Fort Worth Country Day Viewbook 2024-25

A great education is an essential foundation for lifelong success.

An

EXTRAORDINARY one opens up

THE ENTIRE SKY.

Is your child ready to

SOAR?

OUR PRO GRAMS

table of contents OUR PHILOSOPHY ACADEMIA Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten Lower School Middle School Upper School

PROGRAMS Visual and Performing Arts Athletics Social-Emotional and Learning Support Community Service and Service Learning Center for International Studies College Counseling

There are many schools that excel in developing the fundamentals of math, language arts, humanities and science. Fort Worth Country Day helps students achieve so much more. Here, education is both a personal journey and a purposely designed and thoughtful approach of guided instruction, hard work, inclusivity and gained experience.

The result is more powerful than knowledge – it is understanding, imagination and reason that have students flying higher in college, life, and everything they pursue.

FORT WORTH COUNTRY DAY

PASS ION, COUR AGE...

OUR PHILOSOPHY At Fort Worth Country Day, our mission and purpose are to foster intellectual, physical, emotional and ethical development that inspires a true passion to learn, the courage to lead, and the commitment to serve.

Integrity. Kindness. Courage. Respect. Responsibility. Scholarship.

These core values provide our students with an ethical compass and give greater purpose to education.

Knowledge AND values are what carry students beyond academics and toward life achievement. Our role reaches beyond the classroom. It is woven into the fabric of our city and places around the globe where our alumni are engaged citizens and thoughtful leaders reaching for still loftier heights.

We embrace inclusion, because understanding and respecting differences not only inspires compassion and empathy, but also fosters intellectual curiosity and creativity.

Those charged with this influential teaching and mentoring challenge embrace an honorable burden to be the air beneath these wings. They exemplify unparalleled qualities of excellence in traditional measures. But their real differences are tested in their ability to En gage, C o n nect , N urt ure, and U nleash a child’s pot e n t i a l .

…

T H E ULT I M AT E GOA L

IS TO EXPOSE STUDENTS TO ENRICHING SUBJECTS AND ENHANCE THEIR ABILITIES

t o achieve their dreams. …

KEYS TO LIFE

ACADEMIA Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten Lower School (JK-4) Middle School (5-8) Upper School (9-12)

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I N S PI R I N G A PA S S I O N

to learn and discover from the start is the key to

developing long-term problem-solving skills, independence and creativity. …

FOUN DA TION

kindergarten / junior kindergarten Kindergarten at FWCD is a magical experience that creates transformation for years.

Our nurturing environment is centered on multisensory instruction, one-on-one lessons and small-group interactions led by an unparalleled faculty specifically trained for children of this impressionable age.

Each day is thoughtfully scheduled to be appropriately challenging and enjoyable: Morning Movement and Recess

Morning Meeting

Literacy Block (reading, writing, word study and phonics)

Integrated Science and Social Studies

Developing Roots – Math

Project Based Thematic Units

Art, Music, Language (French and Spanish),

Library, Falcon Collaboratory

Dynamic Physical Education

Children who are 5-years-old by August 31 31,, and need the gift of time to continue to learn and grow, may benefit from our junior kindergarten program. It provides a bridge for children to gain the self-esteem, self-confidence, social skills and responsibility needed to transition to our kindergarten classrooms.

Our youngest Falcons join together with their Lower School peers to engage in various activities throughout the year, promoting community and inclusivity.

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E NGAGI NG AND I N S PI R I N G E A R LY LE A R N E R S I S ES S EN T I A L .

WE PRACTICE ETHICAL, MORAL AND ACADEMIC EDUCATION TO HELP YOUNG LEARNERS DEVELOP SOCIALLY, EMOTIONALLY AND INTELLECTUALLY.

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BUILD ING CONFI DENCE

lower school THE HABITS AND VALUES DEVELOPED IN EARLY YEARS BECOME FOUNDATIONAL SUCCESSES FOR STUDENTS, GIVING THEM THE CONFIDENCE TO KNOW THAT ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. Every day is an adventure designed to ignite the power of imagination that promotes growth. Our Lower School classrooms buzz with inquisitive minds surrounded by support and opportunity to help them truly flourish.

