Grades: K - 8
Address: 1107 Holloway St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Phone: (919) 973-0285 Fax: (919) 973-0692
About KIPP Durham College Prep School
Originally founded in 2015 and 2021 as two separate schools, KIPP Durham College Prep Middle and KIPP Durham College Prep Elementary came together in 2026 to form KIPP Durham College Prep, a free, non-profit, high-performing, college-preparatory public charter school providing an academically rigorous and joyous school experience to scholars from kindergarten through eighth grade.
At KIPP Durham College Prep, we believe education is the most powerful weapon there is to create social change, and that our scholars’ unique experiences and diverse perspectives will inspire them to become active citizens passionate about impacting their world. We believe that all scholars deserve relevant, rigorous curricula that will ensure that they are able to lead choice-filled lives and pursue their dreams.
KIPP Durham College is an academically rigorous, college preparatory program working to prepare all students with the academic, intellectual, and character skills that will enable them to achieve unparalleled success through their educational journey and into the competitive world of the future. KIPP Durham College Prep’s success is built on high expectations, extended hours, innovative and individualized teaching methods, expanded academic opportunities, and above all, the unwavering commitment of scholars, families, and teachers.
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Alison Cumbley
A native of Southern California, Alison graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles where she studied Psychology and Socio-Cultural Anthropology. She also holds a Masters degree in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard University. After college, Alison joined Teach for America, teaching fifth grade in New Orleans, LA, where she discovered her passion for education.
In 2006, Ms. Cumbley joined KIPP Houston, serving as a teacher, grade level chair, assistant principal, and school leader at KIPP 3D Academy. After seven years as school leader, Ms. Cumbley left KIPP 3D to found KIPP Journey Collegiate, the first 6th-12th grade KIPP school in the country. Shortly after leaving KIPP Journey in 2023, Ms. Cumbley came to KIPP North Carolina to serve as the Interim School Leader for KIPP Durham Middle School before transitioning to the Director of Turnaround Initiatives and Operations to support the refounding of KIPP Durham Middle. In 2026, KIPP Durham Elementary and KIPP Durham Middle combined to become one school and Ms. Cumbley returned to the school leader role to support KIPP Durham K-8 in its next stage of growth. What Alison has enjoyed most about her many years at KIPP has been the opportunity to see her former students return back home after college to teach and lead the next generation of KIPPsters.
In her spare time Ms. Cumbley enjoys taking trips with friends and loved ones, finding the newest brunch spots, taking pictures, and playing with every dog she sees. She loves the Lakers, all things blue and gold, and is proud to be a member of the KIPP Durham Pride Family.
Our Vision
At KIPP Durham College Prep, every scholar is known, valued, and empowered to discover their purpose, embrace challenges with optimism, continuously grow, and lead with courage and compassion. Through joyful, rigorous learning and a community rooted in love, belonging, and high expectations, scholars develop the knowledge, character, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the world around them, thrive as lifelong learners, and lead fulfilling, choice-filled lives.
EDUCATION
- All instruction is geared towards preparing students for college, career, and beyond
- Character development is integrated into all curricula
- Students at KIPP Durham College Prep receive more instruction time than their peers at district and private schools
- Teachers are available by cell phone after school for homework help
- Students are held accountable for behavior as well as academic success
At KIPP Durham College Prep, we believe that there are no shortcuts to academic success. Outstanding educators, more time in school learning, rigorous college-preparatory curricula, and a strong culture of achievement and support help our students make significant academic gains and continue to excel in high school, college, and career.
Five Pillars
PURPOSE
I am important.
We believe that each of us has unique gifts, interests, and strengths that can make a difference in our world. We enjoy learning about what matters to us, exploring possibilities, and setting meaningful academic and personal goals. The effort and choices we make today help us become the people we want to be and create the change we hope to see tomorrow.
OPTIMISM
I believe in myself and keep going.
We believe in ourselves and trust that challenges can be overcome. When something goes wrong, we look for solutions, learn from the experience, and keep moving toward our goals. Even after a difficult day, we believe that our effort and perseverance can lead to success.
GROWTH
I am always learning.
We see challenges, mistakes, and new experiences as opportunities to learn. We ask questions, use feedback to understand what we have not mastered yet, and look for solutions when something is difficult. We reflect, make changes, and try again so we can reach our goals and become better scholars, teammates, and people.
LEADERSHIP
I can make a difference.
We believe in doing what is right, even when no one is watching, and making choices that reflect our values. We work to become the best versions of ourselves while encouraging others, listening to different ideas, and helping the team succeed. We consider what is best for both ourselves and the people around us.
LOVE
I care about myself and others.
We accept and value ourselves and others for who we are, even when we are different. We think about how our words and actions affect others and treat ourselves, people, places, and things with care, kindness, and respect. We help create a community where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued.
Additional Information
Transportation
Visit or call the school to inquire about busing.
Uniforms
KIPP Durham College Prep uniforms can be purchased in the front office. Uniforms will either be shipped directly to the school or to your home, depending on the date ordered. Please communicate with us if you have ordered your uniform and have not received it on-time.
School Menus
See what’s cooking in our kitchen each month here!
Nurse’s Station
Families frequently use these two forms in conversations with our school nurse:
Health History in English and Spanish
Medication Authorization in English and Spanish
School Calendar
Our 2026-27 school calendar for families is available in English and Spanish.
Handbook
Our 2025-26 Student & Family Handbook (which includes our Family Engagement Policy) is available in English and Spanish.
Exceptional Children Program
To learn more about our Exceptional Children program and services, click here.
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
Families are the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population in the United States. This act contains a specific definition of homelessness that includes a broad array of inadequate living situations, including:
- Living with a friend, relative, or other people
- Hotel or motel
- Shelter or transitional housing
- Car, park, or other public places
- Campground, storage unit, abandoned building, or other inadequate homes
- Youth living on their own, runaway youth, or youth kicked out
The living situations above do not include all situations that may qualify. If you or someone you know is in transition and would like to speak with someone about the program, please contact the McKinney-Vento Liaison for KIPP Durham or Lisa Phillips, the Coordinator of the NC Homeless Education Program, at (336) 543-4285.