A million discoveries are waiting to be made. Are you ready to get started?
Monarch butterflies open the door to science, history, art, language, math, and culture for Middle School students at Country Day. Learn more on page 33.
This Romanesco broccoli illustrates mathematical patterns in our natural world. It is a visual approximation of a fractal, and its total number of spirals is a Fibonacci number. The Fibonacci sequence is a popular topic in the national MathCounts math competition.
Founded in 1941, Country Day’s long legacy of firsts among the Charlotte region’s independent schools includes groundbreaking programs and progressive ideas.
Country Day is the only independent school in the region to have a separate campus for Middle School students. From vocal and instrumental music to opportunities for advanced math courses, the curriculum supports students during these key transitional years.
First independent school
First International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
First Full-time assistant teachers in every Lower School classroom
First Organic chemistry classes
First Office of Diversity Planning
First Comprehensive International Studies Program
First High school Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program
First Sports medicine services for student-athletes
We are a strong institution with a long history of forward thinking.
The acorn symbolizes patience, perseverance, and the growth of our students.
At Charlotte Country Day School, we offer students and their families an unsurpassed opportunity to prepare for the future—an opportunity grounded in the strength of tradition and shaped by generations of visionary leaders. Here, you’ll find a profound commitment to lifelong learning, hands-on experiences, individualized attention, and a caring, inclusive community. You’ll find teachers, coaches, administrators, and advisors eager to work in close partnership. Most important, you’ll find a dynamic, comprehensive educational experience, one that cultivates each student’s intellectual, social, physical, emotional, and creative qualities.
Leadership is a cornerstone of the Country Day mission and a quality we live and model every day. Our students learn to lead with heart by following the example set by exceptional adult and student leaders— both those they encounter every day and those who have guided the school through decades of success and stability.
Country Day educators, advisors, coaches, students, and parents work together closely and openly to create remarkable outcomes. Our commitment to collaboration, communication, and the exchange of ideas keeps us connected to each other, the broader community, and the world.
The Levine Center on our Cannon Campus is the beginning point for school visits. Please call 704.943.4530 to schedule a personal tour and come experience Country Day’s hospitality.
Students thrive on our Bissell Campus, an environment dedicated to Middle School learners
Two centrally located campuses on more than 100 acres offer a quiet, safe environment for learning and provide a home base for Country Day students as they explore new ideas, their own abilities, and the broader world. For our younger students, teachers bring nature into the classroom by simply opening the door to our gardens and other natural areas. Our Middle School students experience a learning environment designed just for them and integrated with the outdoors through projects like our McAlpine Creek Study. Upper School students foster community and grow in independence in a college-like campus setting. Our beautiful campuses also serve as a welcoming backdrop for guests, visitors, and community members who come to Country Day to share experiences and offer us new perspectives.
A time-honored spirit of generosity is central to the Country Day experience. Our students thrive in an atmosphere of stability and opportunity, which is the result of a commitment to volunteerism, community outreach, and financial support. One result of this extraordinary spirit is the Country Day endowment, which helps minimize tuition increases, makes it possible for teachers to continue their education, and ensures that talented students from every background have access to a Country Day education.
Our Key Values and Commitments
Educational
Excellence
We develop a love for learning by discovering and celebrating each student’s abilities and talents through engagement with exceptional teachers in distinctive academic, artistic, athletic, and extracurricular experiences.
Character We instill and expect integrity, honesty, moral courage, personal accountability, and compassion for others.
Community We respect each individual, embrace diversity, and value the relationships uniting us as a school and connecting us with our local and global communities.
Service
We empower our students to address social, environmental, and global issues and to realize the obligation and value in giving of themselves for the public good.
Country Day offers more than 20 Advanced Placement courses and nearly 15 International Baccalaureate Diploma Program courses—each giving students an opportunity to earn college credit. For our complete Upper School course listing, see page 48.
A Lower School teacher engages her kindergarten student
In every Country Day classroom—from junior kindergarten to our most rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB) courses—our students explore possibilities, gain skills and knowledge, and prepare to take their place in the world. Country Day students grow in independence and confidence as they tackle intellectual challenges, experience the satisfaction of accomplishing their goals, and begin to understand their own unique interests and capabilities.
Step by step, Country Day students gain the practical skills they need to succeed as scholars—how to break large problems into small parts, how to conduct research, and how to express their ideas. Guided by teachers who expertly move each student toward his or her own highest potential, our students learn to trust curiosity, value knowledge, and push themselves beyond what is easy.
Beginning in Lower School, Country Day students are immersed in math, science, social studies, and language arts, as well as foreign languages, public speaking, physical education, research, technology, and the arts. Each experience provides a building block for a program that grows in challenge and complexity from year to year. By the time Middle School students complete the eighth grade, they have the skills and confidence to thrive in Upper School, where they can choose from a wide course catalogue that includes our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program as well as Honors and Advanced Placement courses in every discipline.
“ I’m convinced that Country Day— at every level— offers the best educational opportunity anywhere.” Country Day Parent
319
Full-time faculty & staff members 8:1
18
Average years of teaching experience
100%
Engage in professional development each year
Average student/ faculty ratio
12
Average number of years at Country Day
124 Hold advanced degrees
Our Distinguished Faculty Includes:
Klingenstein Fellows
World Affairs Council of Charlotte Scholars
GTE grant recipients
Dreyfus Master Teachers in Science and Math
25% Are published authors
117
Have received travel grants to 37 countries
95%
Serve as advisors to students
Advanced Placement exam readers
Arts & Science Council grant recipients
Tandy Scholars
National Endowment for the Humanities grant recipients
Many of our faculty serve as DEIB leaders within their divisions
More than 200 dedicated educators make up our full-time faculty, a diverse team of professionals who love what they do. Our faculty members work in close collaboration with each other, constantly seeking new ways to integrate curricula and strengthen their students’ experiences. No matter how many hats they wear—advisor, classroom teacher, coach, or mentor—they are profoundly committed to discovering the key to each student’s talents and abilities, and to helping each one grow in character, intellect, and confidence.
“ I believe in using unconventional methods to help students get excited about the subject matter. I like what I do, and I continue to evolve professionally because we are supported so well here.”
Modern and Classical Languages Department Head
The relationship between a teacher and a student is fundamental to success. Our small class sizes give teachers the ability to address each student’s individual needs every day.
Since 1983, Upper School students have hosted Special Olympics— learn more on page 37
At Country Day, academic rigor is balanced by community service and athletic, artistic, and extracurricular endeavors. As partners in our students’ success, our goal is to shape confident, healthy, well-rounded adults who are comfortable and successful in diverse settings—individuals of honor, integrity, and purpose who are ready to make significant contributions to society.
Leadership, integrity, determination, and discipline are valued, expected, and modeled at Country Day. Our students are encouraged to take appropriate risks, to exhibit moral courage, and to learn from their mistakes. A diverse student body creates a healthy backdrop for the development of true empathy as students learn to see the world from many perspectives. Our Honor Code asks all students to act with honor in everything they do.
