Teachers, staff, bus drivers welcome DPS year-round students back to class this week

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- It's back to school for students on the year-round calendar at Durham Public Schools (DPS).

Year-round schools welcomed students back on Monday, and early colleges and specialty schools will begin classes on Aug. 6.

Traditional-calendar schools will start the new school year on Aug. 24. DPS serves nearly 30,000 students.

Durham Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis plans to visit several year-round schools on the first day of classes, including Easley Elementary School, Pearsontown Elementary School, Rogers-Herr Middle School and the School for Creative Studies.

"We are now prepared to welcome our school year 2026-2027 scholars back to write another exciting chapter of their academic lives," Lewis said. "From the arts to sports to creative and advanced studies, this year will provide another opportunity to explore their limitless potential."

Dr. Lewis visited the following schools Monday:

• Easley Elementary School - 7 a.m.
• Pearsontown Elementary School - 8:30 a.m.
• Rogers-Herr Middle School - 9:45 a.m.
• School for Creative Studies - 11 a.m.

School Meals Safety

DPS confirmed to ABC11 that all fresh produce has been removed from school menus until at least September due to ongoing concerns about the cyclospora outbreak. School leaders said they are following guidance from the health department.

Students will be serve canned and frozen fruits and vegetables until further notice.

SEE ALSO | Year-round students return to class in Wake County

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