Our Story
Our Journey
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.
Ready for Life, Rooted in Community
Stepping Forward: Building Kindness & Community
At A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, learning goes beyond our classroom walls. Our Stepping Forward initiative teaches children the power of kindness, giving back, and helping others right here in our local community.
When young children participate in simple, hands-on community projects, they learn empathy, care, and how to get along with others. These early experiences show our students that even the smallest hands can make a big difference—helping us grow compassionate neighbors and confident future leaders, one step at a time.
Life Lab: Building Real-World Confidence
At A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, we know that raising a confident child takes more than just books and worksheets. While we teach the reading and math skills your child needs for school, our Life Lab gives them the hands-on practice they need for real life.
The Life Lab is all about those big "I can do it myself!" moments. Each month, we break big milestones down into fun, simple lessons—like learning self-care routines, mastering personal safety, and memorizing their full name and address. We help your child build the everyday skills and self-reliance they need to feel capable, safe, and ready for the world.
Message from the Owners
The Vision Behind A Step Forward
When we founded A Step Forward Early Learning Academy, our goal was simple: to create a safe, joyful, and nurturing space where every child can grow and thrive. As local business owners and parents, we know how much trust you place in us, and we are truly grateful to serve your children every day.
We are committed to providing high-quality care and early education that prepares young learners for a bright future. Whether you are already part of our academy family or looking for a care home for your child, we welcome you with open arms and look forward to growing together.
Tim and Kisha Word
Owners, A Step Forward Early Learning Academy