Polo Road Elementary School
General Information
Reviews
Polo Road Elementary School is widely appreciated by parents and students alike for its nurturing and inclusive environment. Many families praise the school’s commitment to fostering academic growth alongside social and emotional development. The teachers are often described as approachable, dedicated, and innovative in their teaching methods, which helps students remain engaged and motivated. Community members highlight the school’s active involvement in local events and its strong parent-teacher association, which facilitates open communication and collaboration. Some reviewers mention the availability of extracurricular activities and enrichment programs as a significant benefit, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests beyond the classroom. While a few parents have pointed out areas for improvement, such as the need for enhanced technology resources, the overall reputation remains highly positive. The school’s focus on developing critical thinking and creativity has earned it a solid standing within the district. The diverse student body and inclusive culture are also commonly cited as strengths, making Polo Road Elementary a favored choice among families seeking a well-rounded elementary education.
Contact Information
- Phone: (919) 482-7563
- Email: contact@poloroad.edu
- Address: 1274 Maple Avenue, Durham, NC 27705
- Website: www.poloroad.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1974 |
| Grades Served | K-5 |
| Total Students | 598 |
| Faculty Count | 42 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 14:1 |
| School Type | Public |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | #4 |
Polo Road Elementary School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Physical Education
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Special Education
- Technology Integration
Polo Road Elementary School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Reading and Writing Workshop
- Mathematics Foundations
- Science Inquiry and Exploration
- Social Studies and Community Awareness
- Art and Creativity
- Music and Choir
- Physical Education and Health
- Computer Literacy
- STEM Enrichment
- Character Education
- Second Language Basics (Spanish)
- Library and Research Skills
Online Learning
Polo Road Elementary has embraced online learning by integrating digital platforms that complement classroom instruction. The school provides a variety of resources, including interactive educational software and virtual lessons tailored to different grade levels. During periods when in-person attendance is disrupted, the school switches efficiently to a blended learning model, ensuring students continue to receive quality education remotely. Teachers utilize video conferencing tools for live sessions, and assignments are distributed and submitted through a secure online portal. The school also offers training sessions for parents to help them support their children’s online learning experience. Emphasis is placed on maintaining student engagement and providing timely feedback. Additionally, the school has invested in improving internet access and device availability to minimize barriers, promoting equitable learning opportunities for all students.
Degrees and Certifications
Although Polo Road Elementary is an elementary school and does not confer degrees, its faculty members hold certifications relevant to early childhood and elementary education. The majority of teachers possess state certification in elementary education, with many holding additional endorsements in special education, ESL, or STEM instruction. Professional development is actively encouraged, with staff regularly participating in workshops and training to stay current with educational best practices and new curriculum standards. The school leadership promotes continuous learning for educators to enhance their instructional skills and classroom management techniques. Certifications related to technology integration and student mental health support are also common among the faculty, reflecting the school’s holistic approach to education.
Summer School
Polo Road Elementary offers a robust summer school program designed to reinforce academic skills and provide enrichment opportunities. The program focuses on reading, mathematics, and science, targeting students who may benefit from additional support or wish to accelerate their learning. Summer sessions include hands-on activities, group projects, and interactive lessons to maintain students’ interest and engagement. Beyond academics, the school incorporates social-emotional learning and physical activities to promote well-being. The program is open to all enrolled students and often includes specialized sessions for English language learners and those with individualized education plans. This initiative helps reduce summer learning loss and prepares students for the upcoming school year in a supportive environment.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 79% |
| English/Reading | 85% |
| Science | 72% |
| Social Studies | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As an elementary school, Polo Road Elementary focuses on student progression through foundational grades with a strong emphasis on retention and readiness for middle school. The school maintains a high retention rate, with most students advancing on schedule due to effective academic support and intervention programs. Teachers closely monitor student progress and work with parents to address any challenges early. The school’s retention strategies include tutoring, small group instruction, and individualized learning plans. While graduation rates are not applicable at the elementary level, the school measures success by student preparedness for the next grade level and overall academic growth. Positive feedback from middle schools in the district indicates that Polo Road students transition well, reflecting the school’s commitment to a solid academic foundation.
