child to make practical connections between their studies and the real world, preparing them for success in further study and in life. Learning communities in IB World Schools engage in cycles of inquiry, action, and reflection that lead to deeper understanding and a lifetime of learning.
IB MYP offers Years 1-3 of the programme. MYP students take 8 required subject areas. All students take Language and Literature, Mathematics, Sciences, Individuals and Societies, and Physical and Health Education. Students choose a second language of study in Year 1. They continue with their language choice for all 3 years, developing fluency in speaking, reading, and writing. Students also choose one Arts class and one Design class to study for the entire year. We have many offerings of different courses in the Arts and Design programs.The MYP believes in having students explore the “depth and breadth” of the subject. Year 3 students complete their Community Project where they use the Design Cycle to identify a problem and identify resources to help find a solution.
The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. Students are encouraged to find opportunities to take action for the betterment of family, home and community.
The Creative Arts program has an emphasis on learning and expression through the integration of the arts. Arts teachers are specialists who work with classroom teachers to help bring the arts into math, science, social studies, and language arts.Schools: East Garner Magnet Middle and West Millbrook Magnet Middle
International Baccalaureate
In the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), for grades 9 and 10, students learn through global contexts, key interdisciplinary concepts, and the application of social, thinking, research, communication, and self-management skills. A critical piece of student learning happens through action and service to the community. Students benefit from a wide range of course offerings in the arts, world languages, technology, social studies, science, and physical education. During the fifth year of the MYP (10th grade), students complete a personal project that demonstrates initiative, organization, and creativity. The IB Diploma Years Programme (DP), for grades 11 and 12, not only offers intellectual rigor, but emphasizes ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. The IB DP students become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants on local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.IB Diploma Years Programme (Paired with select High School Magnet themes in
grades 11-12)The IB Diploma Years Programme (DP), for grades 11 and 12, not only offers intellectual rigor, but emphasizes ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. The IB DP students become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants on local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.
Garner Magnet High School offers the Career-related Programme (CP) for students in grades 11 and 12. CP students undertake a minimum of two IB Diploma Programme (DP) courses, a core consisting of four components and a career-related study. For CP students, DP courses provide the theoretical underpinning and academic rigor of the programme; the career-related study further supports the programme’s academic strength and provides practical, real-world approaches to learning; and the CP core helps them to develop skills and competencies required for lifelong learning. Through the IB CP, students deepen their understanding in general areas of knowledge, engaging in a holistic education model that fosters an enthusiasm for lifelong learning.
Schools: Garner Magnet High, Millbrook Magnet High, and Enloe Magnet High
University Connections: School of Design, Arts & Engineering (9-12)
University Connections: School of Design, Arts & Engineering leverages college-level expertise to inform the development of magnet course offerings and strengthens overall program rigor. Strong and visible partnerships with local colleges and universities as well as businesses provide invaluable resources. The transdisciplinary thematic curriculum allows students to select and focus on one of the following College and Career Pathways:- Design
- Arts
- Engineering, Math, and Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Students have opportunities to take specialized courses, interact with experts in these fields, and participate in on-site visits.School: Southeast Raleigh Magnet High -
Language Immersion/Global Studies
The Language Immersion programs and pathway offer students an opportunity to develop English acquisition as well as a second language (Spanish or Chinese). The standard curriculum is utilized throughout all of the language immersion programs. Students, however, take their literacy, math, social studies, and science classes in a second language. While students are together for their immersion experience, they have the opportunity to participate in globally-focused specials, taught in English, during other parts of the day. In the Global Studies program, students take globally-focused humanities classes. An intercultural focus is integrated into all classes.Chinese Language Immersion (K-12)
This language immersion program offers students an opportunity to develop English acquisition as well as Mandarin Chinese language development. The NC Standard Curriculum is utilized throughout all of the language immersion programs. Students in grade Kindergarten through 2nd take their literacy, math, social studies, and science classes in Mandarin Chinese. Grades 3-5 take their math and Mandarin literacy classes in Mandarin. While students are together for their immersion experience, they have the opportunity to participate in globally-focused specials, taught in English, during other parts of the day. The immersion program begins in kindergarten and continues through 5th grade. Students seeking to join the program after kindergarten will be assessed to ensure their ability to speak, read and write in the target language appropriate for the grade level they are seeking to join. The program continues at middle and high school.
