Durham Public Schools prepares for a successful return of traditional students on Aug. 24

DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — As summer winds down, Durham Public Schools is gearing up for the traditional school year, with students set to return to the classroom on Monday, Aug. 24.

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Superintendent Anthony Lewis recently shared important updates regarding the upcoming academic year, ensuring that parents and students are well-informed and ready for the return.

With a historically low of 58 teaching vacancies for the upcoming school year, DPS is confidently working to fill these positions swiftly, aiming to maintain a high quality of education for all students. This marks a significant achievement for the district as they strive to enhance the learning environment across schools.

The district is also pleased to announce all bus routes will be operational to ensure that students can commute safely to and from school. Efforts to recruit additional bus drivers continue as families prepare for the busy school year ahead.

Last year, DPS celebrated a nearly 90% growth rate across its schools, with over half of them earning grades of A, B, or C. Lewis is optimistic about building on this momentum, projecting even greater achievements in the coming year.

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In an important initiative to support early education, all students in kindergarten through second grade will receive advanced educational services from a dedicated AIG specialist. This program aims to foster intellectual growth and enhance the learning experience for young students.

DPS has also seen impressive strides in AP courses, with a total of 3,453 qualifying scores of 3, 4, or 5 recorded in 2026. These achievements translate into an estimated 10,359 college credits, potentially saving families over $3 million in tuition expenses.

The district’s AP qualifying scores now stand at 74%, nearing the North Carolina state superintendent’s goal of 75% by 2030.

As students prepare to return to their classrooms, DPS emphasizes their commitment to providing a safe and productive educational environment. Parents are encouraged to engage with school staff and utilize available resources to ensure a smooth transition back to school.

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