Club Boulevard Elementary School

Amazing teachers and good parent involvement! Teachers are creative, flexible, and willing to think outside the box, and the principal is supportive of that approach. e.g., when teachers had to take on the "core curriculum" requirements this year, they did not let that deter them from continuing to focus on what's important for the students -- for example, with the core's emphasis on nonfiction, the 4th grade teacher still wants to instill a love and enjoyment of books in her students, so gives them time to read novels that they choose. The teachers at Club respond to the diversity of students and their differing abilities by being MORE creative in their teaching, by coming up with projects and activities that can engage students who are at all different levels. They experiment with what works best for addressing the needs of students, but aren't afraid to give up a particular model when it no longer seems to fit. Again, the principal's support of and trust in the teachers is crucial in all of this, and the "new" principal (1 1/2 years in) seemed to quickly develop a relationship of trust and rapport with the teachers. Our kids have been at Club for 4 years - we love it!
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are fantastic-- caring, engaged, innovative, creative. And the magnet theme allows integration of arts and movements into the academic areas. My kids are very happy and learning a lot!
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are engaged and always looking for new ways and opportunities to teach the students. Parents are committed to working together and provide a strong sense of community along with the teachers and students. We appreciate the classes in music, dance, fine art and spanish, and the different art performances that are brought in for the students throughout the year. Additonally, we are looking forward to the completion of the teaching pond and edible garden!
—Submitted by a parent

Strong integration of humanities into the curriculum. Great at helping struggling students move forward while also challenging more advanced kids
—Submitted by a parent

Great teachers! Diverse. A good education!
—Submitted by a parent

Club has the most amazing teachers ever. My daughters have had very challenging and stimulating learning experiences there!
—Submitted by a parent

Diversity and community. I always feel part of a community and strong partnership with parents and teachers to help all children meet their goals. The diversity makes for a very rich community experience for all families.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been at Club for 5 years, and it has been an excellent experience. The staff is eager and the students are encouraged to think outside the box. There are several activities that keep the children stimulated and involved. Club is a great place for learning.
—Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children at 'club' very happy with the teachers and the PTA is very active and tried hard to involve all families
—Submitted by a parent

Our son attends Club Boulevard Elementary School, which is a humanities magnet for the whole city of Durham. There is always a waiting list. There is also a walk zone: if you live within a certain radius of the school your children have automatic entrance. The teachers are good, and the emphasis on humanities means that the kids learn about different regions of the world, have the opportunity to learn Spanish, and have lots of exposure to literature and culture. They also cover the normal math and science curriculum. There is a nice mix of ethnicities and races, and the extracurriculars (such as yoga, soccer, and cooking classes) and field trips (such as theater and museums) are great. It's welcoming school with a lot going on, and our son is very happy and stimulated.
—Submitted by a parent