Elementary school: StoughMiddle School: OberlinHigh School: BroughtonSpanish Language Immersion (K-12)This language immersion program offers students an opportunity to develop English acquisition as well as Spanish language development. The NC Standard Curriculum is utilized throughout all of the language immersion programs. Students, however, take their literacy, math, social studies, and science classes in a second language. While students are together for their immersion experience, they have the opportunity to participate in globally-focused specials, taught in English, during other parts of the day. The immersion program begins in kindergarten and continues through 5th grade. Students seeking to join the program after kindergarten will be assessed to ensure their ability to speak, read and write in the target language appropriate for the grade level they are seeking to join. The program continues at middle and high school.
High Schools: Athens Drive and BroughtonSpanish Dual Language Immersion (K-12)Students in the Spanish Dual Language Immersion Program will develop language proficiency in Spanish and English. Core instruction is provided by two teachers, both of whom teach all students, one teaching in English, and one teaching in Spanish. Specials classes (Art, Music, Physical Education, etc.) are taught in English. However, the teachers embed Spanish cultural connections during instruction. The immersion program begins in kindergarten and continues through 5th grade. The school accepts students in kindergarten and first grade with no language experience. Students seeking to join the program after first grade will be assessed to ensure their ability to speak, read and write in the target language appropriate for the grade level they are seeking to join. The program continues at middle and high school.
Elementary schools: Hodge Road and Smith
Middle Schools: Oberlin and Dillard Drive
High Schools: Athens Drive and Broughton
Center for Global Studies and Spanish Immersion (K-8)Global Studies Instruction
Students will select one of two daily world languages - Spanish or French - to study on a daily basis of instruction embedded in special classes in art, music, physical education, media, and technology with the goal of becoming bilingual before they enter high school. Global learning is integrated into core content areas.
Spanish Language Immersion
Offered to cohorts of students who select this option within the schools’ theme. 80% of daily instruction is delivered in Spanish and the remaining 20% delivered in English. Offered to two classes per grade level and phased in over five years.
Elementary School: Dillard Drive
Middle School: Dillard Drive
High Schools: Athens DriveLeadership and World Languages (K-5)
Unleashing each child's full potential as a well-rounded global citizen, this magnet program focuses on leadership and world languages as a vital component in every student's education. Students have daily instruction in either Mandarin Chinese or Spanish. Using Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, students learn and practice integrity, initiative, work ethic, cooperation, confidence, and service to the community.School: Green Magnet Elementary
International Studies (K-5)
International education is taught through integrated units of study that include world investigations, global perspectives, communication of ideas, and local and global action. Students in the International Studies magnet have the opportunity for daily study in one of five world language choices beginning in kindergarten through fifth grade. Language classes are leveled and include Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, and German. Students also select classes from a menu of internationally focused arts and PE courses. Twenty-first-century tools assist students in learning about the rich world around them and various means of communicating across cultures to become global ambassadors.School: Wiley Magnet Elementary
IB Primary Years Programme and Spanish Immersion (K-5)
Students in the Spanish Dual Language Immersion Program will develop language proficiency in Spanish and English. Core instruction is provided by two teachers, both of whom teach all students, one teaching in English, and one teaching in Spanish. Specials classes (Art, Music, Physical Education, etc.) are taught in English. However, the teachers embed Spanish cultural connections during instruction. The immersion program begins in kindergarten and continues through 5th grade. Students seeking to join the program after kindergarten will be assessed to ensure their ability to speak, read and write in the target language appropriate for the grade level they are seeking to join.School: Smith Magnet Elementary
Global Studies/Language Immersion (6-8)
In the global studies program, students learn to investigate their world, recognize perspectives, communicate ideas, and take action so that they are prepared to be effective Global Citizens. The purpose of a global studies program is to encourage curiosity and awareness of the world's geography, cultures, and current events.
Language Immersion students begin their Mandarin or Spanish language journey at a pathway elementary school. In grades 6-8, students continue their immersion studies in their target language through core and elective courses.
IB Middle Years Programme (6-8)
In the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), students learn through global contexts, key interdisciplinary concepts, and the application of social, thinking, research, communication, and self-management skills. Students benefit from a wide range of course offerings in the arts, world languages, technology, social studies, science, and physical education. Teachers ask "Essential Questions" that guide students in finding more than one right answer.
