Our History

On September 22, 1941, Country Day opens as the first independent school in the area with 18 students in a home on Morehead St.

Founding Headmaster Dr. Thomas Burton, a visionary leader, served from 1941 to 1945. Learn more about all our Heads of Schools.

Now known as the Parents' Association, this strong parent/school partnership began during the 1943-44 school year.

Since 1954, every Lower School student has participated in a production, upholding our longstanding tradition of school plays.

In 1951, French is offered to students from preschool through grade nine.

In 1951, Country Day announces plans to offer financial aid to at least 20 percent of its students, a standard we continue today.

Starting as the Christmas Breakfast in 1955, this December tradition evolves into the Gathering for Good by 2022.

Early in our history, we were known as "the Rebels" and in 1959, the "Johnny Rebel" mascot was unveiled at an assembly.

Our school seal has evolved over the years since we first adopted it in 1960, but the acorn element has remained constant.

In September 1960, the school relocates to its current Cannon Campus on Carmel Road, featuring six buildings.

An ad from 1960 spanning three generations of Country Day excellence.

In October 1961, Country Day establishes service clubs, including the enduring Aquilifer and Interact Clubs, among others.

In 1962, Country Day graduates its first seniors, a class of just 15 students.

Since 1966, School in the Woods has offered hands-on learning adventures for Middle School students.

In 1968, the school doubles its campus by acquiring 30 acres, adding new facilities from 1972 to 1992.

Since 1968, Spirit Week blends class competitions, costumes, decorations, rallies, and a day of service.

Since 1969, numerous Country Day students have received this prestigious merit scholarship. 

In 1970, Lower School establishes a new tradition, which today is known as Fourth Grade Moving Up.

In 1973, countless students rode their bikes to school, a sign of the times and youth independence.

In 1974, our first computer cost $10,000 and was phone booth-sized. Today, our 1:1 initiative integrates technology seamlessly.

Eric Law becomes Country Day's first African American graduate and earns a National Merit Scholarship. He eventually returns to Country Day and serves on the Board of Trustees and Alumni Council.

Originally founded by students in 1958, the Boosters Club becomes parent-led in 1977, raising $12,000 to support athletics.

Perspectives launched in 1979, connecting alumni, parents, and the community with the latest school news and events.

Started in 1979, this special cherished event highlights student and adult connections.

In 1980, we merged with Carmel Academy, enhancing the Middle School with skilled teachers at the Green Rea campus.

After the merger, the “Johnny Rebel” mascot retires and we become the Buccaneers, proudly wearing green and gold.

In 1980, Country Day pioneers before- and after-school care, now offering enrichment classes, Extended Day, and summer camps.

This popular fundraiser began in the 1980s and continues today.

Created in 1981, this special group is created to honor Country Day community members for their lasting impact.

In 1982, Country Day became the first area independent school to offer ESL, attracting 75 international students in two years.

In 1987, Country Day pioneers onsite Sports Medicine, offering top-tier care with college-level facilities.

In 1988, we commit to promoting global mindedness through curriculum and student travel experiences.

Published in 1991 in celebration of the school’s 50th Anniversary, Julia Moody Britt writes First Fifty Years.

Since 1992, seniors begin their final year with a camping and rafting trip to build camaraderie and memories.

Since 1992, we’ve had sister school partnerships in countries like France and Germany, promoting global experiences.

In 1992, we became the first NC school to offer the rigorous International Baccalaureate Diploma.

In 1992, Middle School introduced gender-specific math classes to address diverse learning styles and stereotypes.

In 1992, new Head of School Margaret Gragg Bissell began the tradition of inviting Lower School students to visit her home before the holidays.

In 1993, Middle School sister school exchanges began, and partnerships continue today.

In 1993, the stadium was renamed Belk Stadium after renovations, honoring the Belk family’s support and commitment.

The Levine Center opens in 1993 improving campus entry and freeing academic space.

Since 1994, Spirit Week has kicked off with a canned food drive supporting local food banks, including Second Harvest Food Bank.

In the mid-90s, Mikhail Gorbachev, Shimon Peres, Lech Walesa, and John Major visit campus to meet students and faculty.

Opens in 1997 and expands fine arts facilities, technology, and scheduling flexibility.

Established in 1998, Country Day's Office of Diversity Planning advances diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives.

The newly renovated theater hosts 70+ award-winning performances and events annually for students and parents.

As a way to celebrate our history, we publish a special edition of Perspectives, "Celebrating 60 Years."

In 2001, this state-of-the-art facility opened to support our PE program and 67 athletic teams.

In 2001, fourth graders moved into their new classroom building.

In 2002, Country Day piloted a high school mentoring program for Big Brothers Big Sisters that is still in existence today.

In December 2003, we debuted a cutting-edge website with news, calendars, directories, and online giving features.

In 2005, we began hosting an annual workshop and fundraiser to support the community-wide Soup on Sunday event.

Since 2006, we’ve annually hosted award-winning writers to introduce students to diverse cultural backgrounds.

In 2007, we are the first school to adopt an Affirmation of Community declaring our commitment to inclusivity.

In 2007, Country Day launched NC's first full teacher exchange with China, fostering cross-cultural learning and collaboration.

Country Day's longest-tenured and most influential Head of School retired in 2009.

On our first day back at school in 2011, Country Day debuts on Facebook!

Since 2011, our Artists in Residence Program has connected Middle School students with diverse, visiting artists.

Since 2011, Country Day’s annual exhibit has featured notable artists like Romare Bearden and Sam Gilliam.

A brand refresh that is intentional, strategic, and grounded in research. A new tagline and logo are introduced.

In 2012, Country Day hosted its first Affirming Community Together Conference for are middle schoolers.

Faculty applaud seniors at commencement, a tradition since 2012, honoring their journey to graduation.

During the 2014-15 school year, we piloted a 1:1 technology initiative using iPads and Surface Pros.

In 2015, we became the area's first Common Sense Media-certified school, teaching digital citizenship in grades JK-12.

In 2015, Country Day became the state's first school to send students to Cuba.

Since 2018, the Parents' Association-sponsored event brings together community while giving back to a charity.

State-of-the-art academic building opens in 2018 and drives innovative instruction and student research.

New home for the Media Center, Extended Day and Educational Resouces opens in 2018.

In 2018, the program grew in participation and recognition, earning multiple Blumey nominations and awards.

A focal point on Cannon Campus provides separate contemporary dining areas for Lower and Upper School students.

The new beautiful campus store located on Cannon Campus opened in 2019 and offers a wide variety of spirit gear for all ages.

The state-of-the-art facility opened in 2020 and blends the latest information technology with traditional books. 

In 2020, remote learning, masks, distancing, and creativity became the norm during uncertain times.

New facilities serve students in meaningful ways and cement our position as a national leader in education.

Hands-on learning in agriculture, biology, ecology, and environmental science for all our students.

Focused on Belonging, the calendar supports our Mission, Affirmation of Community, students, and families.

In 2023, we doubled our counseling staff and hired a Student Health Services Counselor for athletes.

Since 2004, the "O Club" trip to the Outer Banks has become a pivotal fourth-grade tradition.

Recognizing excellence and distinction to Country Day athletics through participation and support.

Framework inspires leadership, innovation, and impact, launching us into future growth and promise.

Since 2005, our community has been making clay creations to benefit VIA Health Partners.