Empowering Young Learners. Preparing Future Teachers.
Serving elementary-aged students in Forsyth County
About the Academy
Admissions
Info for Families
The Appalachian State University Academy at Middle Fork is a free, public lab school serving grades K-5.
Located in Walkertown, North Carolina, the Academy at Middle Fork is a partnership of Appalachian State University and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS). Any elementary-aged student who lives in Forsyth County, North Carolina, is eligible to attend the Academy at Middle Fork. WS/FCS also operates a Pre-Kindergarten program within the school building.
Why the Academy at Middle Fork?
The Academy at Middle Fork is an innovative learning community that is committed to creating pathways and opportunities for lifelong learning and positive community impact.
- A positive school culture that is focused on restorative practices and supporting the whole child
- An innovative and flexible learning model that promotes personalized learning by meeting kids where they are
- A robust, exploration-based academic program focused on literacy and STEM
- Highly qualified teachers; many holding advanced degrees and certifications
- A weekly enrichment day that engages community and university partners in the learning process
- Students are mini-Mountaineers and see themselves as members of their “big school on the mountain” at App State
- Special student programming, resources, and support provided by Appalachian State University
The Academy at Middle Fork provides innovative learning experiences for all students. We believe our students deserve opportunities to learn and grow together.
Support the Academy at Middle Fork
UNC System lab schools are designed to provide enhanced educational programming to improve student performance and to plan demonstration sites for the preparation of future teachers and school administrators.
Featured News
At the App State Academy at Middle Fork, instead of a single teacher handling all responsibilities for one classroom for one grade, a collaborative team of academy educators supports student learning across two combined grade levels.
App State operates two lab schools — one in Walkertown and one in Elkin — where K–5 students can gain an education in a nontraditional classroom setting. Learn more about lab schools and their innovative approaches to teaching.