New Student Info

 

What is the dress code?

Red, navy, and light blue top (polo or shirt) and khaki, navy, or denim bottoms. Additionally, Durham spirit shirts (logo or country) are permitted as part of the uniform. College shirts may be worn on FRIDAYS ONLY. Otherwise students are expected to be in uniform. 

 

Closed toed shoes appropriate for physical activity. Crocs in “sport mode” are permitted. No flip flops. It’s recommended to have your student wear socks with their shoes. We recommend all kids carry a light jacket or hoodie for the cold classrooms. 

 

LABEL EVERYTHING!

Please check the Lost & Found regularly.  It is located near the Kinder wing.  

 

What school supplies does my child need?

The PTA makes this process simple. Simply purchase the school supply fee. The PTA coordinates purchase and delivery of school supplies at bulk prices. These supplies are delivered directly to each classroom for each student. 

Purchase supplies here: http://www.durhampta.org/supplies. 

 

What should my student bring on the first day of school? 

Just the essentials:

• Backpack (no mesh or clear bag required)

• Refillable water bottle (labeled)

• Snack

• Lunch box (if bringing lunch from home)

• Change of clothes (recommended for PK and Kinder)

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Can I walk my child to their classroom on the first day?

Yes! Parents and caregivers are welcome to walk students to their classrooms on the first day of school. It’s a special moment—we encourage it!

 

How does the school, PTA, and HISD communicate?

• Instagram:

  • PTA: @durhamespta

  • HISD: @houstontxisd

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• ParentSquare (App + Website):

  • Main communication platform for both school and PTA

  • Weekly PTA newsletter: The Paw Print

  • Weekly school newsletter: On the Spot

  • Volunteer sign-ups, event info, and teacher messaging
     

New to Durham?

You’ll receive ParentSquare access a few weeks after school begins.

 

When do I find out my child's teacher?

You’ll find out at Meet the Teacher!

Returning families may also see classroom assignments posted in ParentSquare around the same time.

 

How do I pickup & drop off my child at school?

General information can be found here (link after school & dismissal link)

There are separate lines for walkers and car riders based on grade level.
🚨 Heads up: First-day pickup is always a bit chaotic—it gets better!

 

What is available for after school care?

After school care is provided by Kidventure- a third party vendor that manages the onsite, after school program at Durham and several other elementary schools in the area. Durham hosts Kidventure on campus from 3:00 to 6:00 everyday during the school year.

For more information or to register, visit: kidventure.com/after-school-programs/durham/

 

What's for lunch (and breakfast)?

Breakfast and lunch are FREE for ALL Durham Elementary students for the 2026-26 school year.
Daily Menus are published here.
Kids can also bring their lunch*. Home lunches are stored in backpacks outside the classroom.
Kids should bring a labeled, refillable water bottle every day.
*Your teacher will let you know if there are any classroom allergy rules

 

 

Can I have lunch with my kid(s)?

Yes.  VIPS-approved parents and caregivers are able to have lunch with their child, in the cafeteria, during their child’s lunch time during designated days. These days will be communicated by the school via ParentSquare.

 

How do I volunteer at school/with the PTA?

There are so many ways to get involved!

• Join PTA events or committees

• Volunteer in classrooms, enrichment spaces, or field trips

• Help with class parties, book fairs, and more!

You must be VIPS-approved to volunteer in the school.    In our experience, you are usually approved within 24 hours.