Principal

Welcome to Brogden Middle School!

Dear Brogden Families,

My name is Mrs. Desirae Smith, and I am honored to serve as the Principal of Brogden Middle School. As a proud graduate of Elizabeth City State University and North Carolina Central University, I’ve spent my career rooted in public education, with a passion for equity, academic growth, and student-centered leadership. I began as a 4th Grade Math and Science teacher in Hertford County, later teaching in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and then serving as a Math Coach here in Durham Public Schools. In 2022, I joined the Brogden Admin team as Assistant Principal, and I am grateful to now lead this amazing community in a greater capacity.

This school year, we launch our new vision: #OurBrogden: Destination to Success. This is more than a motto; it’s a commitment to building an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. “Our Brogden” reflects a collective responsibility: families, staff, students, and community members working together to chart a future defined by high expectations, equity, and excellence.

I’m excited to continue this journey with you as Principal, and I look forward to deepening our partnership in the year ahead. Please don’t hesitate to reach out as I welcome your ideas, feedback, and collaboration as we make Brogden the very best place to learn and grow.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. Here’s to a year of excellence at #OurBrogden: Destination to Success.

In partnership,

Mrs. Desirae Smith

Principal, Brogden Middle School

Address: 1001 Leon Street, Durham, NC 27704

Phone: 919-560-3906

Fax:  919-237-5734

Hours of Operation: 8:00am - 4:00pm

Enrollment: 777

Vision: At Brogden Middle School, we believe in the limitless potential of every student. Rooted in equity, driven by intentionality, and uplifted by our community, we cultivate a learning environment where curiosity is encouraged, excellence is expected, and each learner is empowered to thrive.

Mission: Our mission is to provide an inclusive, academically rigorous environment where every student is seen, supported, and challenged. Through intentional teaching, strong community partnerships, and a shared commitment to equity, we nurture curiosity, build resilience, and empower learners to reach their highest potential.

  • Brogden Middle School is proud to be ranked in the top 20% of all public schools in North Carolina, reflecting strong academic performance and schoolwide growth.

  • Since 2019, Brogden has consistently exceeded growth expectations, a testament to the dedication of our staff, the resilience of our students, and the strength of our instructional programs.

  • Our English Learner (EL) students are thriving. Starting with the EL Prep Academy, we saw a remarkable 400% increase in language proficiency gains in 2023-2024. This momentum continued into the 2024-2025 year, where 51 students exited EL services—the highest number of any middle school in the district.