About
K-12 Grade Tuition-Free Public Charter School
Durham Charter School serves more than 750 K-10 students in downtown Durham, North Carolina, and will expand to serve K-12 in the next two years. We are the oldest public charter school in the state, a 2022 National Title I School of Distinction, and a 2023 YASS Prize Quarterfinalist. We exist to provide a world-class education for families in Durham who have historically had few high-quality options.
In addition to Academics, we offer the following:
- Athletics
- Art
- Orchestra
- Chess
In 2020, the North Carolina State Board of Education awarded Durham Charter (formerly Healthy Start Academy) a 10-year charter – the longest term possible for NC charter schools.
Mission and Goal
Our Mission is
“Our mission is to build a world-class K-12 school in Durham that empowers students to thrive in college, career, and life.”
Our Goal is
“To prepare our students for success in college or career.”
Our Vision
Academics First
Above all else, we prioritize delivering a rigorous curriculum through consistent instructional practices that lead to exceptional academic outcomes.
Community Through Character
Excellent Arts and Extracurriculars
We ensure every student has access to exceptional arts and extracurricular opportunities, including music, drama, dance, chess, engineering, and athletics.
Early College for All
In October 2025, our school will move to its new campus at 5510 Wake Forest Hwy. We can’t wait to welcome our scholars to their new campus.
