Navigating Schools 2015-2016

PARENTS’ QUESTIONS, ANSWERED 10 PICKING THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL 16 APPLYING TO COLLEGE 36 DIRECTORY OF PRIVATE, CHARTER, MAGNET & REGIONAL BOARDING SCHOOLS 41

presented by

& CHAPELHILL

M A G A Z I N E

2015 /16

in Durham, Orange & Northern Chatham Counties

A Parent’s Guide to Pre-K through Post-Grad

Durham Public Schools has

23 innovative magnet school options

Annual Magnet Fair - November 7, 2015 School Tours Available from November 9, 2015-January 29, 2016 The 2016-2017 Magnet School Application Window is January 11- 29, 2016

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

SECONDARY SCHOOLS

HIGH SCHOOLS

Sandy Ridge Visual and Performing Arts

Lakewood Montessori School

Burton IB International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP)

Josephine D. Clement Early College (Grades 9-12)

Shepard IB International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP)

The School for Creative Studies Year-Round (Grades 6-12)

Club Boulevard Humanities R.N. Harris Integrated Arts/ Core Knowledge Morehead Montessori School W. G. Pearson STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math)

Rogers-Herr Year-Round

Durham School of the Arts Visual and Performing Arts (Grades 6-12)

Neal STEM Academy of Engineering and Design Lowe’s Grove STEM School of Technology

George Watts Montessori School Holt Year-Round, Language Academy

Middle College High School (Grades 11 & 12)

City of Medicine Academy (Grades 9-12) Hillside IB International Baccalaureate, MYP and Diploma Programmes (Grades 9-12) Southern School of Energy and Sustainability (Grades 9-12) New Tech High School (Grades 9-12)

Easley Year-Round Pearsontown Year-Round

Please visit the magnet website for further details:

magnet.dpsnc.net

SENIOR VP, PU BL ISHING Rory Kelly Gillis rory@durhammag.com VP, CONTENT Andrea Griffith Cash andrea@chapelhillmagazine.com PU BL ISHER Kem Johnson kem@durhammag.com MANGAGING ED ITOR Amanda MacLaren ASSISTANT ED ITOR Jessica Stringer CREATIVE D IRECTOR Kevin Brown ART D IRECTORS Sarah Arneson Sally Scruggs PHOTOGRAPHER Briana Brough GRAPHIC D ESIGNER Christy Wright ED ITORIAL ASSISTANT Virginia Robinson ED ITORIAL INTERNS Schyler Martin, Peter Rathmell and Katie Schanze

ADVERTISING Melissa Crane melissa@chapelhillmagazine.com Ellen Farber ellenfarber@durhammag.com Flann McKinnon flann@durhammag.com

CORPORATE PRESID ENT/CEO Dan Shannon VICE PRESID ENT Ellen Shannon BU SINESS MANAGER Amy Bell AD MINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONS ASSISTANT Caroline Kornegay D ISTRIBU TION Randy Bullock

Navigating Schools is published by Shannon Media Inc., the parent company of Chapel Hill Magazine and Durham Magazine.

919.933.1551 durhammag.com chapelhillmagazine.com

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2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

Learn to code in Durham.

Life’s too short for the wrong career.

T H E I R O N YA R D . C O M / D U R H A M GI V E US A C A L L: 919. 561.6055

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIANA BROUGH

2015

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Facts & Figures About Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, Durham Public Schools, Orange County Schools and Chatham County Schools and their superintendents.

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Parents’ Questions, Answered What is the Common Core curriculum?

What is a Montessori school? When do you apply for kindergarten registration? And more!

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Picking the Right Preschool

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An Education Roundtable A discussion with four parents on the multiple education options available and the state of our schools.

‘I’m A Teacher’ Reflections from a third-year elementary school teacher.

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Applying to College Expert advice from Durham Technical Community College and UNC-Chapel Hill admissions counselors, and a Durham Academy guidance counselor.

Plus, thoughts from a college-bound student.

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Life After Graduation Two recent high school grads who chose to pursue alternate paths rather than jumping into a traditional four-year college setting.

Three experts at Montessori Children’s House of Durham chat about what to look for and questions to ask during your search at local schools.

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Private School Prep A step-by-step process for applying to private schools from the Triangle Independent School Consortium.

Reader Poll We asked: What’s the most surprising aspect about being the parent of a school-aged child? What have you learned from the experience?

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Directory of Private, Charter, Magnet and Regional Boarding Schools

THE COVER A couple of Durham students get ready for another day of school.

(Their backpacks are from Glee Kids in Chapel Hill!) | Photo illustration by Briana Brough & Kevin Brown

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NAME

Ethan AG E

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HO B BY

Defending His Goal I N S PI R ED BY

Coach Robertson F AV O R I T E T H I N G

Post-Game Pool Parties F AV O R I T E P L A C E

Boulder Park

This place is made for me.

When he’s not playing JV Soccer at Woods Charter School with his friends, you’ll find Ethan chillin’ in the pool at the Briar Club, or hanging in the hammocks in Discovery Park. Luckily, his grandparents found the perfect home nearby, so they can watch him grow up. Whether mountain biking on the trails, or defending his team’s winning streak, Briar Chapel is definitely made for Ethan—see how it’s made for you at BCNC.com .

AWA R D -W I N N I N G G R E E N H O M E S R A N C H - S T Y L E V I L L A S A N D C U S TO M H O M E S F R O M T H E LOW O O O s — s

Saussy Burbank • Lennar • Fresh Paint by Garman Homes Garman Homes • Homes By Dickerson • David Weekley Homes Drees Homes • Terramor Homes • MorningStar Homes

888.241.4430 • Brokers Welcome • Just south of downtown Chapel Hill on 15/501 Newland Communities is the largest private developer of planned residential and urban mixed-use communities in the United States from coast-to-coast.

Together with our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. www.newlandcommunities.com and www.nashcommunities.com NNP-Briar Chapel, LLC (“Fee Owner”) is the owner and developer of the Briar Chapel Community (“Community”). Certain homebuilders unaffiliated with the Fee Owner or its related entities (collectively, “Briar Chapel”) are building homes in the Community (“Builder(s)”). Fee Owner has retained Newland Communities solely as the property manager for the Community. North America Sekisui House has an interest in one of the members in Fee Owner. Newland Communities and North America Sekisui House are not co-developing, co-building, or otherwise responsible for any of the obligations or representations of any of the Builders, and shall have no obligations to any buyer regarding a home purchase from a Builder. Purchasers of homes from any of the Builders waive any claims against Newland Communities and/or North America Sekisui House arising out of their purchase transaction. Actual development may vary from developer’s vision. No guarantee can be made that development will proceed as described. Prices, specifications, details and availability of Builder’s homes are subject to change without notice. 2015 © Briar Chapel. All Rights Reserved. Briar Chapel is a trademark of NNP-Briar Chapel, LLC, and may not be copied, imitated or used, in whole or in part, without prior written permission.

GET IN TOUCH CHAPEL HILL CARRBORO-CITY SCHOOLS 750 S. Merritt Mill Rd. Chapel Hill, N.C. 27516 919-967-8211 chccs.k12.nc.us DURHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS 511 Cleveland St. Durham, N.C. 27702 919-560-2000 dpsnc.net

FACTS & FIGURES

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOLS 200 E. King St. Hillsborough, N.C. 27278 919-732-8126 orange.k12.nc.us CHATHAM COUNTY SCHOOLS 369 West St. Pittsboro, N.C. 27312 919-542-3626 chatham.k12.nc.us

CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO CITY SCHOOLS AVERAGE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT

Elementary Middle High

STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO

503 713 930

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

K and 1st 2nd and 3rd 4th and 5th 6th 7th 8th

20 21 23 21 22 20

Elementary Middle

20:1 16:1

CLASSROOM TEACHERS

Total 623

FAST FACTS

TEACHERS’ AIDES

• Graduates earned $10,587,270 in scholarships last year

Total 234

• Graduation rate is 92.6%

SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Thomas A. Forcella became the district’s 23rd superintendent on July 1, 2011. Dr. Forcella joined CHCCS after six years as the superintendent of the Guilford Public Schools in Connecticut. Prior to leading the Guilford Public Schools, Forcella served as the superintendent of the Cape Elizabeth Schools in Maine.

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Forcella holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education, a master’s in special education and a sixth-year degree in curriculum and instruction, all from Central Connecticut State University. He holds a doctorate in educational management from the University of Bridgeport, also in Connecticut.

• 93% of graduates attend college • Average combined SAT score is 1770 • 42% of teachers and 100% of principals have advanced degrees • Offers 26 AP courses

ACCOLADES • Highest average SAT score in N.C. • 40 National Merits Finalists in 2013 • Second Highest Local Per-Pupil Spending in N.C.

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Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill

4011 Pickett Road, Durham | 919-402-8262 | trinityschoolnc.org | Grades TK–12 2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

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NEED-TO-KNOW NUMBERS

DURHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS AVERAGE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT

Elementary Middle High

STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO

534 618 776

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

K 1st and 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th

22 21 20 21 20 23 21 20

K-2nd 19:1 3rd-8th 20:1 9th-12th 24:1 CLASSROOM TEACHERS

County Schools from 2004 to 2009. He joined the staff of the Children’s Defense Fund to become coordinator of the Cradle to Prison Pipeline Campaign in 2009. In July 2010, Dr. L’Homme was named superintendent of schools for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., leading 96 schools that served more than 27,000 students. Dr. L’Homme and his wife, Margaret, have three daughters and four grandsons.

Approx. 2,400

ACCOLADES

TEACHERS’ AIDES

Total 560

SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Bert L’Homme returned to Durham Public Schools in July 2014 as superintendent. He began his education career as a special education teacher in Washington, D.C. He served as principal of City Lights, a school for at-risk students in Washington, and New Hope Elementary School in Orange County, N.C. After six years as associate superintendent for academic services with DPS, he was superintendent of Franklin

• Three different educators received statewide recognition: Jason Jowers of Hillside High (state Assistant Principal of the Year), Tonya Williams of Githens Middle (regional Principal of the Year) and Alison Edwards of The School for Creative Studies (regional finalist for Teacher of the Year) • Teacher of the Year Lori Khan, Middle College High School at Durham Tech, won her second national science-teaching award, the Gustav Ohaus Award • Second highest local per-pupil spending in N.C. • Durham Public Schools won almost half of the entire state’s National Healthy School Awards • Three graduating seniors won Gates Millennium Scholarships • All three Montessori schools won national awards from the Magnet Schools of America

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOLS AVERAGE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT

Elementary Middle High

STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO

489 583 1,175

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

K 1st and 2nd 3rd 4th–6th 7th and 8th

19 18 19 22 23

Elementary Middle High

14:1 13:1 16:1

CLASSROOM TEACHERS

Total

549

TEACHERS’ AIDES

Approx.

120

SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Todd Wirt comes to Orange County Schools after serving as the assistant superintendent for academics in Wake Public Schools.

Before Wake County, he was in Mooresville Graded School District, where he served as executive director of secondary education as well as principal of Mooresville High School from 2007 to 2011. Prior to that, Dr. Wirt served as a middle and high school principal and assistant principal and teacher in the Alamance-Burlington School System.

