Durham Public Schools Traditional Calendar: Everything You Need To Know In 2023

Introduction

Durham Public Schools (DPS) has been serving students in Durham, North Carolina, for over a century. It offers a traditional academic calendar, which includes a nine-month school year, with two semesters, fall and spring. The school year begins in late August and ends in late May. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the Durham Public Schools traditional calendar in 2023.

When Does the School Year Start and End?

The 2023-2024 school year in Durham Public Schools will start on August 28, 2023, and end on May 24, 2024. This includes 180 instructional days, which are divided into two semesters of 90 days each. The first semester will end on December 22, 2023, and the second semester will begin on January 3, 2024.

How Many Holidays Are There?

Durham Public Schools observes several holidays throughout the year, including Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Memorial Day. Additionally, there are several teacher workdays and early release days throughout the year, which are not counted as instructional days.

What Are the School Hours?

The daily schedule for elementary schools in DPS is from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, while middle and high schools start at 7:30 am and end at 2:30 pm. However, some schools may have slightly different schedules, so it’s best to check with your child’s school for the exact timings.

What Is the Curriculum Like?

Durham Public Schools has a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for college and career readiness. The curriculum is aligned with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study and includes subjects such as English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and World Languages. Additionally, DPS offers a variety of elective courses, including Arts Education, Career and Technical Education, Healthful Living, and Physical Education.

What Extracurricular Activities Are Available?

DPS offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and organizations. Students can participate in sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field, among others. There are also various clubs and organizations, such as robotics, debate, music, and drama. These activities provide students with opportunities to develop their skills, interests, and talents outside of the classroom.

How Does DPS Support Special Education Students?

Durham Public Schools provides a range of services and accommodations for students with disabilities, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Accommodation Plans, and specialized instruction. Additionally, DPS has a team of special education teachers, therapists, and support staff who work collaboratively with families and students to ensure that they receive the support they need to succeed academically and socially.

What Are the School Policies?

Durham Public Schools has policies and procedures that govern various aspects of school life, including attendance, behavior, dress code, and student safety. Parents and students are expected to review and follow these policies to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment for all. Additionally, DPS has a code of conduct that outlines the expectations for student behavior and consequences for violations of the code.

How Does DPS Ensure School Safety?

Durham Public Schools takes school safety seriously and has several measures in place to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. These measures include security cameras, visitor check-in procedures, emergency drills, and student IDs. Additionally, DPS has a team of school resource officers who work with school administrators to address safety concerns and promote positive relationships between students and law enforcement.

Final Thoughts

The Durham Public Schools traditional calendar in 2023 provides students with a comprehensive and challenging education that prepares them for college and career success. With a range of extracurricular activities, support services, and policies that ensure student safety and well-being, DPS is committed to providing the best possible education for all students. If you have any additional questions about the DPS traditional calendar or other aspects of the school system, please contact your child’s school or visit the DPS website.

Question and Answer:

Q: What is the daily schedule for elementary schools in DPS?

A: The daily schedule for elementary schools in DPS is from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.

Q: How many instructional days are there in the DPS traditional calendar?

A: There are 180 instructional days in the DPS traditional calendar, divided into two semesters of 90 days each.

Q: What extracurricular activities are available in DPS?

A: DPS offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and organizations, such as robotics, debate, music, and drama.