Northwood Temple Academy: A legacy of excellence and innovation

Empowering future leaders through faith, technology and a commitment to academic brilliance

Northwood Temple Academy (NTA), established in 1979 in Fayetteville, North Carolina, continues to set the bar for academic and ethical excellence. With dual accreditation from the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Cognia, NTA offers a well-rounded pedagogy for students from early education through 12th grade. The academy’s holistic approach—combining strong academics, cutting-edge technology and moral guidance—nurtures individuals who are prepared for the challenges of the future.

“I tell teachers all the time to let our students feel free to ask questions here, which is a safe place where they will get the truth,” says Renee McLamb, head of school of Northwood Temple Academy. “Our dedicated instructors not only teach but also mentor, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive. I am really proud that we have a strong faculty that can speak truth into our students’ lives.”

This sentiment is mirrored by Sarah Garrett, who teaches English Honors, AP English and World Geography at NTA. “We can have conversations in an environment where we’re not going to shut them down for asking. We’re going to explore and discuss their ideas head-on. They are  our next generation and should be guiding them into the future.”

With a 100 percent graduation rate, NTA is committed to staying at the forefront of education. Its fully integrated STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) program allows students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, from robotics to film and broadcasting. The school introduces technology as early as 4th grade, highlighted by its investment in Chromebooks, iPads and MimioTeach, a device that transforms any whiteboard into an interactive touchscreen.

Despite the emphasis on tech-savvy education, NTA encourages a balanced use of technology. It has implemented policies such as banning cell phones during school hours to foster better class engagement while warning students about the pitfalls of AI.

“Technology can be so powerful, and how you use the information you have at your fingertips reflects your integrity,” says Garrett. “It is all about remaining truthful to our own creativity and moral compass,”

Meanwhile, the academy’s dual enrollment program with Fayetteville Technical Community College allows juniors and seniors to earn up to 16 semester hours of college credit before graduation. The program is a great way for students to get a head start on their college education while saving on tuition costs.

“We want to foster an attitude of getting better at getting better,” says McLamb, who has more than four decades of working experience in education. “We want to invest in our students’ spiritual future and let them know their purpose is so much bigger than what they can imagine. They should never stop learning and influencing other people’s lives in a positive way.”

Learn more about Northwood Temple Academy (CCS) at www.ntaeagles.com.