Social responsibility has always been an important Country Day value— in an era of global connectivity it is crucial. We prepare our students to be engaged citizens from a very early age, examining what it means to belong to a community and the potential impact of one person’s actions. A wide variety of clubs, organizations, and advisory groups gives our students opportunities to develop leadership skills and to become effective group members. They learn to express themselves and to listen with respect to opinions different than their own. In doing so, they develop a lifelong ability to contribute to the greater good, both locally and globally.
“ I love that there are no locks on lockers. I love the way students say ‘thank you.’ I love the way that we celebrate unique developmental times in students’ lives.”
Middle School English teacher
Painted by a Country Day student in her junior year
True education is about far more than learning facts—it is about learning to solve problems. A Country Day education develops this critical skill by encouraging curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. We work in partnership with parents to help students become confident and resilient, ready to take on the complex issues, conflicts, and opportunities of a fastchanging world. Together, we prepare our students to become thought leaders for the next generation.
From the classroom to the playing field to the studio, Country Day students have broad opportunities to discover their individual passions and build the skills they need to reach their true potential. Our award-winning teachers, coaches, and faculty artists serve as mentors and advisors to our students as they develop their own unique talents. Going beyond academics
“ We teach the qualities students need to be good representatives of the world and meet them wherever they are in their development to help them build on their individual strengths.”
Fourth-Grade Teacher
Each seventhgrade student participates in Global Village, presenting highlights from in-depth research on another country.
At Country Day, we are committed to creating experiences and opportunities that encourage relationships across cultural boundaries and lead to a broad world view. Our student community is diverse in terms of their race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and interests. We believe that students benefit significantly from an education that affirms respect and inclusivity as core values. Country Day’s Office of Diversity Planning was established to ensure that our diverse community is supported with resources, policies, and curricula.
Country Day is home to families and students who represent a wide range of cultures and nationalities, giving our students an opportunity to connect to a world that becomes smaller every day. Our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program—the first offered in North Carolina and the only IB diploma offered by the region’s independent schools— is a globally recognized, rigorous course of study that focuses on culture, language, and world citizenship. Our international research grants send Country Day teachers to learn in destinations throughout the world each summer, while our exchange program offers Upper and Middle School students the chance to participate in global service and academic programs offered at our international sister schools. On campus, students experience global cultures through curricula, clubs, and events such as Global Explorers, Model United Nations, and visiting diplomats.
Every student at Country Day has the opportunity to play a sport, and more than 85% choose to participate on our 72 teams. Our athletic program encourages teamwork, commitment, and camaraderie. Please see page 50 for a list of sports Country Day offers.
Faculty artists at Country Day teach, encourage, nurture, and advise as they help students identify and develop their own artistic talents
Athletics is a fundamental part of a Country Day education. On average, 85 percent of our Middle and Upper School students participate in some form of organized athletics on Middle School, junior varsity, or varsity teams. Our athletes develop respect for others, leadership skills, and tenacity as they work together to achieve a common goal—all skills that reinforce what they learn in the classroom. Country Day scholarathletes at all levels exhibit their commitment to excellence through their work habits, attitude, and discipline. The Country Day Buccaneers have been state champions more than 136 times in our long history.
The arts are not extracurricular at Country Day; they are integral to the complete education we provide. Our robust program includes visual art, vocal and instrumental music, drama, and dance—all essential manifestations of the human spirit. The entire school community benefits from the remarkable talents of our students and their teachers through student-produced fine arts events, exhibits, a yearly film festival, and drama productions. At Country Day, the arts connect our students to history, to diverse cultures, and to their own imaginations.
“ We chose Country Day for our children because of its overall philosophy— its international focus and diversity, and the way it balances academics, athletics, and the arts to truly educate the whole child.” Country Day Parent
Through classes and clubs, service projects and sports, Country Day students form caring bonds that last a lifetime.
Happy students enjoy downtime in Extended Day, balancing homework support with relaxation and fun with friends
Strong relationships are central to the healthy development of a young person, and the relationships students experience at Country Day help them become their best selves as they move toward adulthood. Our community is an exceptional network of teachers, coaches, advisors, parents, students, and alumni who take care of one another. As a result, our students form lifelong relationships with their teachers and their peers. They develop deep connections to the community and the world as they learn through experience to compromise, resolve conflict, and consider the feelings of others.
A Country Day education emphasizes the fundamental role that balance and good health play in a fulfilling life. We work together to create an environment where all members of the community can safely and confidently learn and grow. We support and encourage students both in and out of the classroom, providing continuous opportunities that reinforce good decision-making and emphasize the value of participating in a variety of endeavors and activities. We help students identify their own unique qualities and talents and encourage habits that lead to confidence, pride, and future success.
“ I like the balance between academic and social life and the freedom I have in Upper School to be who I am and express my opinions. I am being well prepared for college, but I still have time to enjoy my friends.” Upper School Student
2 + = 3 + A Strong, ForwardThinking Institution Exceptional Academic Results Going Beyond Academics 1
Ready to learn. Ready to lead. Ready to serve. Ready for the world.
Seventh-grade students bring the outside world into the classroom, collecting specimens of flora to study and photograph through the lens of an advanced digital microscope. This Tradescantia pallida—better known as spiderwort—is magnified 100X.
The important first years of a child’s education form the foundation for future success in every aspect of life. Country Day gives young scholars a balanced and challenging program where confidence, talent, friendship, and individuality flourish. Here, students become strong, independent thinkers, guided by expert teachers who encourage their natural curiosity and help them master essential skills.
As
Conducts hands-on experiments in two dedicated Lower School science laboratories.
Learns
Begins to study French and Spanish in junior kindergarten and kindergarten.
Grows in confidence through theatrical productions, research presentations, and public speaking.
Creates a welcoming environment and helps visitors and new students feel at home.
Plays an active role in service projects that prepare students to be engaged citizens.
Developing Fluency in Literacy and Mathematics
Teachers build classroom communities of readers and writers who love books and see purpose in their work. Classrooms are full of high-quality literature, and students explore a variety of genres, topics, and audiences. Systematic instruction focuses on phonological awareness, word recognition, phonics and decoding, spelling, and grammar. Our math program is designed to build fluent mathematicians, skilled and perseverant problem solvers, and creative thinkers. The focus is on building a deep understanding of number sense, operations, and computation. Our students learn not just how to solve rote problems, but how to think mathematically and tackle real-world, rigorous mathematical problems.
Building Strong, Healthy Bodies and Good Habits That Will Last a Lifetime
Country Day Lower School students love their physical education classes for one reason—fun! They’d be surprised to know how much science lies behind our comprehensive fitness program, which brings whole grades together every day for 30 minutes of exercise and community building. Our program focuses on developing and maintaining a physically active and healthy lifestyle in addition to developing gross motor, body control, and spatial awareness skills. Students pursue personal fitness goals and an understanding of skills, strategies, and rules of individual and team sports and activities. Problemsolving strategies and sportsmanship are developed through an environment of cooperative learning.