Schools: West Millbrook Magnet MiddleCenter for Global Studies and World Languages (6-8)
Scholars at East Cary Center for Global Studies and World Languages are able to earn up to 2 high school world language credits by the time they enter high school. Language development begins as soon as scholars enter the 6th grade. They have the option to choose daily world language classes in Spanish or Mandarin Chinese. Additionally, East Cary is focused on growing the whole scholar to become a well-rounded global citizen. Our teachers are trained to develop relevant connections between the curriculum and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals while also incorporating the four Global Competency Domains: Investigating the world, Recognizing perspectives, Communicating ideas, and Taking action. At East Cary, we want each scholar to build positive relationships, and receive the skills and knowledge to become independent learners, global citizens, and caring leaders who make positive contributions to our society.
The development of global awareness within our scholars prepares them to be able to relate to world challenges and issues skills that are imperative locally, nationally, and internationally.
Schools: East Cary Magnet Middle
Global Studies/Language Immersion/IB Diploma Programme (9-12)
In the Global Studies program, students participate in a world language class and participate in a Global Studies course. This course will explore world religions, cultures, and global issues. The purpose is to give students an understanding, respect, and appreciation of multiple geographic regions and cultural areas in an effort to develop an understanding of various challenges that unite and divide the world. The Language Immersion program (Spanish and/or Mandarin Chinese) is designed for a cohort of students who arrive from a participating pathway middle school. Beyond intellectual rigor, a strong emphasis of the IB Diploma Programme (11th & 12th grades) is placed on the ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. Students become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants on local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.School: Broughton Magnet HighCenter for Medical Sciences & Global Health Initiatives (9-12)
Students interested in a career in health and/or science professions will be interested in this magnet theme. Areas of concentration range from agricultural sciences, animal science, global health initiatives, and much more. Students in this program become leaders in the medical and health science fields. Experiences include STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) pedagogy learning across disciplines, relevant connections between the core curriculum and current topics in medical sciences and global health, community partnerships that offer hands-on learning opportunities, and collaboration with extensive university and corporate partnerships for real-world connections.School: Athens Drive Magnet HighUniversity Connections: School of Design, Arts & Engineering (9-12)
University Connections: School of Design, Arts & Engineering leverages college-level expertise to inform the development of magnet course offerings and strengthens overall program rigor. Strong and visible partnerships with local colleges and universities as well as businesses provide invaluable resources. The transdisciplinary thematic curriculum allows students to select and focus on one of the following College and Career Pathways:- Design
- Arts
- Engineering, Math, and Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Students have opportunities to take specialized courses, interact with experts in these fields, and participate in on-site visits.School: Southeast Raleigh Magnet HighInternational Baccalaureate
In the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), for grades 9 and 10, students learn through global contexts, key interdisciplinary concepts, and the application of social, thinking, research, communication, and self-management skills. A critical piece of student learning happens through action and service to the community. Students benefit from a wide range of course offerings in the arts, world languages, technology, social studies, science, and physical education. During the fifth year of the MYP (10th grade), students complete a personal project that demonstrates initiative, organization, and creativity. The IB Diploma Years Programme (DP), for grades 11 and 12, not only offers intellectual rigor, but emphasizes ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. The IB DP students become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants on local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.Schools: Millbrook Magnet High -
STEM
The STEM magnet pathway affords all learners an enhanced, STEM-focused curriculum that aligns with the rapidly evolving individual, societal, and economic STEM landscape. The student-centered curriculum of this pathway equips students with the STEM mindset by nurturing inquiry (learning that aligns to natural student curiosities) and fostering the essential problem-solving skills necessary to participate in a dynamic world. Instructional and learning experiences will focus on employing interdisciplinary skills to solve authentic and complex problems. Unique business and community partnerships will enable learners to experience the seamless connection between curriculum and careers.
