Our School
As a school of balance, we don’t operate from a “one size fits all” approach. Instead CDS differentiates instruction and seeks to meet the individual needs of each student. This approach is in everything we do. We cultivate the passion a child brings with them, or help them to discover one here.
Academically, we want our students to be open to different academic subjects and styles of learning. Our faculty are constantly checking and enhancing the curriculum – all with an eye on providing students with opportunities to achieve success
Athletically, we encourage them to try their hand at multiple sports early on until they find those that they truly enjoy.
Artistically, we offer numerous opportunities for CDS students to explore the arts, whether that be on the stage, in the concert hall, or at an easel.
When it comes to developing leadership skills, there are numerous extra-curricular opportunities at CDS and students are encouraged to participate and play a role in fine tuning everything from the activities offered, to the direction they take. Character building is an underlying theme in everything we do.The Country Day School is a school where students are encouraged to sprint for a try on the rugby pitch; continue their pursuit of the saxophone in the Jazz Band; and lead a Social Justice Club meeting after school.
Outdoor Education
As we know from peer-reviewed studies, years of teaching experience, and pure observation, children of all ages learn best through hands-on exploration. It seems that developing knowledge through ‘doing’ allows students to fully connect with their learning and immerse themselves in the topics of study. The natural environment is the perfect setting in which to discover this love of learning.
In 2012, the Outdoor Education program in the Junior School increased its student participation by adding JK, SK and Grade 4 to the already existing Grades 1-3 program, followed by Grade 5 in 2013 and then Grade 6 in 2015. In fall 2016, we extended our already successful Junior School Outdoor Education Program into our Middle and Senior Schools and continue to build upon the curriculum in the upper grades.
Our newly appointed Middle and Senior School Outdoor Education Coordinator will work collaboratively with teachers across many subjects to identify curricular areas most suitable for outdoor education activities, as well as facilitate learning extensions on our 100-acre property and more distant locations. Launched in September 2011, outdoor education further enriches our Science and Social Studies curriculums. Rain or shine, students learn in our extensive, natural classroom – the CDS campus. In addition to paper and pencils, their learning tools include rubber boots, an umbrella and their five senses!
Athletics
At The Country Day School, we have a balanced approach to athletics. While sports participation is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged with 58 teams across 20 sports to choose from. Junior and Middle School students often try their hand at several different sports before discovering one or two to pursue in Senior School.
Athletics are considered an integral part of the School's program of education. While we advocate fitness for life, other long-lasting values are established through team sports; chief among them: self-confidence, discipline, grit, sportsmanship and integrity. Our athletic philosophy and curriculum provide experiences that will help students emotionally, mentally, socially and physically.