FAST FACTS • Graduation rate is 89% • Offers International Baccalaureate Programmes, award-winning wood working classes and agricultural sciences • Has a 1:1 Technology Initiative (elementary, middle and high school students have a laptop or tablet)

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NEED-TO-KNOW NUMBERS

CHATHAM COUNTY SCHOOLS AVERAGE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT

Elementary Middle High

6th 22 7th and 8th 23 561 501 578

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

K 1st 2nd and 3rd 4th 5th

20 21 20 21 20

STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO

Elementary K-8 Middle High

12:1 14:1 14:1 17:1

CLASSROOM TEACHERS

Total

598

FAST FACTS • One of only 14 districts in North Carolina to have every school meet or exceed estimated growth in 2014 • Five-year graduation rate exceeds state averages • Dual language program in four schools • 100% of AVIS students accepted to four-year colleges

SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Derrick D. Jordan became interim superintendent of Chatham County Schools on September 1, 2013, and was sworn in as permanent superintendent on March 6, 2014. Dr. Jordan joined the Chatham County Schools team in 2008 as the director of secondary education. A former middle and high school English teacher, Dr. Jordan was a high school principal in eastern North Carolina prior to joining the Chatham team. His school typically met or exceeded state and national goals and was ranked twice by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best high schools in the nation.

Dr. Jordan earned a bachelor’s in English from North Carolina Central University, a master’s in School Administration from East Carolina University, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Policy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was elected as a Jackson Scholar by the faculty. 

EMPOWERING YOU TO SAVE FOR

YOUR DREAMS

GoForUrDreams.com

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

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PARENTS’ QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YEAR-ROUND OPTIONS, COMMON CORE, KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION AND MORE

How many students are enrolled in our public schools?

According to statistics from the 2014-15 school year, DPS served 33,626 students. CHCCS served 12,238.

What’s the best way to set up a schedule or routine that allows children room to recuperate from the day while also tending to chores, homework and other activities but also builds in fun things like play dates and bike rides? – Nicole, mother of a second-grader and a preschooler in Durham Dr. Susan Moschos, a North Carolina licensed psychologist and nation-

ally certified school psychologist with Big Dog Pediatric Psychology, says, “Just as your work day is more productive when intentionally planned, your family will also benefit from the structure a schedule provides.

Consider your child’s developmental needs and temperament, and make your family values a priority. For example, if eating a meal together every night is important to your family, schedule this first. While your children will experience the most benefit when a schedule is routine and predictable, fun and flexibility are key to success.”

What options are available for track-out times during year-round school years?

Many of the same organizations that offer kids’ camps during traditional summer vacation also offer intersession camps for year-round students.

Information for these camps is available on their individual websites.

DPS also offers intersession programs to fit parents’ needs. Students can attend mornings, afternoons or full day.

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According to Steven Weber, executive director of instructional services for CHCCS, “The Common Core State Standards focus on college and career readiness. Prior to the Common Core State Standards, the emphasis was on students graduating from high school.

Employers and colleges are seeking high school graduates who can communicate, collaborate, think critically, create and contribute. Prior standards focused on content knowledge. The new standards emphasize content knowledge, skills, key concepts and the ability to transfer deeper understandings into real world settings or simulations. … Prior to the Common Core State Standards, there were 50 different standards [one for each state] for each content area.

For example, if a fourth-grade student and his family moved from Michigan to North Carolina, the student may be ahead of [or behind] the students in his new class.”

PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

We’re trying to wrap our brains around the Common Core. What are the main differences between previous testing and curriculum and the current Common Core? – Elizabeth Dickinson, mother of preschooler Harper at Estes Children’s Cottage

Grace Akoth, Jack Shohfi, Cameron Roberts and Olivia Poteat in their fifth-grade classroom at Ephesus Elementary.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT KINDERGARTEN Registration for public kindergarten opens in March of each year. Typically, the magnet and year-round calendar schools register first, followed by the traditional calendar schools a week later. If you are unsure for which school you are zoned, contact the school enrollment office (919-560-2059 in Durham and 919-967-8211 ext. 28268 in Chapel Hill/ Carrboro). Parents can also determine their zone online.

Admission and enrollment for private schools begins earlier, and it will be different for each school. On average, the admission process begins in early January with some programs notifying parents of acceptance by the end of February.

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

Be mindful of your child’s age when considering a kindergarten program as well. Some private schools offer transitional kindergarten programs for children who will be too young for public kindergarten by the start of the school year. Check with individual schools if you are interested in this option.

To enroll in public kindergarten, a child must be 5 years old by August 31 of that academic year. You will need your child’s birth certificate, proof of residency, immunization records and a health assessment form completed by your physician to complete enrollment.

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PARENTS’ QUESTIONS ANSWERED

We’ve heard from friends in other states who have opted out of standardized testing. Is it possible to opt out in North Carolina, and, if so, what are the pros and cons of that? – Elizabeth Jeffrey Nash, executive director for community relations

for CHCCS, notes that because of state and federal law, all students in North Carolina are required to participate in the testing program. If a student is present in the classroom on test day, school employees must administer tests to students who are required or permitted [by the state] to participate.

If the student does not provide any answers, she or he will receive the lowest possible score.

obesity. In addition, the Internet and cellphones can provide platforms for illicit and risky behaviors. Children and teens should engage with entertainment media for no more than one or two hours per day, and that should be high-quality content. It is important for kids to spend time on outdoor play, reading, hobbies and using their imaginations in free play. Television and other entertainment media should be avoided for infants and children younger than age 2.” 

EDUCATION GLOSSARY Do DPS and CHCCS offer year-round options?

DPS offers three year-round elementary schools (Easley Magnet Elementary, Holt Elementary Language Academy and Pearsontown Elementary), one year-round middle school (Rogers-Herr Magnet Middle School) and one year-round high school (The School for Creative Studies).

CHCCS does not offer year-round public school options with the exception of The Hospital School. The Hospital School is part of the CHCCS public school system but serves only school-age children who must keep up their academic studies while receiving treatment at UNC Hospitals.

What programs outside of school do you recommend? – Vinod Kurup, father of third-grader Kavi and first-grader Anika at Morris Grove Elementary, and preschooler Avik at Sounds and Colors

“Programs outside of school should depend upon the values of your family,” Dr. Moschos says. “Does your family value sports? Community service? Religious values? While sports or activities outside of school can teach skills and socialization and promote friendships, they also can be time-consuming, expensive and stressful, depending upon your child. Consider choosing one activity your child would like to attempt and try it for a season. Balance is key in developing healthy and happy children and families.”

What are your views on the optimal amount of screen time? – Vinod

CHARTER SCHOOL Charter schools are supported by public tax dollars, but their charters release them from standard public school administration regulations. Frequently, they’re governed by a private board of parents or community members or private education service firms. They are tuition-free and non-religious, and they can hire instructors with at-will contracts, negotiate personnel salaries or hire non-certified teachers. The law requires 50% of charter school teachers to be licensed.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL These schools have the freedom to serve their distinct individual missions through their own philosophies, values and approaches to teaching.

MAGNET SCHOOL Magnet schools are public, lottery application-based elementary, middle or high schools that aren’t associated with any particular neighborhood.

They frequently have additional funding for supplies, teachers and students, and many are known for unique programs, such as language immersion or a focus on health care or the arts.

MONTESSORI A style of teaching named after the Italian educator Maria Montessori in which children teach themselves and have more control over how to use their time and what topics they want to explore.

Classrooms are often composed of children of many ages and grades.

“To help kids make wise media choices,” according to Dr. Moschos, “parents should monitor their media diet. Studies have shown that excessive media use can lead to attention problems, school difficulties, sleep and eating disorders, and

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PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

Fourth graders Makayla Davis, Finnian Triplett and Khyler Williamson work on their pieces in Lucia Marcus’ art class at Central Park School For Children.

PARENTS:

WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING ASPECT ABOUT HAVING A SCHOOL-AGED CHILD? WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM THE EXPERIENCE?

I LEARNED NOT to hold on to things that did not go my child’s way, be it a slight from a friend or not being picked to be on a team. She would get over things much faster, and it would make her more resilient.”

Dana Lange, mother of Carter, a junior at Durham Academy

FOR ME PERSONALLY, it is the struggle I have with every transition. I used to watch my coworkers move kids from school to school with ease, yet each time I have considered placing my children in a new setting I worry for weeks and months as I consider all aspects of the decision. I’ve learned that kids adapt pretty easily to new environments and often end up stronger with the experience of change.”

Cindy Bohlin, mother of fourth-grader Josie at Creekside Elementary and seventh-grader Margot at Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill

THE PTA DOES a wonderful job of fundraising, and there are lots of opportunities to give to your school – especially at the elementary school level, when you might be asked once or twice a month for donations for the PTA, teachers’ breakfasts or other events. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and decide how and when you’ll be able to give.”

Melanie Ricks, mother of eighth-grader Tait and sixth-grader Maci at McDougle Middle School; and third-grader Dane and first-grader Brie at Morris Grove Elementary School

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I AM AMAZED how it seems like time speeds up when kids enter school. I remember clearly their first day of preschool, and now I’m having a hard time conceptualizing that all three are in middle school.”

Vilma Ferrell, mother of eighth-grader Aliyah, seventh-grader Sean and sixth-grader Emily at McDougle Middle School

AS A PARENT OF elementary-age students, it surprises me how interested I have become in the state budget – specifically as it relates to teacher assistant positions. This year, we are hearing that the budgets for teacher assistants will be cut in half. Can you imagine how this will impact our principals, teachers and our children? I think every legislator should have to spend a day – without an assistant – teaching in a kindergarten or first-grade classroom. The legislative budgetary priorities would sort themselves out rather quickly after they spend a day with 20 to 25 5- and 6-year-olds, don’t you think?”

Jennifer Bowman, mother of third-grader Caroline and first-grader Charlotte at Perry Harrison Elementary

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Merit Scholarships Available Drop-in Visits Wednesdays 10:15AM New Payment Plans!

• Grades K-12 • Custom-Designed Instruction • 10:1 student/teacher ratio • Mastery-based learning

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Sunday, October 4, 2015, 2-4 PM Saturday, January 30, 2016, 1-3 PM Saturday, March 5, 2016, 1-3 PM

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PHOTO BY KIM JOHNSON

BUILDING BLOCKS Three-year-old Caleb Johnson learns to match quantity to symbols using a Montessori material called the bead stair, which helps develop his vocabulary, number sense and concept of sequence, at Montessori Children’s House of Durham.

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PICKING THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL THREE EXPERTS AT MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF DURHAM CHAT ABOUT WHAT TO LOOK FOR AND THE QUESTIONS TO ASK DURING YOUR SEARCH AT LOCAL SCHOOLS

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WE HOSTED A LIVE FACEBOOK FORUM with three experts at Montessori Children’s House of Durham (MCHD) – early childhood and kindergarten teacher Lisa Tate, director of outreach and MCHD parent Lyn Dickinson, and assistant head of school Cynthia Hughey – about finding the right preschool fit for your family.

What should you specifically look for when researching preschools that indicate the preschool is highly rated and meets all required standards?

There are a lot of things to consider. Some questions you may want to ask include: Does the school have a clearly articulated philosophy and methodology? Is the school accredited by a national body? What are the expectations for teacher certification and education?

Does the school encourage or allow observations in the classrooms by prospective parents?

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PRESCHOOL PREP

Ask about staff turnover – this may tell you something about the school’s culture and leadership.

Finally, take user-based ratings with a grain of salt. Websites that rank schools based on ratings supplied by the general public can be manipulated negatively or positively.

Reviews can be artificially composed by school members or even by competitors.

When it comes to finding the right preschool, what are the best resources available to families in the Chapel Hill-Durham area to utilize as a starting point?

