Welcome Central Academy of Technology & Arts Community,

It is a privilege to welcome you to the 2024-2025 school year.  Our school continues to be one of the highest performing high schools in the state of North Carolina and to be recognized for excellence in and out of the classroom.  We have once again earned a North Carolina School Report Card Grade of an ‘A’ and the distinction of Exceeding Growth.  It is also important to note that each of our subgroups, with the necessary representation for reporting, also scored a grade of an ‘A’ this year.  These results can be directly attributed to the hard work of our students and staff, family involvement, and our efforts toward continuous improvement.  Our rigorous course offerings and student participation in Advanced Placement classes and exams add value to our overall academic program.

Our unique comprehensive magnet high school serves the interest of students through Academy-based programs: Pre-Engineering, Medical Science, Transportation, Performing Arts and Informational Technology. We are now also pleased to announce our recognition as an International Baccalaureate World School for the Diploma Programme.  This year, our first cohort of students will begin their two-year journey into IB instruction.  Our core curriculum prepares our students for the Future Ready Curriculum, Global readiness, and post-secondary experiences.  A CATA graduate learns the skills necessary to be an Innovative Leader, Resilient Problem-Solver, Key Contributor, Effective Communicator, and Skilled Collaborator.

Our school’s athletic program offers a large variety of JV and Varsity sports with a competitive schedule each year.  A redesign to our weight room and increased offseason workouts will help us build our programs to become increasingly competitive for years to come.  In 2024, CATA Performing Arts continued to excel.  CATA was nominated for Blumey Awards in eleven of fourteen categories, taking home an astounding seven awards for our musical production of Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812.  This included the award for Best Musical for the third year in a row.  Central Academy of Technology & Arts has a multitude of student-led clubs with staff advisors to support them.  Our Parent, Teacher, Student Organization (PTSO) actively supports our school through annual fundraising, Invest in Excellence, Teacher Appreciation and overall school improvement projects.

Central Academy of Technology & Arts serves the students and families of nine school clusters from across Union County Public Schools.  We have a staff of very skilled certified teachers, administrators and staff. Within that, we are fortunate to have strong lateral-entry business professionals to add value to our teaching staff through their experience and areas of expertise.  The CATA community thrives within a culture of respect and inclusivity.

Central Academy of Technology & Arts is proud to serve a diverse and talented student body.  We look forward to serving our students and families for the 2024-2025 school year, and I am deeply honored to serve as Principal.

Thank you,

Kevin T. Beals,  Principal