Upper School
A Passage To Thoughtful Independence
A unique experience – one where learning is a shared pursuit between teachers and students; where students push their intellectual, artistic, and athletic boundaries; and where future aspirations take shape.
With intimate class sizes, a commitment to personalized education, and an environment that fosters discovery and growth, Upper School is designed to nurture every student’s individual potential. Our graduates often return to share how well Country Day equipped them for college life and beyond.
"Cultivating an engaged community is key to the success of our Upper School. Students learn to build strong relationships with each other and adults on campus, allowing our faculty to challenge students in an academically rigorous but supportive environment. Our students succeed in all facets of life as they learn to be curious, demonstrate citizenship, and have the strength of intellect and character."
Augustine Whyte
Upper School Principal
Personalized Academic Excellence
Our curriculum is crafted to challenge and engage, yet we understand that each student’s path is unique. That’s why we offer flexible schedules that span five core curriculum areas, an array of electives, and customizable tracks for Honors and AP courses.
Upper School: Personalized Academic Excellence
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Where discussions gather momentum.
On the surface, small class sizes allow for a break in traditional classroom dynamics. Beyond this simple concept of fostering an intimate, communal space, our emphasis on small class sizes and in-depth discussions, like those occurring at our Harkness tables, encourage students to jointly shoulder the responsibility for discussions that unfold.
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Where scheduling is an artful science.
Customizable tracking for Honors and AP options allow students to explore the path best suited for them. Additionally, our research-based seven-day rotating scheduling allows each student’s optimal learning capacity to be achieved across all courses.
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Where learning is optimized.
Our research-backed seven-day rotating schedule ensures optimal learning experiences across all subjects. Students learn vital life skills such as study habits, time management, independence, and self-advocacy through our advisory program.
Growth Beyond the Classroom
In Upper School, students have autonomy over their free time. With 35 minutes of Independent Work Time (IWT) daily, students can study in the library, enjoy our beautiful campus, or consult with teachers. Our assembly program enriches student life by introducing inspiring speakers who offer valuable perspectives and spark engaging discussions.
Leadership is also embedded in our culture. From Student Government to the Honor and Discipline Committees to student-led clubs and beyond, there are endless opportunities available for students to lead and make an impact.
Coastal Restoration Projects
Students in Environmental Sciences partner with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana and other local organizations, such as Glass Roots, to aid in sustaining the Louisiana Coast. Students travel to various locations for service learning and organize campus-wide recycling efforts for all to participate.
Student Leadership
The Student Senate enhances student life, strengthens faculty-student relationships, upholds the school's reputation, and oversees the Honor & Discipline Committees, along with the Community Service, Events, and Spirit & Publicity Councils. The Honor & Discipline Committees review cases and advise to the administration.
Assembly Program & Speakers
Country Day is fortunate to offer our students a wide array of distinguished guest speakers through our assembly program. Guest speakers come to campus throughout the year to inform us, enlighten us, and sometimes entertain us.
The New Orleans Scholars Program: If You Can Understand New Orleans, You Can Understand the World
A focus on the humanities is not only essential to a well-rounded education, but imperative.
Our senior humanities, the New Orleans Scholars Program: New Orleans and the World, leverages the city of New Orleans as a classroom, immersing students in the city and region, allowing them to learn about the world through the lens of New Orleans. The blend of cultures, history, and environment provides a unique perspective on current issues and students’ abilities to solve complex problems beyond our campus.
Students are exposed to a powerful mix of in-classroom discussions, guest speakers, fieldwork, and research outings to locations of historical significance throughout our city. All culminating in an end-of-year capstone paper and presentation.
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Guidance at Every Step
Our dedicated counselors – including two full-time college counselors, an Upper School counselor, and an Upper School learning specialist – provide tailored guidance, helping students navigate their current academic paths and future goals with confidence and clarity.
Advisory Program
Advisory provides each student a personal partnership with a faculty member who assists them in achieving the mission of the school. Advisors help students balance their busy academic load, as well as encourage their advisees to be involved in the life of the school. Topics of social and emotional learning are also part of the advisory program.
Learning Specialists
Learning specialist works with students to help with the transition into Upper School and improve study, organization, and executive function skills as they move toward becoming independent learners and self-advocates.
College Counseling
College Counseling is student-centered, encourages introspection throughout the process, and supports individual goals while matching students with future communities. This individualized approach to college counseling helps ensure a smooth process and results in the right college fit for each student.
Country Day prepared me for college through its academic rigor. I didn’t feel the need to change my work habits upon coming to Wake, as the level of effort needed to succeed at Country Day is quite similar to the level of effort needed to succeed at Wake.
Country Day AlumClass of 2021
Upper School is Different
at Country Day
at Country Day
Here, we don't just prepare students for the next step; we empower them to take it with confidence, curiosity, and a deep sense of community.
If you’re ready to begin YOUR Day, we invite you to come visit our Upper School!
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