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academic excellence

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Key Facts
Zero Waste Environmental Stewardship
Our Class of 2022 was certified for their stewardship of Zero Waste.
Above and Beyond with Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
Our students can choose from over 20 AP courses — the most comprehensive offering in Costa Rica.
University-ready Mathematics
Built from the curricula of Harvard Pure Math, Harvard Engineering, and MIT, our linear algebra course is only one example of a college-ready class at CDS.

GREAT ACADEMICS DON’T HAPPEN IN ISOLATION 

Our students’ high academic results only show some of their success. Our teachers focus on all aspects of your child’s growth to support their talents and aptitudes in the best ways, and this includes their personal, social, and emotional wellness. Our trips beyond the classroom, clubs, and activities across the arts, athletics, and community service shape your child’s character in connection with their academic interests. Students take the lead in their own learning at CDS, sharing their needs and goals as people, and carving out their own path.
Academic Excellence | Country Day School, Costa Rica - Secondary Introduction
EARLY LEARNING 
  • EARLY LEARNING 
  • EARLY CHILDHOOD 
  • ELEMENTARY  
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL 
  • High school

EARLY LEARNING

Our Early Learning program is a nurturing, hands-on, play-based program designed to foster curiosity, a love of learning, and a secure attachment. The environment is set up to encourage exploration and independence while providing opportunities for hands-on exploration, peer interaction, and one-on-one learning with teachers.
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OUR EARLY LEARNING CURRICULUM AT CDS
Our curriculum is student centered and periodically updated to adjust to children’s needs, developmental abilities, and interests. Our individualized monthly milestone report and daily report assure caregivers are aware of their child's wellbeing and progress at school.
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EARLY CHILDHOOD 

The CDS Early Childhood Program encompasses Pre-Kinder, Kindergarten, and Preparatory levels. In our hands-on learning environment, our youngest learners socialize with peers and engage with play, discovery, and experimentation activities that nurture their growth.
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2 TO 5 YEARS OLD
OUR EARLY CHILDHOOD CURRICULUM AT CDS
Following the US Early Learning guidelines and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, our curriculum spans language arts, reading readiness, mathematics, social studies, and science through thematic units across all academic areas. We create rich, sensory learning experiences in small groups with materials designed to further a full range of motor, social, emotional, and academic skills.
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 

In Elementary School, we provide our students with opportunities to explore their interests and independence to perform at their best, not only academically, but also physically, socially, and creatively. Students develop more effective communication skills and, most importantly, they actively participate in their learning as they build the attitudes of life-long learners.
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6 TO 10 YEARS OLD
OUR US COMMON CORE ELEMENTARY CURRICULUM AT CDS
Following the US Common Core, our high-quality, rigorous Elementary program includes math, science, language arts, and social studies. We also have a strong specialist curriculum in art, Spanish, media and library skills, music, physical education, English as a Second Language, and academic resources. Our students additionally build their character through exciting activities.
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Middle school

Our Middle School has a friendly, family-orientated, and supportive ethos that encourages all to be challenged as the best learners and people they can be. We have high expectations and ensure our students grow to master the knowledge, skills, and understanding required at each grade.
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11 TO 13 YEARS OLD
OUR US COMMON CORE MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM AT CDS
Following the US Common Core, our Middle School curriculum includes rubrics for every subject that carefully map out each student’s journey towards mastering the high standards we prioritize. In addition to the core subjects, students explore their interests in elective classes, plus extracurricular activities and other enrichment opportunities to learn beyond the classroom.
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High school

