GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The new school year is officially underway for some Wayne County students, while thousands more are preparing to return to the classroom later this month.
Classes began this week for two Wayne County Public Schools (WCPS) operating on the district’s Non-Traditional Calendar — Wayne School of Engineering and Wayne Early/Middle College High School. The district’s remaining 31 schools, which operate on the Traditional Calendar, will welcome students back on Monday, Aug. 24.
As families prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, WCPS is highlighting several resources, programs and reminders designed to help students start the year prepared and ready to learn.
Open Houses Planned for Next Week
Schools across the district will host Open House activities next week, giving students and families an opportunity to meet teachers and staff, learn about classroom expectations, become familiar with campuses and pick up schedules, supply lists and other important information.
Open House dates and times vary by school. Families can find their school’s schedule on the WCPS website by selecting “Open House Schedule.”
The district’s website also provides families with lunch menus, individual school information and other back-to-school resources.
New Before- and After-Care Programs
New for the 2026-2027 school year, WCPS will offer Elementary School Before-Care and After-Care programs for students enrolled at participating schools.
The fee-based programs are designed to give families a safe and convenient option for student care outside regular school hours. Additional information, including participating schools and program guidelines, is available through the “Elementary Before & After Care” section of the district website.
Talking Points Keeps Families Connected
WCPS will continue using Talking Points as its primary two-way communication tool between families and schools. Communication is available through SMS text messaging and a mobile app.
The platform can translate messages into more than 150 languages, helping schools communicate important information with families. Parents are encouraged to watch for Talking Points messages from their children’s teachers as the school year begins.
Volunteers Encouraged to Get Involved
WCPS is also encouraging community members to consider volunteering in local schools.
According to the district, volunteers play an important role in supporting students and staff and can contribute their time and talents in a variety of ways. Those interested can find an application through the “Become a Volunteer” section of the WCPS website.
Drivers Urged to Watch for Students and School Buses
With thousands of students traveling to and from school by bus, vehicle and on foot, WCPS is reminding motorists to use extra caution as classes resume.
Drivers should never pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended. Motorists should also allow additional travel time during morning and afternoon commutes, watch for children near bus stops and roadways, and slow down in school zones and near crosswalks.
“Our schools are excited to welcome all of our students back to the classroom,” Superintendent Dr. Marc Whichard said. “I cannot say enough about the academic gains our schools have experienced in recent years.”
Whichard credited those gains to clear expectations and a shared commitment among school employees, families and the community to provide students with safe, welcoming and engaging learning experiences.
“Together, we will build on this academic momentum in the coming school year and further establish Wayne County Public Schools as the school system of choice,” Whichard said.
Traditional-calendar students will report for their first day of classes Monday, Aug. 24.
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