WHO WE ARE:
Welcome to Maureen Joy Charter School, your community's K-8 public charter school in the heart of Durham, North Carolina! As a tuition-free institution, our doors are open to all children in the state, with admission determined through a fair, annual lottery system.
At Maureen Joy Charter School, we do more than just educate; we empower. Our commitment goes beyond academics; we focus on nurturing the complete well-being of every student. Through innovative, high-quality instruction, collaborative school-community relationships, and fostering a sense of positive self-identity, we create a supportive learning environment where every child can flourish.
HISTORY:
Founded in 1997 as Durham Community Charter School, Maureen Joy Charter School emerged from the aspirations of a dedicated group of community activists. Their mission was clear: to offer an unparalleled educational experience to every student. As one of North Carolina's pioneering charter schools, we initially welcomed 50 young people, spanning grades K-5, into our inaugural campus.
Over the years, Maureen Joy has experienced significant growth both academically and in popularity, leading to a surge in enrollment requests. In response to this increasing demand and to better serve our community, we relocated in July 2013 to a stunning, renovated historic building in East Durham. This move not only provided a better learning environment but also placed us closer to the majority of the families we serve.
As we step into the 2023-2024 academic year, Maureen Joy Charter School will welcome over 645 scholars, over 70% of whom come from low-income households. Our vibrant student body primarily comprises Latino and African American students, and we are proud to serve the third-highest ESL population among charter schools in the state.
With this move, Maureen Joy now provides a high-quality educational option for new families to Joy, improves the educational program being offered to our current scholars, and serves as a catalytic force in the ongoing revitalization of Old East Durham.
In the 2020-2021 school year, we will enroll over 645 students, over 89% of whom come from low-income backgrounds. Our students primarily are African American and Latino, and we serve the third highest ESL population among charter schools in the state.
FAQs
Which grades do you serve?
We serve students in grades Kindergarten through 8th grade
Click here (add link to the lottery information). Follow the steps to enroll your child.
How many students do you have?
Approximately 645 students are enrolled for the 2023-2024 school year.
Do you provide busing?
Yes, we provide busing for most locations in the Durham area. If you have questions about bus transportation, you can contact our Director of Transportation via the front office - (919) 908-1600 - for specifics. Reference our Resources page for additional information.
What enrichment activities do you offer?
Our elementary students participate in music, art, technology, and physical education during their Enrichment rotation. Middle school students select their enrichment class each semester from this list of options.
What is your SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Curriculum?
Our K-4 students participate in the Toolbox SEL curriculum, focused on developing 11 foundational tools for social and emotional health. Our middle school students (grades 5-8) participate in a the WIN at Social Curriculum. The "Win at Social" Advisory curriculum is designed to equip middle school students with social-emotional skills, digital citizenship, and interpersonal tools for navigating various social scenarios. Through activities, discussions, and real-world applications, the program aims to foster emotional intelligence and responsible behavior in both online and offline environments.
What after school activities do you offer?
Afterschool elective options include KidzNotes, StudentU, STEP Team, Science Academy, Girls on the Run, and Art Club. Sports include Cross Country, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Cheerleading, Girls Volleyball and Track and Field.
After-School Care Program Available
Maureen Joy Charter School is pleased to offer an on-site after-care program for our students. The program runs from 3:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., providing a safe and enriching environment for children until parents or guardians can pick them up.
Want to Learn More?
For more information about our after-school care program, including details on activities, supervision, and costs, please call our front office at (919) 908-1600
Does Maureen Joy have a discrimination policy?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, gender (male or female), gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or if all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited basis will apply to all programs and/or employment activities). Under the Federal School Nutrition Program and USDA policy, discrimination is prohibited under the basis of race, color, national origin, gender (male or female), age or disability.
What is your average class size?
Our Kindergarten classes average 16:1 and our 1st-8th grade classes average 24:1.
Do your students wear uniforms?
Here are our uniform policies for our Elementary School and Middle School
Is there morning and after school care?
At Maureen Joy Charter School, we understand the diverse needs of our families. That's why we offer both morning and after-school care programs to provide a secure and engaging environment for your child.
Before Care
Our Before Care program opens its doors at 6:30 a.m. and accommodates drop-ins at a rate of $3 per day, per student.
Aftercare Options
We provide flexible aftercare solutions with daily, weekly, and monthly care options to suit your family's schedule.
For More Details Click here to learn more about before care and after care costs
What are the school’s hours?
The school day begins at 8:00 AM (Drop-off begins at 7:35) and ends at 3:45 (Pick-up begins at 3:25) Monday-Friday.
Is this an alternative school?
No. Our school is a state funded tuition-free public charter school. We accept ALL children and believe ALL children can be scholars at Maureen Joy. We provide transportation and free lunch so there are no barriers to attending Maureen Joy. Additionally, we do have Exceptional Children, Speech, and English as a Second Language services for scholars who qualify.
How can I report a discrimination complaint?
If you wish to file a Civil Rights complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online here, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or click here to email. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.