About Us

Mission Statement

Wake County Public School System will provide a relevant and engaging education and will graduate students who are collaborative, creative, effective communicators and critical thinkers.

Vision Statement

Through positive relationships, relevant instruction, and an intentional learning environment, we will engage students and families in impactful academic and social experiences that build empowered learners.

Middle School Program

Our largest program serves students who are not experiencing adequate success at their base middle school.  We emphasize strengthening basic academic skills.  Academic remediation is available for students in the areas of Math and Reading.  The student/teacher ratio is 10:1.
Students referred to the Middle School Program meet the following criteria: 

• Failing, or at-risk of failing, most/all core classes
• Able to be redirected by teachers and administrators, but may be easily distracted or off-task
• Demonstrating a history of building positive relationships with teachers in the referring school
• When discipline issues occur, they are most frequently observed in larger, less structured times of the school day or areas of the campus
• No history of severe or aggressive acting out
• Limited access to additional support services within the referring school
• Demonstrating a relatively consistent pattern of attending school
• Demonstrating a positive response to smaller environments (if available) in the referring school

Booster Program

The Booster Program is an acceleration program designed to provide academically proficient students who are off cohort with an opportunity to complete 8th grade in one semester. Students enter high school the following semester and are provided follow-up services through high school graduation. The student/teacher ratio is 15:1.

Students referred to the Booster Program meet the following criteria:

• currently in 7th grade
• being off off cohort due to retention, starting late, or being placed in a grade when enrolling.
• ability to complete a rigorous academic course of study in 18 weeks.
• performing at or above academic grade level.
• maintaining A/B/C’s in classes at their base school.
• demonstrating a history of building positive relationships with teachers at the referring school.
• being well behaved with no history of severe or aggressive acting out
• having a consistent pattern of attending school
   

Bridges Program

The Bridges program serves students in Kindergarten through 5th grade.  Please visit their website for more information.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get my child into your school? 

Referrals to Mt. Vernon are managed by your child's base middle school.  It is important to speak to your child's school counselor, social worker, or principal if you want to be considered for our programs. 

Is this a school for "bad" kids?

No. Mt. Vernon does not accept students who have a pervasive history of misbehaviors.  Some of our students do have some minor behaviors that impact their learning, while others may experience motivation or attendance issues.  In many cases, our students are those that just need smaller class sizes and more structure in order to be successful. 

Can I visit the school before my child enrolls?

Absolutely!  Parents are encouraged to visit and take a guided tour of Mt. Vernon. 

Middle School Program contacts
Mrs. Brown, tbrown3@wcpss.net, 919-233-4313, ext 27073
Mrs. Smith, mysmith@wcpss.net, 919-233-4313, ext 27082 (speaks Spanish)

Booster Program
Mrs. West, cwest@wcpss.net, 919-233-4313, ext 27072

How will my child be transported to Mt. Vernon?

Transportation is handled through contracted providers.  Students are picked up from their individual addresses.  We encourage parents to exchange contact information with the driver, and keep him/her updated on illnesses, vacations, or changes in address.  Students are not permitted to ride any cab other than the one they are assigned.  Parents or others designated by the parent/guardian may pick up a child with prior written notice. 

What do I do if my child does not get accepted into Mt. Vernon?

Mt. Vernon provides information to the base school regarding admittance - including results and reasoning.  Your child's base school counselor or social worker may be able to share other options or help find services for your child. 

Can my child attend Mt. Vernon after being long term suspended?

Students actively serving long term suspensions are not considered candidates for our program. 

What do you teach at Mt. Vernon?

Students are instructed using the North Carolina Standard Course of Study in all subjects.  Teachers follow the recommended pacing guides provided by Wake County Public Schools. Most students are enrolled in reading and/or math intervention classes as well as one elective per semester.

Do you have sports or other extracurricular activities?

No, we do not. However, students are allowed to participate in sports and extracurricular activities at their base schools.