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Igniting

A Love of Learning

Two Preschool students look back after their performance in their class play.

Preschool

Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten

Preschool represents a special time in children’s lives, when they are full of natural curiosity and wonder about how the world works. At Durham Academy Preschool, pre-kindergartners and kindergartners develop a sense of self and self-confidence, learn to share responsibility and make lifelong friendships. Here, your child will be known and loved by teachers who recognize and nurture each child’s gifts, helping them set goals and experience success.

In the Preschool, we find small and large ways to appreciate moments of joy — from a student’s first wiggly tooth, to gathering together for assemblies on Wednesday mornings, to celebrating the end of a unit of study. Students are developing the building blocks of academic skills, learning how to be a kind friend and part of a classroom community and learning about how to take care of our planet. We have a great balance of working hard and having fun.

Carolyn Howes
Director of Preschool

Durham Academy's focus on preparing students for moral, happy and productive lives begins from their very first day as Preschoolers. In addition to building core academic skills, your child will experience abundant opportunities each day to develop their character and creativity and explore passions — from class plays and cooking lessons, to music class and visits from Upper Schoolers eager to share about their interests and culture.

Durham Academy Preschoolers visit with Emerald Pond retirement community residents.

Intergenerational Experiences

Among the Preschool's most treasured traditions is a longstanding partnership with the nearby Solista retirement community. Students visit with Solista residents several times a year, bringing along handmade seasonal decorations and singing songs.

Learn More About Service Learning at DA

We Welcome Visitors — and Questions!

A website can only do so much to convey the experience of being part of our school community. Durham Academy Preschool is one of the happiest places on Earth — and we encourage you to experience it for yourself by visiting our campus! 

We also know that you may have questions about affording a Durham Academy education. We encourage you to apply for financial aid if you believe you need any level of support and to reach out to chat about the financial aid or admission process. 

Plan Your Visit to the PreschoolLearn About Financial Aid

Life @ DA Preschool

    This holiday season, our students remind us that generosity is the greatest gift of all. From Upper Schoolers fulfilling wish lists for families across the Triangle, to second graders inspiring pet adoptions with creativity and heart — every act of kindness reflects a Durham Academy community committed to making the season brighter.