Polo Road Elementary School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Since Polo Road Elementary serves grades K-5, traditional GPA, SAT, and ACT ranges are not applicable. Instead, admissions focus on readiness assessments and kindergarten screening to evaluate developmental milestones and early learning skills. The school prioritizes a holistic approach to admissions, considering social, emotional, and cognitive development. For incoming kindergarteners, assessments are conducted to gauge language, motor skills, and basic numeracy. The school also values family engagement and community involvement as part of the admissions process, aiming to create a diverse and supportive student body. Placement assessments for older students new to the district help determine appropriate grade levels and support services when necessary.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 88% |
| 2022 | 90% |
| 2021 | 87% |
Application Requirements
Admission to Polo Road Elementary School requires submission of a completed application form along with proof of residency within the school district boundaries. Parents must provide the child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and previous school records if applicable. For kindergarten applicants, a developmental screening is conducted to assess readiness. The school also requests a family information questionnaire to help understand the student’s background and needs. While the school is public and admits all residents, priority may be given to siblings of current students and children of staff. Special education services require documentation and assessments to ensure proper placement and support. The admissions team encourages early submission of materials to facilitate a smooth enrollment process.
Enrollment Overview
Polo Road Elementary maintains a steady enrollment of approximately 600 students across grades K through 5. The school experiences moderate annual growth due to the area’s expanding residential community. Enrollment is managed to ensure class sizes remain conducive to personalized instruction and student engagement. The school serves a diverse population, reflecting the broader community’s demographics. New students typically enroll at the start of the academic year, but mid-year admissions are accommodated as needed. The administration works closely with families to provide orientation and integration support to new students, including tours, meet-and-greet sessions, and access to counseling services. The school’s enrollment process emphasizes transparency and communication to help families understand academic and social expectations.
Application Process
- Submit the online or paper application form.
- Provide proof of residency and required documentation.
- Participate in kindergarten or grade-level readiness screening if applicable.
- Attend a family orientation session.
- Receive admission decision notification.
- Complete registration and enrollment paperwork.
- Attend a new student welcome meeting.
- Begin classes on the designated start date.
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | February 1 |
| Application Deadline | April 15 |
| Decision Notification | May 10 |
| Enrollment Deadline | June 1 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 10-14 |
Essay Prompt
For incoming students, especially kindergartners, Polo Road Elementary encourages families to provide a brief statement or letter describing their child’s interests, strengths, and any special needs or considerations. This helps the school better understand the unique qualities of each student as they transition into a new environment. Families may be asked to discuss what they hope their child will gain from attending the school and how they plan to support their child’s learning at home. This reflective exercise fosters a partnership between the school and family, emphasizing shared goals for student success. The school values honesty and openness in these submissions and uses them to tailor support services and classroom placements effectively.
Polo Road Elementary School Scholarships
As a public elementary school, Polo Road Elementary does not offer traditional scholarships. However, the school partners with local community organizations to provide resources such as free or reduced-cost meals, school supplies, and extracurricular program funding for eligible students. Families facing financial hardship can access assistance programs to ensure their children have equal opportunities to participate in all school activities. Additionally, the school occasionally receives grants that support enrichment initiatives, technology access, and family engagement projects. These efforts collectively help remove barriers to education and foster an inclusive environment where all students can thrive regardless of economic background.
Polo Road Elementary School Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | N/A – Public |
| Registration Fee | $30 |
| Technology Fee | $25 |
| Activity Fee | $40 |
| Books and Supplies | $50 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $3.75 per day |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Polo Road Elementary boasts a richly diverse student population that mirrors the surrounding community’s cultural makeup. The school welcomes children from various ethnic, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, which enhances the learning environment and promotes cultural awareness among students. This diversity is reflected in the range of languages spoken at home and the variety of traditions celebrated throughout the school year. The school actively fosters inclusivity through multicultural events, language support programs, and family engagement initiatives. Such diversity enriches classroom discussions and broadens students’ perspectives, preparing them for success in an increasingly global society. The school also emphasizes equity by providing resources and support tailored to meet the unique needs of all learners.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Polo Road Elementary provides comprehensive support to students from low-income families and those with disabilities. Approximately 40% of the student body qualifies for free or reduced-price lunch programs, reflecting the school’s commitment to serving families with economic challenges. The school implements targeted interventions such as after-school tutoring, counseling, and access to community resources to help bridge opportunity gaps. For students with disabilities, Polo Road offers individualized education plans (IEPs) and related services including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral support. The special education team collaborates closely with general education teachers to ensure inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive. Accessibility accommodations and assistive technology are available to support diverse learning needs, emphasizing the school’s goal of fostering an equitable and supportive educational experience for every child.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 49% |
| Male Students | 51% |
| Caucasian | 38% |
| African American | 24% |
| Hispanic | 20% |
| Asian | 12% |
| Other/Multiracial | 6% |
University Diversity
While Polo Road Elementary does not have university diversity statistics, it prepares students from diverse backgrounds to pursue higher education opportunities in the future. The school’s inclusive curriculum and community engagement efforts lay the groundwork for students to appreciate diversity and cultural differences. By fostering respect for varied perspectives early on, the school contributes to the development of globally minded individuals who are more likely to engage in diverse college environments. The school also encourages family involvement to ensure that all students receive encouragement and support toward continuing their education. Partnerships with local secondary schools and community organizations further enhance awareness of higher education pathways and the importance of diversity in academic settings.
