DURHAM SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

Durham School of the Arts is a Title I public high school that is part of the Durham Public Schools school district, located in Durham, NC with about 1,751 students offering grade levels from 6th Grade to 12th Grade. Student demographics can be found below. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 107 teachers, Durham School of the Arts has a student/teacher ratio of about 16:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Durham School of the Arts (DSA) is a unique, audition-based magnet school located in the heart of downtown Durham, North Carolina. Serving students in grades 6 through 12, the school is designed to integrate rigorous academic standards with a comprehensive focus on the fine and performing arts. By operating within the Durham Public Schools system, DSA provides a specialized environment where students are encouraged to pursue professional-level training in areas such as dance, music, theater, visual arts, and creative writing alongside their core curriculum.

The school is well-regarded for its vibrant, creative culture and its commitment to fostering artistic expression as a central component of student development. Because of its specialized nature, the campus features dedicated facilities for performances and studio work, creating an atmosphere that mirrors a conservatory-style setting. With its strategic location near the city’s cultural hubs, Durham School of the Arts serves as a key institution for students who are passionate about both academic achievement and the cultivation of their artistic talents in a diverse and collaborative community.

For more information, contact Durham School of the Arts at (919) 560-3926 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.