When it comes to choosing a school in Wake County, there’s no shortage of options—and for many families, that abundance can feel overwhelming. Between traditional and year-round calendars, magnet programs, charter schools, and capped enrollment zones, knowing where to start is often the biggest challenge.

That’s where Libby Taylor, founder of SchoolUp Wake, comes in. With a background in teaching and years of experience guiding families through Wake County’s complex education landscape, Libby has built a business focused on taking the stress out of school decisions.

In this episode of the Best of Raleigh Podcast, we sat down with Libby to talk about how she started SchoolUp, what makes Wake County’s school system unique, and how she’s helping families find the best fit for their children.

From Educator to Advisor

Libby began her career as a teacher and later led professional development for educators, but it was her experience as a parent that sparked the idea for SchoolUp Wake. In 2017, while pregnant with her third child, she started hosting events at preschools to help parents understand their kindergarten options.

Those early talks quickly gained momentum, and by 2020, SchoolUp had evolved into a full-time business offering webinars, private consultations, and relocation boot camps for families moving into the area.

What started as a side project has grown into a trusted resource for families across Wake County—and beyond.

Personalized Support for Every Family

One of the most common questions Libby hears is, “Where are the good schools?” But as she explains, that answer depends entirely on the needs of each individual family.

At SchoolUp Wake, her team works with parents to understand their values, goals, and preferences—then helps them navigate the wide range of school options in the area. Whether it’s understanding capped schools, magnet programs, or enrollment timelines, SchoolUp provides tailored guidance at every step.

Libby and her team also support families relocating from out of state or internationally, helping them make informed decisions that align with their educational expectations and lifestyle.

Creating Confidence in a Complex System

For families new to Wake County—or even longtime residents facing transitions into middle or high school—SchoolUp Wake offers a sense of clarity and direction. With services ranging from group webinars to one-on-one consultations, the goal is always the same: to help parents feel confident in their choices.

As Libby shared during our conversation, “Schools aren’t one-size-fits-all. What works well for one family may not be the right fit for another—and that’s okay.”

Looking Ahead

As Raleigh continues to grow, so does the demand for school navigation services. Libby’s vision for the future includes expanding SchoolUp’s services across North Carolina and adding support for students with learning differences and international transitions.

The mission remains rooted in the same belief that started it all: families deserve personalized support as they make important decisions about their children’s education.

Learn More

To learn more about Libby Taylor and SchoolUp Wake, visit schoolupwake.com. You’ll find upcoming webinars, relocation resources, and ways to connect directly with her team.

And if you’re considering a move to Raleigh or exploring school options locally, this episode is packed with helpful information that’s worth bookmarking. You can also get our Raleigh Relocation Guide for even more help finding your ideal community.

🎧 Listen to Episode 50 of the Best of Raleigh Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube—and don’t forget to stay in the loop on the people, places, and stories that make Raleigh such a great place to live.