There are moments in a school that make one truth unmistakably clear: great teaching changes outcomes—not only in results, but in the experiences that shape them.
Earlier today, I walked into our library and witnessed one of those moments.
One of our AP Mathematics teachers had transformed the space into a full mock examination environment for his AP Pre-Calculus and Calculus students. This level of intentional preparation is not unusual—it is part of a consistent, deliberate approach our students experience every day. What stood out, however, was what existed just beyond the rigor of the exam itself.
A table.
On it, homemade cinnamon rolls.
Next to each one, a handwritten note—personalized for every student. Words of encouragement. Expressions of belief. A reminder that each student is seen, known, and capable.
This is what excellence looks like.
The Data Tells One Story. The Experience Tells Another.
The results speak for themselves:
95% of students passed (compared to ~60% worldwide)
53% of students earned a 5, the highest possible score (compared to ~20% worldwide)
Mean score: 4.3, our second highest in eight years
Across eight years of teaching these courses:
204 students
17 courses
Multiple instances of perfect scores and exceptional course averages
Four consecutive years with a pass rate of 95% or higher
Four consecutive years with a mean score of 4 or above
These are not isolated outcomes. They are the result of a deeply intentional approach to teaching that blends expertise, consistency, and a belief in every student’s potential.
At Country Day School, this is what it means to deliver on our promise of growing minds and inspiring futures.
Beyond Content: Building Confidence in Complexity
AP Mathematics represents one of the most demanding academic experiences we offer. Success at this level requires more than strong instruction—it requires resilience, confidence, and the ability to navigate complexity with persistence.
What makes this teaching exceptional is the balance:
- High expectations paired with unwavering support
- Deep content knowledge paired with intentional practice
- Structured preparation paired with meaningful human connection
From the very beginning of the year, students are immersed in a culture of excellence. Even small traditions—like exam-day t-shirts—build identity, belonging, and shared purpose.
By the time students sit for their exams, they are not only academically prepared; they are confident, self-aware, and ready to perform.
They believe they can succeed.
And they do.
Relationships Drive Results
What I witnessed today—the notes, the cinnamon rolls, the care—is not an add-on to the learning experience. It is central to why students perform at such a high level.
Students in this program:
- Feel safe to take intellectual risks
- Build resilience problem-solving
- Stay engaged in the face of complexity
- Push themselves further because they know they are supported
This is the difference between delivering content and developing people.
At Country Day School, we lead with heart and purpose. We know that when students feel a true sense of belonging, when they are known and valued, they rise to meet—and exceed—expectations.
Everyone Grows. Everyone Exceeds.
At Country Day School, our vision is clear: Everyone Grows. Everyone Exceeds.
This is not driven by curriculum alone. It is brought to life through educators who design intentional, personalized learning experiences that challenge, support, and inspire.
This is a story about outstanding AP results.
More importantly, it is a story about what happens when:
Expertise meets intentional, inquiry-driven practice
High expectations are matched with deep care
Academic rigor is grounded in belonging and connection
The outcome?
Students who do more than achieve—they exceed.
And a community that understands that excellence is not only defined by what students learn, but by who they become in the process and how they feel along the way.
Jack Young
General Director
Country Day School Costa Rica
