#United States #Raleigh #classical education #Thales Academy

Thales Academy Expands to Raleigh: A New Horizon for Classical Education

Thales Academy, a prominent network of K–12 classical schools, is on the verge of a significant expansion. Scheduled to open in the 2027–2028 school year, a new junior high and high school campus will launch in northeast Raleigh, North Carolina, marking the tenth Thales Academy location in the Triangle area.

This momentous development speaks to the growing demand from local families who have long sought a dedicated educational establishment that prioritizes classic educational values. According to Thales Academy founder Bob Luddy, the community's persistence has made this vision a reality. "A junior high/high school in Northeast Raleigh has been a request of many Triangle area families for a long time, and I am delighted we are able to transform this request into reality," he states.

The new Thales Academy Raleigh JH/HS, located at 7003 Buffaloe Road, promises to provide an enriching learning environment focusing on character development and rigorous academics. Initially, the campus will cater to grades six through nine, gradually expanding to encompass grades through twelve. This systematic approach allows for a seamless transition for students as they progress through their education.

Educational Philosophy

Thales Academy prides itself on delivering a classical curriculum that instills critical thinking and deep analytical skills in its students. The incorporation of the Socratic method promotes discussion and interaction beyond a conventional lecture format, fostering an environment of engagement and inquiry.

The curriculum emphasizes the humanities, science, mathematics, and foreign languages—including Latin—equipping students with a robust knowledge base. Additionally, unique vocational programs provide insights into industrial arts and engineering, preparing students for diverse career paths. The senior thesis serves as a capstone project, underscoring the school’s commitment to comprehensive education and student achievement.

“Our graduates are exceptionally prepared for college, the workforce, and successful lives,” Luddy remarks, pointing to the program's effectiveness in distinguishing Thales alumni in higher education and their professional careers. Students frequently secure substantial scholarships at various universities, further validating the school’s efficacy.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The new Raleigh campus will feature a modern, two-story classroom building designed to enhance the educational experience. With a focus on aesthetics, the building will merge classical beauty with contemporary functionality, including large floor-to-ceiling windows that flood classrooms with natural light.

A standalone gymnatorium will complement the classroom facilities, boasting a full set of amenities for sports and physical education, such as indoor volleyball and basketball courts, a weight room, locker rooms, and a stage for performances. Specialized classrooms for the Luddy Institute of Technology and Luddy Industrial Arts programs will be fully equipped with the latest tools and technology to ensure hands-on learning.

All facilities are designed with student safety in mind, incorporating advanced security features, and ventilation systems to guarantee optimal indoor air quality. These elements make the campus not only a place of learning but also a secure environment for students to thrive.

Admission and Affordability

Current and rising junior high students from existing Thales Academy campuses in Knightdale and Raleigh will receive priority enrollment at the new facility. With affordability central to Thales Academy's mission, families can expect reasonable tuition fees, currently set at $7,600 per year, alongside available scholarships and payment plans to facilitate access for all families.

As the new campus prepares to open, applications are currently being accepted for the 2026–2027 school year. Families looking for a rigorous yet affordable education for their children are encouraged to explore the options available at the existing campuses, ensuring a guaranteed seat in the new facility when it opens. Applications can be submitted through their official website, offering a streamlined process for interested families.

In conclusion, the expansion of Thales Academy in Raleigh signifies a critical leap toward enhancing educational accessibility while nurturing students' intellectual and moral development. As they prepare to serve more families, Thales Academy continues to raise the standard for classical education, laying a strong foundation for the future of its students.