A message from our Executive Director, Arlie Harris

At Central Park School for Children, our All Children Thrive approach is designed for all learners through Child-Centered Project Based Learning. As one of the first 100 charter schools in North Carolina, our purpose remains – to foster a learning community where students are centered, nurtured, and cared for – all the way from their roots, through their core, to their new growth as they branch out.

We are excited to realize our K-8 City Block Campus in downtown Durham – it’s finally here! This year let’s join together prioritizing joy for learning, igniting your child’s passions, and nurturing each child’s wholeness. This is our founding charter’s ambitious purpose and our mission for All Children to Thrive.

We know from research and from real life experience that learning is social, learning is practical, learning is developmental, and learners are diverse. Our CPSC children are amazing and deserve an education that centers who they are as unique learners.

Through our Child-Centered Project Based approach, we will recognize and include the uniqueness of each child. Through a Joy for learning through high standards, Integrated Arts, Outdoor Learning, and Social Emotional Learning, we are Designed for Every Learner and we Partner with Families to empower student passions to build not just knowledge and understanding but a love for learning.

As Executive Director of Central Park School for Children, former Middle School Director, and parent of one current and one alumni student, I have experienced the power of CPSC’s mission and goals for children across our K-8 school. Our outstanding teachers, classmates, and their families have been part of an extended family – empowering and nurturing my own children’s brilliance and love for learning.

I encourage you to explore and discover how Central Park School for Children can nurture your child’s learning as well, in extension of your family’s values and beliefs, so that your children and all children thrive.

In Community,
Arlie Harris
Executive Director, CPSC