Our Staff
Leah Wright
Founder / Executive Director
Leah Wright is the Founder and Executive Director of Wake Monarch Academy. A National Board Certified Teacher, Leah retired in 2018 after 30 years in the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS). Having lived experience with an adolescent who struggled with substance use, Leah is passionate about recovery and helping other families. Spreading awareness and breaking the stigma of addiction is extremely important to her. Leah’s favorite pastime is spending time at the beach with her family. She urges parents to never lose hope. There is beauty in recovery!
leah@wakemonarchacademy.org
919-418-2394
Kathryn Maccormack
Academic Coordinator
Kathryn was raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. She began her college education at Peace College, graduating with an Associate of Arts degree. She then attended North Carolina State University, where she earned a dual Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Secondary Science Education. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher.
Kathryn dedicated 35 years to teaching science in North Carolina. She taught at both Bunn High School and Fuquay Varina High School, focusing on her favorite subjects - Chemistry and Biology.
In her personal life, Kathryn has seen the effects of substance abuse among several family members. This has driven her commitment to helping others overcome difficulties and build a better future. She believes strongly in the power of meaningful education paired with recovery support services. Kathryn is devoted to creating classroom environments where all students, especially those in recovery, can thrive.
kathryn@wakemonarchacademy.org
Max Snell
Lead Recovery Coach and Program Coordinator
Max Snell, the Lead Recovery Coach and Program Coordinator at Wake Monarch Academy, has a remarkable journey that led him to his current role. Originally hailing from a small town near Kansas City, Missouri, Max faced his own struggles with substance abuse during his teenage and young adult years. At the age of 22, he found himself in a treatment program, where he discovered his passion for the recovery world.
Max’s commitment to helping others has become a driving force in his life. As an adolescent and young adult-specific trained CADC I counselor, he dedicates himself to supporting individuals dealing with substance abuse and mental health challenges. His daily work allows him to live out this lifelong passion, making a positive impact on those he serves.
Looking ahead, Max has ambitious goals. He plans to continue his education and eventually become a licensed therapist, further expanding his ability to assist and empower others on their recovery journeys.
max@wakemonarchacademy.org
816-777-8116
Darla Baker
Academic Coordinator
Darla Baker grew up in Kenansville, NC which is located in rural eastern North Carolina. She earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education degree in Secondary Mathematics Education from North Carolina State University. She holds North Carolina certifications in middle and secondary school mathematics as well as school administration. In addition, she was recently awarded her National Board Certification in Adolescent Mathematics Education for the third time in her career. Darla spent most of her 34 years in education teaching mathematics in the Wake County Public School System with the bulk of her time spent at North Garner Middle and Garner Magnet High School. Algebra I and II are her favorite subjects to teach and her passion lies in working with students who have disabilities or students who come to school from less-than-ideal situations. The central theme of her career has been to help others thrive in areas they find to be their most personally challenging both inside and outside of the classroom. Darla is excited to work with Wake Monarch students as they continue their high school courses in a nurturing environment.
Darla@wakemonarchacademy.org
919-215-2128