imagination...       reason...

Schools are historically charged with two major responsibilities - to pass on the traditions and wisdom of the past and to equip a new generation for the challenges of the future.  Our students are prepared to understand and resolve the increasing number of societal problems related to science and technology.  Consequently, they are prepared and highly motivated for advanced  study in all of the major sciences.  Higher level thinking skills such as synthesis and evaluation are developed along with the application of Mathematics in Algebra I and II, Geometry, Pre-calculus and Calculus, and problem solving skills.  Because we know computers enhance both creativity and efficiency, students are required to produce class assignments using various computer programs that incorporate word processing, graphics, programming, and other related skills.  The Computer Laboratory facilitates computer literacy before college and career.

            English courses emphasize basic skills in reading the most important literary genres and in writing clear, coherent exposition.  As students develop a more powerful vocabulary, writing assignments place increased emphasis on idea formation and on presenting ideas to others for conceptual  understanding.  It follows that the History and Social Studies curricula are designed to provide students with a foundation in global and national history that will make them better informed citizens.  The History offerings introduce students to political, social, and economic trends in a historical and geographic content. 

            Fine Arts at El Paso Country Day High School encompass a wide variety of artistic endeavors.  Students enjoy both two and three dimensional studio art.  Music includes various choral and instrumental works as well as music history and appreciation.  Theater Arts provide a creative method for applying classroom learning, whether it be as class plays or choral readings.  Classes take advantage of the active theater community in the El Paso area with visits to theaters and play productions.

            Physical activity is integral to the well being of the mind.  All students participate in physical education on a regular basis.  Inter-mural activities, as well as competitive sports, are encouraged for all students.  A broad range of activities is provided.  Two years of physical education are required for graduation.

            El Paso Country Day School has become an innovative leader in education on the national level by developing and incorporating relevant experiences into the curriculum.  The Internship is introduced at this level and students are well prepared for this experience with individual counseling and a series of career awareness seminars.  They participate in an  off-campus program that matches each of them with mentors in the business community.

            Graduation requires minimum foreign language study through level three, for we believe in today’s world a proficiency in foreign languages is essential. Our curriculum focuses on meaningful language use and practice.  Study is oriented to help students use language for meaningful purposes such as functioning effectively in both oral and written forms in the cultures where the languages are spoken.

            We participate in the Advanced Placement Program which is a cooperative educational endeavor between secondary schools and colleges and universities.  Students apply themselves to collegiate courses and have the opportunity to gain credit, placement, or both in college.  Eligible students have the opportunity to take classes at the University of Texas at El Paso through the Young Scholars Program, expanding the walls of the traditional experience.

            One hundred documented hours of Community Service are required for graduation and can be performed regularly throughout the year or all at once - as in a summer volunteer program.  Extra Curricular Sports activities are available with opportunities for inter-school competition.  We provide Clubs inspired by student interest, guided by faculty supervision and expertise, because they are an important part of student life.  College Orientation begins by making special arrangements for juniors to meet with many college representatives  and by traveling to college campuses.

            It is here, at the end of our students’ tenure - and the beginning of college, that parents and students fully appreciate the faculty and staff who were carefully selected for their expertise, commitment, and desire to be a part of our supportive, safe, enriching academic environment.