Beginning the search can be overwhelming! Start with your friends, neighbors and others in your circles. Local magazines also offer school guides annually that can be a great resource. Preschool fairs, sponsored by local mothers’ groups, are also held periodically in the region.

What kinds of things should I look for when touring or observing at a school? What are considered major red flags?

Look for playgrounds that are developmentally appropriate, including equipment that contributes to gross motor growth. In the classroom, look closely at the materials available. Are they clean, complete and purposeful? Are they learning tools or just toys? How would you describe the atmosphere of the classroom? Is it calm or chaotic? Does it encourage social interaction for cooperative learning, peer teaching and emotional development? What do you notice about the teacher/child interactions? Is it mutually respectful? Is it individualized? Do the adults spend most of their time “entertaining” the children, or are the children engaged in their own authentic experiences? Are teachers actively interacting with the children?

What is it that makes a Montessori preschool different from other preschools?

There’s a lot to say, so we’re going to break it up into four parts: The “whole child” approach. The goal of a Montessori education is to help each child reach their full potential in all areas of life. The holistic curriculum, under the direction of a specially prepared teacher, allows the child to experience the joy of learning, time to enjoy the process and ensure the development of self-esteem, and provides the experiences from which children create their knowledge.

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The “prepared environment.” In order for self-directed learning to take place, the whole learning environment – room, materials and social climate – must be supportive of the learner.

The Montessori materials. Dr. Montessori’s observations of the kinds of things that children enjoy and go back to repeatedly led her to design a number of multi-sensory, sequential and self-correcting materials that facilitate the learning of skills and lead to learning of abstract ideas.

The teacher. The Montessori teacher functions as a designer of the environment, resource person, role model, demonstrator, record-keeper and meticulous observer of each child’s behavior and growth. Extensive training after college, including a year’s student teaching, is required for a full American Montessori Society credential.

How soon should you start researching preschools, paying your registration fees and placing your child on the waiting list?

This may depend on what age your child will begin school.

Typically you want to allow yourself about a year before school starts to research, visit, apply and register. Many area private schools and preschools begin their admissions process in the fall and make offers (according to availability) in the spring for the following school year. Some schools may also have rolling admissions, allowing for later applications.

Say you have a child who is high energy (or shy or advanced for his or her age, etc.), what kind of environment would be most suitable?

Let’s start with the high-energy example. It is imperative that the high-energy child be allowed to move frequently indoors and outdoors daily. You would want to look for a school that has high-quality, challenging playgrounds, along with indoor activities that allow the child to move purposefully throughout the room. Be sure the school does not expect young children to sit quietly for extended periods of time.

For a shy child, a multi-aged classroom is a great setting because it allows for mentoring, peer-to-peer teaching and the development of an individual child’s leadership skills where her own timeline for that development is respected.

Look for an environment where the child is physically and emotionally safe to explore.

Even at the preschool level, children have their own individual strengths and abilities. A child may be reading

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PRESCHOOL PREP

at 4, but needs more social development, for example.

For this reason, we would again recommend a multi-age classroom setting.

Look for a classroom where children can work at their own pace and level and where students are given lessons according to their abilities, not their age, based on the teacher’s observation of the children.

How does your school welcome and foster parental involvement?

The school-family partnership is established from the very beginning. We invite parents to tour campus and observe a classroom as part of the application process. Once enrolled, parents volunteer in a variety of ways, based on their availability and talents. These may include board service, class parents, event coordinators, assisting with gardening activities, or bringing snacks for a special breakfast, among others. We also offer several community events for families, from local hikes to Parent Education Nights.

We host Parent-Teacher Conferences twice a year, and each class (including After School groups) emails regular communication with updates, photos and class information.

What steps should parents take to determine what their priorities should be when selecting a preschool?

In other words, what factors should I consider in selecting a preschool?

Think about what is important to your family and what fits into your desired lifestyle and needs. Having done some research, can you begin to articulate which educational philosophy and methodology resonates with you? Make a list of factors that will play a role and begin to prioritize.

Consider cost, location, culture, diversity, language, arts, curriculum, outside play and others. For instance, you may be willing to drive further for a school that matches your top academic and social priorities, or you may be willing to pay more for a school that requires less commuting time and provides afterschool care.

How would you recommend choosing a half-day versus a full-day program for ages 2, 3, 4, etc.?

First, think about your own family’s needs, lifestyle and schedule. At our school, we offer a morning Montessori program and a Montessori-inspired afterschool program.

Ask the school to which you apply what the whole-day experience is like and determine if that’s best for your child.

If it’s possible to start your child in a half-day program, the 20

teacher will be able to partner with you in determining when your child is ready for a full-day program.

Any last words of wisdom for parents during their search for a preschool that fits their family?

Some parents wonder what required standards they should look for when researching preschools. We like to remind parents that this depends on if you are looking for a daycare or a school. Daycares are required to meet standards set by the state of North Carolina. Schools accredited by national organizations are exempt from state daycare regulations. Also be aware of a school’s conflict resolution process. For instance, peace, grace and courtesy are hallmarks of the Montessori philosophy and are the foundation of our conflict resolution process. We aspire to implement these traits in our relationships with parents, staff members and other stakeholders, and actively teach these in the classroom. 

MEET THE EXPERTS Cynthia Hughey, Assistant Head of School Cynthia has more than 30 years experience as a Montessori parent, early childhood classroom teacher and administrator.

Lisa Tate, Early Childhood and Kindergarten Teacher Lisa is an early childhood (ages 3-6 years old) classroom teacher with more than 20 years experience as a Montessori parent and teacher.

Lyn Dickinson, Director of Outreach Lyn acts as the facilitator for these experts and chimes in as needed with a parent’s perspective. A former special education teacher at a Chapel Hill elementary school, Lyn has also been a Montessori parent and later an administrator for MCHD.

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

Explore a school where your child’s imagination has room to flourish.

At Carolina Friends School, we believe in the imaginations in the study of humanities, arts, intellectual and creative capacity of every student. technology, engineering, and science.

And that a critical part of our job is to provide all To learn more about how your child can flourish of our students with engaging opportunities for at Carolina Friends, please call us at 919.383.6602. problem-solving, innovation, and expression.

We’d like to get to know you!

Through our integrated and experiential curriculum, we strive to engage our students’

Carolina Friends School www.cfsnc.org

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AN EDUCATION ROUNDTABLE FOUR PARENTS WEIGH IN ON THE STATE OF OUR SCHOOLS AND KNOWING WHAT’S BEST FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL CHILD

By Andrea Griffith Cash Photography by Briana Brough

ON SCHOOL CHOICE HAO For me, as a parent, I would lie if I said I didn’t have

things I impose on my kids. For us, it was language learning.

My mom died when I was young, and I felt it would be a connection for my kids, to her, if they spoke Vietnamese. So we did that. I worked a lot in Miami, and I spoke Spanish – another language that I felt would be easy for them. That was my goal for them for school. What I’ve learned is you kind of have to match them [to their setting] as they change and grow – they become different people and their needs become different. So the place I think has to nurture them. Every year, I look at who they are and how they’ve done. … And I balance that [because] as much as I want exactly what they need for learning, they also have to learn to be with others, whether they learn like them or play like them or not.

HEIDI My husband and I are very committed to the public

school system, which as a homeschool person, might sound strange, right? And we started in Chicago, which has really solid schools in the neighborhood we were in, and they were all neighborhood-based schools. When we moved to Raleigh, we learned it wasn’t about neighborhood schools. You raise your children with your predispositions – if you went to public school or private school. We were invested in public schools.

When it came time for my oldest daughter to start middle school, we were left with no public school options in Wake County. And we were looking at private schools, and that wasn’t the route we wanted to go. It was not the lifestyle we

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Heidi Tyson, Hao Nguyen, Scottie Seawell and Matt Sears share their thoughts on our school systems over coffee and snacks at Guglhupf.

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AN EDUCATION ROUNDTABLE

wanted to lead. It was a lot of time in the car. We wanted our children to be engaged with a diverse community, culturally and socioeconomically. And in Raleigh, we found it was all socioeconomic diversity. So I put my house on the market, and we moved to Chapel Hill. We looked at the schools, and that’s why we came here. And that move was great for two of our three kids – the two in public schools. And our middle child plummeted into a pretty severe depression. We transferred her to Chapel Hill High from East, and she stayed there for two years, and it was a terrible experience. And they tried to support her. I cannot criticize the school system, but I needed to get her out of that environment. We looked at Carolina Friends School, boarding schools. We would have done anything at this point. Someone told me the hardest thing about homeschooling your child is pulling the plug and making the decision to homeschool your child. It was exactly that. Since then, it’s been an amazingly supportive, positive experience. She is thriving. She just couldn’t handle the level of stress that was going on in the halls of Chapel Hill High. You have to have the courage to do what’s right for each individual child. We made some very premeditated decisions. If we homeschooled her, she had to pick up a new sport because she could no longer play lacrosse because North Carolina is one of the few states that doesn’t allow homeschoolers to engage in public school sports. We require her to volunteer a certain number of hours a month. And she needs to read outside of school. She doesn’t ever turn on the TV during the day.

My other kids love it because they see how happy she is. My middle child is a total mainstream kid and is on her third day at East Chapel Hill High and is as happy as can be.

I love what we’re getting in the homeschool community.

She’s in three classes in the homeschool community with a teacher, and she does two classes online. I am not her teacher.

AP Stats? Not happening. Second grade, it’s a lot about mom at the kitchen table with worksheets, and then homeschool play dates.

SCOTTIE I’m a governance consultant, so I have worked with

school boards around strategic planning and leadership. For me, when we were having kids, I’d gone to public schools.

My husband had gone to public schools, so I assumed our kids would as well. But we were living in Denver at the time, and for me, it was moving back to the South.Growing up in Durham, I went to Hillandale when they started bussing to help desegregate because that didn’t happen till way after Brown v. Board of Education in the ’70s, and it was just a very

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ROUNDTABLE PARTICIPANTS HEIDI TYSON Heidi’s oldest graduated from East Chapel Hill High and is now at Tufts University. Her youngest is a freshman at East Chapel Hill High. And her middle child attended Chapel Hill High for two years before the family made the decision to pursue homeschooling.

MATT SEARS A father of three, Matt has been a member of the Durham Public Schools Board of Education since 2014. His oldest just started kindergarten at Lakewood Elementary, and Matt and his wife have organized First Choice Lakewood to make the neighborhood school a diverse, walkable first choice for educating children. Matt was an award-winning math teacher at Hillside and Hillside New Tech High School who was named DPS Teacher of the Year in 2008-09.

He is now director of professional e-learning at N.C. New Schools/Breakthrough Learning.

HAO NGUYEN Hao teaches exceptional children part-time at Rashkis Elementary. Believers in language learning, she and her husband own and operate Flip 4 Kids, a foreign language immersion program in Chapel Hill. Her kids are in first and fourth grade at Carrboro Elementary.

SCOTTIE SEAWELL Scottie and her husband live in Carrboro and are parents of three daughters who attended Carrboro Elementary, McDougle Elementary, Central Park School for Children, Cedar Ridge High School and Carolina Friends School. (The youngest daughter will graduate from Carolina Friends in 2018.) Scottie is also vice president and co-founder with her husband of Leading and Governing Associates Inc., a governance education and leadership consulting practice specializing in public engagement, problem solving and strategic decision making.

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2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

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intellectual curiosity, fosters compassion and integrity, and nurtures creativity, inspiring confidence in each student to lead a life of purpose.