Average Earnings
As an elementary school, Polo Road Elementary does not track earnings statistics for its students. However, the school’s comprehensive academic foundation aims to equip students with skills that contribute to long-term success and economic stability. By emphasizing literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and social skills, the school prepares students to excel in middle and high school, which are crucial steps toward career readiness. The community surrounding the school includes a mix of professions and income levels, and the school collaborates with families and local partners to support students’ aspirations. Early exposure to STEM and arts education also helps broaden future career opportunities for students, contributing to higher earning potential in adulthood.
Graduation Rate
As an elementary institution, Polo Road Elementary does not have a graduation rate in the traditional sense. Instead, success is measured by students’ ability to progress through grade levels on time and with the necessary skills for continued academic achievement. The school consistently maintains a high promotion rate, with the vast majority of students advancing to middle school prepared for more rigorous coursework. Support systems such as tutoring, interventions, and parent engagement contribute to this positive outcome. Feedback from receiving middle schools suggests that Polo Road graduates tend to perform well and adapt quickly to new academic challenges. The school’s emphasis on a strong educational foundation and social-emotional development lays the groundwork for long-term educational success.
Polo Road Elementary School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Polo Road Elementary consists of experienced educators committed to student growth and well-being. Most teachers hold advanced certifications and actively engage in ongoing professional development to stay abreast of the latest instructional strategies. The staff includes specialists in areas such as special education, English language learning, and counseling to address diverse student needs. Support personnel, including administrative staff, librarians, and paraprofessionals, contribute to a well-rounded educational environment. The school fosters a collaborative culture where teachers share best practices and work together to develop creative lesson plans and extracurricular programs. Regular staff meetings and training sessions ensure alignment with district goals and continuous improvement.
Faculty Profiles
The teaching team at Polo Road Elementary is characterized by a blend of veteran educators and newer teachers bringing fresh perspectives. Many teachers have over a decade of experience, with specialties ranging from literacy development to STEM education. Faculty members hold degrees from respected universities and often participate in leadership roles within the school, such as grade-level coordinators or curriculum specialists. Their passion for child development is evident in their personalized approach to instruction and dedication to fostering a positive classroom climate. Several teachers have earned awards for excellence in education and have contributed to district-level curriculum initiatives. The school values faculty diversity, recognizing that varied experiences and backgrounds enrich the learning community.
Polo Road Elementary School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Polo Road Elementary’s campus is designed to provide a safe and stimulating environment for young learners. The school features well-maintained classrooms, a library, computer labs, art and music rooms, and outdoor play areas. Students have access to playgrounds and sports fields that encourage physical activity and social interaction. The school hosts numerous events throughout the year, including cultural celebrations, science fairs, and family nights, fostering a strong sense of community. While the school does not provide on-campus housing, its location in a residential neighborhood allows many families to live nearby, promoting easy access and active parental involvement. The campus layout supports both collaborative learning spaces and quiet areas for individual study, catering to diverse student needs.
Transportation
Polo Road Elementary offers a comprehensive transportation program to ensure student safety and convenience. School bus services cover designated routes within the district’s boundaries, with scheduled pick-up and drop-off times coordinated to accommodate working families. The school also supports walking and biking initiatives, providing secure bike racks and crossing guards at key intersections. For families who drive their children, the school maintains organized drop-off and pick-up zones to minimize traffic congestion and ensure smooth operations. Transportation staff are trained in safety protocols and emergency procedures. The school communicates route information and schedule updates regularly through newsletters and the website, ensuring parents have current details to plan daily commutes.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Polo Road Elementary periodically offers job openings in teaching, administration, and support roles aligned with its commitment to quality education. Current vacancies are typically posted on the school website and district job board, inviting qualified candidates to apply. The school values diversity and inclusion in hiring and seeks professionals passionate about working with young children. Career opportunities include classroom teachers, special education specialists, instructional aides, counselors, and administrative positions. The school provides competitive benefits and supports professional growth through mentoring and training. Staff retention is a priority, with a focus on creating a positive work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit resumes and cover letters detailing their experience and educational philosophy.