Lower School distinctions include: Morning Movement and Recess Differentiated Instruction

(reading, writing, word study and phonics, and mathematics)

French/Spanish Language Falcon Collaboratory

(students communicate and engage in integrated learning experiences)

Science Labs Studio Art Instruction First Steps in Music, Conversational Solfége, and

World Music Drumming Dynamic Physical Education High-Tech Resources Age-Appropriate Community Service and Service Learning SOAR Extended Care and After-School Enrichment Program 2 Full-Time Academic Support Coordinators Full-Time Health and Wellness Counselor and Related Programming Core Values Program

…

THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS OF STUDENTS IS OUR MOST IMPORTANT FOCUS IN ESTABLISHING A SAFE AND ENCOURAGING SETTING WHERE

it’s ok for them to explore their dreams fearlessly. …

EXTRA ORDI NARY

middle school DURING ESSENTIAL TIMES OF EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL, PHYSICAL AND ACADEMIC GROWTH, FWCD PROVIDES AN OPTIMAL APPROACH TO ACHIEVING THE EXTRAORDINARY. The middle school years are a transitional time filled with challenges and exponential potential. We place emphasis on the “SIX Cs”: creativity, character, critical thinking, communication, cosmopolitanism/cross-culturalism and collaboration.

Individualized learning strategies foster each student’s unique talents and gifts.

Middle School distinctions include: Specialized Experts for All Academic Subjects French, Spanish and Latin Language Instruction Visual and Performing Arts Experience

(art, band, orchestra, percussion, choir, show choir, ballet, theatre with grade-level performances)

Grades 5-6 Sports Integration; Grades 7-8 Competitive Sports Academic Advisory Program Integrated One-to-One iPad Program with iPad Coordinator Grade-Level Curriculum-based Overnight Trips Age-Appropriate Community Service and Service Learning Awesomeness Initiative Program

(nongraded elective courses intended to fuel passions as well as add exposure to the skills required in the 21st-century workforce)

Trip Opportunities for Grades 7-8 through the Center

for International Studies Full-Time Academic Support Coordinator Full-Time Health and Wellness Counselor and Related Programming Core Values Program

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EXCELLENT EDUCATION IS ABOUT MORE THAN JUST ACADEMICS. IT’S ABOUT A COMPLETE EXPERIENCE THAT EXPANDS

beyond the boundaries of what was ever thought possible. …

…

T H E ULT I M AT E GOA L

IS TO EXPOSE STUDENTS TO ENRICHING SUBJECTS AND ENHANCE THEIR ABILITIES

to achieve their dreams. …

PREPA RA TION

upper school THIS PIVOTAL PERIOD IS WHERE CAREER ASPIRATIONS ARE SHAPED, LOFTIER VISIONS GAIN ALTITUDE, AND WINGS SPREAD IN PREPARATION TO TAKE FLIGHT. Preparing for the challenges of college and beyond, students continue to cultivate and enhance their skills and knowledge. During these years, values are cemented, standards are elevated, and leaders are born.

Upper School distinctions include: Four 75-minute Classes Daily 100+ Course Offerings

(18 Advanced Placement courses)

College Counseling Office and Related Programming for All Grades Malone Schools Online Network Grade-Level Deans and Advisory Program Senior Capstone Project

(interdisciplinary independent study elective with a faculty supervisor and mentor in chosen field)

Full Visual and Performing Arts Program

(music and art history, band, orchestra, drumline, ballet, acting, musical theatre, technical theatre, painting and drawing, photography, and ceramics)

Approximately 36 JV and Varsity Athletic Teams TEAM Service

(student-led community service group)

Link Crew

(peer mentor program for freshmen)

Sophomore Washington, D.C. Trip

(culminating project for government course)

Cum Laude Society Trip Opportunities through the Center for International Studies Bring-Your-Own Laptop Program Full-Time Academic Support Coordinator Full-Time Health and Wellness Counselor and Related Programming Emphasis on Core Values

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THE CLASSROOM IS WHERE LEARNING BEGINS. THE FIELD, COURTS, STUDIO AND THE STAGE ARE WHERE LESSONS FLOURISH INTO SELF-EXPRESSION,

mental toughness, and life application. …

CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL TOUR 4200 COUNTRY DAY LANE | FORT WORTH, TEXAS | 76109 | 817.732.7718 | fwcd.org

