Durham School of the Arts

Don Jones is a veteran educator with nearly 30 years of experience and a long-standing commitment to Durham Public Schools. He returns to Durham School of the Arts as principal, having previously served the school as both a principal intern and assistant principal from 2017 to 2021. Most recently, he led Lakewood Montessori Middle School as principal, where his leadership was widely recognized for its trust, collaboration, and inclusive engagement. Under his guidance, Lakewood staff reported 100% trust in his leadership, and he was known for empowering educators and strengthening community partnerships to support student success.

Mr. Jones holds National Board Certification and earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from The Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Duke University, and a Master of School Administration from North Carolina State University. As principal of DSA, he is committed to fostering unity between the middle and high school communities and deepening the 6–12 continuum through thoughtful alignment and shared purpose. He is passionate about celebrating students’ artistic, academic, and athletic growth, and looks forward to working alongside DSA’s talented staff, students, and families.

Ms. Burr is a North Carolina native with over 20 years in education. Before becoming an assistant principal, she worked as an ESL teacher and Teaching and Learning Coach. She received the U.S. Department of State’s Teaching Excellence and Achievement Grant in 2011 and was named Durham Public Schools Teacher of the Year in 2012. Ms. Burr holds a bachelor’s in Spanish and Sociology from UNC-Chapel Hill, a Spanish Interpreter Certification from Durham Tech, an M.Ed. in TESOL from Greensboro College, and an MSA from NC State.

She currently supports 10th and 11th grade (A–J), the History and English departments, and testing.

Mr. Carter is a 25-year veteran of education who received a BA in  education from Winston-Salem State University and a Masters in Educational Leadership from High Point University.  He supervises 9th grade, Global Languages and all Arts programs. He believes that all students have the ability to reach their dreams  with the support of parents, teachers, mentors and stakeholders.

Broc Dickerson is a true “Durhamite,” born and raised in Durham and a proud product of DPS. He graduated Summa Cum Laude earning his bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University and a Master’s degree in School Administration from North Carolina State University. At DSA, he oversees 11th and 12th grade students and our Math and Science. Departments. He believes all students deserve a comprehensive and inclusive education that addresses the diverse needs of each student.

Mr. Gibson earned his Masters in Educational Leadership from North Carolina State University.  He has served in Durham Public Schools for the past 12 years, first as a teacher and then transitioned to a school administrator.  Mr. Gibson supervises the 6th and 7th grades and the EC and ESL programs. He believes the foundation of any highly effective educator begins with the ability to create authentic, meaningful relationships and through them, help people to develop and grow to meet their goals.

I was born and raised in Wadesboro, NC in Anson County.  I received both my Bachelors and Masters in Education from North Carolina Central University (NCCU) here in the great city of Durham. Although I am a proud North Carolinian, I am a lifelong fan of the Miami Dolphins football team and will always support my beloved NCCU Eagles. My wife Tonya and I have been married for 26 years with 5 children: Taylor, Chandler, Morgan and twins Emerson and Evan.  All of whom have been or are currently educated through Durham Public Schools (DPS). We also have a fur baby named Anson.  I am proud to call Durham my home and I have much love for DPS. As an educator, I am extremely passionate about the education of young scholars and enjoy and accept the responsibility of being a role model for ALL students.