Focused on the American High School Diploma and a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses from the US College Board, our curriculum develops students as critical thinkers and writers who are motivated to succeed. In high school, our students challenge themselves to go beyond what they know and get prepared for PSAT, SAT, and MEP exams.
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14 TO 18 YEARS OLD
OUR HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM AT CDS
Following the US Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards, College Board, and C3 Framework, our challenging curriculum prepares students for entry to top colleges and universities in the world. The curriculum also prepares students for the Costa Rican Bachillerato. Students take courses in social studies, English, Spanish, mathematics, science, physical education, and the arts to foster their love of learning across a broad range of subjects. Additionally, students take PSAT exams in grades 9, 10, and 11 to prepare for their SATs in grade 12.
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14 TO 18 YEARS OLD
OUR ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CAPSTONE DIPLOMA PROGRAM AT CDS
CDS has the most comprehensive Advanced Placement (AP) offering in Costa Rica with over 25 specialized courses across math, computer science, English, the arts, sciences, history, and social sciences. The AP Program is from the College Board in the US and allows our high schoolers to take university-level courses. Those who pass their AP exams can even earn college credit. CDS offers the AP Capstone Diploma Program, so our students can showcase their talents and have a competitive edge.
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Academic Excellence | Country Day School, Costa Rica - Key Fact TilesAcademic Excellence | Country Day School, Costa Rica - Key Fact Tiles
  • EARLY LEARNING
  • EARLY CHILDHOOD
  • ELEMENTARY
  • MIDDLE SCHOOL
  • HIGH SCHOOL

EARLY LEARNING

We want students to develop a sense of security and belonging while developing their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills.
Nationalities
4
Student-teacher ratio
4:1
Languages Taught
English and Spanish
Ages
1 yr or walking

EARLY CHILDHOOD

In Early Childhood, our young learners build their self-esteem, gain acceptance from peers, and explore new skills in our caring and loving environment.
Nationalities
18
Student-teacher ratio
8:1
Languages Taught
English and Spanish
Ages
2–5

elementary school

In Elementary, students develop their abilities academically, physically, socially, and creatively, as they build the skills and attitudes of life-long learners.
Nationalities
28
Student-teacher ratio
22:1
Languages Taught
English and Spanish
Ages
6–10

middle school

Our middle schoolers explore their interests beyond the classroom for their personal fulfillment alongside their academic enrichment.
Nationalities
27
Student-teacher ratio
22:1
Languages Taught
English and Spanish
Ages
11–13

high school

Our high schoolers explore a broad range of subjects from a variety of perspectives and engage in activities that further their interests or talents.
Nationalities
30
Student-teacher ratio
22:1
Languages Taught
English, Spanish, and Mandarin (an elective)
Ages
14–18
primary
  • EARLY LEARNING
  • EARLY CHILDHOOD
  • ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
  • Middle School
  • HIGH SCHOOL

A TYPICAL DAY AT CDS

Our Early Learning program provides students with a safe and caring bilingual environment in which they can develop their full potential while having fun.
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MORNING GREETING
We cherish starting our day with warm morning greetings; they set the tone for days filled with excitement and new adventures.
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STARTING THE DAY
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SNACK TIME
During snack time, we come together to not only enjoy delicious treats and share with our classmates but also to work on important skills like fine motor skills as we grasp and handle snacks.
COMING TOGETHER
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SPECIALS CLASS
Specials class is where we get to explore new interests and learn exciting things beyond the regular curriculum, sparking our curiosity and fueling our passion for learning.
LEARNING NEW THINGS
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LUNCH TIME
Lunchtime is when we refuel our bodies with nutritious food, giving us the energy we need to tackle the rest of the day.
NOURISHING OUR BODIES
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NAP TIME
Nap time is our chance to rest and recharge, surrounded by cozy comforts, so we can wake up feeling refreshed.
RECHARING
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LEARNING OBSERVATIONS
We love learning observations because they allow us to explore our interests, discovering new things about ourselves and the world around us every day.
EXPLORING OUR INTERESTS

