Purposeful and intentional community and relationship building is making all the difference at Peak Charter Academy, which has seen year-over-year success only three years into being open.
Every January, Cary Magazine publishes a list of readers’ choices that feature local businesses and service providers that “help make life great in Western Wake County.” Over 10,000 votes were cast in Cary Magazine’s annual Maggy Awards, and Peak and Principal Steve Pond are once again two of this year's "Blue Ribbon Winners.”
Peak Charter Academy was named the Best Public School, and Principal Pond was named the Best Elementary Principal, for the second year in a row.
“We are excited and honored to be recognized as the Best Public School in the area, and proud to be school of choice to all who seek our unique focus on academic excellence and character development through our commitment to differentiated and tiered instruction and our Moral Focus curriculum,” said Pond.
They currently serve nearly 700 students who focus on academic excellence and the school-wide Moral Focus curriculum, which teaches students to be well-rounded individuals by focusing on monthly virtues such as gratitude and encouragement. Peak cares about developing the whole student, heart and character included.
As founding principal, Pond brought extensive educational leadership experience to the school and its surrounding community. “My favorite thing about being in this role is having the ability to help faculty and students to grow and succeed both personally and professionally,” said Pond.
Zack Perfitt, director of school quality, shared what makes Pond such a unique, effective leader. “Steve is a servant leader. When making decisions, he always thinks of his staff and students first. He is a perfect example of serving both the hearts and minds of his students.”
Since its founding in 2017, Peak has built a strong foundation of academic success. In the 2018-19 school year, Peak outperformed its local district in math and reading on the state test, and in the same year, the school also outperformed the state. Additionally, for the past two years, Peak has met or exceeded growth expectations.