September 1980
Carmel Academy merges with Country Day, and the Carmel Academy campus on Green Rea Road becomes the home of the Middle School.

1980
Country Day is the first school in the region to answer the needs of working parents by developing a structured Extended Day Program to provide before-school and after-school care.

1982–83
As Charlotte experiences an influx of international families, Country Day responds to their needs by adding English as a Second Language to the curriculum. This program provides instruction for students whose native language is not English. By 1984 the program attracts 75 international students from 18 countries to CCDS.

July 1986
Robert Johnston begins as headmaster, a post he holds for six years.

November 1986
Bob and Ruth Johnston move into the recently completed headmaster's residence on Cannon Campus. In addition to providing a home for the head of school, it is a comfortable and welcoming gathering spot for school-related events.

1987–88
In an effort to increase diversity at the school, Country Day becomes affiliated with A Better Chance (ABC) to identify and promote scholarships for minority students.

1988
Although teachers have been incorporating international perspectives into their curriculum for years, it is not until 1988 that the International Studies Program is launched. Headmaster Bob Johnston is credited with championing the program. During his tenure the number of international students at the school increases 54%.