DPS HOSPITAL SCHOOL

DPS Hospital School is a public school that is part of the Durham Public Schools school district, located in Durham, NC with about 17 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten to 12th Grade. With about 18 teachers, DPS Hospital School has a student/teacher ratio of about 0:1. 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.

The DPS Hospital School, located within the Duke University Medical Center (DUMC), is a unique educational partnership between Durham Public Schools and Duke Children’s Hospital. The program is specifically designed to support K-12 students who are facing prolonged hospital stays or recurring medical treatments. By providing professional instruction directly within the hospital environment, the school ensures that pediatric patients do not fall behind in their academic progress while navigating significant health challenges.

The curriculum is flexible and personalized, allowing teachers to coordinate closely with each student's home school to maintain academic continuity. Beyond simply covering course requirements, the program serves as a vital source of normalcy and cognitive engagement for children during what is often a stressful medical experience. By bridging the gap between clinical care and the classroom, the DPS Hospital School fosters a supportive environment that prioritizes both the educational growth and the emotional well-being of young patients.

For more information, contact DPS Hospital School at (919) 684-5684 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.