Spotlighting Community Schools

Three Durham Public Schools elementary schools are making strides in education through the Bull City Community Schools Partnership. This initiative uses the national “Community Schools” model focused on community-driven solutions and services tailored to meet the holistic needs of students and families.

This initiative, being implemented in Lakewood Elementary, Club Boulevard Elementary, and Fayetteville St. Elementary, is built on four pillars:

1) Integrated Student Supports

2) Expanded Learning Opportunities

3) Collaborative Leadership

4) Active Family Engagement

These pillars foster a holistic approach to education, addressing both academic and non-academic needs. Families benefit from access to everything from food pantries, tutoring programs, and wellness activities.

As one Lakewood Elementary parent shared “Lakewood is a small school with a big heart. It is full of talented teachers and friendly staff who share a strong sense of community, purpose, and caring for our students.”

The program has seen remarkable growth. Over the past year, initiatives like the DreamWorks Academy and partnerships with organizations such as the YMCA and Bouncing Bulldogs have provided enriching learning experiences, helping students excel academically and socially.

"I really like how we care for each other,” said a first grader from Lakewood, highlighting the supportive atmosphere cultivated through community engagement.

The Durham Association of Educators (DAE) first brought the Community Schools Model to Durham and DPS Foundation is proud to have been the lead partner of Bull City Community Schools for 5 years. Community schools aren’t just happening in Durham - they are expanding across NC, and our friends at StudentU are leading the work in Vance and Orange Counties. Together, we’re building brighter futures for all students!

Email Xavier Cason to get regular updates on the Bull City Community Schools Parntership, or learn more HERE.