Small School. Big Hearts.

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AN EDUCATION ROUNDTABLE

traumatic experience for me going to Durham Public Schools Hispanic, almost half African-American, and my daughter in the ’70s. But I always thought they’d go to public schools. is one of the few white kids there. That’s changing because And our oldest daughter started to have some struggles, we’re really working with the neighborhood. We got five and we would have done anything to help her be better. No families to go with us [to Lakewood] this year. We want to Child Left Behind kind of hit when she was in third grade, take some ownership of that school. If we could get a fracand so the testing started ramping up, and the teachers were tion of all the energy that goes into the angst about what are stressed about the performance of their kids. Her teacher all the options, we could really move public ed in a better would post in the room how everyone was doing at math. direction. We’re never going to get everybody. On social It was just a spiral down. After exploring and seeing lots of media, people are shamed if you’re not out there looking at doctors and psychologists, we realized Carolina Friends was every charter and every private, and there’s a lot of anxiety going to be the right place for her. And she never wanted to without ever going down to your neighborhood school and leave, and she thanks us to this day. But it’s been a real sacseeing what’s there. rifice. It is socioeconomically diverse because Friends School is very intenON THE IMPORTANCE tional about its community, and they OF PTAs were founded to be one of the first MATT If diversity is important in integrated schools in North Carolina.

Public education Durham, and I think a lot of people So the values really resonate with our is the one, sort of, would say it is, then there are things family in terms of whole-child learnpromise that we you can do with non-diverse neighing, project-based learning, parents make as a nation to borhoods. You can re-draw school being welcomed into the community. our people.

When lines so you favor diversity. But we You’re part of your child’s education. it’s working, it can be have a lot of non-diverse schools in We’re really privileged to be able to the great leveler. …

Durham. What parents bring to a make those decisions. So many parWe have a lot of work school has a real impact on student ents don’t have the life circumstances to do to get it to the achievement. We just started the that we have. Choices have become dream it should be.

PTA at Lakewood Elementary. There huge in this country in terms of edhad been one in the past. And there ucation – charters, magnets, IB proMATT SEARS are other schools in Durham that grams, dual-language programs. don’t have it. Go to Lakewood, talk to families, talk to students, talk to MATT I am a public school advocate teachers. Then go over to Forest View through and through. I went through Elementary – that PTA makes that school a great place for suburban St. Louis schools. I had a great experience. I really teachers.

Teachers want to stay. valued the diversity. Especially when I met my wife, who went to a private school in Dayton, which had virtually no HAO Some PTAs are strong because parents have the resource diversity. Comparing our experiences, we made that deciof time or money to put into it. … If we know that is important sion that we wanted to invest our time and energy in public to a school, how can that be more equitable? That is good to schools. Public education is the one, sort of, promise that we hear … but it’s also sad to hear. What do we do about that? make as a nation to our people. When it’s working, it can be the great leveler. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s working MATT What the PTA can’t be is five white, affluent famin a lot of settings, and we have a lot of work to do to get it ilies. PTAs have to be open-minded organizations that are to the dream it should be. When I came to Durham, I really willing to work on problems. started to believe in this notion of neighborhood schools.

The data around neighborhood schools drives me crazy.

SCOTTIE And how do you help the teachers be involved We’re sitting in the Lakewood zone right here that is super when they’ve worked all day. But it’s PTA. It’s not PA. How diverse – socioeconomically, racially. And that school is not do we build that community together? diverse – socioeconomically, no diversity. Racially – half 26

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SCHOOLS KICKER

“Our son loves to learn again.”

The Hill Center serves K-12 students who are struggling academically— especially those with learning differences or attention issues—through our School Year, Summer, Tutoring, and Teacher Training programs.

www.hillcenter.org

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

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AN EDUCATION ROUNDTABLE

HEIDI So much is the tone that the principal sets. That

trickles down. At Smith Middle School, it is such a supportive community. We’re making sure everyone is getting the education they need.

ON MEASURING SUCCESS HAO We want our kids to be successful and how we mea-

sure success for them is: Will they go to college? Will they have a job? What that trickles down to us in the classroom is solely academic achievement. So then it’s who is making ON EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION the test scores go up? What programs are making the test MATT The myriad of challenges we have all faced and other scores go up? All the things that our mouths say make kids parents have faced – a significant percentage of them arise successful, we don’t measure success like that. Teachers are from the inequities that our children have from 0 to the start measured by how well their kids do on tests, how well they of school. That opportunity gap – I’m not convinced it can be please the parents sometimes, how the classroom looks to made up in 13 years of education. So the parent, how well you do with your the privilege that my children have had principal. When we should be meato go to a high-quality, private preschool suring how they’re doing emotionally. for five years – to have parents who can As parents, we have fault in that, too. invest time with them on top of that – How do I know how well my daughthis is really frustrating. We’re always How do I know how ter is doing? I still look at the report talking about the challenges of when well my daughter card, the test scores. It’s so deeply they get to school. But if any commuis doing? I still look ingrained in us. I have to remind nity could do universal pre-K and not at the report card, myself – look at what you know about just for 4-year-olds, but from the cradle, the test scores. It’s how your child is growing. There is Durham could do it. This to me is so deeply ingrained this huge gap between how you’re unacceptable that we’re not moving our in us. … There measuring success versus what your investment and our community toward is this huge gap mouth is saying about how we want universal 0 to 5 education. between how you’re happy kids.

SCOTTIE My mother was an early

measuring success versus what your mouth is saying about how we want happy kids.

SCOTTIE I fled the school system childhood educator – director of the because I didn’t want them to be Durham Daycare Council. She helped measured that way. Carolina Friends start Smart Start across the state. I grew School has no grades, no GPA, no up talking about early childhood declass rank. You get a written assessHAO NGUYEN velopment. And when it was time for ment of how your child is doing. It my kids to go to school, I was surprised was a real re-education for me to pull that our systems of educating teachers myself away from needing test scores. and administrators really has very little crossover with early childhood development education. And yet we’re learning so much about brain development from 0 to 5 and how important that is. I would love to see how we as MATT We’re allowed to dream a different system. … The a society can connect these things more effectively. We’re not alternative is – and we could do it for our system of 34,000 using what we know about the first 2,000 days.

– OK, the test scores are there, but we’re not paying that much attention. We have these other assessments that HEIDI I agree with everything you’re saying. But we haven’t we’re going to make as a community around health, exeven approved our education budget in the state. It’s going to ercise, every child gets a nurse visit, gets an eye exam. We take money. could do that. We’re not doing it. A small school – like a charter or a private – y’all can do that. Moving the Titanic SCOTTIE I’m willing to pay. that is 34,000 students is tough but not impossible. 

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Seniors Ashley Low and Abigail Lloyd head to class at Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill.

PRIVATE SCHOOL PREP

CATHY CLEMENT OF THE TRIANGLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL CONSORTIUM CLEARS UP SOME OF THE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND GIVES AN OVERVIEW OF THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS

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C

SCHOOLS OF THE TISC Carolina Friends School Cary Academy Duke School Durham Academy The Hill Center Immaculata Catholic School The Montessori School of Raleigh

The Raleigh School Ravenscroft St. David’s School St. Timothy’s School Triangle Day School Trinity Academy of Raleigh Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill

SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT A few mistaken beliefs about private schools: • Private schools are only for elite/wealthy families.

Many have very good financial aid programs that can help make tuition more affordable for families.

PHOTO BY BRIANA BROUGH

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• Private schools are not concerned about diversity or inclusion. All members of the TISC strive to promote diversity in their school. For instance, Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill has a specific vision statement on diversity that is rooted deeply in its mission. It also has a board-led committee to support and promote its goals.

“Independent schools like Trinity think about inclusion and diversity in terms of creating a shift in organizational culture,” says Adrienne Davis, Trinity’s diversity coordinator. “This year, for example, Trinity School is providing learning opportunities for faculty, staff, students and parents to learn about race and identity.”

COMPOSED OF ADMISSIONS PROFESSIONALS from Triangle area schools, the Triangle Independent School Consortium (TISC) evolved out of the desire of the member schools to work collaboratively in an effort to ease and enhance the admission process for the students, families and schools involved.

Cathy Clement of St. Timothy’s School, one of TISC’s officers, shares an easy, step-by-step guide to how the admissions process works for most private schools, though they may vary slightly with each school: • Parents typically come by for a tour or open house to get a feel for the school, or they inquire with the school and are sent a packet of information.

• Supply report cards from the previous two years and the current school year, plus any copies of standardized tests and a teacher recommendation form.

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• All private schools require uniforms. Some do, but there is often freedom or a difference among grade levels.

• They are only for students of a certain faith.

Many have faith as a part of the program, chapel etc., and students may be required to attend, but most have an open-door policy.

• Students then come in for an admissions test and possibly an interview.

• Some schools require the students to participate in class for either one or two days. “It’s for us to get to know each child, get a feel for their personality and what they already know,” Cathy says. “If they are a successful candidate, then we know where to start them when they enter school.”

• Once the students have completed those steps, the director of admissions will go to the admissions committee and discuss each student candidate. If they are accepted, then they are informed on a common notification date for the TISC schools in that area. 

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‘I’M A TEACHER’

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REFLECTIONS OF A THIRD-YEAR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER – WHO ALSO HAPPENS TO BE A PRODUCT OF CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO CITY SCHOOLS

By Jessica Stringer Photo by Briana Brough

GROWING UP IN CHAPEL HILL, Eugenia Floyd, 28, had dozens of fantastic educators

throughout her schooling as she attended Seawell Elementary for Head Start, then Ephesus Elementary, Phillips Middle School and East Chapel Hill High School. In high school, Eugenia was part of the Blue Ribbon Youth Leadership Institute and sat captivated by lessons learned in history teacher Ms. Williams’ classroom. So she majored in history at UNC-Greensboro. But after graduation, she felt compelled to serve her hometown and became an assistant at Morris Grove Elementary, where “working with those teachers in fourth grade, I just fell in love.” Eugenia earned her teaching license at N.C. Central and is now in the classroom at Mary Scroggs Elementary School. We sat down with the fourth-grade teacher to talk four square, “aha” moments and the challenges facing education in North Carolina.

Why did you come back to the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools?

I already had in my mind that this is where I wanted to be. At UNC-Greensboro, I had this one class talking about the stats of student learning, and it talked about the Chapel HillCarrboro City Schools as one of those top schools in our state.

I just sat there in my chair all proud and thought, “Yeah, I’m a product of that. That’s me!” It’s always been a wonderful place to be. I definitely thought that me coming back here would be a direct connection to my students.

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THE POWER OF EDUCATION “When I come into my classroom, I give it all I have,” says Eugenia, who’s pictured with students Mary Nichols, Milton Sutton and Luigi Burns Salas.

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A TEACHER’S REFLECTIONS

That’s what all teachers want to do to even get them started with the lesson. You want to connect it to something that they can relate to or something that they’ve already done.

How has the system changed?

As a student at Ephesus Elementary, we had a chalkboard.

Now we have dry erase boards, which was something I saw in middle and high schools. And now we have a smart board. We have lots of technology. ... The kids know how to use it, and I’m still learning.

What do you like about fourth-graders?

Fourth grade [is] that age where they’re still listening to you as an adult and they still respect you ... as well as you can really have some fun with them. I was playing four square with them, and they were keeping me encouraged. I became the king, and they were like, “Yay, you did it.” Those are the moments you can have with fourth-graders as well as we can have a serious conversation. We’ll be working on a social issues unit where we’ll be talking about race, ethnicity and stereotypes. ... There’s so much you can do with fourth-graders, and I love their curriculum and North Carolina history.