Experiential Learning Leads to High Student Engagement
Empowering students to navigate a dynamic world with self-confidence, analysis, creativity, and integrity allows them to contribute to, create, and shape their world. The Lower School Design Lab provides our students a safe and open environment to explore creative ideas and complex systems through the use of digital fabrication tools, technology, and collaborative resources. Students learn from a curriculum centered around engineering design principles, coding and robotics, and creation of multimedia.
Equipping Students to Think Critically, Act Respectfully
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging is a lens through which we view all of our practice in the Lower School. We want our students to feel known and seen at school, to maintain their “eager curiosity” about difference while building their empathy and understanding of the world. We intentionally provide students with “windows” that offer a view into someone else’s experience and “mirrors” that reflect their own culture and help them build positive identities. Throughout their Lower School experience, students learn to think critically about the information they access and to explore content that provides them with a global perspective on the world.
Physical Education Daily Lessons for Lifelong Fitness
Music Taught in the Music Studio Recess
Reader’s Workshop, Writer’s Workshop, Listening & Speaking, Guided Reading, Word Study
Hands-on Discovery in the Science Lab
Community Service Learning to Give Back
Drama Taught in the Gorelick Family Theater Art Taught in the Art Studio Library In the Hance Lower School Learning Center
Modern Languages Fostering Expression
Field Trips Community Connection
A balanced, Lower School curriculum ensures that each student has the opportunity to master core knowledge, competencies, and technical skills. Many studies and activities take students outside the regular classroom.
The Lower School experience begins each morning with morning meeting—a nurturing tradition that includes stories, singing, reading, and time to preview the day’s calendar. Closing meeting concludes the day in the same way and helps ground each day in a spirit of community.
Opposite page, clockwise from top left:
Students experience hands-on lessons in horticulture, biology, environmental science, and more at our farm, which serves as an outdoor learning lab for all our students.
Our strong emphasis on literacy leads to a lifelong love of reading.
After School and Summer Programs provide additional opportunities for discovery and growth. Every student begins performing on stage as young as JK, building confidence and developing communication and public speaking skills.
In a uniquely designed program on its own distinct campus, Country Day Middle School students are guided by teachers who specialize in adolescent education and know how to encourage each student’s development through a time of great change. As our students navigate the emotional, physical, and social transition from childhood to adolescence, we prepare them to take on more responsibility, make good decisions, and see the world through a wider lens.
Every Country Day Middle School student:
Develops leadership, respect, perseverance, and talent by participating in service clubs, special-interest groups, and academic competitions.
Have opportunities for honors placement and advanced math courses providing an environment where students can excel.
Works with an advisor who serves as mentor and advocate, providing both academic and personal guidance.
Participates in state and national French, Latin, and Spanish language competitions.
Enjoys a unique opportunity to participate in travel and study exchanges with sister schools in locations throughout the world.
Gains hands-on experience with the arts, participating in visual arts, drama, band, orchestra, choir, or general music.
Is prepared for a seamless transition to Upper School, carefully facilitated by Middle and Upper School faculty members working in close collaboration.
Cultivates crucial time-management and study skills.
Like seventh graders in schools across the nation, Country Day students begin their exploration of the laws of physics by collecting high-quality data on speed, acceleration, force, and direction. An important difference is that the data collection tools we offer our students go far beyond traditional stopwatches and rulers. Our Middle School physics labs include a platform of sensors, software, and interfaces that helps make data collection easier to accomplish and far more accurate. Collecting high-quality data on their own helps engage our young scientists and empowers them with more time to observe, form ideas, and think through the theories that will form the basis of the advanced scientific studies that lie ahead in Upper School.
Well Prepared to Champion Honor, Honesty, and Integrity
Country Day’s Middle School Honor Code is straightforward and powerful: I will not lie, cheat or steal, nor will I tolerate those who do. Equally powerful is the fact that students are responsible to each other for upholding the Honor Code. Eighth graders are nominated by faculty and elected by their peers to Middle School Honor Council. When an issue of honor arises, council members work with the student to help him or her take ownership of the incident, explore ways to avoid similar situations, and develop a plan for personal improvement. Continuing a long track record of success, this Country Day tradition has the added benefit of leadership training for the young people who serve on Honor Council.
Each year, hundreds of North American monarchs begin their lives at Country Day. When they are released, our students follow them on their long journey south, building language skills, relationships, and cultural understanding along the way. Sixth graders study the monarch in Spanish classes, exchanging letters with their counterparts in Mexico, where the butterflies overwinter. Rural Mexico meets urban Charlotte as students exchange details of their daily lives. Older students study the monarchs as social scientists, relating butterfly migration to nomadic cultures. Student artists create watercolor monarchs—symmetry in nature— and science students explore food webs in the Bissell Campus milkweed patch, a source of essential nutrition for our monarchs.
At Country Day, global mindedness is about far more than travel—it’s about building bridges to other people and places. Our Middle School curriculum is infused with connection-making opportunities: from using foreign soil samples in environmental science to mastering the rules of cricket in physical education. We give our teachers time and financial resources to explore the world beyond our borders; they, in return, bring the world into their classrooms. We welcome exchange students from international sister schools and offer our own Middle School scholars a chance to learn through opportunities abroad. Students prepare by soaking up the history, culture, and customs of the country they will visit, and then return to enrich the entire Country Day community by sharing what they’ve experienced.
Middle School Minds
A rotating schedule with seven class periods— including physical education every day—offers active engagement for students’ developing minds. Students also learn study and productivity skills for success in Middle School and beyond.
Artful Insights
An important part of the Middle School student’s experience is a growing understanding of both internal and external worlds. Visual arts, drama, and music provide an important outlet for expressing expanding insights.
Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Our comprehensive Middle School fine arts program provides an important outlet for creativity and self-expression during these critical transition years. Technology supports learning in every discipline as Middle School students build a strong foundation and prepare for the challenges of Upper School.
Advisors become mentors and advocates for their students and are an important communication link between the school and the parents.
The integration of agricultural practices creates a living classroom at our farm where students can explore, learn, and appreciate the intricacies of food production and environmental stewardship.
The quality of Country Day’s college preparatory program is most evident in our Upper School, as students begin to manage more courses and activities and take more responsibility for the choices they make. With the help of outstanding faculty members, coaches, advisors, and mentors, Country Day Upper School students become excellent writers, researchers, and problemsolvers who are fully prepared to make their way in the world.
Upper School prepares students for life beyond Country Day through exceptional opportunities to:
Participate in student government, assist their peers, and serve as role models for younger students.
Cultivate an appreciation for the arts through classes that include drawing, design, photography, art history, and award-winning music and theater programs.
Achieve at the highest levels of competition as scholarathletes representing Country Day.