PROGRAMS Visual and Performing Arts Athletics Social-Emotional and Learning Support Community Service and Service Learning Center for International Studies College Counseling

visual and performing arts BEYOND THE SHEER JOY AND CONNECTION TO ONE’S INNER SPIRIT THAT THE ARTS CAN BRING, ART ENCOURAGES CURIOSITY, PROBLEM-SOLVING AND INVENTIVENESS. The arts help paint a bigger picture of the world through the connection of culture. While promoting the development of motor skills, language and observation, art also generates joy and expression. From junior kindergarten through senior year, FWCD students are immersed in opportunities to engage with dedicated faculty who strive to challenge and motivate students in their personal artistic pursuits.

Whether your child is interested in dance, visual arts, music, theatre or technical theatre, our goal is to energize, educate, nurture and support that passion every day. Here, students explore their artistic imaginations and tackle the challenges of multiple art forms and concepts.

FWCD arts offerings include: Visual Arts and Music Classes in JK, K and LS Art Fundamentals Painting and Drawing Band/Orchestra Starting in Fifth Grade Drumline/Percussion Show Choir/Choir Studio Art Ceramics Photography Print and Digital Media Musical Theatre Theatre Technical Theatre Ballet Art and Music History AP Music Theory AP Studio Art AP Art History Students also may choose to enroll in individual music lessons and ballet classes through The Conservatory at Fort Worth Country Day.

athletics ATHLETICS ARE NOT JUST FOCUSED ON PLAY, THEY ARE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF A WINNING EDUCATIONAL GAME PLAN THAT BUILDS LEADERSHIP AND SOCIAL SKILLS FOR A LIFETIME. Athletic programs instruct students in the rules and skills of individuals, the team and life, producing increased mental acuity and focus. They provide physical training and outlets for energy and interests while creating opportunities for healthy competition and cooperation. Principles of good sportsmanship and ethical behavior are instilled, along with a positive attitude toward healthy living and fitness. Athletic programs teach respect for other teams, officials, coaches and teammates.

The skills and lessons learned through winning and losing are irreplaceable. These values are acquired in an atmosphere where competition is balanced by the development of positive self-esteem of each student-athlete. The FWCD athletic program is designed to challenge and develop each student’s abilities to the fullest.

Our competitive sports opportunities include: Fall Season Cheerleading

Cross Country Field Hockey Football Volleyball

Winter Season Basketball Cheerleading Soccer Swimming Wrestling

Spring Season Baseball Golf Lacrosse Softball Tennis

Track and Field

FWCD’s Dynamic Physical Education classes in grades JK-4 JK-4 focus on fitness development, coordination, body management, sports skills and game-playing. Students are introduced to FWCD’s interscholastic sports in grades 5-6, emphasizing strength and conditioning, knowledge, and team strategies. Students in grades 7-8 participate in interscholastic athletics each season.

Students may choose to participate in ballet as their athletic credit beginning in fourth grade and as an extracurricular offering beginning in junior kindergarten with The Ballet Conservatory at Fort Worth Country Day.

social-emotional and learning support A SAFE, SUPPORTIVE AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENT IS ONE OF THE MOST ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS TO FOSTERING POSITIVE EMOTIONS FOR GROWTH AND EXPRESSION. HEALTH AND WELLNESS Social and emotional skills are critical to being a good student, citizen and worker. We value your child’s well-being as much as we value their academic success. We care for and develop the whole child. To best support these objectives, FWCD provides each school division with its own Health and Wellness Counselor.

Students’ abilities to learn and maximize their potential depends not just on instruction, but on the quality of a safe and nurturing environment. The FWCD climate, sense of belonging with peers, positive relationships with educators, and the feedback they receive all contribute to the overall academic landscape.

