The Downtown School

The Downtown School is a public magnet elementary school in downtown Winston-Salem committed to curiosity-driven, student-centered learning. We believe every child has strengths, interests, and talents worth developing. Guided by the Schoolwide Enrichment Model, we create learning experiences that are engaging, rigorous, and meaningful, empowering students to think critically, solve real-world problems, and take ownership of their learning. Rooted in our downtown community, we extend learning beyond classroom walls through partnerships, project-based experiences, and authentic connections. We are dedicated to equity, access, and inclusion, ensuring all students have opportunities to explore, create, and thrive. At The Downtown School, we nurture the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—so students grow not only as learners, but as confident, compassionate citizens.

The Downtown School is a public magnet elementary school located in downtown Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its innovative, student-centered approach to learning and its strong emphasis on real-world connections. What makes The Downtown School unique? Magnet philosophy The school follows the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM), which focuses on discovering and developing students’ interests, talents, and strengths through enrichment, inquiry, and choice.