Cannon School Commemorates 2,000 Alumni Achievement

Cannon School Celebrates Milestone of Over 2,000 Alumni

Concord, NC – As Cannon School ushered in the new academic year on August 14, celebrations were not solely reserved for students returning to class; the institution commemorated a significant milestone in its history. Having graduated more than 2,000 alumni since its inception as Cabarrus Academy in 1969, Cannon School stands as a testament to the values of educational excellence and community engagement.

The Head of School, Mike Drew, now in his second year at the helm, expressed the importance of this achievement. “Crossing the 2,000-alumni mark is a powerful reminder of Cannon’s lasting impact,” he remarked. “It’s not just about the number. It’s about the thousands of stories, contributions, and lives shaped by their time here.” This reflection speaks not only to the institution’s educational effectiveness but also emphasizes the vital role of community and personal growth within the school’s ethos.

This year, Cannon welcomed over 1,000 students, marking one of its strongest enrollment figures to date. The school’s remarkable growth is indicative of its strong reputation in the area, yet Drew reiterated a commitment to maintaining the school’s close-knit and inclusive environment. “We are honored by the trust so many families place in us,” Drew noted. “As we grow, our charge remains the same: to know and support each student and to challenge them to grow with purpose.”

Adding a personal touch to the narrative, Sarah Wiebusch Rideout, a Cannon alumna from the class of 2011, returns as a parent of a junior kindergarten student at the school. “We truly believe Cannon is the perfect fit for our family,” she shared. Rideout’s confidence in the institution speaks volumes about the lasting impact Cannon has on its students, as she cites the formative experiences gained during her time there as instrumental to her educational and personal development.

In line with its commitment to future growth and academic excellence, Cannon School is actively pursuing its “A Flourishing Future” capital campaign. This initiative includes a significant expansion and renovation of the Upper School, which broke ground in June. The project encompasses a 12,500-square-foot space designed to feature flexible classrooms and advanced science laboratories, fostering an environment conducive to collaborative and dynamic learning.

Furthermore, the campaign emphasizes academic support through the establishment of dedicated Academic Resource Centers (ARCs) in both the Lower and Middle Schools, complementing the existing ARC in the Upper School. These centers aim to provide personalized, age-appropriate support that nurtures confidence and independence among all learners, reinforcing Cannon’s dedication to catering to diverse educational needs.

“Our investment in learning spaces and academic resources reflects our belief in what’s possible for every student,” Drew stated. He emphasized that the ongoing enhancements to the school’s facilities and programs are grounded in a mission to prepare students holistically for college and life beyond the classroom.

As Cannon School continues to grow and evolve, it remains focused on fostering an environment where every student can thrive, echoing its legacy of excellence and community engagement.