What has surprised you most about teaching?

When you’re doing something that you love, you really take a step back, and it’s almost surreal. You’re doing what you love and [have] those small moments when a kid comes up to you and says, “I understand what you’re talking about.”

Or, “Look how I did this problem.” It sounds like small moments to everybody else, but it’s so much more to you as a teacher. Your heart is racing because you want to cry, but you can’t do it in front of the children because then they’ll ask you what’s wrong and then you have to talk about tears of joy and what that means.

What’s the mood like for North Carolina teachers these days? Not great, right?

As a state, I think we understand what’s going on. It’s kind of like the elephant in the room. Here is a group of people that really work hard every day. ... You’re here at 5:30 a.m. or 6 a.m., and you’re staying here until 6 p.m. because you don’t have enough time. I feel like this is a profession that many, many, many people respect. I feel like everyone knows that teachers are important and ... they’re doing it because they love it. Right now we may be a little at a standstill, but I

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A TEACHER’S REFLECTIONS

feel like people are really making an effort to make sure that it doesn’t stay there long.

How has your mom’s career in the school system influenced you?

When we first moved to Chapel Hill, [my mom, Lavern McAden Manzano] ... wanted to get more involved with our school, so she became the art assistant teacher. She worked her way up inside of my elementary school so she was ... the head custodian and then she became the registrar for the district. And now she is working in IT support for the district so she manages email accounts ... and helps troubleshoot things around the district. My mom has definitely been the driving force in my life. She is so wonderful and so focused.

She gives everything she does her all.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received about teaching?

You can only do all that you can. When I come into my classroom, I teach a lesson, and I give it all I have. ... If you keep asking yourself, “What more can I do?” you’re going to get a little frustrated, tired and burnt out. I’ve tried to live by this in my first few years because I know it would be easy for me to get burnt out, but I can use all my resources – and Chapel Hill has plenty for me to use.

What is your teaching philosophy?

One of the things I am a true believer in is that every kid has the ability to learn, and it’s up to me as their facilitator of their learning. I’m helping them explore this part of math, or I’m helping them explore North Carolina history in fourth grade. It’s my job to make sure I give them resources so that they can fully explore. I engage them and keep them uplifted and encouraged as well.

What advice would you give to those considering pursuing teaching?

Do it! Just do it. I feel like I’m definitely in a profession where I love every minute of my day. My family could tell you that they know the name of almost every kid in my class and that I won’t stop talking about [teaching]. ... I got into this job because community service was my thing in high school. ... I wanted to do the one job that has a direct impact and serves my community daily. I do that daily. I’m a teacher, and it’s the best job in the world. 

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KATHY CLEAVER Director of College Counseling, Durham Academy

CARVER C. WEAVER Director of Marketing and Communications, Durham Technical Community College

STEPHEN FARMER Vice Provost for Enrollment and Undergraduate Admissions, UNC-Chapel Hill

APPLYING TO COLLEGE

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THREE LOCAL EXPERTS GIVE THEIR BEST ADVICE TO COLLEGE-BOUND STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

By Virginia Robinson

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about applying for college?

KATHY Much of the anxiety about “getting in” comes from

students who are applying to the few colleges that reject more students than they admit, but according to a 2013 report from the National Association for College Admissions Counseling, the average acceptance rate for all four-year colleges in the U.S. is 63.9%.

CARVER One myth is that college is too expensive. Durham Technical Community College has excellent, affordable opportunities for parents and students interested in transferring to a four-year institution or building resumes and job skills that will lead to successful career advancement.

How has the process of applying changed in the past five years? Ten years?

KATHY One change is that the relative ease of applying on-

line has created an unprecedented increase in the number of applications – and therefore a drop in the percent of students admitted – at 50 to 60 of the most selective institutions.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

NEWLY HEELED First-year student orientations continued at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as more than 4,000 new Tar Heels arrived on campus this year.

STEPHEN In the last five to 10 years, we’ve seen a growing

divide between students who worry too much about applying to college and those who don’t worry enough because they think college is out of reach. We try to help both groups. For students who need help understanding that they’re capable of succeeding in college, we’ve been building a small army of advisers to assist them. The Carolina College Advising Corps, which is headquartered in our office and is a partner in the national College Advising Corps, hires recent graduates of UNC and trains them to help low-income, first-generation and underrepresented students find their way to colleges that will serve them well.

How much do test scores matter versus community service, extracurriculars, etc.?

CARVER Placement test scores assist us with placing stu-

dents into coursework that meets the needs of students at their personal level. If a student needs to further develop skills in English or math, there is coursework that prepares the student for college-level programs. If a student scores

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proficiently on the placement test, then college-level coursework is recommended.

STEPHEN Because we try to understand all of our appli-

cants, we read every part of every application very carefully. … [And] while we don’t prefer one activity over another, we do encourage our applicants to spend their time outside the classroom doing something that they love.

How, if at all, does social media factor into the admissions process?

KATHY There are ways to manage your digital presence and

make sure you are presenting your best, authentic persona online. A few tips: Do make all of your social media sites “private.” Even if these sites are private, do post content that showcases your interests – upload your artwork or share photos of athletic events or performances. Don’t post anything that could be considered disparaging to anyone – even in jest. And do follow colleges you are considering to stay informed about campus events and other important news.

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COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

How can you ace the admissions essay portion of the application?

What is your No. 1 piece of advice for high school students who are beginning this process?

STEPHEN Here is some advice that we offer our applicants:

KATHY Realizing any restrictions you may have now is the

Be thoughtful. We give you several prompts to choose from, and while we don’t care which topic you choose, we know that you’re far more likely to move us with your words if you’re inspired by a topic that appeals to you.

Show, don’t tell. Your English teacher is right. Where possible, use vivid imagery and concrete examples to make your point.

Don’t be afraid of humor. When handled in the right way and not at the expense of someone else, humor can be very effective.

Proofread your work. We expect the essay to be your own work, but we do strongly encourage you to have someone else review it for grammar and spelling.

Practice. Writing is an art, not a science. It takes time and dedication to hone your writing skills. To help, we post the new application essays on our website in early summer, giving students ample time to practice.

surest way to prevent heartbreak later. A few questions to consider: Why do you want to go to college? How important is diversity, and how do you respond to people who think or act differently from the way you do? Keeping in mind that a major reason that students transfer is the desire to be closer to home, how independent are you?

CARVER Invest in your future. You should have a complete

understanding of expectations, policies and procedures. …

Be willing to take initiative and ask questions.

STEPHEN The years before college are as important as

the college years themselves. … That’s why we believe that it’s very important not to focus on what you think colleges are seeking. Be true to yourself and do things that help you become the person you want to be, both inside and outside the classroom. 

THOUGHTS FROM A NEW COLLEGE STUDENT

By Bailey Blankenship, a 2015 grad of the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics

1

ost important: Start early. Writing college applications is M an iterative process. You want to start right when the apps come out and get rough drafts done no more than two weeks later. They don’t need to be amazing – just start to gather the central ideas of your essays.

2

sk for help. Many of the questions colleges ask require A deep, introspective thinking (if you’re doing it right). This can be a challenge sometimes; don’t hesitate to ask those who are close if your essays are missing any of your accomplishments or sound true to your personality.

3

aintain your voice. Through all of the edits peers may M offer, it’s important to ensure that your writing is still your own and accurately reflects your thoughts.

4

Send thank you notes. After college tours, send a thank you note to your guide (usually, you can just send it to the admissions department). This will ensure you stand out. I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard of schools saving the notes they receive because of how much they’ve meant.

5

Don’t be afraid to try. I applied to a scholarship last minute to see what would happen, and I’m now attending college for free. Apply to everything you find. At worst, you’ll have extra essays that you can re-use for other schools.

Bailey was a captain of FIRST Robotics Team 900 and the web applications designer for student government at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. He also served as a residential life assistant for his hall, where he provided emotional support and counseling to peers. Bailey was awarded the prestigious Park Scholarship at N.C. State, where he plans to major in biomedical engineering.

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2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

PHOTO BY SARAH ARNESON

ALTERNATE PATHS

Brianna Wooten, before her morning class at The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham, at the American Tobacco Campus.

LIFE AFTER GRADUATION

I

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES WHO CHOSE NOT TO JUMP IMMEDIATELY INTO A TRADITIONAL FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE SETTING SHARE THEIR STORIES

INTRODUCED TO GRAPHIC ART

class helped her learn how to best show off her work to future employers, and a typography class taught her the in high school, Brianna fell in love with design and made it design process behind different typefaces. Brianna originally her mission to pursue a degree in it. That’s what brought her planned to work as a freelance graphic designer once she to The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham. The Durham native earns her degree. She still wants to do and Hillside New Tech High School grad freelance work one day, but believes she says the fast-paced curriculum, the close might first need to join a company in proximity to her home and her love for BRIANNA WOOTEN, 19 order to learn and grow as an artist. art inspired her to attend the Institute.

HILLSIDE “This school has helped me realize “It’s an overwhelming feeling NEW TECH HIGH SCHOOL that the world is tough and you have to seeing your art on paper come to life on … be willing to go the extra mile for what screen,” Brianna says. “I enjoy seeing the you want,” Brianna says. She advises high smiling faces of those who I create art school students to look closely at college curriculums and to for; it’s a sense of great achievement when your friends, family be open to alternate schooling options. “Only you can control or even your client is happy with your work.” your future, so make sure you’re going down the path you The specialized classes and focus on professional work want to.” – Schyler Martin are what attracted Brianna to The Art Institute. A portfolio

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

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ALTERNATE PATHS

T

KYLE MCCONAUGHEY, 19 CAROLINA FRIENDS SCHOOL

The first time away from home can be a daunting experience for most incoming college freshmen, but Kyle won’t find that to be a problem as he starts school at Vassar College this fall. He already has experience living on his own in a new place; after graduating Carolina Friends School in 2014, he took a gap year and spent nearly six months working abroad.

“I’ve gone by myself to other continents,” he says. “I’ve found my way through massive cities and foreign countries, worked on budgeting and planning out trips, and met incredible people from all over the world. I can definitely say that I’m a lot less nervous about going to college.”

While his peers went off to school last fall, Kyle packed for Quito, Ecuador, where he spent 11 weeks working for an NGO through International Volunteer Headquarters (IVHQ), providing pop-up preschools for children who spend their days on the streets waiting for parents who work in the markets. For his “spring semester,” Kyle spent 10 weeks working at a preschool

PL US! OurSummer BucketList

Kyle McConaughey spent 10 weeks working with impoverished preschoolers in Antigua, Guatemala.

in an impoverished town outside of Antigua, Guatemala.

Kyle counts experiencing new cultures, working with generous program directors, living with caring host families, building a new international friend network and spending time with children he adored among the many positives of his gap year.

He already wants to organize a return trip to Guatemala.

“I wanted to see the world, and to do a bit of good in it,” he says. “The experiences I had really give me a deeper appreciation for everything that I have.”

Kyle wants to encourage other high schoolers to consider a gap year and points to U.S. programs like AmeriCorps, which don’t require international travel. “My experience was incredible,” he says. – Katie Schanze 

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2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

A COMPREHENSIVE DIRECTORY OF PRIVATE, CHARTER, MAGNET AND REGIONAL BOARDING SCHOOLS PRIVATE SCHOOLS DIRECTORY BETHESDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1914 S. Miami Blvd., Durham 919-598-0190 bcacrusaders.org Focus Partners with Christian families to help equip students academically, socially, physically and spiritually.

