DESTINATION
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Welcome to DURHAM Public Schools!
We are thrilled for your family to explore what makes DPS the choice for all Durham students to learn and grow.
We know your child’s educational journey is important. From high-quality curriculum to top-notch educators and unmatched opportunities for learning, you can rest assured that DPS is the destination to success for your student.
Durham is creative, inclusive and diverse. What Durham prides itself on most is evident within our 54 schools. We ignite the limitless potential of our students each day through learning and exploration. We embrace each student for the unique individuals they are while cultivating their achievement. We celebrate the differences among us while gaining understanding for our commonalities and the things that unite us. At DPS, it’s about whole child development, and we’re certain your family will find our school community to be the best environment to prepare your child for future success.
It’s an exciting time to join the DPS family.
Our district is growing! We’re building new schools while making the necessary updates and renovations to existing ones so that our students are learning in state-of-the-art facilities that are welcoming, safe and energy-efficient. Through our community’s support, we can enhance learning for our students.
Relocating or changing schools can be challenging for families. We’re here to connect you with the information and resources you need to ensure that your child’s transition is seamless. We look forward to having you join the DPS family.
Pascal Mubenga, Ph.D.
Superintendent
Our SCHOOLS
Durham Public Schools is among the 10 largest school districts in North Carolina, serving more than 31,000 students across 54 schools in Durham County. Options abound at DPS. We offer 23 magnet and career and technical education programs ranging from the arts to Spanish immersion and Montessori to International Baccalaureate, offering extraordinary choices for students and families. Additionally, our district includes specialty schools, year round calendar schools, and early college and middle college programs. With nationally recognized schools, exclusive partnerships and unique learning opportunities, it’s no wonder that DPS students excel inside and outside of the classroom.
You are in good hands with DPS. Our greatest asset is our talented teachers and staff. Our more than 5,100 employees are dedicated to student excellence, and that is exhibited through the time they invest in children but also in the investment they make in their professional development that enhances learning. DPS ranked among the top 30 districts in the nation for the number of National Board Certified Teachers.
Explore All Of Our Outstanding Schools
DPS
By The Numbers
Represented
Buses Annually
CTE Programs
by the Class of 2020
ACADEMICS
Academics is our business, and students are achieving great success in DPS. We are preparing each student for a bright future by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the real world. We personalize our approach to learning to meet the needs of our diverse community of learners.
DPS is committed to the academic excellence of all students and we believe every child can succeed. We work with students as early as kindergarten to nurture their talent and potential. For our youngest students, we focus on critical thinking skills and character development. As they grow, we engage them in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education, International Baccalaureate programs, Advanced Placement courses and Honors classes.
Students leave DPS with a quality education, and are prepared for their future whether it be college or career. DPS students graduate with skills they’ve honed in career and technical education classes that can jumpstart employment or help them further their academic pursuits.
STUDENT Programs & Services
Education is just the beginning at Durham Public Schools. We’re focused on whole child development. We offer a vast array of programs and services that support our students’ social-emotional learning as well as align them with resources and therapies tailored to any special needs. Additionally, our extracurricular activities and specialized programs.
- Early Childhood Programs
- Magnet & CTE Pathways
- Exceptional Children’s Program
- Extracurricular Activities
Early Childhood Programs
Early education goes beyond numbers, colors, letters and shapes. Pre-K at DPS starts your child on the path to a bright future. In pre-K, students establish a foundation for life-long learning and develop critical thinking and problem solving skills that correlate to future academic success.
Magnet & CTE Pathways
Nearly half of DPS schools have magnet programs, offering a multitude of options for students and families. Through tailored, innovative programming, we provide students with experiences that enrich their education while exposing them to a world of possibilities.
Exceptional Children’s Program
Every student succeeds at DPS. Our Exceptional Children’s Program ensures that students with disabilities receive a quality education that allows them to reach their full potential while actively engaging in opportunities that enhance learning. Students have access to the same general curriculum as all DPS students in an environment best suited to their learning needs.
Extracurricular Activities
From the arts to athletics, DPS offers a variety of extracurricular activities that develop leadership skills and encourage creative thinking that supports academic performance.
It’s Easy To Enroll In
Durham Public Schools
District Fast Facts
It’s not about the numbers, but the experiences and success of our students. We do understand that facts and figures are helpful to help you make an informed decision. You’ll find everything you need to know here.
School Boundary Maps
The School Boundary Maps show the area served by each of our elementary, middle and high schools.
Locate Your School
It’s easy to check an address to see which DPS schools serve your part of the district. Simply click the link below and enter your street address. You can also call the Office of Student Assignment to inquire about a home’s address.
Why DPS Is The
BEST CHOICE
For Your Family…
Access for All Students
DPS’s 1:1 technology initiative ensures that all students have a device and the connectivity needed to access digital tools that enhance learning.
Community and Family Support
Parents are students’ first teachers and advocates. That’s why DPS has its own program dedicated to supporting parents as they support their student. Family Academy delivers meaningful programs and services that keep families connected to their school communities and student thriving.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Did you know DPS has its own 30-acre farm, forest and aquatic outdoor learning center? Hub Farm engages students, teachers and the community in environmental education and career development. We’re sprouting scholars and opportunities for hands on learning.
Pathways to College and Career
DPS students are ready for the future whether it be college or career. Through expanded learning opportunities, DPS students have access to programs that offer job training and college level courses that offer college credit or an associate degree.
Pride in Diversity
Our diverse school communities make us stronger. We celebrate the uniqueness of each student and strive to provide a high-quality, equitable education for all. Our welcoming, safe and supportive learning environments support student success.
Relevant Education
Our students participate in innovative learning every day! Curriculum that reflects the world in which we live is essential to our learning community. At DPS, we connect concepts and skills to everyday life and real-world situations, ensuring that student engagement soars.
Student Focused
Your child’s education is our top priority. That’s why DPS takes academics and social-emotional learning into account as we develop our scholars. By focusing on the whole child, we provide a foundation for all students to succeed while meeting their needs.