GROWING TOGETHER
UNDERSTANDING THE
ASSIGNMENT
Transition coordinator, implementation team assist families and schools with upcoming school assignment changes n July 1, 2023, Joy Bingham walked into Durham Public Schools’ central services building filled with excitement and purpose to support DPS families through an important upcoming transition – the new student assignment plan. As a parent and former DPS high school administrator, she knew firsthand the care, time, and attention needed to assist families and schools. “I worked with the student assignment office when I was an assistant principal, so I knew the work involved behind the scenes,” says Bigham. “Being a school administrator
12 SPARK INSIDER
gave me insight into family concerns related to supporting students through transitions.” Bingham stepped into this new role right on time. Next school year, DPS will launch its student assignment plan for elementary students across the county. Beginning in July 2024, new school boundaries will go into effect along with enhanced programming at all elementary schools and increased access to application programs – all close to home for families and supported by shorter bus routes. Students currently in grades K-2 may be assigned to a new school as part of the plan. Students who will be in grades 4 and 5 next year will be allowed to stay at their current school. There are ways to keep siblings in the same school together.