Center for Design & Computer Sciences (K-5)
Bugg Magnet Elementary School Center for Design & Computer Sciences is a thriving learning community where innovative and authentic experiences prepare our students to positively impact the world. At Bugg, we offer an in-depth, hands-on curriculum that introduces children to the Design Thinking Process, Computer Science, and Computational Thinking skills. Bugg students engage in thematic units in their grade-level classrooms and also have the opportunity to take hands-on Electives every quarter to further their understanding and skills in the foundations of Design and Computer Science. As a result, Bugg Magnet Elementary School’s one-of-a-kind program equips students to enter middle school far ahead of the technological learning curve, with the experience and skills needed to lead the way in innovation and discovery as future experts in the fields of design and computer science.School: Bugg Magnet Elementary
Engineering (K-5)
What do engineers do? They solve problems! Engineers identify problems in our community and world and engineer solutions. Students at Brentwood Magnet Elementary School of Engineering do the same thing as they think like engineers and solve problems using the engineering design process. Students are provided with enriched educational opportunities through engineering challenges that bring together science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The engineering way of thinking promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity as they complete challenges in all subjects and classes.School: Brentwood Magnet Elementary
Entrepreneurial Design (K-5)
Entrepreneurial Design is the application of a mindset allowing students to be forward-thinking problem finders and solvers. As we prepare students for careers that do not exist, we need them to persevere, be creative, innovative, great communicators, and multi-talented. A CONNtreprenuer uses the content they learn to identify a problem in their school, community, or around the world, and creates a solution involving a good or service while learning from business and organizational partnerships. Students will hear from speakers, video conference with those experts further away, and participate in content-based excursions to see how the content they learn is applied in the real world.
School: Conn Magnet Elementary
Leadership (K-5)
The leadership theme at A.B. Combs is rooted in timeless principles and nurtured by the concept that everyone can be a leader. Our framework is based on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen Covey, as well as other leadership strategies that encourage continuous improvement, increased self-awareness and problem solving. With the approach that all children are at their best when they are loved, valued and heard, A.B. Combs has become the cornerstone of leadership in young children. More than 5000 schools throughout the world implement the leadership model that was created in the halls of A.B. Combs.School: A.B. Combs Magnet Elementary
Montessori/STEM (K-5)
The Montessori program offers a nurturing and supportive learning environment developing the whole child, including social, emotional, academic, and physical needs. Curriculum is delivered using Montessori philosophy, methods, and materials. Student-led Project-Based Learning allows students to gain knowledge and skills by investigating and responding to a complex question or challenge.School: Kingswood Magnet ElementaryEnvironmental Connections (K-5)
The Environmental Connections program engages students in daily instruction in core content areas delivered through the lens of environmental and life sciences. Students at each grade level engage in multidisciplinary, project-based learning through the completion of Environmental Challenge Inquiry Units. The Environmental Challenge Inquiry Units focus on four broad themes: 1) living things, 2) earth science/solar system, 3) environmental/community connections, and 4) weather and climate. These units are grade-specific, standards-aligned, project/problem-based learning activities. Students also participate in Expeditions ~ multidisciplinary elective classes rooted in math and literacy content and process skills. All students participate in theme-related Expedition classes that extend what they re learning in core subjects.Schools: Lincoln Heights Magnet Elementary and Millbrook Magnet Elementary
iStem (K-5)
The iSTEM magnet program at Wake Forest brings together science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in ways that make learning fun and authentic. iSTEM places a strong emphasis on the individual student and their learning styles and interests.
The school and classroom spaces are designed to be student-centered and allow students to be engaged with hands-on learning experiences that foster inquiry, curiosity, confidence, problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication.
Schools: Wake Forest Elementary
Center for Digital Sciences (6-8)
The Center for Digital Sciences prepares students for the digital future. Students become problem solvers who think critically and creatively, and who use technology as a tool for collaboration and innovation. Digital Sciences teaches an approach to learning called Computational Thinking. Computational Thinking involves collecting data, breaking it down, analyzing it, looking for patterns, and finding creative and innovative steps to solve problems. This thinking approach serves children in all subject areas and in their lives, even beyond academics. Students also have the opportunity to interact with technology companies in nearby Research Triangle Park. This authentic collaboration with IT and programming businesses strengthens classroom learning.School: Reedy Creek Magnet Middle
Leadership in Technology (6-8)
Leadership in Technology empowers student leaders to dream, learn, lead and innovate. Our Leadership in Technology theme is built around Dr. Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits for Highly Effective Teens. We couple these leadership skills with our 1:1 technology initiative and unique STEM opportunities in core and elective classrooms, ensuring that all students gain the leadership and technology skills in grades 6-8 to be resilient problem solvers, and successful in high school and beyond.
School: Carroll Magnet Middle
Center for Innovation (6-8)
This magnet program is part of the Project Synergy grant allowing them to deepen their relationship with valued partners at NC State University, bringing innovation as the magnet theme. Students will experience what it's like to design and create, look at challenges and consider possible solutions and make connections to the real world around them. Students will think deeper and innovate through the design thinking process.School: Centennial Magnet Middle
IB Middle Years Programme (6-8)
In the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), students learn through global contexts, key interdisciplinary concepts, and the application of social, thinking, research, communication, and self-management skills. Students benefit from a wide range of course offerings in the arts, world languages, technology, social studies, science, and physical education. Teachers ask "Essential Questions" that guide students in finding more than one right answer.
The Creative Arts program has an emphasis on learning and expression through the integration of the arts. Arts teachers are specialists who work with classroom teachers to help bring the arts into math, science, social studies, and language arts.School: West Millbrook Magnet Middle
University Connections: School of Design, Arts & Engineering (9-12)
University Connections: School of Design, Arts & Engineering leverages college-level expertise to inform the development of magnet course offerings and strengthens overall program rigor. Strong and visible partnerships with local colleges and universities as well as businesses provide invaluable resources. The transdisciplinary thematic curriculum allows students to select and focus on one of the following College and Career Pathways:- Design
- Arts
- Engineering, Math, and Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Students have opportunities to take specialized courses, interact with experts in these fields, and participate in on-site visits.School: Southeast Raleigh Magnet HighCenter for Medical Sciences & Global Health Initiatives (9-12)
Students interested in a career in health and/or science professions will be interested in this magnet theme. Areas of concentration range from agricultural sciences, animal science, global health initiatives, and much more. Students in this program become leaders in the medical and health science fields. Experiences include STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) pedagogy learning across disciplines, relevant connections between the core curriculum and current topics in medical sciences and global health, community partnerships that offer hands-on learning opportunities, and collaboration with extensive university and corporate partnerships for real-world connections.School: Athens Drive Magnet HighGifted and Talented/IB Diploma Programme (9-12)
This magnet program is rooted in the belief that every student has gifts and talents that are valued and nurtured through this model. Students in GT schools explore an extensive menu of electives designed to develop their strengths and interests. They have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests.
Beyond intellectual rigor, a strong emphasis of the IB Diploma Programme (11th & 12th grades) is placed on the ideals of international understanding, responsible citizenship, and service. Students become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed participants on local and world affairs, respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that make up the world. Students who choose to participate in the Diploma Programme can potentially earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma that is recognized by major universities worldwide.School: Enloe Magnet High -
Year-Round Calendar
On the year-round instructional calendar, students attend school 177 days but on a calendar that is divided into four 9-week quarters with a 3-week break between each quarter. Students are assigned to one of four tracks and attend school for approximately 45 days when they are "tracked in" and are "tracked out" for approximately 15 days.
Most year-round schools are multi-track, meaning students are divided into four groups known as tracks and attend school on a staggered schedule. For example:
- The school year starts in July with tracks 1, 2 and 3 attending.
- When Track 3 students “track out” for their three-week break, Track 4 students “track in.”
- A few weeks after that, Track 2 tracks out, and Track 3 tracks back in.
- Finally, Track 1 tracks out, and Track 2 tracks back in.
- This pattern continues throughout the school year, which ends in late June.
This allows schools to accommodate 25% more students to help us and also helps us maximize the use of our school facilities in highly populated areas of our district.
Track assignments are made by school administrators. They factor in parent preference as well as the size of the student population. Applicants to year-round schools will be able to rank their track preferences in their application. Students based at a year-round school should inquire at their base school to determine procedures for indicating track preference.
Many parents say the more frequent breaks offer a number of benefits, including keeping students rested and refreshed and allowing families to take vacations at different times of the year. All students on the year-round calendar have the same holidays as all other calendars.