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment 210 Student/Faculty Ratio 15:1 Yearly Tuition Elementary, $6,315; Middle, $6,982 Special Requirements Student testing and parent interview.

CAMELOT ACADEMY 809 Proctor St., Durham 919-688-3040 camelotacademy.org Focus Features individualized instruction, mastery-based learning and parental involvement.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 105-125 Student/Faculty Ratio 10:1 Yearly Tuition $9,800 - $13,450; Merit scholarships for academically gifted students Special Requirements Reading and math assessments and two-day student visit. Application fee is $50.

CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL 1401 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh 919-834-1625 cghsnc.org Focus: A college preparatory school of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Raleigh that aims to form men and women of faith, service and leadership in church and community.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 1,431 Student/Faculty Ratio 13:1 Yearly Tuition $10,140-$14,200 Special Requirements Previous school records, testing, application, recommendation and an essay.

CAROLINA FRIENDS SCHOOL 4809 Friends School Rd., Durham 919-383-6602 cfsnc.org Focus A vibrant and inclusive learning community inspired

by Quaker values that empowers students to think critically, creatively and independently.

Grades Pre-K-12 Total Enrollment 500 Student/Faculty Ratio 9:1 Yearly Tuition $10,9330 - $19,010 Special Requirements Families should apply the year before they would like to enroll their child – by Jan. 4 for Pre-K through grade

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

1 and by Jan. 15 for grades 2-12. A written application, teacher recommendation(s), transcripts (for Upper School applicants), parent tour, parent interview and student visit are required.

CARY ACADEMY 1500 N. Harrison Ave., Cary 919-677-3873 caryacademy.org Focus A college preparatory school integrating the best of traditional education with new and emerging technologies.

Grades 6-12 Total Enrollment 753 Student/Faculty Ratio 14:1 Yearly Tuition $20,500, with a $2,000 new student fee Special Requirements Entrance exam, student visit/interview, transcripts and teacher recommendation. Applications are online.

CHAPEL HILL COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL 106 Purefoy Rd., Chapel Hill 919-942-3955 chapelhillcoop@yahoo.com Focus The CHCP mission is to partner with families of children from diverse backgrounds to respect and honor childhood, celebrate independence and support children as they learn and grow through play. NAEYC Accredited and has a Five Star License.

Grades Pre-K Total Enrollment 55 Student/Faculty Ratio 2-y/o, 6:1; 3-y/o, 7:1; 4- and 5-y/o, 8:1 Yearly Tuition Tuition rates vary depending on age and enrollment status; Half day, three-quarter day or full day options.

Special Requirements None CHAPEL HILL COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL INFANT AND TODDLER SITE 110 N. Elliot Rd., Chapel Hill 919-942-0220 infantandtoddler110@gmail.com Focus The CHCP mission is to partner with families of children from diverse backgrounds to respect and honor childhood, celebrate independence and support children as they learn and grow through play. NAEYC Accredited and has a Five Star License.

Grades Infant-2 years Total Enrollment 28 Student/Faculty Ratio Infants, 3:1; Toddlers, 4:1; 2-y/o, 6:1 Yearly Tuition Tuition rates vary, depending on age and enrollment status; Half day, three-quarter day or full day options.

Special Requirements None CRESSET CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 3707 Garrett Rd., Durham 919-489-2655 cressetchristian.org Focus Cultivates the heart of each student to educate, nurture and help shape their character in a Christ-centered environment grounded in the truth of God’s word.

Grades Infant-12

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SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Total Enrollment 275 Student/Faculty Ratio Infant, 5:1; Toddlers: 2-y/o, 9:1; 3-y/o, 10:1; 4-y/o,12:1; Elementary, 10-15:1; Middle/High School, 15-20:1 Yearly Tuition $7,740 - $9,720 Special Requirements Student and parent interview, previous records, visit and application.

DUKE SCHOOL 3716 Erwin Rd., Durham 919-416-9420 dukeschool.org Focus Students leave Duke School with the ability to think independently and critically and prepared to take their place in the global community in which collaboration and strong communication skills are essential.

Grades Age 3-Grade 8 Total Enrollment 485 Student/Faculty Ratio Preschool, 8:1; Grades K-4, 11:1; Grades 5-8, 12:1 Yearly Tuition Visit website for details.

Special Requirements Admissions application, student assessment, candidate profile, parent visit and tour. First consideration deadline is in January.

DURHAM ACADEMY Preschool and Lower school: 3501 Ridge Rd., Durham Middle school: 3116 Academy Rd., Durham Upper school: 3601 Ridge Rd., Durham 919-493-5787 da.org Focus Strives to provide an education that will enable students to live moral, happy and productive lives.

Grades Pre-K-12 Total Enrollment 1,185 Student/Faculty Ratio 10:1 Yearly Tuition $13,395-$23,205 Special Requirements Assessment or entrance exam, which varies by grade level. Half-day visit and interview required for grades 9-12.

DURHAM NATIVITY SCHOOL 1004 N. Mangum St., Durham 919-680-3790 durhamnativity.org Focus Provides a learning environment for eligible boys, supporting them in their personal, social, moral and intellectual development, and positioning them to be successful at an independent college preparatory high school.

Grades 6-8 Total Enrollment 45 Student/Faculty Ratio 15:1 Yearly Tuition None Special Requirements Open house.

EMERSON WALDORF SCHOOL 6211 New Jericho Rd., Chapel Hill 919-967-1858 emersonwaldorf.org Focus Encourages and promotes independent thinking and social responsibility, as well as academic and artistic excellence.

Grades Pre-K-12 Total Enrollment 260 Student/Faculty Ratio K, 8:1; Grades 1-12, 10:1 Yearly Tuition $6,400 - $16,865 Special Requirements Meeting with parents and child, plus classroom visit.

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GORMAN CHRISTIAN ACADEMY AND EARLY LEARNING CENTER 3311 E. Geer St., Durham 919-688-2567 www.gormanchristian.org Focus Serves as partners with parents in providing an education consistent with the Bible.

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment 119 Student/Faculty Ratio 12:1 Yearly Tuition K-5, $6,220; 6-8, $6,450 Special Requirements Administrator meets with parents and child.

IMMACULATA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 721 Burch Ave., Durham 919-682-5847 immaculataschool.org Focus Views learning as a lifelong endeavor to grow spiritually, intellectually, socially, aesthetically and physically.

Grades Age 3.5-Grade 8 Total Enrollment 455 Student/Faculty Ratio PreK-K, 9:1; Grades 1-2, 12:1; Grades 3-5, 14:1; Grades 6-8, 22:1 Yearly Tuition $6,312 - $8,424; Varies depending on grade level and parishioner status.

Special Requirements Entry test, copy of student’s permanent records and current teacher recommendations. (Application and teacher recommendations are available online.) Application fee is $100.

INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL 3001 Academy Rd., Bldg. 300, Durham 919-401-4343 imsnc.org Focus A nonprofit Mandarin Chinese, Spanish or French-language immersion school that aims to promote bilingualism at all ages and improve communication across cultural boundaries.

Grades Age 3-Grade 6 Total Enrollment 100 Student/Faculty Ratio 9:1 Yearly Tuition Half day, $8,580; Three-quarter day, $11,500; Full day, $14,150. Scholarships available.

Special Requirements Parent interview and observation required.

JORDAN LAKE SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 1434 Farrington Rd., Apex 919-387-9440 jordanlakesa.com Focus Provides a progressive approach to education, with a strong core curriculum while exploring nature and the arts.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 32 Student/Faculty Ratio 5:1 Yearly Tuition $12,900 - $14,900 Special Requirements Application, interview and two-day try-out.

JUST RIGHT ACADEMY 4723 Erwin Rd., Durham 919-932-0360 justrightacademy.org Focus Provides structure without rigidity for K-12 special needs students who struggle in a traditional environment.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 60 Student/Faculty Ratio 3:1 Yearly Tuition $19,450 a year with a $500 materials fee; Limited financial aid available.

Special Requirements School visit. Application fee of $50.

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

LEGACY ACADEMY 515 E. Winmore Ave., Chapel Hill 919-929-7060 lachapelhill.com Focus Students are actively involved in multi-sensory activities inside and out, including art, music, language and foreign language, brain power and physical activities designed to be both fun and nurturing. Kindergarten, after-school and camping programs for children up to 12 years also offered. Hours; 7am-6pm.

Grades 6 weeks-12 years Total Enrollment 100 Student/Faculty Ratio Infants, 4:1; 13-24 months, 5:1; 25-36 months, 8:1; 37-48 months, 9:1; 4-5 years, 12:1; 6-12 years, 14:1 Yearly Tuition Varies by age and program. Call for rates.

Special Requirements Consultation required. Registration fee of $150.

LERNER JEWISH COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL OF DURHAM 1935 W. Cornwallis Rd., Durham 919-286-5517 lernerschool.org Focus The Lerner School approach integrates Jewish studies through an authentic academic curriculum; fostering learning of Jewish values and traditions while building a diverse and caring community - one child at a time.

Grades Preschool; Age 2-Grade 5 Total Enrollment 125 Student/Faculty Ratio 9:1 Yearly Tuition Flexible tuition is offered for elementary and 5-day preschool students. Tuition ranges from $4,750 - $15,600 for elementary, and $4,500 - $15,250 for preschool. Tuition is based on multiple schedule options: 5-day and 3-day; Half day (1pm); Full Day (3pm); Extended Day (6pm) and Early Care from 7:15am.

Special Requirements Admissions application, parent and student visit, teacher recommendations and screening process.

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 3864 Guess Rd., Durham 919-471-5522 lbcdurham.org Focus Aims to bring each student to a knowledge and relationship with Jesus Christ and prepares the student for a life of service while providing academic training.

Grades Pre-K-12 Total Enrollment 200 Student/Faculty Ratio Pre-K-5, 18:1; Grades 6-12, 18:1 Yearly Tuition $3,900; $6,350 (2 children); $8,150 (3 or more children) Special Requirements Entry test and interview.

MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF DURHAM 2800 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-489-9045 mchdurham.org Focus Montessori education.

Grades 18 months-Grade 6 Total Enrollment 140 Student/Faculty Ratio Toddler (18 months-3 years), 6:1; Preschool, 11:1; Elementary, 12.5:1 Yearly Tuition $3,800 - $14,900 Special Requirements Required visit for parents.

MONTESSORI COMMUNITY SCHOOL 4512 Pope Rd., Durham 919-493-8541 mcsdurham.org

Focus Students learn in a vibrant Montessori community where together, through the dynamic and relevant curriculum, they are guided toward self-discovery and the realization of their unique contributions to the world.

Grades 18 months-Grade 8 Total Enrollment 215 Student/Faculty Ratio Toddler (8 months-3 years), 6:1; 3 years-Grade 8, 11:1 Yearly Tuition Toddler, $10,100; Ages 3-4, $9,489; Kindergarten, $13,248; Grades 1-3, $13,385; Grades 4-6, $13,758; Grades 7-8, $14,873 Special Requirements Family interview for all applicants; Applicants for grades 1-8 come for three-day classroom visit.

MONTESSORI DAY SCHOOL 1702 Legion Rd., Chapel Hill 919-929-3339 mdsch.org Focus Offers a faculty-operated school, a well-equipped learning environment and an enriched Montessori curriculum to meet the needs of children with a wide range of abilities. On-site aftercare also available.

