Southwest Elementary School

Love Southwest! It is a great community, one where I both teach and send my own children. Southwest is diverse and seeks to work with families of all backgrounds, races, and cultures. Our staff is dedicated to nurturing and challenging all children. My son has had a terrific experience so far and I'm looking forward to my little one being in Kindergarten!
—Submitted by a teacher

Southwest has an excellent and devoted staff. All of my 5 children have been students there and I am truly pleased with their progress.
—Submitted by a parent

Southwest have some outstanding teachers/staff. My grand kids are so highly motivated to go to school everyday. It is great to find so many dedicated professionals at Southwest Elementary School.
—Submitted by a parent

I am very pleased with Southwest.You would be amazed at the teachers passion.It is very clean,and lots of color to make the atmosphere fun.
—Submitted by a parent

I can't imagine a better elementary school than Southwest. From the principal, staff,teachers and PTA president you are keep inform and there are plenty of activities that you can be involved. The atmosphere is one of learning.
—Submitted by a parent

Very friendly and professional staff. My kids love it.
—Submitted by a parent

The Dual Language program at Southwest is great! My child is learning so much Spanish, while still learning all her regular materials in English. Also, the school has great activities such as International Night, the Fall Festival, the book fairs, etc. I love that the older girls are able to participate in Girls on the Run and that all grades can enter the science fair.
—Submitted by a parent

We've been very pleased with this school. The teachers are dedicated, the hallways and classrooms are alive with activity and color, and, most importantly, students are learning. Southwest is one of Durham's hidden gems!
—Submitted by a parent

I have had two children to attend and have been very successful. I recommend this school to anyone that has a love for academic greatness.
—Submitted by a parent

This is our third year at Southwest and for the first time I realize how grat we had it the first two years. Right now its early in the year, but I have serious concerns with the teachers philosophy and the level of education being offered.
—Submitted by a parent

My sons started attending this school four years ago. I am not pleased with the racial makeup of the classes (90% African American classes, 90% White classes). I chose this school for the ethnic diversity and higher test scores. At first, I did not see this type of discrimination. I am wondering why this has not been an issue since the school has a large student population. The school has a new principal and it has become more apparent that she lacks leadership skills. I have talked with other parents who are not satisfied with what is going on with the school. Some third grade classes do not go to lunch until 2:00pm. School dismisses at 3:20pm. There is no excuse for this. This is the better elementary school in the system so I have no choice but to supplement my children's education with outside resources.
—Submitted by a parent

I have really enjoyed this school. My twins have been here since K-5 and I have had nothing but great things from this school. Parent involvement is great and the PTA makes a great difference.
—Submitted by a parent

My son just completed his first year at Southwest. He had a great kindergarten teacher whose main focus was teaching reading skills. By the end of the year my son read at a 3rd grade level. All of the teachers are generally friendly and I haven't had any problems with staff. There are many fundraisers and activities although getting parent participation can be difficult. I wouldn't want to be at any other school in this district. After lots of research this was the best public school in the area.
—Submitted by a parent