LEARNING SUPPORT We strive to foster overall development of capable students through our academically rigorous college-preparatory program. However, we understand that some students may occasionally require additional academic assistance to achieve their education goals. For this reason, we provide two Academic Support Coordinators in Lower School, one in Middle School and one in Upper School. These professionals help students reach their full potential.

community service and service learning ONLY THROUGH SERVICE CAN ONE FULLY DISCOVER A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF SELF AND DEVELOP AUTHENTIC EMPATHY AND RESPECT FOR OTHERS. Acts of service pave the way for a love of philanthropy. That’s why service to our school, to the greater community, and to humankind is indispensable to a well-rounded student. FWCD’s goal is to educate students about the roles and benefits that community service and service learning play in the quality of life for the citizens of FWCD, Fort Worth and beyond.

FWCD believes it is responsible for providing opportunities, role models and support to its students to promote their active involvement in service.

We also embrace our place in the greater Fort Worth community and acknowledge a responsibility to contribute through thought and deed to the city that has been our home since FWCD’s founding.

FWCD actively promotes age-appropriate volunteer and service-learning opportunities in each division through multiple local charitable organizations.

We also encourage our students to participate in their respective Student Councils to take the lead in these experiences.

center for international studies EXPERIENCING A FOREIGN COUNTRY OPENS YOUR MIND TO PERSPECTIVES, LIFESTYLES AND CULTURES THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR WORLD VIEW. The FWCD Center for International Studies (CIS) seeks to cultivate global competence in all JK-12 JK-12 students by weaving international perspectives into the curriculum. The CIS is a truly significant opportunity that builds the disposition necessary to understanding and acting responsibly about multicultural issues. It prepares young people to make a difference in a complex and changing world.

The center doesn’t just promote trips, it advances higher competence through the integration of perspectives while providing meaningful international travel and hosting exchanges.

Opportunities include: Summer Travel Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder Outreach Relationship and Exchange Opportunities with Fort Worth Sister Cities International Hosting Program Homestay Program with CENCA, FWCD’s Sister School in Metepec, Mexico Campus-Based Programs

and many others...

college counseling FWCD GRADUATES HAVE A 100 PERCENT ACCEPTANCE RATE FOR FOUR-YEAR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES ACROSS THE U.S. AND INTERNATIONALLY. Academic and personal development of each student is the foundational reason for such success. But at FWCD, we go even further to ensure that every family understands the college admission process, and every student is prepared to excel in the next stage of their education.

The quality and the quantity of our College Counseling program are unmatched.

FWCD offers dedicated College Counselors whose main focus is to connect students and their families to the resources and information they need to make the best decisions regarding their academic future.

Our program helps students understand themselves and feel empowered and knowledgeable. This starts with broad information in the freshman and sophomore years. In the junior year, students begin the college search process in earnest and take a College Counseling class that fully guides them through all the details and requirements related to life beyond FWCD. During senior year, the College Counselors provide support as students draft and hone their personal essays and complete their applications. In the spring, they guide families through their decision-making process.

FINDING A STUDENT’S BEST MATCH IN A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY IS A DAUNTING TASK. FWCD HAS ELEVATED THE COLLEGE COUNSELING PROGRAM WITH QUALITY AND QUANTITY, CREATING OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS TO BE INFORMED ABOUT THE ENTIRE COLLEGE PROCESS.

At Fort Worth Country Day, Day we believe that understanding and respecting differences not only inspires compassion and empathy, but also fosters intellectual curiosity and creativity. We embrace the diverse cultures, experiences and perspectives that comprise and enhance our learning environment. We commit to sustaining and growing an intentionally inclusive community that is welcoming and accessible to the most capable and motivated students.

FORT WORTH COUNTRY DAY

Contact FORT WORTH COUNTRY DAY’S CALLING IS TO DEVELOP ENTHUSIASTIC, THOUGHTFUL, WELL-ROUNDED AND RESPONSIBLE YOUNG CITIZENS, WELL-EQUIPPED TO EXCEL IN COLLEGE AND BEYOND.

We are driven to inspire exceptionalism, with a campus that celebrates Fort Worth’s best nature. We produce students who are unafraid to launch, who take flight, and who achieve ascent. Their success is a profound reflection of the Fort Worth Country Day approach to college-preparatory education.

If you are searching for a meaningful and rewarding journey for your child, we would love to meet with you and schedule a personal tour of our remarkable campus.

FWCD Office of Admission futurefalcons@fwcd.com 817.302.3209 Or visit

fwcd.org/admission for more information.

NOTES

FOR T WOR TH COUNTRY DAY