Mark your calendar for the DPS Sustainability Summit 2026 🌎
Join us on March 7, 2026 at Southern School of Energy and Sustainability (800 Clayton Rd, Durham, NC) for a full day of ideas, creativity, and community focused on building a more sustainable future.
This isn’t just a summit. It’s a chance to see sustainability in action.
You’ll experience:
• Student projects that bring real-world solutions to life
• Practical tips you can use at home right away
• Community partners sharing the work happening across Durham
• Food trucks, arts and crafts, and fun activities for all ages
• An inside look at sustainability efforts across Durham Public Schools and our local community
🎟 Your FREE ticket includes a $5 food voucher to use at the food trucks during community time.
Bring your family. Invite a friend. Come curious. Leave inspired.
Register now and secure your food voucher:
👉 https://bit.ly/Sustain2026

Marca tu calendario para el DPS Sustainability Summit 2026 🌎
Acompáñanos el 7 de marzo de 2026 en la Southern School of Energy and Sustainability (800 Clayton Rd, Durham, NC) para un día lleno de ideas, creatividad y comunidad, enfocado en construir un futuro más sostenible.
Esto no es solo una cumbre. Es una oportunidad para ver la sostenibilidad en acción.
Podrás disfrutar de:
• Proyectos estudiantiles que muestran soluciones reales
• Consejos prácticos que puedes aplicar en tu vida diaria
• Organizaciones comunitarias compartiendo su trabajo en Durham
• Camiones de comida, arte, manualidades y actividades divertidas para todas las edades
• Una mirada interna a los esfuerzos de sostenibilidad en las Escuelas Públicas de Durham y en nuestra comunidad
🎟 Tu entrada es GRATIS e incluye un cupón de $5 para usar en los camiones de comida durante el tiempo comunitario.
Trae a tu familia. Invita a un amigo. Ven con curiosidad. Sal inspirado.
Regístrate ahora y asegura tu cupón de comida:
👉 https://bit.ly/Sustain2026
6 days ago, Durham Public Schools
"Logo for Durham Public Schools Sustainability Summit with a stylized blue and green water droplet, set against a soil and green leaves background."
💦 DID YOU KNOW? 💦

Our second graders at Fayetteville Street Elementary are making a splash in the latest issue of Durham Magazine! The magazine highlights how Durham Public Schools students are learning lifesaving water safety skills through our incredible partner, Swim For Charlie.

The article, Make A Splash, shares how local schools, pools, and volunteers come together to help DPS second graders build confidence, strength, and safety in the water. This year alone, Swim for Charlie is on track to reach nearly 80% of DPS second graders—removing barriers by providing free lessons, transportation, and access to community pools.

We’re especially proud to see Fayetteville Street Elementary School featured, along with Principal Quincey Farmer and staff, for supporting students every step of the way as they face fears, learn new skills, and cheer each other on.

👉 To read the full story, visit www.durhammag.com or pick up a copy at various locations in and around Durham.
👉 To learn more about this impactful program, visit www.swimforcharlie.org.

A huge thank you to Swim for Charlie for all they do for our students, to the leadership and staff at Fayetteville Street Elementary for their leadership and encouragement, and to Durham Magazine for highlighting the wonderful things happening across Durham Public Schools.

#DPSDidYouKnow #MakeASplash #WaterSafety #WeAreDPS #SwimForCharlie
13 days ago, Durham Public Schools
Three smiling children in a swimming pool lean on the edge with the word "DIVING" tiled beneath them. The headline reads "Make a Splash" in bold text.
Weather Update: Two-hour delay on Thursday, Feb. 5

Due to the winter weather forecast overnight and the potential for icy conditions in the morning, Durham Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay on Thursday, Feb. 5 for students and staff, including Central Services. Essential personnel should report to work as directed by their supervisor.

Our Operations Team will be out on the roads early to monitor conditions. If we have to make a change to school operations because of road conditions, we will let you know by 6:00 a.m.

Thank you for your support as we prioritize the safety of our students and staff.

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Actualización sobre el clima: Retraso de dos horas el jueves 5 de febrero

Debido al pronóstico de clima invernal durante la noche y la posibilidad de condiciones heladas en la mañana, las Escuelas Públicas de Durham operarán con un retraso de dos horas el jueves 5 de febrero para estudiantes y personal, incluidos los Servicios Centrales. El personal esencial debe presentarse a trabajar según las indicaciones de su supervisor.

El equipo de Operaciones estará en las carreteras temprano para monitorear las condiciones. Si tenemos que hacer algún cambio en las operaciones escolares debido a las condiciones de las carreteras, se lo haremos saber antes de las 6:00 a. m.

Gracias por su apoyo mientras priorizamos la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes y personal.


