The Davidson Day School

DDS is a great school! I love it, my kids love it! Strong fine arts & strong academics!
--Submitted by a parent

I'm a former employee of Davidson Day and I have to say what a wonderful experience I had at Davidson Day. The community of parents, teachers, students, and administration is the best I've ever seen. I hope that anyone who is in the Lake Norman area will choose to look at this school because it offers the very best in academics, electives, fine arts, and athletics.
--Submitted by a teacher

Come and visit our school and you will see happy kids that are genuinely engaged. I have been teaching for sixteen years and I have never before seen so many kids who truly enjoy being at school. It is a tremendous amount of work for everyone involved, but the positive relationships that are forged between students and teachers make it worthwhile. At Davidson Day I find myself in the best position of my career empowering students to achieve their goals.
--Submitted by a teacher

I'm a teacher at Davidson Day, and one of the many passionate educators who are proud to be part of this school. When we have an Open House or take parents on a personal tour of our school, do you know what we hear over and over again? Parents tell us, "Seeing what you offer my child makes me wish I could be back in school again myself." I think that speaks volumes about the quality of our programs -- not just in the core academic areas, but it arts, athletics and everything we do. Last month, I heard a school parent tell one of my fellow teachers, "You have made a huge difference in my son's life." This is why I'm proud to be here. And this is why I chose this school for my own child.
--Submitted by a teacher

Student theatrical performances this week of Mulan were amazing. And I'm not talking about high school kids but elementary aged kids. Nowhere else would my child be able to enjoy participating in thriving arts program and be academically challenged. No wonder she loves, loves, loves to go to school. DDS.... You're the best!
--Submitted by a parent

All of the great reviews have to be balanced by an objective opinion. My son has been at Davidson Day this year, and it will be his last. While I do think the teaching staff is talented and dedicated, the school doesn't have a family feel to it--my son has no attachment to this place at all. Parents are not friendly and welcoming. There is so much turnover in the staff, you have to wonder what is going on behind the scenes. I just don't see the value I am getting from all of the money I am paying. I am going to send my son to a charter school. Better atmosphere, no tuition, and less drama.
--Submitted by a parent

There is way to much employee turnover in this school to make it a stable learning environment. You can see the stress that it causes on the teachers. But, it is the students that suffer. When we bring our concerns to parent council or to the administration, we are pretty much told that we need to "embrace the change." NOT an answer I am looking for. This school was once all about the kids which was why we signed up our two children to begin with. Now, it is all about how big the school can grow - at whatever expense. We won't be coming back next year.
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children at DDS, and we've been a family here since the Jetton St facility opened in Fall 2007. First of all, the teachers here are exceptional. They care about each and every student, and strive to help them develop as students and as human beings. A lot of emphasis is placed on building character and creativity. I am thoroughly impressed by the division heads and dean of student life, they are very experienced independent school administrators who are taking DDS to a higher level each year. They are not complacent with the status quo; they are always striving to help teachers do their best in the classrooms and to engage families and students in charting each child's unique path in the world. I love this school & know that I will watch my children graduate with a gold standard in education.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been thrilled with the opportunities provided to my children in the halls of Davidson Day school. My youngest has shown incredible growth and emotional development in the Early Childhood Halls. My oldest enjoys having teachers who really know her - personally. I have been delighted by the staff - they are truly a dedicated and inspired group who care about the education of students. I feel lucky to have my children in such an amazing environment. As to the haters, yes it is true that they auction off parking spots to raise money for the school. That happens at many private schools that I have been a part of over the years. Yes, they are working to grow their sports program...but that is to help grow the school!
--Submitted by a parent

We CONTINUE to be AMAZED with the vision of the teachers, the staff, the coaches, the board of trustees and the Headmaster! Our (3) children enrolled in Davidson Day 3 years ago and I couldn't be more impressed and in awe of the Davidson Day family. We are fortunate to be a part of this nationally ranked institution that prepares students not only for college and post-graduate degrees but also for LIFE! My children love their teachers because they treat them as individuals. The teachers and staff take interest in their lives and continue to support and develop the dreams of all the students. We are excited about the future and continued growth of Davidson Day! We know that there will never be more than 18 students in a class, therefore, the students will continue to have the same personalized attention no matter how large the school grows! We love the diversity in the courses, the student body and the athletic program. Davidson Day is the PREMIER and School at the Lake (and beyond- in my mind) and will continue to deliver a WORLD CLASS experience to each child! GO PATRIOTS!!
--Submitted by a parent