Academics

Upper School

Intensity increases in the Upper School, with the primary focus on academics and preparation for college and beyond. Students, guided by advisors, choose rigorous and stimulating courses and class schedules. Upper School students learn to think critically, and prepare to excel in a variety of careers, including developing fields and those that do not yet exist. 

Our curriculum offers honors classes and 17 Advanced Placement options across disciplines. Within the classroom, inquiry-based discussions develop analytical skills and encourage independent thinking. Working with faculty members, students with special interests can design projects on subjects such as digital animation, anthropology, or architecture. A one-to-one tablet program enhances individual study, and frequent teacher assessment promotes a realistic measure of achievement. More than half the upper school faculty have advanced degrees, and all pursue engaging, creative approaches to instruction through professional development opportunities. 

UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
Four years of English, World Language, Mathematics, Science, and History are required for all students, and all seniors must take Global Humanities and meet their community service requirement. Students are required to take two years of Physical Education/Health Curriculum, which includes team games, strength training, fitness, and health. In-season athletes can receive one semester of P.E. credit per sport, regardless of JV or Varsity status. Students also must take two years of Fine Arts and can choose from a variety of visual and performing arts options. Students must take a minimum of two elective courses during their Upper School years (these options change from year to year and are based on student and faculty interest).

Innovative Programming
Department of Applied Technology (DAT): The Lydia Sneed Engineering Lab, a dedicated STEAM space, is equipped with 3D printers, a CNC router, laser and vinyl cutters, a large-format printer, a variety of programming and robistics kits, VR (virtual reality) equipment, and many other tools. The DAT is fully integrated into all levels of the Country Day student experience, including one Honors course and two AP courses in the 2022-2023 school year. 
Independent Study & Global Online Academy (GOA): Students may undertake a program of independent study or enroll in a class through the GOA. 
Study Abroad: Country Day is known for is outstanding World Language program, and opportunities to visit and study other cultures are an integral part of our mission. 
ENGLISH
English I*, II*, III, IV
AP English Literature & Composition
AP English Language & Composition
Introduction to Film
Mythology
Science & Speculative Fiction
Creative Writing

Public Speaking

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY
Computer Science Principles I, II
Creative Design
through Art, Math, Computer Science
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Computer Science A
Computer Architecture I, II  
(Independent Study)
Engineering Design & Analysis Introduction to Game Design Introduction to Robotics
INTERDISCIPLINARY
Global Humanities
Yearbook

MATHEMATICS

Algebra I, II*
Geometry*
Pre-Calculus*
Calculus*
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
Statistical Reasoning
AP Statistics
Math Modeling

WORLD LANGUAGES
French I*, II*, III*, IV*, V*
AP French Language
Spanish I, II*, III*, IV*, V*
AP Spanish Language and Culture

SCIENCE
Biology*
Chemistry*
Physics*
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Physics
Environmental Science Psychology
Anatomy and Physiology


HISTORY
World History
U.S. History
Government/Free Enterprise
AP U.S. History
AP Government
AP Modern European History
Western Civilization
Introduction to Microeconomics
Introduction to Macroeconomics

ADVANCED
PLACEMENT
ART OFFERINGS

AP Studio Art
AP Art History
African American Art
*Indicates that an honors option is also available for this course.



Upcoming Events

News

Contacts

List of 9 members.

  • Photo of Augustine Whyte

    Augustine Whyte 

    Upper School Principal
    (504) 849-3178
  • Photo of Becka Curry

    Becka Curry 

    Upper School Assistant Principal
    (504) 838-3304
  • Photo of G. Howard Hunter

    G. Howard Hunter 75

    Academic Dean, Upper School History Teacher
    (504) 849-3166
  • Photo of Marisa Ledet

    Marisa Ledet 

    Upper School Physics Teacher
    (504) 840-3976
  • Photo of Erin Walker

    Erin Walker 

    US English Teacher, English Department Chair
    (504) 849-3169
  • Photo of Madeleine Livaudais

    Madeleine Livaudais 12

    US Math, Math Department Chair
    (504) 849-3175
  • Photo of Marie Hébert

    Marie Hébert 

    World Languages Department Chair, Lower School French Teacher
    (504) 840-3995
  • Photo of Chris Nichols

    Chris Nichols 

    History Department Chair, Middle School History
    (504) 849-3163
  • Photo of Nicole Turner

    Nicole Turner 

    Upper School Division Assistant
    (504) 849-3160