20 days ago, Durham Public Schools
DPS winter weather graphic with snow background
🎉 Congratulations, Ms. Lisa Lewis! 🎉

Durham Public Schools is proud to celebrate Ms. Lisa Lewis, Suzuki Violin teacher at R. N. Harris Elementary School, on her inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who—a prestigious honor recognizing individuals for exceptional leadership, achievement, and lasting contributions to their field.

Ms. Lewis’s recognition reflects a remarkable career in music education and performance. In addition to her work at R. N. Harris, where she brings high-quality music instruction to students in a Title I setting, she serves as a violin, viola, and chamber music instructor at the Duke University String School. Through her teaching, she reaches hundreds of students, opening doors to music for children who might not otherwise have access.

With more than 30 years of experience as an educator and professional musician, Ms. Lewis has performed with renowned orchestras and artists around the world while remaining deeply committed to mentoring young musicians here in Durham.

We are grateful for her dedication to our students and community and thrilled to see her work recognized on a national level. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Lewis on this well-deserved honor! 👏🎻

#WeAreDPS #DPSProud #DPSArts #MusicEducation #MarquisWhosWho
2 months ago, Durham Public Schools
A woman with curly blond hair smiles warmly in a library setting, surrounded by colorful books on wooden shelves, conveying a welcoming tone.
Today at Hillside High School, students got a first look at real opportunities in life science careers. The Life Science Career Panel marked the launch of a new partnership between Eli Lilly and Durham County, giving students direct insight into BioWork certifications and the local pathways to earn them.

Thank you to the DPS CTE Department for their steady work and commitment to our students. This partnership opens the door to future careers in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and helps students see what is possible right here in our community. #WeAreDPS #DPSCTE
3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Seven adults stand in a library. Four wear red "Team Lilly" shirts, conveying teamwork and unity. Bookshelves are visible, suggesting a scholarly setting.

Did you know that two Jordan High School grads created Stranger Things?

Matt and Ross Duffer grew up in Durham, graduated from Jordan High School, and first discovered their love for storytelling by filming homemade movies around town with a family camcorder. That early spark led them to create Stranger Things, a show that turned into a global phenomenon.

They are award winning creators who have also earned prestigious nominations across the entertainment industry. And even with all their success, they kept Durham close. Fans can spot pieces of their hometown throughout the series.

A few Durham area Easter eggs in Stranger Things:
• The Eno River appears on Will’s hand drawn map.
• Jordan Lake becomes Lake Jordan in Hawkins.
• The forests near Cornwallis Road and Kerley Road echo in the area known as Mirkwood.
• Durham’s Lochn'ora inspires the show’s Loch Nora neighborhood.
• Enzo's Pizza Company inspires Enzo's Italian Restaurant in the show.
• The landmark "Bullocks" is a nod to the real Bullock's Bar-B-Q here in Durham.

From DPS classrooms to worldwide acclaim, the Duffer Brothers carry Bull City creativity wherever they go. Their journey shows what happens when imagination grows in a supportive community.

DPS students dream big. They always have. They always will.

#WeAreDPS #DPSProud #DufferBrothers #StrangerThings #DurhamNC

3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Two men with beards stand closely against a dark gradient background with red lighting. One wears a gray sweater, the other a navy shirt, both smiling subtly.

Did you know that Durham-native Jordan Estella Hankerson—a 2018 graduate of Hillside High School—is a star in TINA – The Tina Turner Musical? She makes her national tour debut in the role of Ikette.

While at Hillside, Jordan studied theatre under the retired director Wendell Tabb and performed in productions such as Madagascar, Bubbling Brown Sugar, High School Musical, and The Wiz. She was also a member of the Sting Dance Ensemble, the Marching Band, and the Chorus.

Her journey—from Hillside stages to starring in a national Broadway tour—demonstrates the power of our district’s arts programs and the impact educators like Mr. Tabb make. Jordan is now giving back to her local community in a meaningful way.

On Saturday, November 15, Jordan will host an arts workshop at Hillside’s theatre from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by a reception from 11:30 a.m. to noon, co-hosted by the Triangle Park (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, to honor her outstanding arts achievements.

📣 Let’s celebrate Jordan’s homecoming. Share this post and join us in cheering on her performance at DPAC, and the inspiring workshop she’s leading for our students! 👏 #DPSArts #DPSProud #HillsideHigh #TinaTheMusical #WeAreDPS #DPSDidYouKnow

3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Smiling woman with curly hair wearing a green top stands in front of a red brick wall. The tone is joyful and warm.
Meet Joshua Suiter — a 2018 graduate of Hillside High School — now appearing on the hit new series "All's Fair" streaming on Hulu! He plays the role of Elijah Greene, bringing the charm, talent, and grit from his Durham roots to the screen.

What you may not know:
✨ Joshua began acting at the age of 6 in summer camp productions and later earned a BFA in Professional Theatre.

