Our Story

A Step Forward Early Learning Academy was created with a simple, powerful goal: to give local children a safe, loving, and engaging place to learn, grow, and thrive.

Founded by Lakisha and Timothy Word, the academy brings together decades of experience in early childhood education, business management, and community leadership. In October 2025, we officially took ownership of our facility right here in Yanceyville, North Carolina, opening our doors as A Step Forward on November 1.

From the beginning, we set out to build a center where parents feel completely confident leaving their children each day. That commitment led to a huge milestone in April 2026, when our center earned an official 4-Star Quality Rating from the state of North Carolina—reflecting our high standards for safety, teacher training, and classroom quality.

We believe learning should be active, fun, and well-rounded. That’s why our daily routines focus on building solid early reading skills, strong social and emotional habits, and real-world independence through hands-on activities like our "Life Lab" program. We also partner with state food programs to serve healthy, balanced meals every day, taking care of your child’s body as well as their mind.

Above all, A Step Forward is a family-first center. Through our community outreach and fun family events, we are proud to walk alongside local parents, working together to give our children the best possible start in life.