Elementary
- Adams
- Alston Ridge
- Ballentine
- Banks Road (Track 4 only)
- Barwell Road (Track 4 only)
- Brassfield
- Brier Creek
- Carpenter
- Durant Road (Track 4 only)
- Harris Creek
- Herbert Akins Road
- Heritage
- Hodge Road Magnet (Track 4 only)
- Holly Grove
- Holly Springs
- Jones Dairy
- Lake Myra (Track 4 only)
- Laurel Park
- Lockhart (Track 4 only)
- Middle Creek (Track 4 only)
- Morrisville
- North Forest Pines
- Oak Grove
- Olive Chapel
- Parkside
- Pleasant Union
- Rand Road (Track 4 only)
- Salem
- Sanford Creek
- Sycamore Creek
- Timber Drive (Track 4 only)
- Turner Creek
- Vance (Track 4 only)
- Walnut Creek (Track 4 only)
- West Lake (Track 4 only)
- Wilburn (Track 4 only)
- Willow Springs
Middle
- Alston Ridge
- Durant Road (Track 4 only)
- Herbert Akins Road
- Heritage
- Holly Grove
- Lufkin Road
- North Garner (Track 4 only)
- Pine Hollow
- Rolesville
- Salem
- West Lake (Track 4 only)
High
We do not have any high schools on the year-round calendar.
Early Colleges/Leadership Academies
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North Wake College and Career Academy (9-12+)
This school is a collaborative endeavor with Wake Technical Community College and Wake County Public Schools. Students will be able to complete studies in one of five programs as part of their graduation credits. The school offers Culinary Arts, Business Administration, Information Technology Support, Early Childhood Education, and Emergency Medical Technology. Through an academic foundation paired with career-informed courses and work-based learning experiences, graduates of North Wake CCA may continue at a four-year university, or apply their earned credits towards an AAS degree, certificate, or diploma program at Wake Technical Community College.
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Vernon Malone College and Career Academy (9-12+)
Vernon Malone College and Career Academy is a collaborative endeavor between the Wake County Public School System, Wake Technical Community College, and Wake County Government. Students at Vernon Malone College and Career Academy complete studies in one of these Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs as part of their high school graduation credits. These include Biopharmaceutical Technology, Cosmetology, Facility Maintenance Technology, Nurse Aide, Simulation and Game Development and Welding.Through an academic foundation, paired with career-focused courses and work-based learning experiences, graduates of Vernon Malone College and Career Academy will be prepared to enter the workforce, continue on to a four-year university, or apply their earned credits towards an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, certificate or diploma program at Wake Technical Community College in areas such as Biotechnology, Building, Engineering and Skilled Technologies, Business & Public Services, Health Sciences, or Information Technology.
Vernon Malone College and Career Academy es un esfuerzo de colaboración entre el sistema de escuelas públicas del condado de Wake, el Wake Technical Community College y el gobierno del condado de Wake. Los estudiantes de Vernon Malone College y Career Academy completan estudios en uno de estos programas de Educación Técnica y Profesional (CTE) como parte de sus créditos de graduación de la escuela secundaria. Estos incluyen tecnología biofarmacéutica, cosmetología, tecnología de mantenimiento de instalaciones, asistente de enfermería, simulación y desarrollo de juegos y soldadura.A través de una base académica, combinada con cursos centrados en la carrera y experiencias de aprendizaje basadas en el trabajo, los graduados de Vernon Malone College and Career Academy estarán preparados para ingresar a la fuerza laboral, continuar en una universidad de cuatro años o aplicar sus créditos obtenidos hacia una carrera profesional. Programa de título, certificado o diploma de Asociado en Ciencias Aplicadas (AAS) en Wake Technical Community College en áreas como biotecnología, construcción, ingeniería y tecnologías especializadas, negocios y servicios públicos, ciencias de la salud o tecnología de la información. -
Wake Early College of Health and Sciences (9-12+)
Wake Early College of Health and Sciences (WECHS) is an application school focused on health and sciences. WECHS provides students opportunities to explore careers in the health and sciences through partnerships with Wake Tech and WakeMed Health and Hospitals. This up-to-five-year public high school program allows students to earn their high school diploma and an associate degree, college transfer credit, the prerequisite courses to prepare for a health sciences degree, and/or a health care certificate. College credits completed while enrolled at WECHS are tuition-free and are transferable to all sixteen of North Carolina's public universities. Students follow a rigorous high school program of honors classes for the first two years and attend classes on the Perry Health Sciences Campus of Wake Tech. For the remaining years, students are dually enrolled in Wake Tech courses and attend classes on the Northern Campus of Wake Tech.
