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Durham County · Durham Public Schools (DPS)

The complete guide to Durham schools

Durham schools require more research than Wake County schools — quality varies more widely, but standout programs like Durham School of the Arts are nationally recognized. This guide helps you navigate DPS and find the right fit.

District Overview All Schools Neighborhood Assignments FAQ

District overview: Durham Public Schools (DPS)

Durham Public Schools (DPS)
7/10

Durham Public Schools is on a meaningful upward trajectory as the city's rapidly growing tax base funds new resources. The district has nationally recognized magnet programs and improving neighborhood schools, though quality varies significantly by school.

Durham School of the Arts (nationally ranked)Improving trajectoryStrong magnet optionsDuke University influence

⚠️ Important for homebuyers

Durham school quality varies significantly more than Wake County. Always research your specific school assignment carefully, visit schools, and consider magnet options before purchasing in Durham.

All Durham schools

Magnet SchoolGrades 6-12
9/10

Durham School of the Arts

Nationally recognized magnet school with visual arts, music, dance, theater, and literary arts programs. One of the best arts-focused public schools in the Southeast. Competitive admission, strong alumni network, exceptional college placement.

Grades: 6–12 Enrollment: ~1,200 Address: 400 N Duke St, Durham
Nationally RankedArts MagnetCompetitiveApplication Required
High SchoolGrades 9-12
8/10

Jordan High School

South Durham's primary high school. Strong academics, athletics, and AP program. Serves the rapidly growing Southpoint/South Durham area. Benefits from the neighborhood's strong parent community.

Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: ~2,100 Address: 6806 Garrett Rd, Durham
South DurhamStrong AcademicsSouthpoint Area
High SchoolGrades 9-12
7/10

Hillside High School

Historic school near downtown Durham with strong community ties and improving academic programs. Located in a rapidly appreciating neighborhood. Growing arts and athletics programs.

Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: ~1,400 Address: 3211 Gurley St, Durham
HistoricDowntown AdjacentImprovingArts
High SchoolGrades 9-12
7/10

Northern High School

Serves northern Durham areas. Solid academics with improving trajectory as Durham's overall growth brings new resources to the district.

Grades: 9–12 Enrollment: ~1,500 Address: Durham, NC
North DurhamImproving Trajectory
Magnet SchoolGrades K-8
8/10

George Watts Elementary (IB Magnet)

IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate Primary Years and Middle Years programs. One of Durham's most sought-after school assignments.

Grades: K–8 Enrollment: ~500 Address: 1215 Club Blvd, Durham
IB World SchoolK-8Application RequiredSought After
Private OptionK-12
N/A

Duke School & Voyager Academy

Duke School (preK-8) is affiliated with Duke University and highly regarded. Voyager Academy is a charter school with strong academics. Many Durham families use private or charter options given the public school variability.

Grades: Various Enrollment: Various
Duke AffiliatedCharter OptionPrivate Alternative

School assignments by neighborhood

These are general guidelines. Always verify your specific assignment at chathamschools.org using your exact address before purchasing.

Ninth Street / Trinity Park

High SchoolDurham School of Arts (magnet)
Middle SchoolGithens MS
ElementaryE.K. Powe Elem

Hope Valley

High SchoolJordan HS
Middle SchoolGithens MS
ElementaryVerify DPS

Southpoint / S Durham

High SchoolJordan HS
Middle SchoolGithens MS
ElementaryVerify DPS

Duke Forest / Erwin Rd

High SchoolDurham School of Arts (magnet)
Middle SchoolGithens MS
ElementaryE.K. Powe Elem

Old North Durham

High SchoolHillside HS
Middle SchoolBrogden MS
ElementaryVerify DPS

American Tobacco

High SchoolHillside HS
Middle SchoolBrogden MS
ElementaryVerify DPS

Frequently asked questions about Durham schools

Are Durham schools good? +
It depends on the school. Durham School of the Arts is nationally recognized. Jordan HS in South Durham is strong. However, some Durham neighborhood schools perform below state averages. Research your specific school assignment carefully — Durham has more variability than Wake County.
What is Durham School of the Arts? +
Durham School of the Arts is a competitive magnet school (grades 6-12) with nationally recognized programs in visual arts, music, dance, theater, and literary arts. Admission requires audition/application. It's one of the best arts-focused public schools in the Southeast and consistently strong on college placement.
How do Durham schools compare to Wake County? +
Wake County schools (Apex, Cary, Holly Springs) are generally rated higher on average than Durham Public Schools. However, Durham has excellent magnet options, Duke University's influence, and improving neighborhood schools. Many families choose Durham for value and appreciate the school options.
Is Jordan High School in Durham good? +
Yes — Jordan HS serves South Durham/Southpoint and is one of DPS's strongest schools, rated 8/10. It benefits from the area's strong parent community and has solid AP enrollment and athletics. If you're buying in South Durham, Jordan HS is a genuine asset.
What private school options exist in Durham? +
Duke School (preK-8) is highly regarded and affiliated with Duke University. Voyager Academy is a well-regarded charter option. Several faith-based schools also serve Durham. Many families buying in Durham factor private school costs into their budget alongside home price.

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