Families in Durham, North Carolina have multiple educational options beyond traditional public schools, including charter schools and private schools like Resurrection Lutheran School. Understanding the differences between these options can help you make the best choice for your child's education.
Understanding Your Educational Options in Durham
Durham offers diverse educational choices for families, each with its own distinctive approach, funding structure, and educational philosophy. Before making this important decision for your child's future, it's essential to understand how these options differ.
What is a Charter School?
Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate with greater autonomy than traditional public schools. In Durham, charter schools:
- Are tuition-free public schools
- Operate independently under state authorization
- Follow state academic standards but have flexibility in curriculum and teaching methods
- Are governed by their own board of directors
- Cannot have religious affiliations
- Must accept all students (using lotteries when demand exceeds capacity)
- Are accountable to the state for academic performance
According to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, "Charter schools are public schools of choice operated by independent non-profit boards of directors" that provide more flexibility while still being accountable to state standards.
What is a Private School?
Private schools, like Resurrection Lutheran School, operate independently of public education systems and are funded primarily through tuition and private contributions. In Durham, private schools:
- Charge tuition (though many offer financial aid)
- Have complete autonomy in curriculum, teaching methods, and school policies
- Can have religious affiliations and integrate faith into education
- Can establish their own admissions criteria
- Are not required to administer state standardized tests
- Are accountable primarily to parents and accrediting organizations
Private schools offer a distinct educational alternative that many Durham families find valuable for their children's development.
The Resurrection Lutheran School Difference
While located in Cary, Resurrection Lutheran School serves many families from Durham who are seeking a Christ-centered education with academic excellence. Here's what sets us apart:
Christian Foundation
At Resurrection Lutheran School, faith is integrated throughout our educational approach:
- Daily Bible study and prayer
- Weekly chapel services
- Character development based on Christian values
- Integration of biblical principles across all subject areas
- Service learning opportunities that put faith into action
This Christian foundation provides a moral and ethical framework that shapes our entire educational program. Read our article, How Christian Education Prepares Students for College and Beyond, for more.
Academic Excellence
Our commitment to academic excellence is evident in:
- Rigorous curriculum that exceeds state standards
- Low student-to-teacher ratios that allow for individualized attention
- High expectations for student achievement
- Integration of critical thinking and problem-solving across all subject areas
- Regular assessment to ensure student progress
- Preparation for success in high school and beyond
Our academic program challenges students while providing the support they need to succeed.
Community and Character Development
Beyond academics and faith formation, we focus on:
- Building strong relationships between teachers, students, and families
- Fostering a safe, nurturing environment where students feel valued
- Developing leadership skills through various opportunities
- Encouraging responsibility, integrity, and respect
- Creating a sense of belonging within our school community
These elements combine to create an educational experience that nurtures the whole child—intellectually, spiritually, socially, and emotionally.
Comparing Private and Charter School Options
When deciding between private and charter schools, Durham families should consider several key factors:
Educational Philosophy and Approach
- Charter Schools: Each charter school in Durham has its own educational focus or teaching methodology, from project-based learning to STEM emphasis. While they must meet state standards, they have flexibility in how they deliver instruction.
- Resurrection Lutheran School: Our educational philosophy integrates faith, academic excellence, and character development. We believe in nurturing the whole child and preparing students not just for academic success but for lives of purpose and service.
Cost and Accessibility
- Charter Schools: As public schools, charter schools in Durham are tuition-free, making them financially accessible to all families. However, limited capacity often means waitlists and admission lotteries.
- Resurrection Lutheran School: As a private school, we charge tuition, but we are committed to making our education accessible through financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans. We believe that families who value our educational approach should have the opportunity to access it.
Class Size and Individual Attention
- Charter Schools: Class sizes in Durham charter schools vary but generally aim to be smaller than traditional public schools. However, popular charter schools may still have larger class sizes due to demand.
- Resurrection Lutheran School: We maintain small class sizes to ensure that each student receives the individual attention they need. Our teachers know each student personally and can tailor instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
Curriculum and Academic Focus
- Charter Schools: Durham charter schools have flexibility in curriculum design but must align with state standards and demonstrate academic performance through standardized testing.
- Resurrection Lutheran School: Our curriculum exceeds state standards while integrating faith perspectives. We emphasize strong foundations in core subjects along with enrichment through arts, technology, physical education, and foreign language.
Parental Involvement and Community
- Charter Schools: Many Durham charter schools encourage parental involvement, though policies and opportunities vary by school.
- Resurrection Lutheran School: We view education as a partnership between parents and teachers. Parents are actively involved in our school community through volunteer opportunities, regular communication with teachers, and participation in school events.
Transportation for Durham Families
For Durham families considering Resurrection Lutheran School, transportation is an important consideration:
- Our location in Cary is accessible from Durham via I-40
- Many Durham families coordinate carpools to share driving responsibilities
- Some families align their work commute with school transportation
- Our before-school care (beginning at 7:15 am) and after-school care (until 5:00 pm Monday-Thursday) provide flexibility for working parents
We understand that the commute requires commitment, but many Durham families find that the benefits of our educational program make the drive worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions from Durham Families
How does Resurrection Lutheran School compare academically to Durham charter schools?
Both Resurrection Lutheran School and many Durham charter schools offer strong academic programs. Charter schools in Durham have an average math proficiency score of 38% and reading proficiency score of 50%, according to recent data. At Resurrection Lutheran, our students consistently perform above grade level on standardized assessments, with strong emphasis on writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Our small class sizes allow for personalized attention that helps each student reach their full potential.
What financial assistance is available for Durham families considering Resurrection Lutheran School?
We offer need-based financial aid, multi-child discounts, and flexible payment plans to make our education more accessible. Our financial aid process is confidential and considers each family's unique circumstances. We're committed to working with families who value our educational approach but need assistance with tuition costs. For specific information, please visit our Affording Resurrection page.
How do private Christian schools like Resurrection Lutheran address diversity and inclusion?
We believe that all people are created in God's image and valued by Him. Our school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds while maintaining our Christian identity. We teach respect for all people and cultures while providing an education grounded in Christian values. Our curriculum includes perspectives from various cultures and traditions, helping students develop global awareness and appreciation for diversity.
What extracurricular activities are available for students?
We offer a variety of extracurricular activities including sports (volleyball, basketball, cross country, cheerleading), music programs, drama, clubs, and service opportunities. These activities help students develop talents, interests, and leadership skills beyond the classroom.
Can students transfer to Resurrection Lutheran School mid-year from a Durham charter or public school?
Yes, we accept mid-year transfers when space is available. Our admissions team works closely with transfer students and their families to ensure a smooth transition, assessing current academic levels and providing support as needed during the adjustment period.
Making the Right Choice for Your Child
When deciding between private and charter school options, consider:
- Your child's unique needs, interests, and learning style
- Your family's values and educational priorities
- Practical considerations like location, transportation, and cost
- The school culture and community you want for your child
We encourage Durham families to:
- Research different options thoroughly
- Visit schools in person to experience the environment
- Talk with current parents and students
- Consider both immediate and long-term educational goals
Schedule a Tour for Your Durham Family
We invite Durham families to experience Resurrection Lutheran School firsthand. Schedule a personal tour to:
- Visit our classrooms and meet our teachers
- Learn more about our curriculum and programs
- Discuss your child's specific educational needs
- Experience our Christ-centered learning environment
- Connect with other Durham families in our community
Contact us today to schedule your tour or learn more about our programs. We look forward to showing you how Resurrection Lutheran School might be the right educational choice for your child.
