How did Wilkes-Barre Academy begin?
Wilkes-Barre Academy came to fruition after years of successful teaching at the Small Wonders Preschool level. Established in 1978, Small Wonders was a passion project for the twin sisters at a time when access to childcare centers was limited in our region. At that time, there was more of a demand for care as dual income homes began to increase. Even more so, Cletta and Cappie personally found themselves in a position of needing quality care for their own children. They both had three children at the time and Cletta would go on to raise four more in the years to follow. The twin sisters had, and will always have, the love and dedication needed to continue to make an impact on each child that enters our doors.
Why was Wilkes-Barre Academy built?
After years of building Small Wonders into a strong environment and learning center for children, including centers in multiple locations, Cletta and Cappie worked to build the Small Wonders Center where it stands today. At that time, parents were so happy with the progress made by their children while at Small Wonders that they pushed Cletta and Cappie to continue their high standard of education by creating Wilkes-Barre Academy. The twins were actually so close to the original families of Small Wonders that they became close friends and confidants. Our original graduating class of parents from 1995 were integral in creating a capital campaign to help the Twin sisters see their dream of educating their students to the best of their ability come true. Cletta and Cappie did not have the opportunity to attend college which ultimately fueled their high level of respect for the importance of being educated. The twins were extremely hard working and put every ounce of their time and energy into creating this school that so many are now proud to say they have attended. 2026 marks the 30th graduating class of Wilkes-Barre Academy!
How has Wilkes-Barre Academy grown over the years?
Wilkes-Barre Academy has continually evolved to provide students with an exceptional educational experience. We have expanded our campus, integrated modern technology into every classroom, strengthened campus security, increased instructional support, and enhanced our academic curriculum. We have also broadened opportunities through athletics, clubs, educational field trips, enrichment programs, and grant-funded initiatives that bring innovative learning experiences to our students.
In 2025, Wilkes-Barre Academy proudly celebrated its 30th graduating class, a milestone that reflects decades of growth, innovation, and educational excellence. Throughout every stage of our journey, our commitment has remained the same: helping every child discover their unique strengths, build confidence, and achieve success in school and in life. We are especially proud that many of our graduates have returned as parents and faculty members, continuing the tradition of excellence for the next generation.
Where is Wilkes-Barre Academy today, and where are we headed?
As we look to the future, our commitment remains unchanged: to build upon our founding mission of providing an enriching educational experience where every decision is guided by what is best for our students. We are dedicated to creating new opportunities that challenge students academically, foster meaningful lifelong relationships, and prepare them for success beyond the classroom.
We proudly serve a diverse community of students from many backgrounds and remain committed to expanding access to a high-quality education by creating more opportunities for students and families to join the Wilkes-Barre Academy community.
As we approach our 40th anniversary, we are excited for the future as we continue to strengthen our academic programs, expand athletics and extracurricular opportunities, and introduce innovative initiatives that inspire every student to discover their potential, pursue excellence, and thrive in school and in life.
Founders & Owners: Cletta Salavantis & Cappie Evers
Small Wonders: A Preschool program (Infant – Pre-K) Wilkes-Barre Academy: A Non-Profit Private K-8 School
Your Choice, Their Future.
Wilkes-Barre Academy provides a strong academic foundation in a supportive, engaging environment where students are encouraged to think, explore, and grow every day.
We’re excited to welcome new students and families for the upcoming school year.
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Non-Discrimination Policy
The operations of Wilkes-Barre Academy will be designed to service the needs of all people regardless of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, age, or sex. There will be no discrimination in admissions policy, employment policy, meal service, and/or use of facility.