Complete collegelevel AP and IB courses that may fulfill college requirements and put them ahead as they begin their college careers.
Study abroad and welcome exchange students from all over the world to the Country Day campus.
Join student-led organizations that include more than 50 clubs and a wide variety of community service opportunities.
Country Day’s Science Outreach Program allows talented and motivated students to spend a portion of their summer as interns in university research labs across the country. Students have conducted primary research in atmospheric sciences, engineering, medicine, and physics at schools like Davidson College, Notre Dame, Queens University of Charlotte, UNC Charlotte, University of Florida, Vanderbilt University, and Wake Forest University. In addition to offering an opportunity to conduct primary research, the program gives our students a chance to experience college life and to meet other talented science students from all over the country. The students present their work at Country Day the following school year.
Every April, Upper School students put aside academics for two days to serve as buddies, timekeepers, announcers, event assistants, and concession workers at the largest Special Olympics in North Carolina, the Special Olympics Mecklenburg County Spring Games. The event, which has taken place on Country Day’s Cannon Campus since 1983, has become part of our identity and a time-honored tradition of hospitality shared by three generations of Country Day families. Through the event, students experience the joy of giving and are inspired by the dedication and abilities of the athletes. After participating in Special Olympics, our students walk away with a new appreciation for the power of inclusion, acceptance, and respect.
A rigorous, internationally recognized course of study, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is offered in 3,600 schools in more than 140 countries across the world. In 1992, Country Day became the first school in the state of North Carolina to offer the program and continues to be the only school in the state that offers students a chance to earn the prestigious IB Diploma in an independent school setting. Though academic rigor is at the core, IB is not just about achieving high grades—it is about developing a genuine passion for learning. Each year, many juniors and seniors choose to direct their own learning through the challenges and personal growth presented by this unique Country Day program.
Technology plays an important role at Country Day, and Upper School students have access to a comprehensive range of technological tools—from individual use of the Microsoft Surface to interactive technologies and advanced databases. We continuously evaluate our use of technology and look for ways it can enhance, not drive, our approach to the foundational elements of education: research, critical thinking, and sharing information. We also focus on helping our students live as good citizens in the digital world by exploring the ethical questions raised by social media, access to unlimited sources of information, and instant communication. As a result, our students are fully supported by all technology offers and fully prepared to make good decisions, build strong reputations, and respect the privacy and dignity of others in a technologically connected world.
1 8:00–9:05 9:05–9:35 2 9:35–10:40 3 10:45–11:50
Concentrated Studies
Country Day students reach Upper School prepared for a deeper academic focus. They are supported by a rotating class schedule, which allows daily time with a faculty advisor and participation in service, special interest, and affinity clubs.
Finding the Balance
Country Day’s Upper School experience focuses on academic rigor but also allows time for students to lead, serve, develop their talents, and create lifelong friendships.
Opposite page, clockwise from top left: In a long-standing tradition of excellence, Bucs teams have won over 136 state championships.
Our lab-based classes encourage a deeper understanding of concepts and ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math.
Our Fine Arts Center has ample space for students to practice and perform—from our Black Box Theater to our art gallery, dance room, and painting and photography studios.
The Country Day Honor Code gives students the freedom to leave their belongings unattended and their lockers unlocked.
University of Alabama • Appalachian State University • Auburn University University • University of California, Berkeley • University of California, College • Carnegie Mellon University • Case Western Reserve University • Colby College • College of Charleston • University of Colorado •
Cornell University • DePauw University • Davidson College • Dartmouth
Emory University • Fordham University • Furman University • Georgetown nology • Hamilton College • Harvard University • Hofstra University
Our
Bloomington • Johns Hopkins University • Kenyon College • Lehigh Michigan • University of Mississippi • Mount Holyoke College • New State University • Northeastern University • Northwestern University University • University of Oxford • University of Pennsylvania • Pennsylvania
From a very early age, Country Day students are guided toward establishing a strong academic record and participating in community service, sports, special interest pursuits, and leadership opportunities, actively shaping the way they will be perceived by colleges.
lege • Purdue University • Queens University of Charlotte • Rensselaer • Roanoke College • University of Rochester • Rutgers Newark • Savannah
South • Skidmore College • University of South Carolina • University
Through a highly individualized program that involves both students and their families, Country Day Upper School students find the college or university that best matches their goals and interests—a place where they will thrive, excel, and contribute.
College • Stanford University • SciencesPo Columbia University • Tufts
Forest University • Washington University in St. Louis • Washington
Mary • Williams College • Xavier University of Louisiana • Yale University
burn University • Bates College • Boston College • Boston University of California, Los Angeles • University of California, Santa Barbara
Reserve University • University of Chicago • Clark University • Clemson of Colorado • Colorado College • Columbia University • University of College • DePauw University • Drexel University • Duke University • University • Georgetown University • University of Georgia • Georgia
67
Average number of colleges and universities Country Day graduates attend nationwide.
Hofstra University • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign • Indiana College • Lehigh University • Lynchburg College • Middlebury College
oke College • New York University • UNC-Chapel Hill • UNC-Wilmington
Northwestern University • University of Notre Dame • Occidental College of Pennsylvania • Pennsylvania State University • University of Pittsburgh
Charlotte • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute • Rice University • University
Country Day’s administrators and team of college counselors maintain relationships with college and university admissions offices all across the country.
Rutgers Newark • Savannah College of Art and Design • Sewanee: The Carolina • University of Southern California • Southern Methodist
Columbia University • Tufts University • Vanderbilt University • University
St. Louis • Washington and Lee University • Wesleyan University • College
University • Bates College • Boston College • Boston University • Brown California, Los Angeles • University of California, Santa Barbara • Carleton
University • University of Chicago • Clark University • Clemson University
Colorado College • Columbia University • University of Connecticut
Dartmouth College • Drexel University • Duke University • Elon Universi
Georgetown University • University of Georgia • Georgia Institute of Tech
University • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign • Indiana University
University • Lynchburg College • Middlebury College • University of York University • UNC-Chapel Hill • UNC-Wilmington • North Carolina
Advisors and college counselors work with ninth and tenth graders to select courses that will help establish an exemplary record.
Advisors and college counselors get to know each student personally and help identify and answer important questions: What size school will suit me? How far from home would I like to be? What type of campus culture is important to me?
University • University of Notre Dame • Occidental College • The Ohio State Pennsylvania State University • University of Pittsburgh • Pomona Col
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute • Rice University • University of Richmond
Every student is assigned a college counselor in ninth grade who provides holistic guidance throughout the Upper School years and through the college admissions process.
Savannah College of Art and Design • Sewanee: The University of the University of Southern California • Southern Methodist University • Spelman
Tufts University • Vanderbilt University • University of Virginia • Wake Washington and Lee University • Wesleyan University • College of William and University • University of Alabama • Appalachian State University • Au
The College Counseling Office hosts regular educational programs for every grade level to help students and their parents understand the process.
