Welcome to Duke School

Dear Friends and Families,

Eighty years ago, Duke School was founded on a bold idea: that the most meaningful education begins with knowing children deeply and engaging them in authentic, intellectually challenging work. From its earliest days, Duke School championed observation, inquiry, and purposeful investigation because its founders believed that children develop understanding by asking questions, testing ideas, solving problems, and making meaning for themselves. Long before these ideas entered the national conversation, they defined Duke School. Today, they continue to distinguish us.

The educational principles that shaped Duke School's earliest years matter more than ever. As artificial intelligence transforms how we learn and work, the qualities that matter most remain profoundly human: curiosity, critical thinking, discernment, creativity, collaboration, and clear communication. Information is increasingly available on demand. The ability to ask thoughtful questions, solve authentic problems, and work meaningfully with others prepares students not merely to adapt to change but to lead through it.

That commitment became the foundation for our mission refresh this year. We approached the work thoughtfully, taking time to listen, reflect, and learn from the voices of faculty, staff, families, alumni, and trustees. The language is new, but the ideas are deeply rooted in who we have always been. In the pages ahead, you'll read more about that process and the many people who helped shape the mission that will guide Duke School into its next chapter.

Duke School has long demonstrated what exceptional teaching and learning can achieve. Our educators continue to advance the profession through deep knowledge of children, thoughtful innovation, and a commitment to sharing their expertise. Our graduates leave prepared to lead with confidence, purpose, sound judgment, and compassion, ready to shape the future.

As Duke School enters its ninth decade, we do so with strength, gratitude, and conviction. We begin this school year at full enrollment, and together our community has exceeded our Annual Fund goal. I am deeply grateful for the confidence these milestones reflect and for the generosity that makes our work possible.

We are the stewards of an extraordinary legacy. Our responsibility is not merely to preserve it but to extend it by continuing to lead our profession and by preparing children to think deeply, live with purpose, and confidently shape a future none of us can fully imagine.

With pride and gratitude in our journey together,

Lisa Nagel

Head of School