Empowering Minds: Education and Schools in Our Community
A Commitment to Educational Excellence
Fayetteville and Cumberland County offer a robust educational ecosystem that prepares students for lifelong success. From high-performing public schools to elite private institutions and innovative programs, families enjoy diverse options tailored to every learning style.
- 49,000+ students served across 86 schools in Cumberland County Schools (CCS)
- Academic proficiency: Up from 36.8% in 2021 to 49.3% in 2023
- 84.1% of schools met or exceeded growth expectations (vs. 72.5% state average)
- Purple Star Award: Recognized for military student support
- #2 in NC: for Career and Technical Education credential attainment
Public Education Excellence
Cumberland County Schools emphasizes academic growth and equity. The district is nationally recognized for its programs and outcomes that foster intellectual and personal development.
- Seventy-First Classical Middle School: National Blue Ribbon School recipient
- Communications Department: Earned six Gold Blue Ribbon Awards
- 93.8% of low-performing schools: Showed academic improvement
- Expanded programs: Gifted, CTE, ESL, and enrichment opportunities
- Inclusive services: Exceptional Children support and language assistance
Elite Private Education Options
Fayetteville's prestigious private schools provide academic rigor, personalized instruction, and strong college readiness—all in nurturing environments.
- Fayetteville Academy: Top-tier PK–12 prep school with 7:1 student-teacher ratio
- First Impressions Academy: STEM-focused middle school innovation
- Fayetteville Christian School: Extensive AP courses and competitive athletics
- Freedom Christian Academy: Dual-enrollment with FTCC for early college credit
- Village Christian Academy: Personalized attention in a faith-based setting
These schools boast high SAT/ACT scores and near-100% college acceptance, offering the foundation for students to pursue fields like medicine and science.
Specialized Learning Programs
Fayetteville offers nontraditional education paths through programs tailored to students’ interests, learning styles, and career goals.
- Cumberland Polytechnic High School: Earn a diploma & associate's degree tuition-free
- Cross Creek Early College: Offers accelerated, college-level learning
- Year-round schools: Promote consistent academic engagement
- AIG Programs: Specialized curriculum for gifted learners
- CTE pathways: Offer skills and certifications in high-demand fields
Though dual language immersion isn't currently offered locally, North Carolina ranks 5th nationally for such programs. First Impressions Academy leads locally with hands-on STEM instruction.
Advanced Academic Opportunities
Students can access college-level academics in high school, keeping them challenged and well-prepared for higher education.
- Advanced Placement: Wide offerings at public and private schools
- Dual Enrollment: Fayetteville Academy & UNC Pembroke partnership
- International Baccalaureate: Available in select schools
- Honors Programs: Accelerated learning for top students
- Competitions: Math Counts, Science Olympiad, Battle of the Books
With college prep starting early, students receive individualized guidance and access to opportunities that align with their future goals.
Arts and Extracurricular Excellence
Fayetteville’s schools offer rich extracurricular programs that foster creativity, athleticism, and leadership in students.
- Arts Programs: Music, theater, dance, and visual arts available K–12
- Athletics: Strong sports programs with college recruitment pathways
- STEM clubs: Robotics, coding, and scientific discovery
- Leadership: Student government and service organizations
- Cultural Enrichment: International clubs and language offerings
Fayetteville Academy leads with student participation in varsity sports and award-winning choral ensembles.
Support for Military Families
With its strong military presence, Fayetteville ensures exceptional support for military-connected students through recognition, counseling, and school integration programs.
- Purple Star Award: Earned district-wide for four years running
- Dedicated counselors: Trained to support military life transitions
- Flexible enrollment: Streamlined processes for relocations
- Student clubs: Provide peer support and belonging
- USA Club (Fayetteville Academy): Tailored support for Pre-K–5 military children
Educational Resources and Community Support
Fayetteville offers a rich learning environment beyond the classroom, including cultural institutions, libraries, and parent engagement tools.
- Public Libraries: Books, digital content, and enrichment programming
- Museums & Cultural Centers: Interactive learning for all ages
- University Collaborations: With FSU and other institutions
- Community Education: Summer camps, tutoring, and workshops
- Family Engagement On Demand: CCS platform for parental support
Parents become active partners in education thanks to the community's investment in learning at every level.
Higher Education Pathways
Fayetteville’s higher education institutions provide postsecondary opportunities for students and professional development for parents alike.
- Fayetteville State University: UNC system school with undergraduate to doctoral programs
- Fayetteville Technical Community College: Offers 190+ degree and certificate programs
- Methodist University: Liberal arts and professional studies focus
- Campbell University: Nearby, offering pharmacy, law, and medicine
- Access to Research Triangle: Near Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, NC State
These institutions support a culture of lifelong learning and provide enrichment opportunities like academic camps and guest lectures for the entire community.
As you consider building your home and career in Fayetteville, rest assured that the city is deeply committed to education. Whether your children are in preschool or preparing for college, Fayetteville offers the tools and support they need to thrive and succeed.