✨ At Hillside, he excelled in the arts, played roles like the Tin Man in The Wiz, and was crowned Mr. Hillside during his senior year.

✨ He says one of his most memorable moments was receiving a star-shaped sticker in 5th grade from a teacher who believed in him — and he kept it on his door all through high school.

We featured his story back in May with a spotlight article on our DPS Notables blog. If you haven't read it yet, check it out under our News Feed at DPSNC.net or on the DPS App.

📺 Head over to Hulu and watch All's Fair — and when you do, remember: a Hillside Hornet is making waves. #DPSNotables #HillsidePride #AllsFair #Hulu #DurhamTalent
3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
A man in a green shirt sits thoughtfully at a wooden table, with his elbow resting and hand on his temple. Soft focus background, warm and contemplative tone.
Did you see Tye Tribbett last night at the DPAC? 👀 If you did, you witnessed one of Durham's very own shining on that stage — Roné Grant, a proud graduate of Southern School of Energy and Sustainability! 🙌🏾

Roné is currently on the "We Outside" Tour with Tye Tribbett, Kierra Sheard, and special guests Mike Todd and Transformation Worship, but this moment was more than a tour stop — it was a showcase of home-grown talent in front of the people she loves dearly.

Born in Hackensack, New Jersey, Roné moved to Durham in the sixth grade, where her love for music truly blossomed. She has been singing since she could talk, and by high school, she was already performing professionally as part of the girl group TTYL, formed by Coko Clemons of SWV. That experience taught her the ins and outs of studio work, harmonies, and vocal production — skills that have shaped her career ever since. 🎶

Fast forward to today, and Roné's voice has graced some of gospel's biggest moments: she's the soprano voice behind Tye Tribbett's live album "Only On The Road (Live)," featured on Todd Galberth's "Greater," and can be heard leading on WO Worship's 2024 album "Sunday Songs, Vol. 1." She's also an artist in her own right, releasing music that reflects her journey. 🌟

From Southern High to sold-out arenas, from a Durham classroom to the DPAC stage — Roné Grant is proof that preparation, passion, and purpose always find their spotlight. We're proud of you, Roné! ☺️

#DPSDidYOUKnow #WeAreDPS #DPSProud #TyeTribbett #WeOutsideTour
3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Black and white image of a woman on stage, singing passionately into a microphone. She has long wavy hair, wears glasses, and has a joyful expression.
Durham Public Schools is proud to celebrate Fayetteville Street Elementary School and the successful Grand Opening of its new Family Resource Center 🎉
On November 20, 2025, the school community came together to open a space that lifts families and strengthens student success. The center now provides food, clothing, and hygiene items to support anyone who needs them 🥫👚🧼
This milestone reflects a shared commitment to caring for the whole child so students can learn, grow, and thrive every day 📚✨
Strong schools build strong communities. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this moment possible for Fayetteville Street Elementary and the families it serves ❤️🏫
3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
A group of people smiles while cutting a red ribbon across a doorway labeled "Resource Room" in a brightly colored hallway, signifying a grand opening.
Yesterday, we hit a milestone for the new Durham School of the Arts 🎨🏗️. The final beam went up, covered in signatures from our community partners who showed up to celebrate a moment that will live in the bones of the building. A simple beam turned into a time capsule. A small piece of steel carrying big dreams ✨.

Thank you to everyone who came out to share the moment and add their name to DSA’s future 💛.

Photo credits: Alejandro Marmolejo, Sophomore at Riverside High School, and DPS Pixel and Pen Creative 📸. #WeAreDPS
3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
A construction site with a large steel beam being lifted by a yellow crane. American flags are displayed, and a group of people watches, capturing photos. The atmosphere is focused and anticipatory under a clear blue sky.
Big congrats to Antonio King, Athletic Director at Jordan High School, for being named NC Shape Male Coach of the Year. He will accept the award in Winston Salem on Wednesday, December 3 at the NC Shape state convention.

NC Shape brings together five state associations to give members the support, resources, and programs they need to grow their skills and strengthen the health and well being of North Carolinians.

Proud moment for Jordan High and a well earned honor for Coach King! #WeAreDPS
3 months ago, Durham Public Schools
A person holding a trophy stands in front of display shelves with framed photos. They wear a navy shirt with a logo, exuding pride and accomplishment.
Did you go to Breezy Bowl? 👀

If you did, you saw choreography created by none other than Joshua “Josh” Smith — a proud Southern School of Energy & Sustainability and Durham Public Schools alum! 🎓💃🏽

Josh got his start in Durham, training locally before moving to Atlanta to chase his dream. Today, he’s Chris Brown’s head choreographer and artistic director, creating iconic routines for Breezy’s tours, music videos, and award shows.