During the course of each school year, more than 150 college admissions representatives visit the Country Day campus to meet with juniors and seniors and answer questions.
University • Brown University • University of California, Berkeley • University
Barbara • Carleton College • Carnegie Mellon University • Case Western
Country Day college counselors guide students through the complexities of the search and application process, providing expertise and ensuring that every student is aware of the many opportunities available.
Clemson University • Colby College • College of Charleston • University of Connecticut • Cornell University • Dartmouth College • Davidson • Elon University • Emory University • Fordham University • Furman
Georgia Institute of Technology • Hamilton College • Harvard University
Our faculty write and submit extensive and uniquely individualized college recommendation letters for every senior.
Once acceptance letters are received, our college counseling team assists students and their families as they evaluate scholarship offers, consider various opportunities, and work toward a final decision.
Indiana University Bloomington • Johns Hopkins University • Kenyon College • University of Michigan • University of Mississippi • Mount Holy UNC-Wilmington • North Carolina State University • Northeastern University College • The Ohio State University • University of Oxford • University Pittsburgh • Pomona College • Purdue University • Queens University of University of Richmond • Roanoke College • University of Rochester
With the help of our professional counselors, Country Day students are fully prepared for what to expect in the first year of college and the kinds of issues they may face.
The University of the South • Skidmore College • University of South Methodist University • Spelman College • Stanford University • SciencesPo University of Virginia • Wake Forest University • Washington University in College of William and Mary • Williams College • Xavier University of
Country Day graduates include Scholars, Artists, and Athletes who continue their careers at some of the nation’s finest colleges and universities.
In recent years, Country Day seniors have been awarded the following scholarships, each valued at more than $100,000:
Morehead-Cain Scholarship*
UNC-Chapel Hill
Jefferson Scholarship University of Virginia
Robertson Scholarship
UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke University
Chancellor’s Scholarship
Vanderbilt University
Park Scholarship
North Carolina State University
Appointment and Scholarship
U.S. Naval Academy West Point
Coca Cola Scholarship
Ron Brown Scholarship
QuestBridge Scholarship
A sampling of colleges and universities where Country Day graduates have recently been accepted to continue their study of the arts:
Visual Art & Design
Pratt Institute–School of Art and Design
Savannah College of Art and Design
Rhode Island School of Design
Tufts University–School of the Museum of Fine Arts
University of California, Santa Barbara–College of Creative Studies
University of Georgia–Lamar Dodd School of Art
University of Southern California–Roski School of Fine Arts
Theatre
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Fordham University
New York University–Tisch School of the Arts
Penn State
Music
Carnegie Mellon University
Vanderbilt
Architecture
Auburn University
Clemson University
Dance
The Ailey School–Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Many Country Day scholar-athletes have continued to play and study at selective schools in recent years, including:
*Country Day students have received the Morehead-Cain Scholarship 33 times.
Butler University–Jordan College of the Arts
Temple University–Boyer College of Music and Dance
Baseball
College of Charleston
Davidson College
Denison University
Furman University
Johns Hopkins University
U.S. Naval Academy
Wake Forest University
Basketball
Newberry College
Furman University
Field Hockey
Centre College
College of William & Mary
Davidson College
Johns Hopkins University
Rhodes College
Tufts University
UNC-Chapel Hill
University of Richmond
Williams College
Football
Bucknell University
Clemson University
Dartmouth College
Denison University
East Carolina University
Howard University
Kenyon College
MIT
Rhodes College
Stanford University
UNC-Chapel Hill
University of Virginia
Wake Forest University
Washington and Lee University
Williams College
Golf
Appalachian State Univ.
East Carolina University
Sewanee–The University of the South
Lacrosse
Amherst College
Bucknell University
Dickinson College
Denison University
George Washington University
Rhodes College
Sewanee–The University of the South
Soccer
Dartmouth College
Davidson College
MIT
Princeton University
Kenyon College
University of Kentucky
Washington & Lee University
Softball
St. Michael’s College
Swimming
Bates College
Boston College
Connecticut College
Hamilton University
Kenyon College
Middlebury College
Princeton University
Sewanee–The University of the South
University of California, Berkeley
Villanova University
Washington University in St. Louis
Tennis
Boston College
Howard University
Middlebury College
Southern Methodist Univ.
UNC-Chapel Hill
University of Mary Washington
Track
Alabama University
Colgate University
Davidson College
Lehigh University
Michigan State University
MIT
Tulane University
University of Miami
Wake Forest University
Yale University
Volleyball
Davidson College
Samford University
Wellesley College
Xavier College
This globe is a detail from a centuriesold map dating back to a time when sailors, possibly even Buccaneers, sailed the seven seas. Using Astronomy, the first science, they depended on the stars to navigate on adventures of discovery around the world.
This compendium is designed to help your family become familiar with life at Country Day.
Founded
1941
Grades Served
Junior Kindergarten–12
Average Number of Students
1,740
Average Full-Time Faculty & Staff
319
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Southern Association of Independent Schools
Selected Memberships & Academic Organizations
National Association of Independent Schools
North Carolina Association of Independent Schools
The Cum Laude Society
Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE)
The College Board
International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
National Art Honor Society
National Honor Society
Tri-M Music Honor Society
National Junior Honor Society
Motto
Fortitudine Ac Pietate “With Courage and Reverence”
Mascot Buccaneer (Bucs)
School Colors
Green & Gold
School Hours
Junior Kindergarten
8:00 am–1:15 pm
Kindergarten
8:00 am–2:00 pm
Grades 1–2
8:00 am–2:50 pm
Grades 3–4
8:00 am–3:05 pm
Grades 5–8
8:00 am–3:10 pm
Grades 9–12
8:00 am–3:15 pm
Holidays
Labor Day
Rosh Hashanah
Yom Kippur
Fall Break
Diwali
Thanksgiving Holiday
Holiday Break
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Winter Break
Spring Break
Good Friday
Easter Monday
Memorial Day
Juneteenth
Transportation
Country Day offers school day shuttle bus service between its campuses and neighborhoods throughout the city.
Dining Services
Hot lunch is served daily in three full-service dining halls.
How To Reach Us
Cannon Campus 1440 Carmel Road
Charlotte, NC 28226-5096
704.943.4500
Bissell Campus
5936 Green Rea Road
Charlotte, NC 28226-5096
704.943.4800
Admissions
704.943.4530
Web charlottecountryday.org
Social Media
facebook.com/charlottecountryday
facebook.com/charlottecountrydayalumni @charlottecountrydayschool
@charlottecountrydayschool
@vimeo.com/charlottecountryday
Three separate libraries offer a wide variety of age-appropriate resources that can be accessed from the library, classroom, or the student’s home. The Lower School Library alone contains some 16,000 print and online materials.
