Middle School
A Pivotal Juncture in Each Child's Success
During the middle school years at Country Day, students are encouraged to push themselves, employ their natural curiosity and enthusiasm, and develop in ways that surpass their own expectations.
Middle School is also a commencement of many firsts: the first time students independently change classes; the first time students are trusted to arrive to class on time; and the first time students can seek representation in student government. With carefully guided choices, Country Day Middle School students challenge and celebrate themselves as adolescents before moving to Upper School.
Schedule and Curriculum
The middle school curriculum instills a strong academic foundation while exposing students to opportunities that spark new interests, build skills, and encourage a love of learning.
Our seven day rotating schedule ensures a balance of academics, arts, athletics, and exploration.
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Why Middle School at Country Day?
Our Middle School is the optimal size: large enough to offer a full array of opportunities but small enough to personally know and support each student. Here, teachers are more than just teachers; they are champions, advisors, and mentors, educating students on how to think, not simply what to think.
Safe Spaces
A student’s willingness to challenge themselves is only possible with proper support. Our advisory program helps students balance their workload, plan study time, or approach a teacher for extra help. Advisors are there for parents as well, serving as liaisons between the home, student, and faculty.
Self Discovery
Whether it’s taking an honors class, learning to play an instrument, or joining an athletic team, Country Day wants students to take academic risks and try new things – and Middle School provides a safe environment in which to tackle new challenges. Because how can a student know if they will be successful in an area unless they feel free to try it?
Getting Outside
Our Outdoor Education Curriculum allows students to reinvent their thinking, face fears, try new things, and build self-confidence. Trips include two days at a state park (6th Grade), three days at the Univversity of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Research Lab (7th Grade), and a week-long outdoor experience (8th Grade).
"Middle school at Country Day is an amazing adventure, brimming with the infectious curiosity and excitement of discovery that defines this age. Here, students dive into their interests, take on new responsibilities, and become part of a close-knit community. It's all about growing, leading, and setting students up for future challenges."
Becka Curry
Interim Middle School Principal
Real-World Experiences
Project-based learning opportunities flourish in our Middle School curriculum. These types of hands-on learning experiences animate academic lesson plans and cement knowledge through real-world applications.
8th graders participate in a challenging Capstone project during the spring semester.
7th graders participate in Explorations during the six weeks between Mardi Gras Break and Spring Break.
Each year, the entire middle school community comes together for two days of service.
The ups and downs and twists and turns of science can literally feel like a roller coaster!
Challenge, Discover, and Reinvent in Middle School
With an ambitious curriculum, robust advisory program, outdoor programs, media literacy, and personal development, Middle School is a time for kids to blossom as students – intellectually and personally.
If you’re ready for your child to begin their day, we invite you to schedule a visit.