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Wake Early College of Information and Biotechnologies (9-12+)
The school is located on the Wake Technical Community College’s new RTP campus. Students will take a blend of high school courses and Wake Tech courses, with a focus on Information Technology and Biotechnology. Students will graduate with a high school diploma and credits towards their Associate in Applied Sciences degree, with the potential to earn enough credits to graduate with an Applied Sciences degree. The school partners with RTP businesses to provide students with real-world work experience. Graduates will take courses and attain skills that will make them job-ready in two high-demand areas. Program offerings include Network Management, Computer Programming, Cybersecurity, and Biotechnology.
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Wake STEM Early College High School (9-12+)
The Wake STEM Early College High School is a small public school of choice; a joint project between the Wake County Public School System and North Carolina State University. STEM is the theme of the school’s program in addition to our identity as an early college. Early college means students take college courses at NCSU as well as the courses required to earn a high school diploma over a five-year period. STEM at our school does not just relate to four subject areas but instead permeates throughout the entire program as our students explore the "Grand Challenges for Engineering" through Project-Based Learning strategies.
STEM has two components that we explore:
- The world is bigger than our community, state, country, and nation. It is our responsibility to 'reach beyond our limits to achieve our dreams, even those not yet imagined'.
- We can only solve the world's problems and truly realize our potential if we think with an engineering mindset.
At Wake STEM, we follow the NCSU Engineering Design Process as our foundation to solve our problems and complete our projects.
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Wake Young Men's / Wake Young Women's Leadership Academies (6-12+)
The Wake Young Men's and Women's Leadership Academies were established in 2012 to provide educational opportunities for young men and women in a rigorous single-gender academic program. The Wake Leadership Academy is a 6-13, single-gender, early college, leadership academy within the Wake County Public School System. Grades 6-10 for the Wake Young Men's Leadership Academy are held in the Thompson School Building in downtown Raleigh. Grades 6-10 for the Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy is held on the Governor Morehead School for the Blind campus. Grades 11-13 are at Saint Augustine’s University located in the historic Oakwood neighborhood of Raleigh, NC. The schools emphasize leadership development, entrepreneurship, and community service. Each school serves approximately 50 students per grade level in grades 6 through 13.
Staffed by a team of educators who are dedicated to the academic and social progress of all children, they support, enrich, and empower each young man and woman to become learners and leaders in local and global environments. They prepare young men and women for life-long learning through rigorous instruction. They collaborate with students, parents, community members, and each other to create successful schools.
Wake Young Men's Leadership Academy website
Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy website
Magnet and Early Colleges Directory
School Name | School Level | Program | School Website |
---|---|---|---|
Athens Drive | High | Center for Medical Sciences and Global Health Initiatives | http://www.wcpss.net/athensdrivehs |
Brentwood | Elementary | School of Engineering | http://www.wcpss.net/brentwoodes |
Brooks | Elementary | Museums | http://www.wcpss.net/brookses |
Broughton | High | Global Studies and Language Immersion/International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/broughtonhs |
Bugg | Elementary | Design and Computer Science | http://www.wcpss.net/bugges |
Carnage | Middle | Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics | http://www.wcpss.net/carnagems |
Carroll | Middle | Leadership in Technology | http://www.wcpss.net/carrollms |
Centennial Campus | Middle | Center for Innovation | http://www.wcpss.net/centennialms |
Combs | Elementary | Leadership | http://www.wcpss.net/combses |
Conn | Elementary | School of Entrepreneurial Design | http://www.wcpss.net/connes |
Dillard Drive | Elementary | Center for World Languages & Spanish Immersion | http://www.wcpss.net/dillarddrivees |
Dillard Drive | Middle | Center for World Languages & Spanish Immersion | http://www.wcpss.net/dillarddrivems |