Grades Toddler-Grade 6 Total Enrollment 72 Student/Faculty Ratio 10:1 Yearly Tuition $8,950 - $10,350 Special Requirements Interview process includes a general evaluation and a meeting with parents. Three-day visit for elementary.

MONTESSORI FARM SCHOOL 2400 Broad St., Ste. 2, Durham 919-732-5026 montessorifarmschool.com Focus Special emphasis on nature study and activities including gardening and animal care.

Grades Pre-K-K Total Enrollment Up to 20 Student/Faculty Ratio 10:1 Yearly Tuition Pre-K, $6,650; Kindergarten, $7,650 Special Requirements Contact the school and set up an appointment to visit.

MOUNT ZION CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 3519 Fayetteville St., Durham 919-688-4245 mzcadurham.org Focus Prepares students for college or technical school, as well as for obtaining employment upon graduation from high school.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 120 Student/Faculty Ratio 15:1 Yearly Tuition PreK and Elementary, $155/week; Secondary, $500/month; Boarding, $12,000 Special Requirements Application and fee; $150 for day students and $500 for boarding students.

PINEWOODS MONTESSORI SCHOOL 109 Millstone Dr., Hillsborough 919-644-2090 pinewoodsmontessori.com Focus Children are taught traditional academics as well as basic life skills and social awareness.

Grades Pre-K-6 Total Enrollment 82 Student/Faculty Ratio Toddler, 12:2; Elementary, 15:2

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

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SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Yearly Tuition Toddler: $4,100-$5,600; Primary half-day: $5,600; Extended day: $6,450; Lower elem.: $7,150; Upper elem.: $8,250 Special Requirements Scheduled observation recommended before submitting an application.

PRIMROSE SCHOOL AT HOPE VALLEY FARMS 702 Juliette Dr., Durham 919-484-8884 primroseschools.com/schools/hope-valley-farms Focus An accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience. Partners with parents to help children build the right foundation for future learning and life.

Grades Infant-Pre-K Total Enrollment 125 Student/Faculty Ratio Infant, 1:4; toddler, 1:5; early preschool (ages 2-3), 1:8; preschool (ages 3-4), 1:9; pre-K (ages 4-5), 1:12; school-aged children (ages 5-11), 1:14 Yearly Tuition $1,005-$1,442 Special Requirements $150 pre-registration fee.

QUALITY EDUCATION INSTITUTE 800 Elmira Ave., Durham 919-680-6544 qeidurham.org Focus A student-centered learning community with a rigorous curriculum and clearly defined standards of performance and high expectations.

Grades Pre-K-5 Total Enrollment 49 Student/Faculty Ratio 15:1 Yearly Tuition $7,500 Special Requirements Placement test.

ST. THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 920 Carmichael St., Chapel Hill Lower school: 919-929-1546; Middle school: 919-929-2241 stmcsnc.org Focus Provides an education for each child in a God-centered environment.

Grades Age 3-Grade 8 Total Enrollment 462 Student/Faculty Ratio 3-y/o, 7:1; 4-y/o, 10:1; Grades K-3, 25:2 (teacher and assistant); Grades 4-8, 25:1 Yearly Tuition 3-y/o (3 Day), $3,800; 3-y/o (5 Day), $6,330; PreK 4-year-olds, $6,330; K-8, $7,450 - $9,690 Special Requirements Application, $200 application fee, test scores, report cards, feedback from previous teachers, birth certificate, baptismal certificate, letter from Catholic parish, health form and immunization record.

SOUTHPOINT ACADEMY 7415 Fayetteville Rd., Durham 919-405-2080 southpointacademy.org Focus Prepares students to become ethical, well-rounded and self-sufficient citizens by providing a world-class education in a nurturing Christian environment.

Grades K-5 Total Enrollment Less than 50 Student/Faculty Ratio 10:1 Yearly Tuition $5,500 Special Requirements Tour, application, meeting with administrator and student testing.

THE HILL CENTER 3200 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-489-7464 hillcenter.org

44

Focus Transforms students with learning differences into confident, independent learners.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 170 Student/Faculty Ratio 4:1 Yearly Tuition K-12 (half-day), $18,200; Grades 9-12 may choose to enroll for two hours ($14,100) or one hour ($10,400).

Special Requirements Application and interview required.

TRIANGLE DAY SCHOOL 4911 Neal Rd., Durham 919-383-8800 triangledayschool.org Focus As a warm and welcoming community devoted to academic excellence, Triangle Day School ignites intellectual curiosity, fosters compassion and integrity and nurtures creativity, inspiring confidence in each student to lead a life of purpose.

Grades Transitional K-8 Total Enrollment 196 Student/Faculty Ratio 7:1 Yearly Tuition $11,000 - $14,685 Special Requirements Student assessment and child/parent interview.

TRINITY SCHOOL OF DURHAM AND CHAPEL HILL 4011 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-402-8262 trinityschoolnc.org Focus Trinity School helps students discover and strengthen their gifts and become who God has called them to be. Rich and vibrant faith is the foundation for a deep education, with excellent academics, outstanding fine arts programs and competitive athletics. Trinity is a community that celebrates wonder and curiosity and fosters engagement with deep questions—a place where bright minds and open hearts meet.

Grades Transitional K-12 Total Enrollment 530 Student/Faculty Ratio Lower school, 10:1; Middle school, 7:1; Upper school, 8:1 Yearly Tuition $10,530-$19,410 Special Requirements Check website for complete details, application deadlines and open house dates.

REGIONAL BOARDING SCHOOLS DIRECTORY AGAPÉ CORNER SCHOOL 1217 Holloway St., Durham 919-682-0546 agapecorner.org Focus Academic vocational school granting both school diplomas and career certificates in heating and air, plumbing, electricity and carpentry.

Grades Ages 15-18 Total Enrollment 12 Student/Faculty Ratio 3:1 Special Requirements Interview. Legal guardian must accompany student to enrollment.

ASHEVILLE SCHOOL 360 Asheville School Rd., Asheville 828-254-6345 ashevilleschool.org Focus Students live in a nurturing community where faculty and students genuinely know one another. The school offers a rigorous co-ed college preparatory program for 285 students who represent 20 states and 15 countries.

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 285 Student/Faculty Ratio 4:1 Yearly Tuition Boarding, $49,270; Day, $29,930 Special Requirements Separate interviews for both parents and child required. SSAT exam, full application, Math and English recommendations, transcript and testing also required. For more information, email admissions@ashevilleschool.org.

NORTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS 1219 Broad St., Durham 919-416-2825 ncssm.edu Focus The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics is a public, residential, coeducational high school for juniors and seniors with high intellectual ability and commitment to scholarship. NCSSM is pioneering opportunities for generations of innovators to challenge the limits of what’s possible and power the ideas that shape our lives.

Grades 11-12 Total Enrollment 680 residential, 800+ enrolled in Distance Education programs (online program and interactive videoconferencing) Student/Faculty Ratio 8.5:1 Yearly Tuition NCSSM is tuition free. There are no fees associated with applying, being accepted to or attending.

Special Requirements Application requirements at ncssm.edu/apply.

SALEM ACADEMY 500 E. Salem Ave., Winston-Salem 336-721-2643 salemacademy.com Focus Fosters the intellectual, spiritual, social and physical growth of young women. Offers 16 Advanced Placement courses, competition in 11 sports, a comprehensive fine arts program and technology, advising and co-curricular programs.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 175 Student/Faculty Ratio 7:1 Yearly Tuition Boarding, $43,960; Day, $21,560 Special Requirements Application process includes teacher recommendations, testing, an interview and transcripts.

SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL 900 Hillsborough St., Raleigh 919-424-4000 sms.edu Focus This independent, Episcopal, college-preparatory, boarding and day school is dedicated to academic excellence and personal achievement for girls.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 260+ Student/Faculty Ratio 8:1 Yearly Tuition Boarding, $49,500; Day, $24,850. Need and merit based financial aid available.

Special Requirements SSAT exam required.

ORANGE/CHATHAM COUNTY CHARTER SCHOOLS DIRECTORY ORANGE CHARTER SCHOOL 920 Corporate Dr., Hillsborough 919-644-6272 orangecharterschool.org Focus Utilizing a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math (STEAM) curriculum model to build upon a 17-year tradition of academic and artistic excellence.

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment 240 Student/Faculty Ratio 20:1 Special Requirements Application. Initial enrollment based on lottery; students are waitlisted once slots are filled.

THE EXPEDITION SCHOOL 437 Dimmocks Mill Rd., St. 33, Hillsborough 919-245-8432 theexpeditionschool.com Focus Our mission is to embrace the natural curiosity of children and empower them to become innovative problem solvers and community builders, and to provide excellent education through an experiential, project based, and STEM focused curriculum.

Grades K-7, 2015-2016; K-8, 2016-2017+ Total Enrollment 290 Student/Faculty Ratio Grades K-4, 1.5:19; Grades 5-8, 1:22.

Resource and other non-classroom teacher and teacher assistant staff not included in ratio.

Special Requirements To apply to a charter school, students must be domiciled in NC. Must apply during open application period in order to be eligible for the lottery held each spring.

WOODS CHARTER SCHOOL 160 Woodland Grove Ln., Chapel Hill 919-960-8353 woodscharter.org Focus Emphasizes academic excellence and parent and family involvement in the academic environment.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 510 Student/Faculty Ratio 16:1 Special Requirements Preference given to children of faculty and siblings of current students. Other applicants are chosen through a lottery system. Once spots are filled, the remaining applicants are put on a waitlist.

DURHAM CHARTER SCHOOLS DIRECTORY CARTER COMMUNITY 1955 W. Cornwallis Rd. 919-797-2340 carterschool.org Focus “College prep begins in kindergarten.” Our mission is to prepare children for college and other productive lifelong learning experiences, beginning in kindergarten.

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment 285 Student/Faculty Ratio 17:1 Special Requirements Application. Students accepted on a first-come first-serve basis. Students are waitlisted once all slots are filled.

CENTRAL PARK SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN 724 Foster St. 919-682-1200 cpscnc.org Focus Project-based, rigorous curriculum that integrates the arts, encourages curious exploration and discovering how to learn. Class communities are developed based on trusting communication, collaboration and problem solving. Emphasis on teaching the whole child in order to develop safe, supported, challenged and engaged students.

Grades K-7 Total Enrollment 369

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SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Student/Faculty Ratio 14-20:1 Special Requirements Application. Tours, offered October-April, are strongly encouraged.

HEALTHY START ACADEMY 807 W. Chapel Hill St. 919-956-5599 healthystartacademy.com Focus Strives to help its students grow, especially in math and reading. Encourages parent involvement. Promotes a child-centered curriculum with a safe and structured academic environment.

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment More than 350 Student/Faculty Ratio 16:1 Special Requirements Application. Lottery is used for admission.

KESTREL HEIGHTS SCHOOL High school: 4700 S. Alston Ave.; Middle and elementary school: 4900 Prospectus Dr. 919-484-1300 kestrelheights.org Focus Teaches the Paideia philosophy of hands-on teaching versus lecturing.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 1,050 Student/Faculty Ratio 17:1 Special Requirements Application. Lottery for available student slots occurs the first Friday in March.

KIPP DURHAM COLLEGE PREPARATORY 1107 Holloway St. 919-307-9118 kippenc.org Focus Our mission is to empower all of our students with the skills, knowledge, and character necessary to succeed at the colleges of their choices, strengthen their communities and fight for social justice.