AP Indicates Advanced Placement courses
IB Indicates International Baccalaureate Diploma Program courses
English
English 9
English 10
English 11
AP English 11: Lang & Composition
AP English 12: Lit & Composition
IB English 11
IB English 12
Creative Writing
English as a Second Language
Intermediate ESL Advanced ESL
ESL American History
ESL World History
Expository Writing Seminar
Mathematics
Algebra 1
Geometry
Honors Geometry
Honors Algebra II & Precalculus
Algebra III/Trigonometry
Dynamic Math
Intro to Calculus and Statistics
Advanced AP Statistics with R
IB Applications SL
IB Analysis SL Algebra 2
Honors Algebra 2
Algebra 3/Trigonometry
Precalculus
Honors Precalculus
Calculus 3/IB HL Maths
AP Statistics
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
Sciences
Biology I
Chemistry I
Honors Chemistry
Physics I
Honors Physics
AP Chemistry
AP Biology
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics
IB Biology SL, HL
IB Chemistry SL, HL
Inquiries in Biological and Physical Science
Honors Principles of Engineering
Physical Computational Biochemistry
Environmental Issues
Forensic Science
Human Anatomy I
Human Anatomy II
Marine Biology
Astronomy: Solar System
Astronomy: Cosmology
Organic Chemistry
History & Social Studies
History 9: Government and Economics
Modern World History
Honors Modern World History
AP European History
African American History
AP Human Geography
United States History
AP United States History
AP Psychology
IB 20th Century World History
IB History of the Americas
IB Psychology
IB Theory of Knowledge
Adolescent Brains & Behavior
Ancient Empires
Education for Social Justice
AP US/Comparative Government & Politics
Modern &
Classical Languages
Chinese I-IV
Honors Chinese I-IV
French I-V
Honors French II-V
Spanish I-V
Honors Spanish II-V
Latin I-V
Honors Latin II-V
AP French Language
AP Spanish Language
AP Latin
IB All languages available in IB Program
Fine Arts
Choral Music
Concert Choir
Chamber Choir
Honors Chamber Choir
A Cappella Ensemble
Instrumental Music
Concert Band
Honors Concert Band
String Orchestra
Honors String Orchestra
Symphonic Band
Music Theory
& Production
Digital Animation and Film
Production
AP Music Theory
Theatre Arts
Acting/Directing I
Acting/Directing II
Theatre Workshop
Improvisation
IB Theatre Arts
Visual Arts
2-D Art I-IV
Sculpture I-IV
Design I-IV
Yearbook
AP Studio Art
AP Studio Sculpture
AP Studio Design/Photography
AP Art History
IB Art I & II SL, HL
Technology &
Computer Science
Exploring Computer Science
Advanced Topics in Computer Science
AP Computer Science A
Non-Departmental Courses
Freshman Seminar
New Journalism: Podcasting
Entrepreneurship
Public Speaking
Physical Education
Cardio/Core
Lifeguarding: ARC Certification
Strength Training
A strong modern languages curriculum and an outstanding faculty with many native speakers make it possible for each student to develop excellent foreign language skills. Many students sharpen those skills with sister school exchanges in other countries.
The stars below denote the teams that have won state championships since 2009 and the number of times they have won.
Boys’ Sports
Baseball
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Basketball
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Cheerleading
Middle School
Varsity
Cross Country
Middle School Varsity
Dance Team Varsity
Football ★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Golf ★
Middle School Varsity
Lacrosse ★★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Soccer
Middle School
Junior Varsity
Varsity
Swimming ★★
Middle School
Varsity
Tennis ★★★★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity
Varsity
Track Indoor Varsity
Track Outdoor ★
Middle School
Varsity
Wrestling
Middle School Varsity
Girls’ Sports
Basketball
Middle School
Junior Varsity
Varsity
Cheerleading
Middle School Varsity
Cross Country ★
Middle School Varsity
Dance Team
Varsity
Field Hockey ★★★★★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Golf
Middle School Varsity
Lacrosse ★★★★★★★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Soccer
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Softball
Middle School Varsity
Swimming ★★
Middle School
Varsity
Tennis ★★★★★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Track Indoor Varsity
Track Outdoor ★★
Middle School Varsity
Volleyball ★★
Middle School
Junior Varsity Varsity
Athletic Associations
Statewide the Bucs are a 3A school, the largest of the three divisions in the North Carolina Independent Schools Athletic Association (NCISAA)
Country Day competes locally in the Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association (CISAA)
Cannon Campus
Upper School Athletic Facilities
30,000 square foot Klein Aquatic Center includes an eight-lane, 25-yard competition pool and a five-lane, 25-yard warm-up/activity pool, allowing for aquatics programming at all age levels.
State-of-the-art performance gym housing volleyball, basketball, and wrestling courts for competitions and practices.
2,600-square-foot O’Leary Sports Medicine Center: includes athletic training room equipped with whirlpools, hydrocollators, cold compression units, ultrasound and electrical stimulation units and more. Full-time staff for the prevention, evaluation, care, and treatment of athletic injuries.
Elevated indoor track
8 outdoor tennis courts
8-lane rubberized outdoor track
7 athletic fields shared among baseball, field hockey, football, lacrosse, soccer, and softball
Strength and Conditioning Facility featuring state-ofthe-art strength and conditioning equipment
Bissell Campus
Middle School Athletic Facilities
Gymnasium
Weight room
Athletic training room equipped with hydrocollator, cold compression unit, electrical stimulation unit, and treatment and taping areas with a full-time staff person
6 outdoor tennis courts
9-foot climbing wall
4 athletic fields shared among baseball, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and softball
Athletic training facilities on both campuses are comparable to those at colleges and universities. Nationally certified, statelicensed athletic trainers keep our scholar-athletes at the top of their game.