A TYPICAL DAY AT CDS

Our Early Childhood days are filled with play, discovery, and socializing as we explore new ideas and information and connect with ourselves and each other.
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MORNING WARM-UPS
An energetic staff member greets us as we enter the classroom, begin morning activities with friends, or play outside together as others arrive.
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GETTING READY
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ROUND-UP
In our group morning meeting, we come together as a community by learning about each other, playing games, and setting ourselves up for the activities and lessons ahead.
COMING TOGETHER
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LUNCHTIME CONVERSATION
At our circular tables, we come together to eat our lunches and have meaningful conversations with peers and staff about our questions. We listen to different stories and chat about we did so far today.
TALKING AND LISTENING
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YOGA AND MOVEMENT
We pause in our busy day and connect with our bodies by dancing to rhythmic music. Then, we finish with calming yoga stretches that help us become centered for more activities and discovery.
CONNECTING WITH OUR BODIES
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LITERACY
Through a regular visit to the library, we develop a love for books, learn how to do research, and explore different literary genres that intrigue us.
READING SKILLS
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AFTER-SCHOOL FUN
The fun and learning don’t stop after school! We can participate in a range of activities to explore new interests and socialize with peers across classrooms. Jazz, mini vets, and cooking are popular offerings.
EXPLORING NEW INTERESTS

A TYPICAL DAY AT CDS

Our Elementary School days are filled with discovery and fascinating activities around what we learn, as we explore new information and connect with our peers and interests.
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PLAYGROUND ADVENTURES
As we receive warm greetings from staff and our Elementary School counselor, we excitedly catch up with friends and play on the playground together before classes start. This is an important time to get warmed up, as we check in with each other socially and emotionally.
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PLAYING AND TALKING WITH FRIENDS
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ROUND-UP
In a group meeting, we come together as a community by learning about each other, playing some fun warm-up games, and getting set up for the activities and lessons ahead.
COMING TOGETHER
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LUNCHTIME ACTIVITIES
We use recess and lunch time to connect with friends, refuel, and explore our interests in a free-form way. For example, after we eat, we may visit the makerspace and participate in the MIT Lego challenge or practice our instrument in the band room.
CONNECTING WITH FRIENDS AND INTERESTS
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SWIMMING STROKES
At CDS, we jump right in! We use different strokes and explore techniques of water polo in the pool to get better at our teamwork, alongside our swim instructor and PE teacher.
SOLO AND TEAMWORK
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APPLYING WHAT WE LEARNED
When we learn about the physical properties of force and motion in science, we put these principles into action by creating our own colorful carnival games that allow us to be creative.
CONNECTING WITH THE WORLD
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AFTER-SCHOOL FUN
The fun and learning don’t stop after school! We can participate in a range of activities to explore new interests and socialize with peers across classrooms. Parkour, cooking, and robotics are some of the most popular offerings.
EXPLORING NEW INTERESTS

A TYPICAL DAY AT CDS

Our Middle School days are challenging and stimulating, as we increase our independence, follow our interests, and sharpen our talents in collaboration with peers from around the world.
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READY TO SHINE
Middle school is a time of greater independence as we switch between classes and shine in our talents! We begin with high energy at 8:00 am sharp, participating in high-quality lessons and activities across different subjects that align to the US’ Common Core State Standards.
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STARTING THE DAY
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ACTING IT OUT!
In our performing arts course, we explore acting techniques that help us understand the characters of the play we’ve been reading. We’re proud to follow a special curriculum developed in collaboration with the world-renowned Juilliard School in New York City, helping us learn from the best.
CONNECTING WITH CHARACTERS
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LUNCHTIME MEETINGS
In middle school, we pursue our interests and collaborate with peers who share them. During lunchtime catch-ups, our 19 different clubs meet to discuss their activities. They explore civic leadership, environmental advocacy, student culture, and technology integration, among other things.
COLLABORATING WITH PEERS
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EXPLORE YOUR INTERESTS
Through elective classes, we can explore different topics and subjects that we want to expand upon or deepen. We can explore STEAM subjects, Architectural Design, Music Productions, and Personal Finance, for example!
ENRICHING OUR LEARNING
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STEAM POWERED!
Through science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), we’re challenged to solve complex problems and think beyond what we know. Through challenges designed by MIT, the world-renowned university, we unlock important problems posed by MIT professors.
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
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GLOBAL GAMES
At the Global Games, we perform at our best in sports against other Nord Anglia international schools in the Americas, hosted in Florida. Over 1,800 international peers compete in a variety of games — and we recently hosted the Junior Global Games for 6th graders at CDS.
PERFORMING AT OUR BEST

