
Ascend Leadership Academy
Grades and ages
Ages 11-18
Enrollment
599 students
Student-teacher ratio
14:1
Tuition
100% Tuition-Free (North Carolina Public Charter School)
About Ascend Leadership Academy
At Ascend Leadership Academy in Sanford, students in grades 5 to 12 attend our tuition-free charter campus, while grades 6 to 11 can enroll in our Remote Academy. We use project-based instruction with a focus on digital media and real-world learning. Students can join athletics, performing arts, e-sports, and other activities, and high school students can explore dual enrollment with Central Carolina Community College. Our school day runs from 8:10 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.
Student fit
Who this school serves
Grades and ages
- Grades 5-12 (in person)
- Grades 6-11 (remote)
- Ages 11-18
Specialties
- Project-Based Digital Innovation
- Computer Science & Aviation Pathways
- Exceptional Children (EC) Support Services
- Leadership & Public Speaking Development
- Personalized High School Graduation Tracks
Learning and support
Curriculum and therapeutic services
Services and supports
- Exceptional Children (EC) Specialist Support
- 504 Plan Accommodations
- Executive Functioning & Study Labs
- College & Career Transition Counseling
Programs
Programs at Ascend Leadership Academy
Other programs and supports
- Exceptional Children (EC) Specialist Support
- 504 Plan Accommodations
- Executive Functioning & Study Labs
- College & Career Transition Counseling
School facts
Practical details for families
- School Type
- Public charter school
- Students with IEPs
- 58 (12% of students)
- Students with 504 Plans
- 7
Accreditation and licensing
- Cognia Accredited
- North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Approved
Tuition and funding
Tuition: 100% Tuition-Free (North Carolina Public Charter School)
- Tuition-Free Public Charter School
- State EC Allocations
- Title I Support
Enrollment
599 students
Visit us
Location and directions
Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Ascend Leadership Academy
Is Ascend Leadership Academy a tuition-free public school?
Yes. Ascend Leadership Academy is a 100% tuition-free public charter school serving grades 6-12 in Sanford and surrounding counties.
How does project-based learning work at Ascend?
Students work in teams on real-world projects combining STEM, business, and technology to master state curriculum standards while developing critical thinking and collaboration skills.
What support is available for students with IEPs or 504 plans?
The school employs certified Exceptional Children (EC) specialists who deliver individualized accommodation plans, push-in classroom assistance, and testing modifications.
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