Carolina Preparatory Academy
Founded 2025
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
IB MYPAccreditations
Carolina Preparatory Academy is an independent IB World School in the Triangle area of North Carolina, serving students in grades 6-12. It is the first independent school in the state to offer the full IB continuum for these grade levels.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Carolina Preparatory Academy practices the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, aiming to develop agile thinkers, poised communicators, and gracious collaborators. The school focuses on rigorous, interdisciplinary academics, environmental studies, and community service to foster responsible, knowledgeable, and kind citizens. It is committed to maintaining a diverse student body and providing an education that prepares students for fulfilling lives in college and beyond.
Programmes
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, specifically the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6-10 and the Diploma Programme (DP) for grades 11-12. The academic program features interdisciplinary studies, a robust environmental studies curriculum, and Project Week, which provides local to global experiential learning opportunities. Technology is integrated throughout the curriculum, supported by a 1:1 laptop program.
Outcomes
The school reports that 100% of its students graduate into their top-choice schools. Graduates are characterized as agile thinkers, poised communicators, and gracious collaborators who are prepared for the demands of a competitive world.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides student support services, including a school psychologist and a health office staffed by registered nurses. Academic and social progress is monitored through student advisors.
Frequently asked questions(3)
- What curriculum does Carolina Preparatory Academy offer?
- Carolina Preparatory Academy offers IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- What accreditations does Carolina Preparatory Academy hold?
- Carolina Preparatory Academy holds accreditations including IB.
- Where is Carolina Preparatory Academy located?
- Carolina Preparatory Academy is an international school in Durham, United States.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The admissions process includes an inquiry form, a campus visit, and a formal application. Applicants must complete the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) and participate in a student visit, which may include interviews and assessments. Applications submitted by January 13 receive first consideration, after which the school operates on a rolling admissions basis. The school offers tuition assistance based on demonstrated financial need through the Clarity application process, as well as merit-based scholarships for new students.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar that includes breaks such as an Independence Day closure. Detailed academic calendars for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years are available through the school's media hub.
Facilities
About the campus
The school is situated on a 40-acre campus in Durham, North Carolina. The facilities support a 1:1 laptop program for all students and include spaces for athletics, environmental studies, and technology integration. A virtual tour of the campus buildings and grounds is available via the school's website.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of athletics, including soccer, volleyball, tennis, ultimate frisbee, cheerleading, cross country, and basketball. Student organizations are driven by student interest, allowing for the creation of new clubs. Additional opportunities include the Montessori Model United Nations (MUN) for grades 4-9, environmental studies initiatives, and SummerScape, which offers week-long day camps in areas like robotics, arts, and nature education.
- Monica RodriguezHead of School
As Head of School, she leads the day-to-day management of school operations and partners with the Board of Trustees in planning for the institution's future. She oversees both The Montessori School of Raleigh and Carolina Preparatory Academy.
- Michelle MillerUpper School Director & Dean of Academics, Carolina Prep
She serves as the Upper School Director and Dean of Academics for Carolina Preparatory Academy. She is also a point of contact for the International Baccalaureate Programme.
- Brant MorrisMiddle School Director & Dean of Student Life, Carolina Prep
He serves as the Middle School Director and Dean of Student Life for Carolina Preparatory Academy.
- Justin PikeChief Financial & Operations Officer
He serves as the Chief Financial & Operations Officer for the school.
- Derek SpahrChief Advancement Officer
He serves as the Chief Advancement Officer for the school and is a contact for the Annual Fund and giving.
- Liz Keadle, Ph.D.Director of Marketing, Communications & Strategic Initatives
She serves as the Director of Marketing, Communications & Strategic Initiatives.
- Stephanie HendersonDirector of Admissions & Enrollment Management
She serves as the Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management.