Nearly half of DPS elementary students would have to change schools under proposed redistricting

Parents with children attending Durham Public Schools are raising concerns about the planned redistricting.

On Monday, school district leaders released the proposed rules for "Growing Together," which is a major redistricting plan. It is expected to be the largest overhaul of the district in 30 years, and nearly half of elementary school students would have to change schools.

James Guptill, whose daughter is attending George Watts Elementary School, is concerned both of his children wouldn't be able to attend the same school.

"It's a huge gut punch," Guptill said. "I'm very worried for her."

Under the new guidelines, Guptill's daughter would have to reapply to continue to attend the same school.

"I think you make it a challenge for working-class, lower-class families with multiple kids to keep their kids together in schools," Guptill said. "Then, we're going to be discouraged from trying to get into those optimal schools."

Under the proposed plan, fourth and fifth graders can stay at their current schools, and siblings can request to stay until the older child moves on.

The “Growing Together” initiative has a goal of reducing the number of bus routes and needed drivers. However, by keeping fourth and fifth graders at their current schools, the district would have to hire dozens of new drivers.

Several parents told WRAL News about their concerns regarding the DPS’ reapplication process under “Growing Together” to ensure their children will attend the sought-after spots in the district’s Montessori schools .

Students in first through third grade who attend a magnet school, but do not live in the updated boundary, must reapply in the lottery, but will be given top priority.

Jessica Abramson, whose daughter attends Morehead Montessori School, would have to have her daughter re-apply in the lottery.

"We really hit the lotto when we got in," Abramson said. "I don't know if that's going to happen twice."

Guptill felt the same way.

"Even if they gave a weighted priority lottery for kids to continue along their curriculum, that does not seem like very good odds," Guptill said.

DPS’ goal is to split the district more evenly and provide students equity. The proposal would also ensure each region has a Montessori school.

Linda Yu, another Morehead Montessori parent, wants the district to focus on stability on of young children.

"Allowing legacy students to finish out their tenure at this elementary school would be a paramount way toward meeting the need for that child," Lu said.

Guptill believes there should be a more flexible option on the date.

"We are an example of a family who could not afford to live in the neighborhood of the highly-touted Montessori school," Guptill said. "And we are an example of at least increasing the economic diversity of that school."

The DPS Board of Education is expected to discuss the proposed redistricting during Thursday night's work session. District leaders will not officially vote on “Growing Together” proposal on Thursday.

If the proposal gets approved at future public meetings held by district leaders, the changes would not take effect until the 2024-2025 school year.