Wanchese, North Carolina, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Wanchese Christian Academy has commenced its new school year, welcoming 49 students and 10 new staff members. This marks a significant milestone for the academy, celebrating its 47th year of providing Christian education in the Outer Banks. The school utilizes the Abeka curriculum, emphasizing core subjects such as Bible, math, and science, alongside various elective courses. Principal Holly Strum continues to foster a nurturing environment, where students are encouraged to grow academically and spiritually. Several staff changes and returning members contribute to a robust teaching team dedicated to student success.
Wanchese, North Carolina – Wanchese Christian Academy Begins 2025-2026 School Year with New Staff and 49 Students
On September 2, 2025, Wanchese Christian Academy (WCA) commenced the 2025-2026 school year, welcoming a total of 49 students and adding 10 new staff members to its dedicated team. This year marks the school’s 47th anniversary of offering Christian education to families in the Outer Banks.
Wanchese Christian Academy operates as a non-denominational institution, utilizing the Abeka curriculum, which encompasses a traditional learning approach focusing on core subjects such as Bible, math, language, history, science, and reading. Additionally, students have access to various electives, including computer science, art, physical education, culinary arts, public speaking, and penmanship.
The academy meets all state-level requirements for graduation, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future academic endeavors. For those in higher grades, options for dual enrollment or online classes are available, providing flexibility in their educational journey.
Principal Holly Strum, who continues her strong leadership at WCA, is devoted to nurturing a professional yet personal atmosphere, where students can thrive and grow both academically and spiritually. The majority of students benefit from the Opportunity Scholarship Program, making their education more affordable. Additionally, WCA offers monthly payment plans and conducts national level testing every spring, enabling both students and parents to monitor academic progress effectively.
New Staff Members for 2025-2026 School Year
This year, Wanchese Christian Academy introduced several new staff members:
- Delia Etheridge: Lead teacher for preschool and kindergarten, who has previously worked as an assistant for the past two years.
- Tabitha Heath: Elementary teacher’s assistant and WCA alumna, focusing on third-grade history and elementary art.
- Audrianna Ragland: New fifth-grade homeroom teacher responsible for teaching reading and physical education.
In addition to the newcomers, several staff members returned for another academic year, including:
- Principal Holly Strum
- Heidi Meekins (administrative assistant)
- Rachel Thompson
- Caroline Meekins
- Bridget Reynolds (1/2 grade homeroom and PE)
- Summer Stevens
- Donna Karnavas (elementary reading and personal finance)
- Cristie Daniels (custodian)
- Sue Berry (accountant)
Wanchese Christian Academy is recognized for its emphasis on creating a Christ-centered learning environment, which fosters both education and spiritual growth. For further inquiries about the school, interested parties can contact the school office at 252.474.5797.
FAQ
When does the 2025-2026 school year start at Wanchese Christian Academy?
September 2, 2025, marked the start of the 2025-2026 school year at Wanchese Christian Academy (WCA).
How many students and staff members are there for the new school year?
WCA welcomed 49 students and 10 staff members for the new academic year.
What curriculum does Wanchese Christian Academy use?
WCA operates as a non-denominational school primarily using the Abeka curriculum.
What are the core subjects offered at the school?
The curriculum includes core subjects: Bible, math, language, history, science, and reading.
What electives are offered at Wanchese Christian Academy?
Electives offered include computer, art, physical education, culinary arts, public speaking, and penmanship.
Key Features of Wanchese Christian Academy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| School Year Start Date | September 2, 2025 |
| Number of Students | 49 |
| Number of Staff Members | 10 |
| Curriculum | Abeka, non-denominational |
| Core Subjects | Bible, math, language, history, science, reading |
| Electives | Computer, art, physical education, culinary arts, public speaking, penmanship |
| Graduation Requirements | Meets all North Carolina requirements |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beloved Redford Woman Joelle Einem Passes Away at 41
Additional Resources
- The Coastland Times: Wanchese Christian Academy Welcomes Students
- Wikipedia: Christian Education
- The Coastland Times: Academic Honors at Wanchese Christian Academy
- Google Search: Wanchese Christian Academy
- WITN: Wanchese Christian Academy Recognitions
- Google Scholar: Wanchese Christian Academy
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