After-School
Enrichment
Class Sampler
Lower School
Bucs Field Hockey
Cardio Funk
Cheerleading
Chess
Dance Place
Drawing Animals A-Zebra
Forensics Crime Lab
Girls on the Run
Girls Field Hockey
Girls Volleyball
Girls Lacrosse
Holiday Basketball Camp
Holiday Strength Camp
Hula Hooping
Karate
Let Me Run–Boys
Mad Science
Mandarin
Mini Modern Artist
Modern Artist
Piano
Pixar Pix Cartooning
Robotics
Lego Mindstorm
Super Soccer Saturdays
TGA Golf
Violin
Wrestling
Yoga
Middle School
Dance Place
Holiday Basketball Camp
Holiday Strength Camp
Keyboarding
Mathletes
Piano
Super Soccer Saturdays
Violin
Summer Programs
Sampler
Lower School
Academic Courses
FUN with FUNdamentals
The In-Depth Learning Program
Middle School
Academic Courses
Composition & Reading Skills
Grammar & Vocabulary
Math 6/7 & 7/8
Upper School
Academic Courses
College Essay
Bootcamp
Sports Camps
Baseball
Basketball Field Hockey
Football Golf
Lacrosse
Preseason Training
Running
Softball
Strength & Agility
Tennis
Track & Field Volleyball
Enrichment & Academic Camps
General
Athena’s Path
Camp Buccaneer
Camp Summer Fest
Hero’s Pursuit
Adventure
Adventure Camp
Amazing Adventures
Animal Safari
Camp Trailblazer
Princess for a Week
Uptown Explorers
World Travelers
Art
Art Bin
Art with the Masters
Clay Critters
Clay Potter’s Wheel
Crafts Around the World
Drawing Animals A-Zebra
Duct Tape Week
For the Love of Clay
For the Young at Art
Learn to Draw Cartoons
Learn to Draw & Paint
Modern Artist
Monster Mash
Movie Makers
Computer & Technology
3-D Design
Flash Character Animation
Intro to Graphic Design
Intro to Web Design
Keyboarding for Kids
Video Game Developers
Cooking & Food
Brief History of Cake
Candy Shop
Cupcake Creations
Edible Art
Holiday Delights
Incredible Edible Gifts
Kookie Cookies
Make It, Bake It, Take It
Passport on a Plate
Fantasy
Knights of the Round Table
Minecraft
World of Wizards
Physical Activities
Hip-Hop
Karate for Beginners
Yoga Camp
Young Cheerleaders
Zumba
Games
Arcade Week
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Summer Chess Camp
Language
Hablo Español
Math
Algebra: Ready, Set, Go
Number Crunchers
Prealgebra Math Camp
Music
Electronic Music
Intro to Guitar
Intro to Piano
Music Makers
Reading
Advanced Reading
Bookworm
Fun With Phonics
Smackdown
Summer Reading
Science
Crazy Chemworks
CSI Country Day
Destination Earth
Flying Machines
STEM Junior Engineers
Odyssey of the Mind
Powered Machines
Roaring Rockets
Robotics
Secret Agent Lab
Simple Machines
Young Vets
Service
Live To Give
SAT & Study Skills
Study Skills Workshops
Summer ACT Camp
Summer SAT Camp
Theatre & Performing
Acting 101
Actors Studio
Circus Camp
Dinosaurs Rock
Game Show Central
Little Actors
Little Broadway Stars
Summer Fun on Stage
Writing
College Essay
Junior Bloggers
Newspaper: Extra Extra
Reading & Writing
Bootcamp
Write Words
After School programs and summer opportunities complement a wide variety of student interests and family needs, helping parents and students manage their busy schedules.
Student Governing Bodies
Middle School
Honor Council
Student Council
Upper School
Honor Council
Student Athletic Council
Student Senate
Student Publications
Middle School
Chronicle Newspaper
Upper School
The Hook Multimedia Publication
Opus Art & Literary Publication
Postscript Yearbook
A Sampling of Recent Clubs
Lower School Clubs
Green Team (Environmental Club)
Oceanography Club
Students of Color Affinity Group
Middle School Clubs
5 Affinity Groups
Ambassadors Club
Battle of the Books
Community Garden
Global Action Team
Green Team (Environmental Club)
Lego Robotics
Mathcounts
Mosaic
Odyssey of the Mind
Science Olympiad
Student Life
Water Quality/Creek Clean Up
Student Council
National Junior Honor Society
Model United Nations
Upper School Clubs
3D Printing Club
A Cappella Club
Aquilifers
Asian Affinity Club
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Black Student Union
Buccaneer Investment Group (BIG)
BUCS Entrepreneurship Club
Chess Club
Cookies for Kids’ Cancer
Diversity Awareness Forum
Engineering Club
Environmental Awareness Council
Film Club
French Club
Humane Society
Interact Club
Interfaith Club
International Club
International Studies
Student Advisory Board
Latin Club
Model United Nations
National Junior Honor Society
Outdoor Adventure Club
PRISSM (Promoting Respect Inclusion & Safety Among Sexual Minorities)
Science Club
Spanish Club
Speech & Debate Club
Study Buddies
SWAG (Super Women’s Affinity Group)
Tech-Robotics Club
WorldQuest
Community Partnerships
A Child’s Place
American Red Cross
Berryhill Elementary
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Friendship Garden
Friendship Trays
Goodwill Industries of Southern Piedmont
Habitat for Humanity
Heifer International
The Learning Collaborative
Mecklenburg County
Storm Water Services
Monarch Butterfly Network
Sardis Nursing Home
Second Harvest Food Bank
Special Olympics
Mecklenburg County
Trout in the Classroom
YWCA Women’s Shelter
Service Projects
All students take part in projects designed to help others and instill a lifelong dedication to service and citizenship. Student service projects include:
Junior Kindergarten
Perform five times each year at a local retirement center.
Kindergarten
Collect necessities for The Thompson Children’s Home.
First Grade
Make door and table decorations to cheer Ronald McDonald House visitors.
Third Grade
Work to support local food pantries.
Sixth Grade
Support community events for Loaves and Fishes.
Seventh Grade
Support the Arts Empowerment Project.
Eighth Grade
Regularly support preschoolers at The Learning Collaborative.
Work at Crisis Assistance Ministries.
Ninth–Twelfth Grades
Host, organize, and manage the Special Olympics Spring Games, a school service tradition since 1983.
Adopting families from Families Forward Charlotte.
Eleventh–Twelfth Grades
Mentor Rama Road Elementary
School students through participation in Big Brothers Big Sisters, a school service tradition since 2002.
All Grades
Collect canned goods for the needy during Spirit Week.
Each of Country Day’s clubs must perform service projects during the academic year to remain active.
Parents’ Association
Builds connection, fosters community spirit, and raises supplemental funds through events and other gatherings open to all Country Day families. Every Country Day parent is a member of the Parents’ Association.
Boosters Club
Encourages and supports strong interscholastic athletic and physical education programs through a variety of spiritpromotion, fundraising, and community-building activities.
Friends of the Arts (FOTA)
Supports our fine arts programming in all divisions to help at school exhibitions, concerts, productions, and other arts events.
POCIS (People of Color in Independent Schools)
Supports families of color, the school’s DEIB initiatives, and serve as a space of unity and belonging. POCIS seeks opportunities to support and strengthen our community, ensuring full participation and inclusion for everyone.
Parent-Led Activities
Art Sale
Back-to-School Events
Biennial Auction
Big Saturday Carnival
Golf Tournament
Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day
Lower School Choice Dance
Homecoming Cookout
Run for Good & Family Picnic
Spirit Nights
Teachers/Coaches
Appreciation activities
Parent education programs at Country Day offer parents a wide range of opportunities to foster balance and well-being with their children.
Stress Management - Achieving Balance with a Full Schedule
Navigating the Digital Age: A Proactive and Collaborative Approach for Parents
Cultivating Resilience and Grit: Using the Gift of Failure to Raise Self-Sufficient Adults
Be the Reason Your Child Succeeds in Sports, Academics, and in Life
Dr. Katie Hurley, expert in child and adolescent mental health and development
Guadalupe Garcia McCall, author of Under the Mesquite
Julie Lythcott-Haims, New York Times bestselling author of How to Raise an Adult
Jerry Craft, award-winning author and illustrator of New Kid, Class Act, and School Trip
Dr. Tina Bryson, psychotherapist, founder of The Center for Connection, and author of The Power of Showing Up.
