WILKES DEVELOPMENTAL DAY SCHOOL

HISTORY

Founded in 1969 under the name of Wilkes Day Care Center and operated by the Wilkes Day Care Association Board  of Directors, the school began in the upstairs of the First Baptist Church of North Wilkesboro.  The school, a non-profit agency, began with 10 multi-handicapped children and 6 staff.  The number quickly grew to 28 children from age one to 18 years

In January 1975 the County purchased a facility on Welborn Avenue in Wilkesboro and the school moved to the new location.   With a larger building, the enrollment quickly reached its capacity of 32 students and 12 staff.

In 1988, the Board changed the name from Wilkes Day Care to Wilkes Developmental Day School, undertook a major campaign, and tripled the current size of the building.  By June 1990, the school was licensed for 60 children from birth to 21 years old, with 22 staff employed.  At this time, the school became inclusive, serving both children with and without disabilities.