Our extended school day allows us to focus on character education, college-prep academics and extracurricular activities. Our target population is students who will be first generation college students.

Grades Fifth; Will add one grade level each year to become 5-8 Total Enrollment 90 Student/Faculty Ratio 23:1 Special Requirements None.

MAUREEN JOY CHARTER SCHOOL 107 S. Driver St. 919-908-1600 joycharter.org Focus Provides the academic and character skills necessary to succeed in high school, college and the competitive world beyond.

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment 600 Student/Faculty Ratio Grades K-1, 20:1; Grades 2-5, 22:1; Grades 6-8, 24:1 Special Requirements Application. There is a waitlist once student slots are filled.

REACHING ALL MINDS ACADEMY 2703 Holloway St. 919-596-1899 reachingallminds.com Focus Reaching All Minds Academy is an elementary charter school with a S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) focus.

Grades K-5; K-4 for the 2015-16 school year Enrollment 180 Student/Teacher Ratio 18:1 Special Requirements None.

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RESEARCH TRIANGLE CHARTER ACADEMY 2418 Ellis Rd. 919-957-7108 researchtrianglecharteracademy.org Focus Curriculum is built around a strong emphasis on math, reading, science and social studies – the foundation for college readiness.

Grades K-8 Total Enrollment 686, goal of 716 Student/Faculty Ratio Kindergarten, 20:1; Grades 1-8, 26:1 Special Requirements Lottery.

VOYAGER ACADEMY 101 Hock Parc Ln. 919-433-3301 voyageracademy.net Focus Project-based learning.

Grades K-12 Total Enrollment 1,350 Student/Faculty Ratio 20:1 Special Requirements Entry is by lottery only. Applications accepted online Jan. 1 - Feb. 28. Lottery is held in March. School serves students of all ability levels.

DURHAM PUBLIC MAGNET SCHOOLS DIRECTORY (Public schools; no tuition) Special Requirements for all DPS Magnet Schools: Students who wish to attend a DPS magnet school must apply during the magnet application period January 11-29, 2016. Parents and students interested in learning more about the programs offered can go to magnet.dpsnc.net. You can also attend the annual Magnet Fair on Saturday, November 7, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Southern School of Energy and Sustainability. At the fair, you’ll be able to survey 23 elementary, middle and high school magnet programs as well as the Career-Technical Education pathways available at the high school level. You can talk to school staff, parents and students, and decide which schools you’d like to tour. (Note: For student-to-faculty ratios, contact each school individually.)

BURTON INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE MAGNET ELEMENTARY 1500 Mathison St. 919-560-3908 burton.dpsnc.net Focus The school’s International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) is a high-quality program of international coursework developed and authorized by world renowned International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The IB Programme is designed to help develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalizing world.

Grades K-5 Total Enrollment 376 CITY OF MEDICINE ACADEMY 301 Crutchfield St. 919-560-2001 cma.dpsnc.net Focus A small learning community and national model designed to educate and train students to work in the field of health services and medical care. CMA provides coursework and field opportunities focused on the healthcare industry with an emphasis on rigorous and relevant learning experiences.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 323

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

CLUB BOULEVARD INTEGRATED ARTS & HUMANITIES MAGNET ELEMENTARY 400 W. Club Blvd.

919-560-3918 clubblvd.dpsnc.net Focus Seeks to develop students within a humanities-rich environment. The instructional program promotes deep understandings and meaningful connections to the community and the world. All students are inspired to achieve their highest potential through a variety of instructional practices and integrated thematic studies. By weaving the visual and performing arts and an in-depth study of the humanities into all content areas, the school fosters dignity, creativity and academic achievement.

Grades K-5 Total Enrollment 499 DURHAM SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 400 N. Duke St. 919-560-3926 dsa.dpsnc.net Focus Emphasizes student development through rigorous academics and strong visual and performing arts programs, encouraging students to see the connections among different subjects. N.C. School of Distinction, and ranks in US News and World Report’s Top 1% of public schools in the nation and ranked Top High School in North Carolina.

Grades 6-12 Total Enrollment 1,655 EASLEY YEAR-ROUND ELEMENTARY 302 Lebanon Circle 919-560-3913 easley.dpsnc.net Focus The school aims to provide its students with highquality, engaging instruction in a safe, nurturing environment that promotes higher-level thinking, creativity and skills to be productive citizens.

Grades K-5 Total Enrollment 570 GEORGE WATTS MONTESSORI MAGNET SCHOOL 700 Watts St. 919-560-3947 watts.dpsnc.net Focus The school’s mission is to prepare students to be responsible, productive students who have a sense of personal fulfillment and a feeling of love and respect for others. The most important goals for each child are to develop confidence for learning, maintain the desire to learn and obtain the knowledge and skills to support growth.

Grades Pre-K-5 Total Enrollment 395 HILLSIDE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE HIGH SCHOOL 3727 Fayetteville St. 919-560-3925 hillside.dpsnc.net Focus The school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and the International Baccalaureate Programme. The science department maintains an active relationship with several Research Triangle facilities. The school is also the site for a specialized Business and Finance Academy. Students may study electronics, engineering and childcare through the Workforce Development courses, as well as traditional business classes.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 1,248

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

HILLSIDE NEW TECH HIGH SCHOOL 3727 Fayetteville St. 919-560-9183 newtech.dpsnc.net Focus A small, innovative, STEM high school designed to offer an alternative to the traditional high school experience and provide students with a uniquely different learning environment.

This environment is enriched with a one-to-one computer-tostudent ratio, Project-Based Learning instructional model and a small school environment designed to build positive working relationships with teachers and fellow students.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 422 HOLT ELEMENTARY LANGUAGE ACADEMY 4019 Holt School Rd. 919-560-3928 holt.dpsnc.net Focus A program magnet school on a year-round calendar, the school is committed to integrating excellent and innovative instruction in language and global studies with a curriculum that incorporates linguistics, literature, culture, arts and core studies.

Grades PreK-5 Total Enrollment 507 JAMES E. SHEPARD MAGNET MIDDLE SCHOOL 2401 Dakota St. 919-560-3938 shepard.dpsnc.net Focus International Baccalaureate - Middle Years Program that offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for high school and college level academics. Features foreign language study, law-related education and a substantial use of technology.

Grades 6-8 Total Enrollment 499 JD CLEMENT EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL 1801 Fayetteville St. 919-560-2696 echs.dpsnc.net Focus Located on the campus of N.C. Central University, Early College High School students may leave with sufficient college credits to enter a four-year, liberal arts program as a junior. Early College High Schools focus on students for whom a smooth transition into postsecondary education is challenging: lowincome students, minority students, English Language learners, and first-generation, college-bound students.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 350 LAKEWOOD MONTESSORI MIDDLE SCHOOL 2119 Chapel Hill Rd. 919-560-2894 montessorimiddle.dpsnc.net Focus A peaceful, nurturing community where adolescents grow academically and socially through the mastery of real life skills and knowledge. Students are encouraged to become independent thinkers, engaged learners and positive contributors to our society by showing responsibility for each other and the world around them.

Grades 6-8 Total Enrollment 300 LOWE’S GROVE STEM MIDDLE SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY 4418 S. Alston Ave. 919-560-3946 lowesgrove.dpsnc.net

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SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Focus A Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) school with a particular emphasis on the infusion of technology. The school offers specialized “Techways” including Digital Media Technology, Robotics and Design Technology, Environmental Technology and Arts and Kinesthetic Technology.

Grades 6-8 Total Enrollment 635 MIDDLE COLLEGE AT DURHAM TECH 1616 Cooper St. 919-536-7203 mchs.dpsnc.net Focus Located on the campus of Durham Technical Community College. Students complete high school requirements while acquiring credit toward an associate degree, a four-year college or an industry certification credential.

Grades 11-12 Total Enrollment 175 MOREHEAD MONTESSORI SCHOOL 909 Cobb St. 919-560-3954 morehead.dpsnc.net Focus Through a partnership with students, families and community, the school promotes the academic, social, emotional and physical growth of all students using developmentally appropriate hands-on activities to cultivate strengths and celebrate differences. Montessori teachers help children become independent and self-directed in their learning by giving enough assistance to guide and challenge, while allowing ample room for individual discovery. The Montessori model assumes that all children want to learn, and it respects the individual’s style and pace of learning.

Grades Pre-K-5 Total Enrollment 213

Knowledge curriculum offers students a broad base of shared knowledge through the study of Africa, Egypt, early civilization, the empires of the Mayan, Inca, Aztec, Greek and Roman people, The Middle Ages, the Renaissance, China, Japan and India.

Students examine masterpieces from literature, art and music, bringing the content areas to life.

Grades Pre-K-5 Total Enrollment 376 ROGERS-HERR YEAR-ROUND MIDDLE SCHOOL 911 W. Cornwallis Rd. 919-560-3970 rogersherr.dpsnc.net Focus Students benefit from a smaller class size and a highly trained faculty that focuses on students’ needs so they can attain the knowledge and skills needed to stay competitive in high school and beyond.

Grades 6-8 Total Enrollment 641 SANDY RIDGE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS MAGNET SCHOOL 1417 Old Oxford Rd. 919-560-2695 sandyridge.dpsnc.net Focus Through the arts, the school supports the development of the whole child so that all can reach their full potential.

Students will cultivate the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in 21st century society.

Grades Pre-K-5 Total Enrollment 626 THE SCHOOL FOR CREATIVE STUDIES 5001 Red Mill Rd. 919-560-3535 scs.dpsnc.net

NEAL MIDDLE SCHOOL STEM ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 201 Baptist Rd. 919-560-3955 neal.dpsnc.net

Focus The school follows a year-round calendar and its theme centers on applied creativity, media, design and communication arts.

Grades 6-12 Total Enrollment 265

Focus Provides opportunities for all students to experience highly engaging coursework in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Grades 6-8 Total Enrollment 860

SOUTHERN SCHOOL OF ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY 800 Clayton Rd. 919-560-3968 southern.dpsnc.net

PEARSONTOWN YEAR-ROUND ELEMENTARY 4915 Barbee Rd. 919-560-3964 pearsontown.dpsnc.net Focus Students are empowered to become critical thinkers, selfdirected lifelong learners, quality producers, collaborative workers, community contributors and responsible citizens.

Grades K-5 Total Enrollment 812 R.N. HARRIS INTEGRATED ARTS/CORE KNOWLEDGE MAGNET ELEMENTARY 1520 Cooper St. 919-560-3967 harris.dpsnc.net Focus The school teaches reading, writing, math, science and history skills through exciting, comprehensive units based on the Core Knowledge curriculum developed by E.D. Hirsch and fused with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. The Core

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Focus All students attending Southern School of Energy and Sustainability will select one of four small schools in which to complete his or her high school requirements. They are: The School of Biomedical Technology; The School of Business Management and Sustainability; The School of Computer and Technology Engineering; The School of Infrastructure Engineering.

Grades 9-12 Total Enrollment 1,039 W.G. PEARSON STEAM MAGNET ELEMENTARY 3501 Fayetteville St. 919-560-3988 pearson.dpsnc.net Focus The program is based on the belief that every student possesses specific gifts and talents. All students are nurtured through a menu of engaging electives in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM).

Grades K-5 Total Enrollment 595 

2015 NAVIGATING SCHOOLS

Preschool – Grade 5 Now enrolling two year olds

Schedule a tour today! Admissions@LernerSchool.org 1935 W. Cornwallis Rd, Durham, NC 27705 • 919.286.5517 • www.LernerSchool.org

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