By Will Yeiser, Executive Director and Co-Founder
At the French Broad River Academy, we teach our students and staff to always “point positive.” On river trips, this phrase serves as a critical communication tool: we point only toward the line we want paddlers to take, never toward hazards or undesirable features. Because students learn this concept on their very first river trip, it naturally carries into the classroom, advisory meetings, assemblies, and countless other moments throughout the school year.
“Point positive” encourages forward momentum and proactive problem-solving. It helps a student shift from dwelling on a disappointing quiz grade to seeking help and making a plan with their teacher. When two students experience a conflict, our resolution process guides them toward understanding, growth, and ultimately “pointing positive” to a stronger relationship.
This time last year, many of us were still adjusting to having running water again and wondering what the future held for our community in the wake of Helene’s devastating impact. In those early weeks, it was difficult to focus on the positive—uncertainty and fear were simply too great. But by supporting one another, taking things step by step, and focusing on the next right action, we’ve emerged stronger. Today, we are able to “point positive” toward so many promising developments in 2026.
Pointing Positive on the South Campus Construction Project
Construction on the new South Campus is progressing rapidly. Windows are installed, and insulation, siding, and drywall are next on the schedule. We anticipate welcoming our Girls Program into the new building in early spring 2026. Once we have a confirmed timeline, we will share details about a ribbon-cutting ceremony and dedication.
Pointing Positive at Taylor’s Wave
Work on Taylor’s Wave is also moving forward. The project is now more than 50% complete, and crews will soon begin working on the second half of this artificial whitewater feature, with expected completion in early summer. Located exactly halfway between our North and South Campuses, Taylor’s Wave will offer both programs convenient access to a world-class instructional and recreational resource. We are incredibly excited about the opportunities this will create for our whitewater program.
Pointing Positive to Our Greatest Asset: People
Following last fall’s disruption, our admissions team has been working with exceptional dedication, and enrollment in both programs is shaping up well. We expect full incoming classes for both the Girls and Boys programs early in the new year as interest in our unique model continues to grow.
New buildings and whitewater features are exciting, but I must “point positive” toward the people who make the magic happen each day—the FBRA staff. This remarkable group of educators could teach out of a cardboard box and still deliver the profound growth and transformation I’ve witnessed in my own children (Jack, Class of ’20; Ayton, Class of ’23; and Everleigh, Class of ’26). Our current dream team understands deeply that they are greater together than the sum of their parts.