Best Public Schools in Durham, NC

The city of Durham, North Carolina is home to 68 schools, including 39 elementary schools, 9 middle schools, 14 high schools, and 6 alternative schools across public, public charter, and public magnet institutions. The data reveals a diverse academic landscape, with standout performers like Durham School of the Arts, Pearsontown Elementary, and J.D. Clement Early College High School consistently ranking among the top schools in the state.

Many of the highest-performing schools in Durham are public magnet or charter schools, suggesting these models may be more effective than traditional public schools. However, the data also reveals stark disparities in academic achievement, with proficiency rates ranging from over 80% at Lakewood Montessori Middle to just 9% at Lakeview School. This underscores the complex challenges facing the Durham Public Schools district in ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all students.

The data also suggests that socioeconomic factors play a significant role, as schools with lower free/reduced lunch rates generally demonstrate higher proficiency rates. Additionally, the importance of strong foundations in the early grades is evident, with proficiency rates tending to be higher in the elementary years. Overall, the academic landscape in Durham reveals both high-performing bright spots as well as areas in need of targeted interventions and support to address disparities and improve outcomes for all students.