Upper Division
Fourth Grade - Eighth Grade
While continuing to embrace many of the tenets of Montessori philosophy, the Upper Division phases students into a rich preparatory curriculum that exceeds the standards found in many of the finest upper elementary and middle schools in the US.
Whereas most upper elementary education programs continue self contained classrooms with individual teachers covering the entire curriculum, Country Day provides dedicated teachers teaching in their field beginning at the fourth grade level. This provides the opportunity for extraordinary advancement in each area of study with the personalized attention of a small learning community.
The Middle School, with International Baccalaureate and other best in class curriculum, is a unique program for a limited number of qualified students. It is designed to socially and intellectually prepare students for high school and college. The curriculum is a rigorous and comprehensive program adapted to the ability level of each student.
The Middle School learning community resembles that of a small liberal arts college atmosphere. Students are respected as important participants by the faculty as they research issues, debate ideas and present their work.
Some of the program highlights are:
- Continuation of the comprehensive Spanish program first introduced in pre-kindergarten
- Advanced math program that includes high school level honors Algebra and Geometry along with elective enrichment in logics and computer science
- Language arts program with a strong emphasis on communication skills and the use of Accelerated Reader technology
- Unique humanities program that integrates the study of history, anthropology, archeology and geography with global responsibility modeled after the Earth Charter
- Emphasis on experiential learning including international and domestic travel
- Student led conferences and daily study halls
- Comprehensive weekly fitness and wellness program
- Life skills including community service, character development and organizational skills with the Covey planner
- Extensive use of computer technology including training in Microsoft Office, file management and the Internet