A TYPICAL DAY AT CDS

Our High School days stimulate us to go beyond what we know. As we prepare for the future, we pursue our passions and sharpen our talents so we can make a difference in the world.
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READY TO SHINE
We get ready for the day ahead as we listen to morning announcements from the Student Council, focused on building culture at our school. We check in with our teachers and peers before lessons.
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STARTING THE DAY
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EXCELLING IN ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES
We challenge ourselves by picking from CDS’ 20 AP courses, getting ready for college-level studies by pursuing the classes that interest us. Nearly everyone takes at least one AP course before graduating, as we push ourselves above and beyond a standard course load.
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
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LUNCHTIME MEETINGS
In high school, we deepen our interests, collaborate with peers who share them, and take the lead to make a difference around us. During lunchtime, 19 different clubs meet. They explore civic leadership, environmental advocacy, student culture, and technology integration, among other interests.
LEADING WITH PEERS
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PRODUCING A PLAY
Our high school Drama Production team prepares an original dramatic work. We work together to write, direct, and produce a play to be showcased for our community at the end of the school year, in May.
WRITING, DIRECTING, AND PRODUCING
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STEAM CHALLENGES
Through science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), we’re challenged to solve complex problems and think beyond what we know. During challenges designed by the world-renowned university MIT, we unlock important problems posed by MIT professors.
THINKING LOGICALLY AND CREATIVELY
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GET ACTIVE
After school, our sports teams practice through drills and work through strategies and techniques, as they prepare to compete throughout Central America in AASCA tournaments across basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, track, and tennis.
COMPETING AND PERFORMING
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HOW WE TEACH

INSPIRING YOUR CHILD

Our teachers work strategically to shape activities, lessons, and experiences that further your child’s needs, goals, or interests. By building a relationship of trust and care, our teachers make sure they’re not only happy and well, but also energized to pursue everything they’re capable of.
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teaching excellence

LEARNING FROM THE BEST

Our academic excellence at CDS comes as result of your child’s love for learning, as they’ll be encouraged to move forward — guided by the tireless passion and care of our teachers.

Because we’re part of the Nord Anglia family, our talented teachers follow the most up-to-date practices in the world. This includes ideal research-backed strategies, tools, techniques, and resources, so your child can continually thrive in and beyond the classroom.

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"I remember my first day very clearly: I was nervous, and at first very shy, but quickly I met many new friends and staff members, they made me feel like I belonged there since day 1. Since that day I have felt that CDS is my second home and I hope to always be a part of it."
Carlos
CDS student

OUR STATS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

Our expertise at CDS gives our students fantastic opportunities to achieve outstanding results, so they can be prepared for the world’s best universities.
Academic Results
85%
of our high schoolers take 3+ AP courses.
Above 1450 on the SAT
Our high school seniors applying top-tier universities regularly score above this mark, out of 1600.
Above 110 on the TOEFL
Our students regularly score above this excellent mark, with a maximum score of 120.

MEET OUR ALUMNI

CDS has graduated many classes, each with talented alumni who are making our world a better place. We celebrate their experiences and achievements, as they’ll always be part of CDS and inspire us.
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Manfred Reiche
Class of 2011
“CDS not only prepared me to succeed at the highest level by helping me place into an Ivy League university; it also helped me skip an entire semester’s worth of classes! The AP courses I took helped me place out of introductory courses so I could accelerate through more engaging electives in college.”
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Bianca Rodríguez-Lamas
Class of 2013
“CDS provided me with the best foundation, education, and tools to lead me to the career of my dreams. Today, I’m the Digital Director at Inter Miami CF and have fulfilled my dream of working at the World Cup. Thank you, CDS, for shaping me into the professional I am today.”
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Richard Blaser
Class of 2012
“For almost fifteen years, Country Day School provided me with a bilingual education of the highest level, guiding me to one of the best universities in Canada, all while creating fun, interactive, and interesting ways of learning.”

LEARNING THAT INSPIRES AND TRANSFORMS YOUR CHILD

At our school, there’s always a world of learning in and beyond the classroom. No matter what your child’s interests may be, their curiosity will be nourished through meaningful activities and inspiring adventures.

Outstanding Experiences
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