Dr. Christine Carter, author of The New Adolescence: Raising Happy and Successful Teens in an Age of Anxiety and Distraction and The Sweet Spot: How to Achieve More by Doing Less
Rachel Simmons, author and educator, presented on “Failing Well: Resilience & Courage”
Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World
Time-Honored Country Day Traditions
Whole School
All-School Convocation
Big Saturday Carnival Oak Tree Planting
Lower School
End of Year Field Day
Halloween Parade
Visit to the Head’s House
Bingo Night Kids in Business Grandparents’ & Special Friends Day
Middle School School at the Beach School in the Woods Grandparents’ & Special Friends Day
Walk for Hope
Upper School
Aquilifers
Big Brothers Big Sisters Coffeehouse Performances
Senior Rafting Trip
Special Olympics
Spirit Week
A Country Day tradition since 1961, our Big Saturday annual carnival brings the entire community together. Dedicated Parents’ Association volunteers plan the fun-filled event, which includes everything from carnival rides to an art show to an international food pavilion.
International Studies Programs
Lower School
Around the World
Native guest presenters that include Middle and Upper School students, faculty, parents, and exchange students offer Lower School students an immersion into one of the more than 45 cultures represented at Country Day, from countries including Colombia, China, Iran, Australia, South Africa, Hungary, Italy, and India.
Middle School
Sister School Exchanges
Québec City, Canada
King Edward VI School Southhampton, England
Global Experience
Costa Rica, 8th Grade Spanish
Latin Italy Experience
Upper School
Global Opportunities
Oman & United Arab Emirates
London (Choir)
Japan Cultural Experience
New Zealand Culture & Environment
Spanish Language Immersion
Sweden & Denmark Design & Sustainability
Faculty Travel Grants and Sabbaticals
Travel is essential to Country Day’s broad approach to global mindedness. Grants and sabbaticals funded through our endowment make it possible for our teachers to pursue knowledge through first-hand experiences all over the globe.
Faculty Years Travel Focus of Position at CD Destination Study
Lower School
Music 34 Scotland
Computer Science 31 Italy
Guidance 27 Australia
Fourth Grade 25 Galápagos
Junior Kindergarten 17 Africa
Fine Arts 13 Italy
Science 12 Bahamas
First Grade 11 Japan
Physical Education 10 China
Spanish 9 Boston
Kindergarten 8 Germany
Culture, music, & dancing
Art expedition
Counseling & cultures
Plant & animal diversity
Wildlife & cultural study
Art & architecture
Bahamian Reef Survey
Cultural interaction
PE Conference
Harvard—Project Zero
German kindergarten
Science 7 Mexico Center for Coastal Studies
First Grade 5 Belize
Middle School
Social Studies 37 Europe
Social Studies 29 Portugal
Ocean ecosystems
World View study trip
World View study trip
Social Studies 17 United States Explore presidential libraries
Social Studies 17 Spain
Social Studies 13 Massachusetts
Fifth Grade Math 13 Micronesia
Spanish 13 Balkans
Spanish 13 Peru
Math 6 Italy
Math 4 Japan
Upper School
Early exploration of America
Northeastern colonization
Underwater world
World View study trip
History, culture, & archaeology
Architectural math concepts
World View study trip
French 35 France Guadeloupe & Martinique
French 35 Russia
Fine Arts 19 Turkey
Photography 16 Japan
Photography 16 Italy
Interaction between cultures
World Cultures art exploration
Art renewal experience
Drawing in Italy
English 16 England Virginia Woolf research
Computer Science 15 Russia
History 14 Egypt
Computer Science 15 Greece
English 11 Brazil
Fine Arts 10 Africa
English 9 Ireland
Spanish 1 Bolivia/Equador
Collaborative Web research
Politics & religions
Global technology
Oppression in the Americas
Senegal education & culture
Connecting life with literature
Culture & language
Watercolor on paper 7x10
Painted by a rising senior participating in the summer Artists in Residence program: Italy Art Experience
At Country Day, we introduce young people to the world of ideas. We encourage them to be curious. We show them how to build on their inherent strengths and how to overcome the things they find difficult. In short, we make our students ready. Ready to tackle complex challenges. Ready to lead with heart. Ready to succeed in a world none of us can even yet imagine.
Come see what Country Day Ready can mean for you.
Admissions Step A:
Learn more about Country Day. Our admissions staff is eager to welcome you to campus and tell you more about how we prepare students for success in life. To schedule a visit, call the Admissions Office: 704.943.4530.
Admissions Step B:
Submit your application. The Country Day application is easy to find on our Web site: charlottecountryday.org/admissions
Admissions Step C:
Complete an entrance test.
Entrance tests are one of the many tools we use to help ensure the best placement for each student.
Grades JK–4:
In the Charlotte region, a number of qualified psychologists offer standardized screening assessments for younger applicants. Details about this type of assessment and a list of area psychologists are available on our Web site.
Grades 5–12:
Older applicants are asked to take the Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE), a standardized admissions test for students in upper grades. The ISEE measures verbal and quantitative ability, mathematics skills, reading comprehension, and writing skills. A list of test sites and dates is available on our Web site.
Additional Tests:
Upper School candidates may be asked to take departmental placement tests after enrollment.
Admissions Step D:
Speak with a faculty member.
Every applicant receives an invitation to meet with a grade-appropriate member of our faculty. This informal conversation is an opportunity for students to learn more about Country Day and for us to learn more about a candidate’s character traits, abilities, emotional maturity, curiosity, and breadth of interests.
Junior Kindergarten:
A small group of children visits with a JK teacher in the classroom. The children participate in numerous preschool activities, including drawing, coloring, listening, and following directions.
Kindergarten:
Groups of four to six children visit a classroom with two of our kindergarten teachers. Activities include number and letter recognition, coloring, playing, cutting, listening skills, and following directions.
Grades 1–4:
Children meet with a teacher who assesses reading, math, listening, writing, and fine motor skills necessary to make the child’s entrance to Country Day as smooth as possible.
Grades 5–12:
Students meet one-on-one with a faculty member to discuss school life, academic requirements, and making school decisions and transitions.
Admissions Step E:
Send us recommendations.
We want to hear from current teachers about the diverse talents, interests, strengths, and challenges that make each of our candidates unique. Teachers can complete these forms online or simply download, print, and complete the forms by hand. Everything you need is available on our Web site: charlottecountryday.org/admissions
Admissions Step F:
Send us your transcripts.
If you are applying for grades 6–12, please have your current school send an official transcript. Forms can be found on our Web site.
Admissions Step G:
Make your decision.
Country Day notifies families of admission decisions in February and March. We look forward to working with you and your family as you make this important decision for your student.
