Camelot Academy is a small, private school in Durham, NC. It was founded in 1982 by Thelma DeCarlo-Glynn who continues to serve as director of the school. Thelma’s background in education for the academically talented (at the Center for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University, and the Talent Identification Program at Duke University) led her to question mainstream teaching methods. Why not take the academic approaches being used so successfully to teach the brightest students—small class size, individualized course of study, mastery-based learning—and apply them to ALL students?

Camelot Academy is the result of that insight. Over the years the school has grown from a one-room schoolhouse serving 19 students to a fully accredited K-12 program serving about 130 students. A permanent home was acquired in 1990 with the purchase of the historic residence of Judge Howard Foushee. The convenient location of the property near downtown Durham was one factor in its favor, another was the family-like atmosphere that the building and wooded grounds engendered. It reflected Camelot’s commitment to a limited enrollment and providing a safe, nurturing environment.

Camelot’s small size allows the programming to be both flexible and creative. It also makes it possible for the staff to genuinely know all of the students and their parents.

High school graduation is a special, whole-school event at Camelot Academy and is traditionally held at the Carolina Theater. Another senior tradition is acceptance at a four-year college. All graduating seniors at Camelot have achieved this standard several years running, many earning scholarships as well.

Not Your Typical School

Our Main Campus is the former estate of Judge Howard Foushee.  It does not look like a “typical” school, which suits us perfectly! The 1906 mansion and grounds is within sight of downtown Durham.  The property boasts century old trees shading our playground and wrap-around porches that are used for lunch breaks and studying.  The large rooms and central halls perfectly complement the family-like atmosphere of our school.  This site is walking distance to Durham’s revitalized downtown, the American Tobacco Complex and The Durham Bulls Athletic Complex, The Durham Performing Arts Complex and The Brightleaf District.  Duke University is less than five minutes away and public transportation is on our block.  Our activity reaches far beyond these three acres.

In addition, Camelot proudly features Durham landmarks as part of its annual events calendar. Graduation at the historic Carolina Theatre, Evening of the Arts at the beautiful Hayti Historic Center, Pie Supper at the Durham Armory, Academic Fair/Thanksgiving Feast at the Durham Convention Center in addition to regular use of Durham Parks and Recreation gyms and fields.