Frequently Asked Questions
What is a charter school?
Charter schools are public schools that provide parents and students a choice in education. All charter schools are required to take State mandated tests and follow the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. Local, state and federal dollars follow the student to the charter school based on per pupil spending. Charter schools abide by equal opportunity laws and do not discriminate, have religious affiliations and are tuition free.
Who is eligible to attend Aspire Trade High School?
For the 2025-2026 school year, we are enrolling students in 9th and 10th grade only. We will continue to add an incoming 9th grade class each year after that. After being accepted into Aspire Trade High School, families will be asked to provide documentation of North Carolina residence in order to enroll. A driver’s License, utility bill, or lease agreement are all acceptable forms of documentation. Please see the “Important Notice to Parents and Guardians” below.
Important Notice to Parents and Guardians:
Before submitting an enrollment application to Aspire Trade High School (ATHS), parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to consider the unique academic and operational environment of our school. Student success at ATHS is directly tied to the ability to pass state-required certification and licensure exams in skilled trades, as mandated by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) and applicable trade licensing boards.
The learning environment at ATHS includes the regular use of heavy machinery, exposure to potentially loud and industrial-level workspaces, and participation in hands-on training that requires a high level of focus, safety awareness, and maturity. For this reason, students must demonstrate a history of appropriate behavior and must not have documented incidents of physical altercations or behavioral issues that could pose a risk to themselves or others in this setting.
Please note that ATHS is neither a college preparatory institution nor an alternative school. Our programs are designed for students who are committed to pursuing careers in skilled trades through rigorous, industry-based training and state certification.
How much does it cost to attend Aspire Trade High School?
Aspire Trade High School is a tuition free charter school.
Does Aspire Trade High School offer athletics?
Aspire Trade High School does not plan to have sports for students since the focus will be immersion into the trade programs the students select.
However, we do prioritize the well-being of our students through engaging, community-centered initiatives like Wellness Wednesdays. Each Wednesday, we follow a special Club Day schedule, allowing students to spend the final 40 minutes of the day participating in a club of their choice.
From athletic activities like basketball, soccer, and running relays to team-building adventures such as outdoor scavenger hunts, Wellness Wednesdays are designed to promote physical activity, social connection, and mental well-being. With a variety of clubs to choose from, students can explore their interests, build friendships, and recharge midweek in a fun and supportive environment.
Wellness Wednesdays are just one of the many ways we foster a positive, balanced school culture where every student can thrive.
Does Aspire Trade High School offer foreign language classes?
Aspire Trade High School does not offer traditional foreign language courses, as it is not a college preparatory school. However, we do offer a specialized class titled “Spanish for Trades.” This course is designed to teach students practical Spanish vocabulary and phrases that are directly relevant to their chosen trades, helping them communicate effectively in real-world work environments.
Will Aspire Trade High School provide transportation to students?
Aspire Trade High School will establish a limited number of shuttle stops in cluster areas to be determined by administrative staff. Please contact our Director of CTE and Facility Services at r.racquer@aspiretradehs.org.
Does Aspire Trade High School have an Exceptional Children (EC) program?
Aspire Trade High School has an Exceptional Children’s Department. If you have any questions, please contact the Director of EC, Ms. Martha Sanders. Please see the “Important Notice to Parents” above.
For any other questions, please contact us at info@aspiretradehs.org