He’s also worked with Usher, Ciara, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, BTS, and Pharrell, and even earned a Soul Train Award for Best Dance Performance (“No Guidance”). 🌍🔥

From DPS classrooms to global stages — Josh proves that dreams born in Durham can go anywhere. 💫

#WeAreDPS #DPSProud #BreezyBowl #ChrisBrown #DurhamNC #DurhamMade #SouthernSES #ArtsInEducation
4 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Joshua Smith
🎭 Stage Center 2025 was a showstopper!

Yesterday, over 400 DPS Theater Arts students spent the day learning from industry professionals and theater educators from high schools and colleges across the region. From acting and directing to design and stagecraft, our students explored every corner of the theater world through hands-on workshops and masterclasses.

A huge thank-you to everyone who helped make this inspiring day possible — the future of theater is shining bright at DPS! 🌟

#StageCenter2025 #DPSArts #WeAreDPS
5 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Students dancing on stage
Students dancing in a gym
Students talking in a circle
Two students talking face to face on a classroom floor
Students learning about plywood in a classroom
Students dancing on a stage with an instructor
Instructor sitting on table and talking to students
Dance instructor teaching choreography
Students talking on the floor
🚶‍♀️🚲 Half of all DPS elementary schools will celebrate Walk & Roll to School Day this October!

The official nationwide date is October 8, but schools across Durham will be hosting events throughout the month. From walking groups at parks and churches to rolling onto campus together, these events are all about:
✅ Building community
✅ Encouraging healthy, active travel
✅ Inspiring lasting change in our city

Is your school joining in? 🎒👟
👉 Check with your PTA, school leadership team, or visit the DPS Safe Routes to School page for details: https://www.dpsnc.net/o/dps/page/safe-routes-to-schools-program
Durham Public Schools is proud to partner with Bike Durham to make these events possible.
#WalkAndRoll #DurhamPublicSchools #SafeRoutesToSchool
5 months ago, Tony Cunningham
Child being pushed on her bike by a teacher
Children and teachers biking to school
Children walking
children walking with flags
children and teachers at the NCCU Shepard statue
🎉👏 Congratulations to our Durham Public Schools Principal of the Year semifinalists!
These outstanding leaders inspire excellence every day in their schools and communities:

Dr. Vanessa Alford – C.C. Spaulding Elementary
Dr. Renita GriffinJordan – City of Medicine Academy
Dr. Tawauna Stewart – Rogers-Herr Middle School
Dr. Kristin Tate – Oak Grove Elementary
Nick Rotosky – Southwest Elementary
Susan Taylor – C.E. Jordan High School

Their dedication, vision, and commitment to students set the standard for educational leadership across DPS. 💛💙

Let’s celebrate and cheer them on as they move forward in the selection process! #WeAreDPS
5 months ago, Durham Public Schools
POTY Semifinalists
Riverside High School's Bryan Christopher, English/journalism teacher and adviser of The Pirate’s Hook student newspaper, and Shirley Kelly, English/yearbook teacher and adviser of The Helm Yearbook, have been named Vice President for Broadcast/Podcast and Northeast & Southeast Piedmont Representative, respectively, on the 2025-2026
North Carolina Scholastic Media Association Board of Directors.

NCSMA is a statewide organization that promotes excellence in scholastic journalism and encourages respect for freedom of the press. Congratulations Mrs. Kelly and Mr. Christopher! #WeAreDPS
6 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Riverside Media

🚍💛 Our amazing DPS bus drivers and safety assistants rolled into the new year with their annual kickoff meeting! They’re geared up, energized, and ready to make sure every student starts and ends their school day safely. Thank you for leading the way and setting the tone for a great year ahead! #WeAreDPS

6 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Transportation workers sharing snacks
Bus drivers hugging
Bus drivers taking photo with superintendent
Presentation
Transportation worker scanning QR code
Transportation employees checking in for meeting
📣 Durham Public Schools Board of Education wants to hear from YOU! 🗣️

The Board invites our community to share feedback on district policies. Your voice helps ensure our policies reflect the values and needs of our students, families, staff, and community.

Submit your feedback online now through August 31 → https://www.dpsnc.net/o/dps/page/board-policy-suggestions-form
6 months ago, Durham Public Schools
We're Listening, Durham
👏 Shoutout to Ebony Ross! 👏
Our DPS McKinney-Vento Liaison was nominated by her peers and honored at the national Homelessness Services Provider Appreciation Day Luncheon for her incredible work to end homelessness in Durham.

Beyond her role with DPS, Ebony chairs the Durham Homeless Services Advisory Committee and serves on the leadership team of the North Carolina Homeless Education Program — all while advocating tirelessly for our home-insecure neighbors.

💛 Thank you, Ebony, for your compassionate, results-driven leadership! #DPSProud #WeAreDPS
7 months ago, Durham Public Schools
Ebony Ross News Feed