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About Us

WHO WE ARE: 

Welcome to Maureen Joy Charter School, where the heart of Durham meets the future of education. As a K-8 public charter school, we’re proud to offer a tuition-free, inclusive learning environment for all children across North Carolina, with admission through an equitable annual lottery.
 
At Maureen Joy, we believe in more than just teaching, we believe in transforming lives. Our focus extends beyond academics to foster the full potential of every student. Through our innovative approach to school design, strong community connections, and a deep commitment to equity and justice, we create a dynamic, supportive space where every student, within our multicultural community, can grow, thrive, and achieve their unbridled potential.
 
 
 
 

History of Joy 

Located in the historic heart of East Durham, North Carolina, Maureen Joy Charter School has been a beacon of educational innovation and community empowerment since its inception in 1997. As one of the first charter schools approved by the state of North Carolina, we proudly stand among the longest-standing charters in the state.
 
Originally established as Durham Community Charter School by a visionary group of community activists, our school was founded on the principle of providing an unparalleled educational experience to every student. These founders were driven by a clear mission to transform public education in Durham through a pioneering approach that welcomed all students, especially those underserved by traditional systems.
Starting with just 50 young scholars in grades K-5, Maureen Joy has grown significantly over the years, both in academic achievements and popularity. This growth has continually driven an increase in enrollment requests, reflecting our reputation as a leading educational institution in North Carolina.
 
In July 2013, responding to the growing needs of our community and to accommodate our expanding student body, we relocated to a beautifully renovated historic building in East Durham. This move not only enhanced our learning environment but also brought us closer to the majority of the families we serve, deepening our roots in the community we are dedicated to uplifting.
 
During the 2024-2025 academic year, Maureen Joy Charter School welcomed over 650 young people, with more than 87% coming from low-income households. Our student body is richly diverse, with a significant representation of LatinX/Hispanic and Black American students, and we proudly serve the third-highest ESL population among charter schools in the state. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, led by a dedicated staff and an exceptional board of directors. Together, we strive to ensure that our students not only reach but exceed their bold ambitions through a supportive and empowering school experience.
 
Looking ahead, Maureen Joy is excited to introduce and pilot new student experiences in this upcoming academic year. We are reimagining the student experience by employing the human-centered design model. This innovative approach involves designing with students and families to create tailored educational pathways that leverage the latest science of learning and insights from the future of work. Our goal is to build a more equitable school environment that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our community. Through this collaborative process, we aim to redefine how young people learn and prepare them for a successful future in an ever-evolving world.
Maureen joy's Charter school building sign at the front of the school

About our Building:

Nestled within a community undergoing significant revitalization, Maureen Joy Charter School breathes new life into the oldest existing school building in Durham, North Carolina. Located at 107 South Driver Street, this historic site has witnessed profound transformations, from its early 20th-century origins as the East Durham Graded School, serving the local white, cotton mill worker population, to its present role as a vibrant educational hub for a diverse group of students.

Founded originally to serve a homogeneous community, the building has evolved alongside the neighborhood. After closing in 1967 and changing its role several times, the structure stood as a testament to the area's fluctuating economic fortunes. By the 1980s, East Durham had transitioned into a predominantly African American, lower-income neighborhood with high rental occupancy and scarce employment opportunities.

In July 2013, Maureen Joy Charter School relocated to this storied site after a substantial renovation spearheaded by Self-Help, a non-profit community development lender. The renovation was a monumental effort, requiring over $10 million and three years of dedicated work by a skilled team, including Durham architect Eddie Belk, known for his expertise in historic renovations. This project, Tucker Bartlett's favorite due to its extensive community impact, not only saved the building but ensured that much of the investment remained within Durham.

Today, Maureen Joy Charter School offers a beacon of hope and progress. With a student body of over 650, the school stands at the forefront of education innovation and community engagement. It's not just a place of learning but a center of community interaction and pride, greatly affecting the local economy and social fabric.

Maureen Joy Charter School is more than just an academic institution; it is a cornerstone of community revitalization and a symbol of the enduring spirit of East Durham. As the neighborhood continues to develop, the school remains committed to providing an unparalleled educational experience, fostering a nurturing environment for its diverse student body, and contributing positively to the community's transformation.