Upper School Academics at Carrollwood Day School | Challenging and Engaging Curriculum

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Academics in the Upper School

At Carrollwood Day School, Upper School academics are designed to challenge and inspire students, preparing them for success in college and beyond. Our rigorous curriculum, anchored in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, fosters critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness.

Students engage in a wide range of subjects, including advanced sciences, humanities, mathematics, languages, and the arts, while developing essential skills like research, collaboration, and leadership. With a focus on academic excellence and personal growth, CDS Upper School equips students to become confident, independent thinkers ready to make a meaningful impact in the world.

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Upper School Parent Testimonial

Choosing Carrollwood Day School for our child’s high school experience has been an incredible decision. The rigorous academics, especially the IB program, have truly prepared our students for success in college and beyond. The school’s commitment to fostering both academic excellence and personal growth has been evident in every aspect of our child’s development. 

CDS Upper School Parent

Middle School Teacher Testimonial

Teaching in the Upper School at Carrollwood Day School is an exciting and fulfilling experience. The IB program, challenges students to push their limits and think beyond the classroom. It’s incredible to witness their growth as not only scholars but also as young leaders and global citizens. 

Upper School Teacher

Academics at the Upper School Level

At Carrollwood Day School, the transition from the Middle Years Programme (MYP) to the Diploma Programme (DP) is a significant step in students’ academic development. The MYP, which spans grades 6 through 10, focuses on building a strong foundation of critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global awareness. In grades 9 and 10, students continue to develop these skills through a curriculum designed to encourage inquiry and connection across subjects.

The culmination of the MYP is the 10th-grade Personal Project, a student-driven project that allows each student to explore a topic of personal interest. This project serves as a capstone to their MYP experience, showcasing their ability to apply the skills they have developed in research, communication, and independent learning.

In grades 11 and 12, students transition into the Diploma Programme (DP), where they engage in a more focused and rigorous curriculum. The DP challenges students to deepen their knowledge in specific subjects while also developing critical thinking, time management, and research skills.

With the option to pursue the full IB Diploma, be a CDS Course Candidate take some IB exams, or be a CDS graduate, students continue to build on their MYP foundation, preparing for college and beyond with a global perspective and a strong academic foundation. Even if a student chooses not to take the IB exams at the end of their 12th-grade year, they are still enrolled in the IB curriculum during their 11th and 12th-grade years. 

Guide to Academics

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Class Trips Included

Carrollwood Day School’s Upper School includes engaging, curriculum-based trips that enhance classroom learning. In 9th grade, students attend Pathfinders, where they develop teamwork and resilience through challenging experiences like ropes courses. The 10th-grade class travels to Boston, where they deepen their understanding of American History through immersive historical sites. In 11th grade, students tour college campuses, gaining insight into higher education options and preparing for their post-graduation futures. These trips provide valuable hands-on experiences that complement and enrich students' academic journeys.

Upper School Club photo

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Honor Societies

Carrollwood Day School offers a wide range of 16 honor societies that not only recognize academic excellence but also provide leadership opportunities for Upper School students. These societies include prestigious organizations like the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and Science National Honor Society, among others. In addition to recognizing outstanding achievement in subjects such as computer science, French, and speech & debate, these societies foster personal growth through leadership roles and community service. Students in honor societies such as the International Thespian Society, Psi Alpha, and Tri-M Music Honor Society are encouraged to take on leadership positions, develop new skills, and contribute meaningfully to both their school and broader communities.

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Upper School Team Members

The Upper School at Carrollwood Day School is led by a dedicated team committed to student success and development. The Head of Upper School oversees the overall academic experience, while the Assistant Head of Upper School for Academics focuses on curriculum and instruction. The Dean of Students ensures a positive and supportive school environment, alongside two counselors who provide social-emotional guidance. The Upper School Learning Specialist supports students with individualized learning needs, and the MYP and DP Coordinators ensure the successful implementation of the International Baccalaureate programs. Together, this team works to create a nurturing, challenging, and inclusive atmosphere for Upper School students.

Smiling Upper School students
Education with Character

At Carrollwood Day School, the Education with Character program in the Upper School focuses on developing students into well-rounded individuals who excel both academically and personally. Emphasizing values such as integrity, responsibility, and respect, this program fosters a positive school culture and encourages students to take on leadership roles. Through mentorship, community service, and character-building activities, students are empowered to make thoughtful decisions and contribute meaningfully to their school and the world around them. This holistic approach ensures that academic excellence is paired with strong moral and social values.

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