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Upper School: Grades 9–12

Upper School students begin to manage additional courses and activities and take more responsibility for the choices they make. 

With the help of outstanding faculty members, coaches, advisors, and mentors,  Upper School students become excellent writers, researchers, and problem-solvers who are fully prepared to make their way in the world. 

Learn About Our Integrated Curriculum

Nidhi McVicarHead of Upper School

Upper School is both the celebration of an enormous investment of time and effort and a prologue to future adventures. It’s this special time where students get to be the “oldest kids” and the “youngest adults.” I love helping students make connections between their many experiences as they begin to fully appreciate the bigger picture of their education."

Country Day is proud to be the first private school in North Carolina to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Our small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and wide array of school resources are essential to successfully developing the intellectual and personal skills that the IB Diploma Program promises for students. Learn more.

Upper School prepares students for life beyond Country Day through exceptional opportunities to:

  • Participate in student government, assist their peers, and serve as role models for younger students.
  • Cultivate an appreciation for the arts through classes that include drawing, design, photography, art history, and award-winning music and theater programs.
  • Achieve at the highest levels of competition as scholar-athletes representing Country Day.
  • Complete college-level Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses that fulfill college requirements and put them ahead as they begin their college careers.
  • Study abroad and welcome exchange students from all over the world to the Country Day campus.
  • Join student-led organizations that include nearly 50 clubs and a wide variety of community service opportunities.

100%

of students in grades 9–12 receive school-issued Microsoft Surface Pro tablets.

180+

Upper School course offerings, including traditional subject classes and a wide range of electives.

50

AP and IB courses enabling students to earn college credit.

16%

of our juniors and seniors are enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Program.

50

different clubs available to Upper School students, including 7 Affinity Groups.

98.5%

Average IB diploma pass rate over the last five years, compared to the U.S. average of 68%.

A Glimpse into Upper School