Country Day School

Posted: November 3, 2025

As a parent, I’m really disappointed in the direction Country Day has taken. This used to be a strong school with a great reputation, but it’s clear that reputation is from another era. There’s been three heads of school in as many years over the time our family has been there, and the constant leadership changes have created real instability. Teachers leave constantly, and there’s no consistency from year to year. Some of the new hires have very little experience — we’ve even seen teachers as young as 19 leading classrooms. Basic vetting of teachers seems to be bypassed, with things coming to light months into teachers' tenure that a google search would have revealed.

The school psychologist lives in Richmond and is only on campus three days a week, which just isn’t enough to meet students’ needs. Meanwhile, it feels like the admissions office actually runs the school, picking classes, and having a huge amount of sway over decisions that seem to prioritize optics and high amount donor families over the broader community.

What’s even more frustrating is the defensiveness and lack of transparency from the administration. Questions are often brushed off or met with vague, polished answers rather than genuine communication. Parents who raise concerns are treated as problems rather than partners.

The families and kids themselves are wonderful — truly one of the only bright spots — and there are some long term, really great teachers, but donor families are prioritized when it comes to who gets those teachers. Overall, it feels like you’re paying for playgrounds, marketing, and appearances, not for high-quality teaching or academic rigor. Like the other posters said, the campus is truly beautiful and the kids who don't have any extra needs seem genuinely happy (because they are playing all day). However, for the price point, parents should expect much better. Country Day seems to be running on the fumes of its reputation from 20 years ago, and it’s hard to see where meaningful improvement will come from under the current leadership, who has no experience in leadership at the Pre-K level.

Posted: November 3, 2025

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Posted: October 22, 2025

While some teachers seem great, ours was completely disengaged and absolutely lacked the disposition to be working with children. My child lost confidence and was not happy and it is evident why. They will tell you that you are getting a developmental specialist who will work with you to make sure your child is where they need to be; this is false. While there is a lady with that title, she does not help or work with you at all! Instead she will make a judgement of your child after admitting she attended their class two times during an entire semester. Then will you receive follow up or status reports - no, absolutely not.
You will only be welcome to the school when it is an event that you can donate money. Halloween parades? Yes, they have them, but parents and others are not invited to watch... but you will get pictures.
The campus is wonderful, but don't let that get you-it is a beautiful camouflage for their lackluster treatment of parents and indifference for children's growth and development. In short, this school is a beautiful disaster.

Posted: October 22, 2025

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Posted: March 28, 2023

This is just a glorified daycare. The school principal is not at the level of similar schools at this tuition price point. She is not engaged, not present, and does not seem genuinely interested in the students' progress.
The academics are very poor, and children leave the school ill-prepared for kindergarten.
Parents complain over Whatsapp and text message chains which cause gossip and a toxic culture.
The school is not safe enough. Anyone can walk around the entrance and enter the classrooms.
Too many days off, long winter break, two weeks of spring break, too many school closures for teacher prep, parent-teacher conferences, long summer break, short days...
Carpool: stressful.

Posted: March 28, 2023

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Posted: March 5, 2021

Country Day School is a wonderful establishment that is well-run and provides exceedingly meaningful education to our young ones.

Posted: March 5, 2021

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Posted: May 14, 2020

Would never send my kid back to CDS. Big mistake the first time

Posted: May 14, 2020

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Posted: February 19, 2020

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Posted: February 19, 2020

Excellent school and summer camp. Warm, supportive environment for families and beautiful campus. I wish they offered elementary!

Posted: October 24, 2017

CDS provides an wonderful preschool experience for children and their parents. There is a balanced approach to offering academic ideas in a play-based setting. Children spend ample time on the playgrounds and at enrichment classes year round.

Posted: October 24, 2017

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Posted: June 20, 2014

The community and learning environment at this preschool is nothing short of amazing. What great way to spend your child's preschool years! The community is warm and supportive; the learning environment is positive and nurturing. We have made some great, long-term friends at CDS.