We, the undersigned parents, educators, and members of the Leland community, respectfully urge the Town of Leland to approve the necessary rezoning for Wild Forest Academy, a nature-based, community-centered school that reflects the values, goals, and vision set forth in the Leland 2045 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. 

About Wild Forest Academy

Wild Forest Academy is dedicated to nurturing resilient, curious, and compassionate learners through experiential, nature-integrated education. Currently offering full-time kindergarten through 2nd grade and homeschool hybrid options, the school plans to expand to serve students through 12th grade.

Blending STEAM learning with outdoor exploration, hands-on projects, and a child-led approach, Wild Forest Academy supports academic growth, mental wellness, and environmental stewardship helping to build a healthy, safe, and educated community. Its flexible full-time and hybrid models meet the needs of modern families, while the curriculum fosters problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork—preparing students to thrive in a changing world.

Why the Zoning Change is Needed

Over the past few years, the school has been working closely with the Town of Leland to ensure all planning and zoning requirements are met. The Town of Leland has been very helpful throughout this process. We deeply appreciate all the time and energy they have put into walking us through this each step. The school is now at a point in that process where rezoning is needed to support growth and better serve its wonderful students and families. The new zoning would also rezone a substantial portion of the property to conservation wetlands! This would ensure that this land is preserved in its natural state for future generations.

Why It Matters for Leland

Leland is one of the fastest-growing areas in North Carolina, and many local families are seeking meaningful educational options for their children. The school’s nature-based philosophy directly supports Leland’s vision for highly valued and protected natural resources, encouraging children to develop lifelong respect for the environment and their community. Its small-scale, low-impact footprint is well-suited to a town seeking to balance growth with environmental integrity and community well-being.

As a local employer and community partner, Wild Forest Academy contributes to a resilient and stable local economy, offering opportunities for collaboration with other educational, civic, and cultural organizations. In alignment with Leland 2045, the school reinforces infrastructure that supports community life and reflects a shared commitment to thoughtful, sustainable growth.

Alignment with the Leland 2045 Plan

Wild Forest Academy is directly aligned with Leland 2045, which emphasizes:

• Safe and healthy built and natural environments
• Opportunities for all in housing, education, and mobility options
• Preservation of open space and promotion of active lifestyles
• Equitable access to education and community resources
• Smart, sustainable growth that responds to demographic change

Wild Forest Academy is not just a school—it’s a partner in building the future Leland envisions: resilient and rooted in both community and care for the land.

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Town of Leland:

Approve rezoning for Wild Forest Academy, enabling this school to serve local families and contribute to a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant Leland.

For more information, here’s a quick look at the timeline of what's happening:

June 24th: Our rezoning application will begin its official review.

July 22nd: We’ll present our case including letters of support to the Planning Board. Planning Board motioned and voted unanimously to approve the rezoning request. 

August 21st at 6:00pm at Leland Town Hall Council Chambers:
We will present to Town Council and we will receive their decision during the meeting or the following day. Families and community members are encouraged to attend to show their support for the school. If your schedule permits, PLEASE ATTEND!
Address: 102 Town Hall Drive, Leland NC