About

About Us

Metairie Park Country Day was founded in 1929 by a group of families who wanted an alternative to the traditional public, private, and parochial schooling available in the New Orleans area. The first young classes assembled in the current administration building. Until the 1950s, Country Day even had a small boarding department. Since that time, County Day has evolved into a Pre-K through Grade 12 institution, with an early childhood program added in 1986.

Its founding educational philosophy - defined in the current mission statement - is captured in Mr. Boothby's original conversation with prospective parents at the founding of the School:

“Study of the individual child, and effort to satisfy his or her needs; Freedom to develop naturally, which does not mean license to invade other people's rights; Attention to play and physical development for every child; The utilization of children's interests for educational ends; A large place for beauty in nature, in art, in music; Friendly relationship between pupils and teachers, with teachers functioning as guides rather than taskmasters; Such cooperation between school and home as will make the two, supplementing each other, provide for the whole development of the child.”

Over time, Country Day incorporated much of the traditional college preparatory model as its student body sought college placement in an increasingly competitive college marketplace. Throughout its history, it has claimed among its graduates many of the most innovative leaders in the Greater New Orleans community and beyond. The strength of the bonds among Country Day alumni are almost legendary. Through it all, Country Day has created a family, an extension of home for many, and a safe place for learning, nurturing, and exploring the world in which we live.

MISSION

Metairie Park Country Day School enriches the lives of talented young people in a dynamic learning environment, building strength of intellect and strength of character within a community that is simultaneously challenging and supportive. Our students learn to be flexible, to be adaptable, and to face the challenges of life with honor, optimism, confidence, creativity, and a sense of humor.

Country Day Traditions
 
We are grateful to our founders: Mr. and Mrs. Edward Benjamin, Mrs. Ralph Boothby, Mrs. Russell Clark, Mrs. Thomas Denegre, Mr. Stuart Landry, Mr. Thomas Nichols, Mrs. Dorothy Pigman, Mrs. Fort Pipes, Mrs. John Pratt, Mrs. James W. Reily, Mrs. and Mrs. Edgar B. Stern, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Trautman, Mrs. C.S. Williams, Mrs. Robert M. Walmsley, Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Dantzler, and Mrs. Eli Watson. Great-grandchildren of many of these families attend our School today.
300 Park Road, Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 837-5204
Established in 1929, Metairie Park Country Day School is a coed private school for New Orleans area students in early childhood through Grade 12. From the elementary grades through upper school, the care and cultivation of each child comes to life in our exciting academic program, creative arts, and competitive athletic offerings.

Country Day accepts qualified students without regard to race, color, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin.