This content first appeared in Economy & Business 2026. Click here to view the full publication.

By Dr. Robert P. Taylor, Wake County Public School System

Wake County is home to one of the largest and most successful public school districts in the nation, serving more than 161,000 students across 203 schools. Families continue to choose Wake County because of its strong, innovative schools and dedicated educators.

The Class of 2025 included more than 12,600 graduates, with a four-year graduation rate of 90.6% and a record five-year rate of 93.1%. Both are among the highest in North Carolina. Students also continue to show steady academic growth, with districtwide proficiency rising for the third consecutive year.

To meet the needs of a growing county, four new schools opened this year in Apex, Fuquay-Varina, and Holly Springs, expanding access to modern, collaborative learning environments. These additions reflect the community’s ongoing investment in education through consistent support for bond referenda and capital projects.

Now entering its 50th anniversary year, the Wake County Public School System remains grounded in the values that inspired the 1976 merger of city and county schools: Equity, excellence, and opportunity for all. From magnet programs to early colleges and career academies, WCPSS connects students to real-world learning in fields such as advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and health sciences.

These programs – supported by strong business, nonprofit, and higher education partnerships – ensure students graduate ready for the future.

“Our public school system continues to be one of this community’s greatest strengths and most important investments. Our steady academic growth, strong graduation rates, and new school openings are the result of an incredible partnership between educators, families, policymakers, and the business community. As we celebrate our district’s 50th anniversary in 2026, we’re also looking ahead, expanding real-world learning opportunities and ensuring every student has the tools to thrive. We’re preparing the workforce and leaders who will shape Wake County’s next 50 years of growth and success.”

– Dr. Robert P. Taylor, Superintendent, Wake County Public School System