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Ivybrook Academy Wilmington Ivybrook Academy Wilmington
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Our Story

A History of Expanding Possibilities & Changing Futures

The concept for Ivybrook Academy was developed in 2005 by a first-grade teacher who recognized the absence of multidimensional learning opportunities for her students. Jennifer McWilliams knew they deserved better and was motivated to take action. She took her passion for shaping and teaching young minds and set out to create the optimal learning environment that recognized the strengths and needs of each child.

The first Ivybrook Academy opened in Weddington, North Carolina, in August 2007 with nearly full enrollment on day one. Since then, our flagship campus has continually been voted the #1 Preschool in the Charlotte area. Shortly thereafter, seeing the students flourishing, Jennifer’s husband, Drew, realized that this concept can and should be brought to communities throughout the country. He left his real estate career to focus on bringing Ivybrook to new communities, and under the leadership of Jennifer and Drew, Ivybrook Academy opened its second campus in Fort Mill, SC, in 2011. Once again, the Preschool was a success and became a beloved part of the community.

Seeing how valuable the Ivybrook experience was for young children in these two communities, Jennifer and Drew knew they needed to bring their innovative Preschool to children across greater North Carolina and throughout the country. They meticulously developed a company growth plan that allowed them to expand the Ivybrook brand and provide students throughout the country with this invaluable opportunity. Today, Ivybrook Academy has over 20 campuses and is continuing to expand into new communities throughout the United States.

Our Approach Cultivating Their Unique Potential
  • Observe & Customize

    Craft educational plans and opportunities based on each child's individual learning style

  • Explore & Discover

    Utilize the physical environment as a rich resource for exploration, inquiry, and thought

  • Respect & Collaborate

    Model and encourage respect and collaboration in every aspect of daily life

  • Honor & Document

    Value children's voices and showcase their importance through documentation

Discover The Ivybrook Way
Family Testimonials

Enriching Your Child’s Foundation

  • "We started at Ivybrook when my daughter was 2 years old, she is now in the PreK class and we are so grateful for this school community. All of the teachers are so warm and welcoming. She has developed the sweetest relationships with her friends and has fostered a love of learning that she will carry through her academic journey." - Carissa H.
  • "Ivybrook was a wonderful pre-school for my son. He attended from age 3 to 6, through TK, and we wish we could have stayed longer! The Montessori classrooms are big and bright, full of age appropriate curiosities for Reggio inspired child-led, play-based learning. My son loved the amble outdoor time, small group work, Discovery, and the connections he made with both his peers and teachers. He rose to the expectations of school and experienced an immeasurable amount of personal growth." - Airica D
  • "We had two kids go through Ivybrook and I honestly can’t praise this school enough. The teachers and staff are the absolute best. They give so much love, patience, communication, and attention to every student and parent. My kids learned so much from them and had amazing experiences. Lots of tears were shed on their last day (by my kids and myself). Ivybrook will forever be our favorite. I am so thankful for this school and staff!" - Alex Kakabaker
  • "Preschool at Ivybrook Academy was an incredible experience for our 2-year-old. From day one, we felt at ease knowing our child was in such a caring and supportive environment. The teachers are truly invested in each child's well-being and development, and it shows. Our little one was curious, engaged, and ALWAYS excited to go to school. In just 1 short year, we saw so much growth, not just academically, but in his confidence and social skills. The genuine warmth and encouragement from the staff made all the difference, and we’re so grateful for the positive impact Ivybrook had on our child. What a wonderful start to his learning journey!" - Rachel
  • "Our daughter has completed two years at Ivybrook Academy. During her time there, we’ve been thrilled by the nurturing environment that this school has created. She’s made so many friendships and some deep and meaningful connections with her teachers. The staff has been so warm and kind, and I know my daughter was in the best of care when she was with them! We’re incredibly thankful that we found Ivybrook. Our daughter has learned and explored, made so many friendships, and completely blossomed during her time at this school." - Heather C.
  • "Highly highly recommend IvyBrook! My son went here for 3s and 4 and I could not of been happier. The teacher were incredible. Ms Krista was also incredible! The number one pre k school in Wilmington by far!" - Kyle LaRose

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Cary Full building

An Award-Winning Endeavor

Jennifer and Drew’s hard work and dedication have helped bring our Preschool into over 50 communities throughout the country and we are continuing to grow. Along the way, Ivybrook received some awards. Ivybrook Academy is recognized as a leader in early childhood learning.