Douglas | Elementary | Creative Arts and Science | http://www.wcpss.net/douglases |
East Cary | Middle | Center for World Languages and Global Studies | http://www.wcpss.net/eastcaryms |
East Garner | Middle | International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme/Creative Arts | http://www.wcpss.net/eastgarnerms |
East Millbrook | Middle | Academy of Arts and Design | http://www.wcpss.net/eastmillbrookms |
Enloe | High | Gifted and Talented/International Baccalaureate DP Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/enloehs |
Farmington Woods | Elementary | International Baccalaureate - Primary Years Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/farmingtonwoodses |
Fox Road | Elementary | International Baccalaureate - Primary Years Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/foxroades |
Fuller | Elementary | Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics | http://www.wcpss.net/fulleres |
Garner | High | International Baccalaureate - Middle Years and Diploma Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/garnerhs |
Green | Elementary | Leadership and World Languages | http://www.wcpss.net/greenes |
Hodge Road | Elementary | Dual Language Immersion- Spanish | http://www.wcpss.net/hodgeroades |
Hunter | Elementary | Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics | http://www.wcpss.net/hunteres |
Jeffreys Grove | Elementary | Language Immersion - Spanish | http://www.wcpss.net/jeffreysgrovees |
Joyner | Elementary | Center for Spanish Language/International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/joyneres |
Kingswood | Elementary | Montessori/STEM | http://www.wcpss.net/kingswoodes |
Ligon | Middle | Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics | http://www.wcpss.net/ligonms |
Lincoln Heights | Elementary | Center for Environmental Connections | http://www.wcpss.net/lincolnheightses |
Martin | Middle | Gifted and Talented | http://www.wcpss.net/martinms |
Millbrook | Elementary | Center for Environmental Connections | http://www.wcpss.net/millbrookes |
Millbrook | High | International Baccalaureate - Middle Years & Diploma Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/millbrookhs |
Moore Square | Middle | Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics | http://www.wcpss.net/mooresquarems |
North Wake College and Career Academy | High | Early College | http://www.wcpss.net/northwakecca |
Oberlin | Middle | Global Studies and Language Immersion | http://www.wcpss.net/oberlinms |
Partnership | Elementary | Interactive Community | http://www.wcpss.net/partnershipes |
Poe | Elementary | Gifted and Talented/AIG Basics | http://www.wcpss.net/poees |
Powell | Elementary | Center for Play and Ingenuity/Gifted and Talented | http://www.wcpss.net/powelles |
Reedy Creek | Middle | Center for the Digital Sciences | http://www.wcpss.net/reedycreekms |
Smith | Elementary | International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and Spanish Dual Language Immersion | http://www.wcpss.net/smithes |
Southeast Raleigh | High | University Connections: School of Design, Art and Engineering | http://www.wcpss.net/southeastraleighhs |
Stough | Elementary | Language Immersion - Mandarin | http://www.wcpss.net/stoughes |
Underwood | Elementary | Gifted and Talented | http://www.wcpss.net/underwoodes |
Vernon Malone College and Career Academy | High | Early College | http://www.wcpss.net/vernonmalonecca |
Wake Early College of Health and Sciences | High | Early College | http://www.wcpss.net/healthscienceec |
Wake Forest | Elementary | iStem | http://www.wcpss.net/wakeforestes |
Wake STEM Early College | High | Early College | http://www.wcpss.net/stemec |
Wake Young Men's Leadership Academy | Middle and High | Early College | http://www.wcpss.net/wakeyoungmen |
Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy | Middle and High | Early College | http://www.wcpss.net/wywla |
Washington | Elementary | Gifted and Talented | http://www.wcpss.net/washingtones |
Wendell | Elementary | Academy of Design and Creative Arts | http://www.wcpss.net/wendelles |
West Millbrook | Middle | International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme | http://www.wcpss.net/westmillbrookms |
Wildwood Forest | Elementary | Academy of Arts and Design | http://www.wcpss.net/wildwoodforestes |
Wiley | Elementary | International Studies | http://www.wcpss.net/wileyes |
Zebulon | Elementary | Center for Advanced Studies and STEM | http://www.wcpss.net/zebulones |
Zebulon | Middle | Center for Advanced Studies & STEM | http://www.wcpss.net/zebulonms |
Wendell | Middle | Academy of Design and Creative Arts | https://www.wcpss.net/wendellms |
East Wake | High | iTech and Design | https://www.wcpss.net/eastwakehs |
