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Duke School is an independent Preschool through Eighth grade project-based school located in Durham, NC since 1947.

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Early Childhood

Preschool (Ages 3 & 4) and Kindergarten

Our Early Childhood program is for students aged three years old through Kindergarten, providing a full day of developmentally appropriate experiences designed to advance each child's cognitive, language, emotional, and motor skills.

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Lower School

Grades 1-4

In our Lower School program, we maintain a small teacher-student ratio to allow for teachers to respect students' individual differences and set challenging but achievable goals for each student.

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Middle School

Grade 5 to 8

It is with understanding of and respect for young adolescents that we design our Middle School around their characteristics and needs, enabling each student to develop intellectually and personally. 

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491

Total Enrollment

1947

School Founded

7:1

Student/Faculty Ratio

39%

Students of Color

 

We inspire learners to boldly and creatively shape their future. Our students not only master skills of traditional academic disciplines, but they also develop a sense of self, community, and culture. 

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Upcoming Events

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Bldg. A - Cafe Space - 1
8th grade students and parents are invited to hear from Duke School alumni about the area high schools and the transition from Duke School to High School.
Duke School Becomes the Second Heart Safe School in Durham County
Duke School Becomes the Second Heart Safe School in Durham County

Duke School becomes a second school in Durham County to be officially designated a Heart Safe School by Project ADAM, recognizing our strong commitment to cardiac emergency preparedness and campus safety. This achievement reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff, who have completed extensive CPR, AED, first aid, and emergency response training to help keep our community safe. 

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The Educator's Institute at Duke School Welcomes Duke University Students to Learn about the Project Approach
The Educator's Institute at Duke School Welcomes Duke University Students to Learn about the Project Approach

Duke School’s Educators Institute (spring 2026) hosted Duke University students for an immersive experience in project-based learning, highlighting its history, philosophy, and student-centered practices. Through interactive activities and classroom observations, visitors explored how this approach fosters engagement, curiosity, and deeper learning while building connections with future educators.

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Under the Oak 2025 - Read the New Issue of Duke School's Annual Magazine
Under the Oak 2025 - Read the New Issue of Duke School's Annual Magazine

We are thrilled to invite our community—and friends beyond— to explore everything Duke School in the new 2025 issue of our annual magazine, Under The Oak. “Spark What’s Next”—this school year’s theme—revisits the memorable moments of the year and the bright future it brings to our students, igniting their sparks in creativity, project work, and learning.

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Duke School Announces Annie Gentithes as Next Middle School Director
Duke School Announces Annie Gentithes as Next Middle School Director

After an extensive national search, Duke School is thrilled to announce that Annie Gentithes has been named the next Middle School Director. A respected educator and leader at Duke School for 15 years, Annie brings a deep commitment to progressive education, equity, and innovation, making her the ideal choice to lead the middle school into its next chapter.

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